A backyard animal rescue farm established by a grandmother in Warner has become the centre of a heated debate over local planning laws.
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Christina Druery-Chiconi has opened her 1.176-hectare (11,760sqm) property to families in her neighbourhood, offering a safe haven for children, including those with autism, trauma, and speech impediments, to interact with rescued animals.
However, the City of Moreton Bay has determined that the farm violates local planning regulations. Ms Druery-Chiconi’s property has reportedly exceeded the permitted number of animals allowed on land of her size.
In her farm, “Urban Pastures: Mini Farm & Animal Refuge,” Ms Druery-Chiconi currently cares for two horses, two ponies, two cows, and several ducks and chickens. She has argued that the farm is not a commercial venture but rather a community initiative to bring joy and support to children and families in the area.
The Council, however, sees the situation differently. A spokesperson stated that the presence of so many animals on the property constitutes a breach of local law, prompting the issuance of an $800 fine and a follow-up letter last December. The letter warned that failure to comply with regulations could result in the seizure of the animals.
Moreton Bay’s Regulations
Under current regulations, properties under 1.2 hectares in Moreton Bay can house a maximum of two animals, depending on their type. For instance, a single horse or pony requires 4,000 square metres, while two cows would necessitate a property significantly larger than hers.
The local law further states that those who own or keep cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, deer, alpacas, llamas, horses, ponies, donkeys must comply with the requirements of the Biosecurity Act 2014 including identification and movement records.
The Council has offered Ms Druery-Chiconi two options: either reduce the number of animals to comply with current laws or file a development application, which would allow her to seek an exemption. However, the development application process is costly and complex, involving a $4,799 fee and the hiring of a town planning consultant to prepare technical reports on animal management.
The situation has left Ms Druery-Chiconi in a difficult position. While she acknowledges the importance of following regulations, she feels the process is prohibitively expensive and believes her rescue farm is a positive addition to the community.
Meanwhile, the Council maintains that it is simply enforcing laws designed to manage land use and protect the welfare of animals and residents.
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What’s Next for the Farm?
Ms Druery-Chiconi must now decide whether to comply with the regulations or pursue a development application process. In the meantime, her farm’s fate hangs in the balance, raising broader questions about how community initiatives can coexist with local regulations.
Published 8-January-2025
