Dear Editor,

Concerned local farmers and community members formed the Kingston & District Power Alliance ( KDPA ) almost five years ago, one of many others, to advocate against the proposed 80 metre high and190 km long, Western Renewables Link ( previously Western Victoria Transmission Network Project ).

Since then KDPA, and other community representatives, have been working with Council to prevent the project from proceeding in its current form and location. Council has voiced its opposition to the WRL route and is preparing a submission on the EES.

Significant portions of the Hepburn Shire would be impacted including some of the most productive farmland in the country, along with our beautiful landscapes which help drive our vibrant tourism sector as well threaten parts of the UNESCO World Heritage listing application.

Farmers face a significant drop in income as a result of restrictive farm practices forced upon them which leads to a significant devaluation of their farms.

There is a Council-run pop-up information session providing information about the project and assistance in making a submission on Monday 28th July at 4.00pm and again at 6.00pm at the Newlyn Sports Complex .

Like Council, KDPA do not oppose renewable energy, just the selection of the proposed route. Why anyone would choose a route anywhere near the number one weekend tourist destination in Australia, a potential UNESCO World Heritage site and the most productive farmland in Victoria? It just makes no sense.

Council and KDPA strongly recommend that concerned community members make an EES submission before the end date of midnight Friday 22nd August.

Information can be found here :

EES Information Guide https://www.westernrenewableslink.com.au/planning/ees-landing/

EES Response Guide stoplaborstowers.org

EES Engagement including access to submission process https://engage.vic.gov.au/Western-Renewables-Link-IAC

For further information or advice regarding your submission, KDPA can be contacted via email on kdpa3364@outlook.com

Kingston and District Power Alliance