Gundary Solar Farm

Submission of Objection to the Gundary Solar Farm Proposal

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to formally submit my objections to the proposed Gundary Solar Farm development. As a resident directly impacted by this proposal, I wish to raise several significant concerns that affect not only my property but also the safety, lifestyle, financial security, and mental well-being of myself, my family, and fellow residents in the area.

1. Fire Risk and Safety Concerns
The proposed solar farm poses a serious fire risk that endangers the safety of my family and other residents along our road. Currently, the access to our properties is limited to a single road with one way in and one way out. In the event of a fire breaking out at the solar farm or its substations, residents will be trapped with no secondary route for evacuation. This lack of access is a critical safety hazard that could result in devastating consequences during a fire emergency.

While the developers have indicated that a 20,000-litre water tank will be installed on-site, this amount of water would be grossly insufficient in the event of a large-scale fire, particularly given the size of the project and the high fire risks associated with solar panels and substations. Additionally, the installation of a large locked security fence around the perimeter of the proposed site would severely hinder the Rural Fire Service’s ability to access the area and control a fire effectively. In a rural setting where every second counts during a fire, such barriers could lead to catastrophic delays and increased risk to life and property.

2. Impact on Rural Landscape and Lifestyle
We purchased our property as a small hobby farm, specifically for its tranquil rural setting and the beautiful, expansive views that it offers. If the solar farm project proceeds, our landscape will be drastically altered, replacing the current natural vistas with 650 acres of solar panels. This industrial intrusion is completely at odds with the character of the area and will fundamentally change the rural environment that drew us to live here. The loss of these scenic views will significantly affect our quality of life, as we will no longer be able to enjoy the natural surroundings that are integral to our property’s value and our personal enjoyment.

3. Negative Impact on Property Values
Local real estate agents have advised residents that property values are likely to decrease dramatically if the solar farm is constructed. Estimates suggest a decline in property values of between 20% to 50%, which is a substantial financial blow to many of us who have invested in our properties as a form of superannuation. This loss in property value is deeply concerning, as it will negatively impact the retirement plans of many residents who have relied on their property investments for future financial security. The prospect of being unable to recoup our investments due to the devaluation caused by the industrialization of the surrounding area is alarming and unacceptable.

4. Increase in Insurance Premiums
In addition to the concerns about fire safety, residents have been informed by insurance companies that our insurance premiums and policies will likely increase as a result of the increased fire risk and public liability issues associated with the solar farm. The heightened risk of fires, combined with the potential difficulty for emergency services to access the site, means that insurers may classify the area as high risk. This will not only increase costs for residents but could also result in difficulties obtaining adequate coverage, thereby further compromising our financial stability.

5. Impact on Mental Health and Well-being
The cumulative impact of the concerns outlined above has already begun to take a toll on my mental health. The anxiety associated with the potential fire risks, the threat of being trapped during an emergency, and the loss of our cherished rural environment is affecting my peace of mind and overall well-being. The prospect of seeing the landscape I cherish replaced by industrial solar panels and knowing that my family could be in danger due to restricted evacuation options weighs heavily on me every day. Additionally, the potential financial losses from reduced property values and increased insurance premiums are causing significant stress and uncertainty about our future.

The deterioration of the peaceful, rural environment we once enjoyed, combined with the fear for our safety and financial stability, has created a constant source of worry that affects not only myself but also my family. It is deeply unsettling to think that our mental well-being is being disregarded in favor of a project that will irreparably alter our way of life.

Conclusion
In light of these significant concerns—ranging from fire safety risks and impacts on our rural landscape to reduced property values, increased insurance costs, and the mental health effects on residents—I strongly oppose the approval of the Gundary Solar Farm project. The proposed development poses serious threats to the safety, well-being, and financial and emotional stability of local residents. I urge the relevant authorities to reconsider the approval of this project, taking into account the legitimate concerns of the community who will be directly affected by these changes.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I trust that our concerns will be taken into serious consideration.

I am writing to formally object to the proposed Gundary Solar Farm project. While I recognise the importance of renewable energy and sustainable development, the planned location and execution of this project raise several serious concerns. The Gundary Solar Farm is projected to bring a range of detrimental impacts to our community, local environment, and economy. Below, I outline the specific issues related to rural vista disturbances, property value depreciation, increased fire risks, insurance complications, mental health impacts, and environmental concerns associated with decommissioning.

1. Rural Vista Disturbances and Loss of Scenic Beauty
The construction of a large-scale solar farm in the Gundary area will have a profound and negative impact on the rural landscape. This region is renowned for its scenic beauty, characterised by open pastures, rolling hills, and unobstructed rural views that have been enjoyed by the community for generations. The introduction of vast arrays of solar panels, substations, and other infrastructure will dramatically alter this landscape.

The rural character of Gundary is not only aesthetically valuable but also integral to the local identity and heritage. This project threatens to permanently degrade the visual appeal of the area, which is cherished by both residents and visitors. The construction phase will involve clearing areas of land, and the reflective surfaces of solar panels will disrupt the natural view, resulting in an industrial appearance that clashes with the rural surroundings. This change in the visual landscape will also affect tourism, as visitors often seek out the area's unspoiled natural beauty.

