In the heart of rural Victoria, a proposed expansion of Bacchus Marsh Grammar School's Staughton Vale campus has ignited a heated debate among locals. The school's ambitious plan to build a primary to Year 8 campus on its 83½-hectare property has sparked concerns about the potential impact on the nearby farming community and the environment.
The school's application to the state government's planning department highlights the benefits of broadening educational opportunities for students in Melbourne's west. However, the proposal has faced resistance from the Staughton Vale and Anakie Action Group, who argue that the school's plans could disrupt the peaceful farming hamlet. The group's member, Kristy Vasils, expresses shock and concern over the school's decision to bus 300 primary school students to the remote location, potentially causing congestion and impacting the local community.
Michael Dragt, who lives opposite the property, shares similar worries. He believes the influx of students will overwhelm the area, which is zoned for farming and has a sparse population. Dragt emphasizes the importance of the school's connection to the farming community and expresses fears that the school's expansion could lead to further development and change the area's landscape.
Ecologist Mark Trengove joins the chorus of criticism, labeling the plans as "outrageous" and questioning the school's commissioned biodiversity report. He highlights the potential impact on threatened species, including the endangered swift parrot and yellow gum trees, and calls for a more comprehensive environmental assessment.
Despite the concerns, Bacchus Marsh Grammar principal Debra Ogston maintains that the school has followed the standard planning process and has provided opportunities for community input. She argues that the proposed development will enhance agricultural, outdoor, and environmental learning for students, benefiting the wider region.
The Victorian government, however, remains tight-lipped, stating that the proposal will be considered on its merits. As the debate rages on, the future of the school's expansion hangs in the balance, leaving the community divided and the environment at risk of potential disruption.
