A FORMER director of the region’s largest winery, Casella Wines, has fronted court over a massive marijuana haul.
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A $5 million cannabis plantation was discovered in Crowther two years ago.
Marcello Casella, son of the Casella Wines founder, and Andre Turner appeared before magistrate Peter Dare SC in Young Local Court this month.
A third man, Francesco Polimeni, also allegedly involved in the drug bust, also appeared.
Griffith solicitor Simon McKenzie, representing Casella and Turner, told the court they were required to have their written submissions filed by April 26.
Young solicitor Rachael Power, representing Polimeni, said her client was ready for his matter to be committed.
Mr Dare adjourned the cases to Young Local Court on June 24 for submissions from Casella and Turner.
Director of Public Prosecutions lawyer Abram Meredith said he had no objection if Polimeni was excused on the day.
The men’s bail is to continue.
All three males have been charged with participating in a criminal group and cultivating not less than the commercial quantity of cannabis following the discovery of 2750 cannabis plants by police in February 2014, while Turner is facing five other charges.
