THE recent theft of sheep and cattle worth almost $53,000 from a Thornlea farm has prompted the property owner to seek to buy a council road reserve in a bid to secure its boundaries.
The property owner has engaged Millicent planning consultant Frank Brennan to approach Wattle Range Council with a view to purchasing the unmade road.
In a letter to council on behalf of his client, Mr Brennan said the latest theft occurred in mid-January.
“A further seven grown heifers and 28 elite flock ewes were stolen with a value of $17,900,” Mr Brennan said.
“This takes the value of stock thefts now to $52,900.
“These recent thefts have been reported to police.
“This further reinforces our request for the road reserve through the property to be closed and sold to my client as a means of being able to secure the property boundaries.”
In a report to council, deputy chief executive Paul Duka said the road reserve measured 15 hectares (38 acres) and was surplus to council requirements.
Mr Duka said the main reason for the request was to help with the applicant’s business operations, in particular, compliance with biosecurity measures and assurance accreditations.
“In assessing the request there are no obvious issues relating to access to any of the land parcels as the applicant own all parcels immediately adjacent to the road reserve.
“The property is located on the northern council boundary immediately abutting Robe District Council.
“Contact has been made with Robe District Council which has indicated it has no issues with the proposal, however formal correspondence will be forwarded to it as part of the public consultation process.
“Wattle Range Council engineering and development staff both confirmed they have no issues relating to the proposal.”
Mr Duka’s report came before the February monthly meeting on Tuesday and elected members endorsed his recommendation to start the road closure process.
Councillor Kevin McGrath said he had spoken with the property manager.
“It is a good move in the interests of everyone,” Cr McGrath said.
Cr John Drew asked how it could be ensured council would receive value for the land it sold.
In reply, Mr Duka said council always sought value and was assisted by independent property valuers in Mount Gambier.
