A class action was due to start in the Supreme Court at Melbourne on Monday, October 13, but barristers told the court a settlement was being prepared.
Group members in the class action, including lead plaintiff Kevin Green, allege offensive odours, noise and emissions from the factory are affecting residents.
Mr Green alleges odour and noise emissions have caused a common law nuisance to him and group members, and that GrainCorp has breached a duty to minimise risks of harm to health, or to the environment from pollution.
Mr Green and group members were seeking compensation, claiming emissions have affected their sleep, comfort, health and wellbeing, and reduced the value of their land.
They were also seeking an injunction to stop the nuisance.
According to a summary statement filed to the court on September 14, 2023, the case was being run by Dominica Tannock from DST Legal and counsel Michelle Sharpe on a ‘no-win, no-fee basis’.
GrainCorp said they would vigorously defend the proceedings.
In a brief hearing before Justice Forbes on October 13, the plaintiff’s barrister told the court the matter was settled in principle, subject to the court’s approval.
Further hearings are expected in November and early December.
Justice Forbes said the settlement would need to be approved by a separate judge.
GrainCorp’s Numurkah factory at 46-50 McDonald St is about 450m from the town centre.
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