Living in the serene beauty of Menzies Creek and Kallista, Victoria, this area has always been our sanctuary—a place where we wake up to the views of lush greenery, a resplendent landscape that echoes tranquillity. But this peace is under threat. A company has lodged an application with the Shire of Yarra Ranges to construct a factory in our rural green wedge, an area meant to serve as a buffer between urban settlements and the natural environment.

This isn't just a personal objection; it's about preserving our cherished environment. Kallista's green wedge is a precious natural asset that provides clean air, enhances biodiversity, and offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The proposed factory would not only mar the pristine scenery that residents, including myself, hold dear but also disrupt the local ecosystem, impacting native flora and fauna.

The Shire of Yarra Ranges has long upheld a commitment to preserve green wedge zones to maintain the integrity of our environment and way of life. Allowing industrial development in these areas contradicts this commitment and sets a perilous precedent for future land use decisions.

Moreover, the potential environmental ramifications are profound—ranging from increased pollution to the degradation of habitat for local species. The introduction of industrial noise and lighting will disrupt the serene atmosphere that Kallista is known for, and the increased traffic will strain the existing road infrastructure, affecting safety and quality of life for residents.

We implore the decision-makers to consider the long-term impacts rather than short-term economic gains. We urge the Shire of Yarra Ranges to reject the application for factory development within Kallista's green wedge. (Application YR-2025/114) It is crucial to protect our shared environment and preserve the sanctity of this rural haven for future generations.

Your signature on this petition will send a powerful message to the Yarra Ranges Shire Council: Keep Kallista green, keep Kallista sustainable. Sign this petition to stand with us in safeguarding our natural landscape and ensuring the integrity of our rural community remains intact.