Projects' future based on study

Ballarat Courier
Tuesday 6/5/2008 Page: 6

Pre-feasibility studies are being done on proposed windfarms at Stockyard Hill and Tuki. The studies include assessing wind data and environmental studies, with some results expected in weeks. Wind farm company Wind Power has been working on its Stockyard proposal for more than a year, where more than 150 turbines are being slated for construction In August last year, the company said if successful, the $700 million project would become one of' Australia's largest windfarm developments.

The company is currently assessing the wind farm's impact on the brolga, a native bird. Wind Power is working with the Department of Sustainability amid Environment to accommodate the brolga, with study results expected soon. The company will also hold one-on-one meetings with people in Beaufort and Skipton next week. Wind Power community consultant and engineer Ross Richards said at previous meetings, there had been good slip port for the proposal.

The next step will see Wind Power lodging a referral with the planning minister, to see if the project requires an environmental effects statement, which will mean a greater depth of studies done. Engineers are also assessing wind data measured at the pro posed Tuki Wind Farm site, with these results expected in weeks, Mr Richards said the company was awaiting a decision on the data before it could proceed with the project.