AusNet have recently concluded another series of ‘community engagement’ sessions about the controversial Western Victoria Transmission Network Project (WVTNP). These sessions were poorly attended, and community members opposing the development are concerned that AusNet will count these meetings as evidence of their ‘genuine’ community consultation about the project.
“AusNet’s recent round of ‘community engagement’ sessions demonstrated that the community have no faith in the process,” said Stop AusNet’s Towers Campaign Chair, Emma Muir. “We want AusNet to genuinely listen, consult and act on our concerns and proposals.”
The Western Victoria Transmission Network Project is a proposed 190km overhead high-voltage electricity transmission line that will carry renewable energy from Bulgana in western Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west. AusNet Services has recently released details of the proposed route for the overhead transmission lines.
“We are concerned that AusNet may use the low attendance at their meetings as evidence that community concerns are dissipating, this is far from the truth as we are experiencing the exact opposite, the volume of community members opposed to this project grows daily.” she said. “I know many people didn’t attend because frankly, AusNet have been arrogant and dismissive of our genuine concerns. They are not listening, and have made no real effort to gain any social license from the affected communities nor to address the serious issues associated with the project.” The group claims that over 800 community members attended five community meetings held by the Stop AusNet’s Towers group.
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. We understand the announcement will be very concerning for members of our community,” said Cr Drylie.
The Stop AusNet’s Towers Campaign can be contacted at info@stopausnetstowers.com.au. For more information, see stopausnetstowers.com.au.
