The pasture-based farm belonging to J. and M. Shannon in Labuan Rd will be expanded with a free-stall barn, which will have the capacity for up to 3000 cows.
The Shannons, together with their son Nathan, currently have a 750-cow herd on the property.
In July, Moira Shire Council planning officers issued a notice of decision to grant a permit for the expansion.
According to documents submitted to the council, the Shannons propose to expand the farm in three stages over up to 10 years, to improve the business' use of the infrastructure, water, biosecurity, welfare and natural resources.
The first stage is expected to house 900 cows in the barn, which will include the existing 750-cow herd. New buildings include the free-stall barn, maternity barn and cow welfare management area.
The project is expected to improve cow welfare and reduce weather exposure, decrease grazing impacts on the farming areas, increase the operational capacity and efficiency, and implement best management practices in the free-stall barn.
In his submission supporting the planning application, Nathan Shannon pointed to the limitations of the current pasture-based production system and the advantages of a more intensive model incorporating more efficient use of land with a double cropping system.
"I genuinely believe northern Victoria is the best location for dairy in the country," he said.
"Firstly its location allows us to send fresh milk to the east coast, Adelaide and Melbourne relatively cheaply.
"We have a climate that allows us to grow high quality crops and to be able to conserve those whilst maintaining quality.
"Despite its cost, we do still have the opportunity to irrigate to ensure we can harvest something from our land if there is a failed autumn or spring.
"We have access to state-of-the-art processing or bulk milk handling facilities and large regional towns with amenities to entice quality skilled labour to the industry," Mr Shannon said in his application.
Wastewater from the barn's systems will be captured, treated and — where possible — incorporated into the farm's irrigation system.
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