Farmers Question Youth Centre Siting Near Ord Valley Cotton Farms
Plans to establish a new youth night facility on an abandoned sandalwood plantation in the Ord Valley have ignited significant apprehension among local farmers. Those with neighboring properties argue the proposed site presents considerable safety risks, potentially jeopardizing the region’s agricultural operations.
The proposed facility, intended to support at-risk youth, is slated for construction on a remote former farm known locally as Waringarri Farm Block, located approximately seven kilometers from Kununurra. The Western Australia Justice Department, in collaboration with local Aboriginal corporations, aims to address persistent youth crime issues within the community through this non-residential, overnight service. The facility would operate from Thursday to Sunday, from 9 pm to 3 am, with transportation provided for youth, along with food and support services.
Safety and Compatibility Concerns Raised by Farmers
Farmer Katie Neve, whose land directly borders the proposed site, highlighted a series of critical issues with the chosen location. “This land-use decision risks undermining the very agricultural supply chain,” Ms. Neve stated. “We’re talking about a strategic agricultural precinct. Planning decisions made today will influence investment confidence in the Ord Valley for years to come.”
Ms. Neve elaborated on the inherent dangers of the site, describing it as “high-risk.” She pointed to the presence of heavy vehicles, sheds containing potentially hazardous materials, irrigation channels, and a lack of essential infrastructure like streetlights and footpaths. “In the middle of the night they could fall into a channel or be hit by a truck,” she warned.
Furthermore, Ms. Neve raised concerns about potential fire risks, particularly during cotton planting seasons when surrounding fields are actively cultivated. “It’s really reasonable to ask whether an introduction of a youth facility in the middle of this agricultural precinct is going to be compatible,” she questioned.
Previous Location Opposition and Consultation Discrepancies
This marks the second proposed location for the facility, following earlier opposition from nearby businesses to a plan that would have situated it within Kununurra’s light industrial area. At that time, Wyndham-East Kimberley Shire President David Menzel expressed reservations about placing youth in such an environment, citing the inherent dangers.
A spokesperson for the Justice Department indicated that community consultation and advice from WA Police favored a location away from the town center, and that the Ivanhoe Road site met these requirements. The spokesperson also stated that “neighbouring residents have been consulted via phone, email and in-person meetings.”
However, Ms. Neve disputed these claims, stating that as a direct neighbor, she had received no information about the project until the current week and that farmers had learned of the proposal through informal channels. Mr. Menzel suggested this situation highlighted the state government’s ability to override local planning concerns due to its authority over state facilities.
Community Calls for Further Consultation
Residents are reportedly preparing to submit a new petition against the current location to the state government. The East Kimberley Chamber of Commerce and Industry has formally requested that the department engage in further community consultation. In a communication to its members, Chief Executive Keda Bond noted that the chamber “continued to be contacted by members about the project.” Ms. Bond emphasized the need for “clear information and practical consultation,” as many in the community are reportedly unaware of the facility’s operational model, its purpose, or the rationale for its location outside the town center.