2. Property Value Depreciation
One of the most concerning impacts of the proposed solar farm is the significant decline in property values for nearby residences. Studies and anecdotal evidence have shown that properties located near large-scale solar installations can experience value reductions of up to 50%. The loss in property value stems from multiple factors, including the visual impact, increased noise during construction, and the perceived loss of the area's rural character.

For many homeowners, their property represents their most substantial financial investment. A reduction in property value could lead to financial hardship, especially for those who plan to sell or refinance their properties. This financial loss is unjust to long-term residents who have invested in the region, trusting in its stable and appealing rural environment. The potential decrease in property value also undermines the local economy, affecting the overall prosperity of the community.

3. Increased Insurance Policies and Premiums
The presence of a large solar farm in close proximity to residential properties may lead to increased insurance costs for homeowners. The risks associated with solar farms, including potential fire hazards and damage to properties from equipment failure, could prompt insurers to raise premiums for nearby homes. In addition, some insurance providers may refuse coverage or impose higher excesses due to perceived risks associated with living near large-scale solar developments.

Residents in rural areas already face challenges in obtaining affordable insurance due to bushfire risks and limited access to emergency services. The added presence of solar farm infrastructure could exacerbate these difficulties, placing an additional financial burden on property owners. It is unreasonable to expect local residents to bear the increased costs and stress associated with heightened insurance premiums, especially when they are not the beneficiaries of the proposed solar project.

4. Increased Fire Risk and Limited Emergency Access
The proposed solar farm is located in an area accessible via a single road, raising serious concerns about emergency access, particularly during bushfire season. Large-scale solar installations can increase fire risk due to the presence of electrical equipment, high-voltage transformers, and flammable components. In the event of a fire, having only one road in and out of the area could severely limit the ability of emergency responders to reach the site and evacuate residents.

Furthermore, it has come to light that the local Rural Fire Brigade may not have adequate access to the solar farm site. Without proper access roads and emergency response plans in place, there is a significant risk of uncontrolled fires spreading to nearby properties and farmlands, endangering lives and livelihoods. The increased fire risk associated with the project poses a grave threat to both the environment and the community.

5. Mental Health Impact on the Community
The construction and operation of the solar farm are expected to take a considerable toll on the mental health of local residents. The sense of place and connection to the land are vital aspects of rural living. The introduction of an industrial-scale solar farm disrupts this connection, leading to stress, anxiety, and a feeling of powerlessness among residents who are opposed to the project.

The constant noise, increased traffic, and disruption during construction, combined with the permanent alteration of the landscape, may lead to heightened stress levels and mental health concerns. The uncertainty surrounding the project and its long-term effects adds to the anxiety experienced by local residents, many of whom are already dealing with the pressures of rural living.

6. Environmental Concerns Regarding Decommissioning
One of the most pressing environmental concerns is the question of what will happen when the solar panels and associated infrastructure reach the end of their lifecycle. Solar panels typically last around 25-30 years, after which they need to be replaced or decommissioned. There is currently a lack of clear plans and regulations governing the disposal of solar panels and the decommissioning of solar farms.

Solar panels contain hazardous materials such as cadmium and lead, which can pose significant environmental risks if not properly managed. The decommissioning process could result in contamination of the soil and water sources, with long-lasting consequences for local ecosystems. Additionally, the removal of infrastructure and restoration of the land to its original state may be costly and time-consuming, potentially leaving the community to deal with the aftermath if the project developers fail to take responsibility.

7. Loss of Prime Agricultural Land
The Gundary area has a long history of agriculture, with families having farmed this land for generations. The proposed solar farm will result in the loss of prime agricultural land, reducing the availability of fertile soil for food production. At a time when food security is becoming an increasingly important issue globally, it is shortsighted to convert valuable agricultural land into industrial solar farms.

Farmers in this region have invested time, effort, and resources into cultivating their land. The displacement of agricultural activities not only threatens their livelihoods but also the broader agricultural industry that supports the local economy. The loss of agricultural land for solar development undermines the sustainability of rural communities and diminishes the region's capacity for future food production.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Gundary Solar Farm project may have commendable goals in terms of renewable energy, the negative impacts on the local community, environment, and economy cannot be overlooked. The rural landscape will be permanently scarred, property values will plummet, insurance premiums will increase, and the risks associated with fire and decommissioning are too significant to ignore. Furthermore, the mental well-being of the residents and the loss of agricultural land for future generations are grave concerns that must be taken into account.

For these reasons, I urge the decision-makers to reconsider the location and scope of this project. There are alternative sites better suited for such developments that do not pose the same risks to established rural communities and prime agricultural areas.

Thank you for considering these objections. I trust that the concerns of the Gundary community will be taken seriously and that a thorough reassessment of the project's viability and impact will be conducted.

GUNDARY SUBMISSION DRAFT

We fully support in principle the establishment of Lightsource bp’s proposed solar farm. Too long the inevitable and vital change to renewables has been held to ransom by a minority of politicians and ideologies that support fossil fuel suppliers. Don’t these people have children, grandchildren - don’t they care that human life remains survivable on this planet?

