MITCHELL Shire Council has heard mixed community feedback over a planning permit amendment that would allow a Glenaroua farming property to continue operating as a festival venue for an extended period.
The application, made by the property owner whose name was redacted from public documents, seeks to amend an existing permit for the site at 1755 Seymour-Tooborac Road, Glenaroua, where the women-only Seven Sisters Festival has been held since 2012.
A total of seven objections and 29 submissions of support were received during public notice, though nearby residents criticised the short timeframe they had to prepare responses. Some argued that the notification process was flawed and favoured the applicant.
The proposed amendment includes extending the current 15-year operating window to 18 years, adjusting operating hours, removing a 3am noise curfew, altering access from a road zone, and clearing native vegetation.
One objector said that as a full-time worker and mother of young school-aged children, they believed removing the existing 3am noise curfew would be irresponsible and disruptive to local families.
Objectors also raised concerns about noise, traffic on the unsealed Bridal Track, livestock disruption during lambing season, and the festival’s potential impact on property values. Some also cited previous incidents where attendees mistakenly accessed private property or camped on public verges.
Supporters say the venue has strong potential to bring economic and cultural benefits to the area.
Bo Hobson, event coordinator for the Hopkins Creek music festival, said his event was interested in relocating to the site.
“Our festival employs 600 staff and volunteers and injects about $900,000 into the local economy,” he said.
Jamie Johnston, chair of the Mitchell Business Network, urged objectors to “give the organisers a chance,” calling the project “great for the region.”
Council staff noted that relevant internal departments and referral authorities, including CFA, EPA, and the Department of Transport and Planning , had not objected, though CFA approval was subject to conditions.
All councillors present, except Cr Timothy Hanson who was absent, voted unanimously to prepare a report for a future Council meeting on the proposed amendments.
