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After Hours Emergency
1300 366 244Wellington Shire Council is calling for greater transparency and community engagement in the planning and refinement of the Gippsland offshore wind transmission project. A Notice of Motion has been submitted at last night's council meeting by Cr Liz Foat, urging VicGrid to ensure that local voices are heard and that all potential environmental, agricultural, and cultural impacts are carefully considered before finalising the transmission corridor.
Council understands that a new transmission line, delivered by VicGrid, will connect offshore wind energy to Loy Yang Power Station in Latrobe City via a connection hub near Giffard in Wellington Shire. We have always championed the importance of renewable energy and the opportunities it brings to the region, and it is essential that the project proceeds in a way that minimises disruption to landholders, protects sensitive environmental areas, and respects Traditional Owners’ cultural heritage.
Council welcomes VicGrid’s commitment to consultation and technical studies to refine the study area but emphasises the need for meaningful engagement that incorporates the concerns of impacted landholders, community members, and industry stakeholders.
Last night’s Notice of Motion calls on the State Government (via VicGrid) to:
Council therefore calls on the State Government, through VicGrid, to
Wellington Shire Mayor Cr Scott Rossetti stated, “The offshore wind transmission project is a significant development for Gippsland, but we must get the planning right. We want to see VicGrid genuinely listen to our communities and make informed decisions that balance the need for renewable energy with the protection of our local landscapes, industries, and cultural heritage.”
Council encourages all interested landholders and community members to engage with VicGrid and participate in upcoming consultation opportunities.
VicGrid will be at the Rosedale Neighbourhood House to speak with community members about their Draft Scoping Requirements for the Environmental Effects Statement (EES) on Thursday 3 April (10-6pm).
Locals are encouraged to drop in at a time that suits, ask questions, learn more about the project, and find out how to make a submission.
Public feedback is open until 10 April. This is a great chance to speak face-to-face with the team and have your say.
Residents can contact VicGrid at landholders@deeca.vic.gov.au for more information or to raise concerns.