Council opposed to Western Victoria transmission announcement

Published on 26 November 2021

AusNet Services has released details of the proposed route for overhead transmission lines in the Western Victoria Transmission Network project, including confirmation that an extremely large terminal station will be located in Hepburn Shire, against strong community feedback.

Mayor, Cr Tim Drylie, said that Council is strongly opposed to the proposed route and the size and location of the terminal station.

“We are extremely disappointed at the lack of transparency and poor community consultation with this project and we are calling for a full review by the State Government, and we understand the announcement will be very concerning for members of our community, said Cr Drylie.

“We have been advocating strongly on behalf of the community and are extremely disappointed that the concerns of Council and the community have been ignored.

"The upcoming EES process will be vital and Council will be making a strong submission. We will also be supporting the community to make submissions during the EES process by holding information sessions in early 2022.

“While Council is highly supportive of renewable energy, our clean energy future must be based on trust with community and we are strongly opposed to the transmission lines being above ground and along the route proposed.

It will have a significant impact on our valuable agricultural land, significant landscapes and the health and wellbeing of local people.

The proposed lines will also impact tourism, a significant part of our local economy, by diminishing overall amenity and the visitor experience,” said Cr Drylie.

For more information on the Council position on this project, visit https://www.hepburn.vic.gov.au/western-transmission-lines-project/. 

For more specific project information please refer to www.westvictnp.com.au.

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