An artist’s impression of a proposed truck stop near Rutherglen
A proposed 24/7 service station on the Murray Valley Highway and Federation Highway intersection will be opposed by Indigo Shire Council when the application is heard by VCAT next month.
The development would comprise separate fuelling facilities for cars and trucks, a convenience store and truckers’ lounge.
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But it raised several concerns and at Tuesday night’s general meeting, councillors unanimously decided any benefits were outweighed by the flood risk.
Indigo mayor, Sophie Price said if council was the decision-making power the application would be refused.
More than 80 community submissions opposed the development, and a packed public gallery applauded the councillors’ decision on Tuesday night.
“Ultimately, we know the decision is with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) but we’ve put forward really strong arguments as the planning authority and from the community,” Cr Price said.
“The option to go to VCAT can be triggered if council doesn’t make the decision in the required timeframe.
“But this is a large and complex application and a short timeframe.
“Our planners couldn’t be expected to make an informed recommendation to councillors in that time.”
The proposed development is located on a busy intersection and would service industry, freight and tourism traffic along both highways, while helping to manage fatigue with rest areas.
The proposed development is on a flood plain, 1km from Lake Moodemere
Farmer and viticulturalist, Joel Chambers belongs to Friends of Lake Moodemere and owns the land directly opposite the proposed site.
He isn’t opposed to a service station in the area, “but not there”.
“It was great to see the councillors independently listen to the concerns of Friends of Lake Moodemere and others in Rutherglen,” Mr Chambers said.
“It’s very reassuring to think that councillors think for themselves and listen.
“Logistically I can see why the site was chosen … but it’s the major catchment for Lake Moodemere and although it’s not listed as a flood plain, it is.
“All that water would be displaced with potential for contamination and issues for wildlife and irrigators.”
The VCAT hearing was listed to begin on 17 March, however it is understood the applicant has been granted an adjournment until August 2025.
