Waubra wind farm underway

Ballarat Courier
Monday 30/7/2007 Page: 6

THE Waubra Wind Farm's first stage works are almost complete. The 128-turbine wind farm is Victoria's second biggest, involving a total investment of about $400 million. It is being developed by Spanish company Acciona Energy, with Leighton Contractors. Under the first stage, construction of access tracks to turbine locations is complete. All foundations and hardstands are expected to be finished by the end of August.

The second stage, the electrical works, is expected to begin in September, with the first turbines scheduled for erection later this year. Managing director Brett Thomas said the wind farm had benefited Waubra and district's employment and its community. During the peak of the civil works stage, 70 per cent of onsite workers were local. During the electrical works and turbine erection, 100 jobs are expected to be created early next year. The company is also planning for 25 permanent on-site jobs to maintain the wind farm when it begins operating late next year.

We are working with the local community to create real employment benefits and an active local economy," Mr Thomas said. Meanwhile, Acciona has created a Sustainable Community Fund of $64,000 a year, to support Waubra and district. Waubra Football and Netball Club has received sponsorship, while Waubra Kindergarten's playground was refurbished on Saturday. Mr Thomas said the fund would see community projects supported during the wind farm's operation, with the aim of sharing the wind farm's benefits.