David Clark appointed to wind farm advisory group

Pyrenees Advocate
Friday 14/9/2007 Page: 11

FORMER Pyrenees Mayor David Clark has been appointed to a new Federal Government body charged with developing a national code for wind farms. Mr Clark is a strong supporter of wind energy, and says the guidelines will establish a framework for community consultation, informing residents how and when to have their say.

The Minister for the Environment, Malcolm Turnbull, said that the national code will provide a consistent and transparent framework for community consultation about the siting and development of wind farms in Australia. "Wind power certainly has a role in securing Australia's energy future and reducing our greenhouse gas emissions," Mr Turnbull said. "It is therefore important that attention be given to finding sites that address both the wind availability requirements of wind developers and the concerns of local communities.

With the development of a wind code, we are seeking a sensible balance of the relevant economic, environmental and social factors." Mr Turnbull said. Mr Clark said he was looking forward to making a positive contribution. I'm strongly in favour of renewable energy and I believe with my local government and landcare background I can make a positive contribution," Mr Clark said.

"In Waubra, because there are a significant number of people benefiting from the wind farm development, the community is generally supportive. But at the end of the day, if this body is going to be effective, it has to be about planning. To me, the planning process is about people getting a fair say and feeling they have been treated fairly," Mr Clark said.

Establishment of the working group follows a discussion paper and roundtable with key stakeholders on developing the Australian Government's proposed national code for the location of wind farms. "While primary responsibility in these matters rests with state and territory governments, there should be a more consistent approach than currently exists across Australia," Mr Turnbull said. Members of the working group represent a balance of community, rural, local government and wind energy industry interests. The body will be chaired by Denis Smedley, a senior executive of the Department of the Environment and Water Resources.