Wind farm application goes to government

Ararat Advertiser
Friday 15/6/2007 Page: 15

GLENTHOMPSON - Development of the Oaklands Hill Wind Farm at Glenthompson has entered an important new stage with the lodging of the planning permit application with the State Government. Following extensive research, planning and consultation with the Glenthompson and district community, the wind farm developers Investec Bank (Australia) Ltd and Windlab Systems Pty Ltd, have lodged the planning permit application with the Department of Sustainability and Environment.

Investec Bank and joint venture spokesman Mark Headland said the department would review the application before releasing it for public comment. Within weeks lodgement of the application will be advertised in the press and the plans will be exhibited for public comment. At this time all community members will be given an opportunity to present their views on the project through written submissions.

Mr Headland said the developers were pleased to have this opportunity to provide the Glenthompson area with such an exciting project, one that will have so many positive outcomes in the form of reduced carbon emissions through the production of renewable energy and economic benefits through increased tourism, job opportunities and cash flow. "Victoria's per capita carbon emissions are among the highest in the world and this project will make a substantial contribution to the production of renewable energy in Victoria and to the reduction of climate changing carbon emissions for many years to come." Mr Headland said.

Research has identified the Oaklands Hill Wind Farm site as one of the best locations for a wind farm in inland Victoria, registering wind speeds usually associated with coastal areas. The planned multi-million dollar wind farm could provide up to 60 jobs with millions of dollars of potential opportunities for local employment and industry during the 12-18 month design and construction phase. The Glenthompson community has shown its support for the project with the vast majority of those who attended an open day to familiarise themselves with the proposal expressing their support.

The developers have also received many inquiries relating to employment opportunities and the chance of sub-contracting their services when construction of the wind farm begins. These inquiries will be further assessed once planning permission has been granted. Mr Headland said Investec and Windlab Systems were both delighted to be able to undertake a project which had the support of the majority of the Glenthompson community and which would benefit the entire State.