The generation of myself and my husband has unwittingly led us to this precipice. There is no time to delay action. Thousands of volunteers in the region are involved in organisations that actively work to protect the environment and habitats of native animals - Landcare, ACF, FROGS, Australian Plant Society, Rotary (involved in massive tree planting in Goulburn), The Goulburn Group, the Climate Council, WIRES and other animal welfare groups - and many others with less well known names. The work of these dedicated individuals deserves to be nurtured, not put at risk by the very vocal and well organised few locally opposing renewables.
The recent Council vote against the solar farm allowed no discussion, and was taken SOLELY
in response to the opponents’ submission - long before the EIS. In no way does it reflect
local opinion. Many in the community even now have no knowledge of the proposal.

I have visited the area for the proposed solar farm and spoken to some of those opposing. I have since learned that some of their claims are not true, and others of their fears, such as water course management, have been addressed in the EIS. Also other similar projects prove that agricultural use (particularly sheep farming) and solar farming can successfully co-exist on the
same land.

But two matters particularly must be clarified by the proponents of the solar farm:
FIRE MANAGEMENT It is imperative that fire risk management strategies and infrastructure
be approved by the relevant fire authorities. Opponents claim that access and infrastructure is not adequate. Such approval by the fire authorities must be made public, for the sake of peace of mind of ALL Goulburn region residents and to counteract false claims by opponents.
What opponents do not appear to realise is that a neighbour with sound fire risk management and infrastructure is an advantage to them, lessening their own risk.
BENEFITS TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY While the proponents mention such benefits in the EIS in broad terms, no specific offers have yet been made. The proponents must come to the table with specific benefits - Goulburn residents, and Goulburn-Mulwaree Council, need to be made aware that there is much more to be gained than just employment, that regional infrastructure and community organisations can benefit greatly. Also, impacted neighbours (though all are low impact except one) need to receive specific and fair offers. It will be a considerable boost to the local economy. Some areas of Goulburn struggle, and all additional financial input is very welcome.

The Gundary solar farm is well placed close to a transmission tower - which obviates the need
for another for a new tower to be built, always contentious in rural areas.
Thank you for your attention. Norman and Annie Bilton

To: The Planning Authority
Dear Sir/Madam,

RE: Objection to the Proposed Gundary Solar Farm

I am writing to formally object to the proposed Gundary Solar Farm development for several significant reasons that will greatly impact my family, our property, and the broader community.

My parents purchased our small acreage property of 30 acres with the intention of providing a peaceful, rural lifestyle for my brothers and me. They envisioned a place where I could keep my horses and where my brothers could ride their motorbikes without disturbing neighbour's. This property is more than just land; it is our home and sanctuary. We cherish the tranquil ambiance, beautiful rural vistas, and proximity to essential town services.

The proposed site for the solar farm is alarming for several reasons:

1. Inappropriate Land Use and Town Planning Concerns
It is my understanding that the proposed site spans two-thirds of mapped land. This seems to conflict with current town planning guidelines. Such a massive industrial project is entirely unsuitable for this rural area and contradicts the intended use of the surrounding properties, which are small-scale farms and family homes.

2. Significant Financial Impacts
My parents are hardworking individuals—my mother a teacher and my father working in shearing sheds. They are not wealthy but have worked tirelessly to secure this property. They planned to sell the small hobby farm as part of their retirement strategy. However, local real estate agents have informed them that if the solar farm goes ahead, the property's value could decrease by up to 30-50%. This devastating financial loss is profoundly unfair, especially when the landowner behind the solar farm proposal is a multimillionaire who does not live on the property and appears unconcerned about the harm this project could inflict on neighbouring families.

3. Increased Fire Risk
The fire threat posed by the solar farm is substantial, with only one road—Kooringaroo Road—providing access in and out of the area. In the event of a fire, high winds (common in this region) could rapidly spread flames, trapping families, including ours. This risk is not hypothetical; my family were directly impacted by the devastating Southern Highlands fires in 2019/2020. These fears are very real and have significantly affected our mental health.

4. Health and Environmental Concerns
Living within 500 meters of the proposed solar farm raises concerns about the heat bank effect, particularly during summer. This elevated heat would not only affect my family members but also my horses, which are sensitive to such changes. Furthermore, the construction and operation of the solar farm will generate excessive dust, worsening my asthma and potentially affecting the respiratory health of my horses. This is unacceptable for our daily living conditions.

5. Loss of Lifestyle and Wellbeing
The solar farm will forever change the character of this area. The dust, noise, and visual pollution from its construction and operation are incompatible with the rural lifestyle we sought and invested in. It will diminish the enjoyment of our property and disrupt the peaceful environment that brought us here in the first place.

Conclusion
The Gundary Solar Farm proposal is inappropriate for our rural community. It threatens our safety, financial stability, health, and way of life. It disproportionately harms hardworking families like mine while benefiting an absentee landowner.

I urge the planning authority to reconsider this proposal and reject the Gundary Solar Farm development to protect the residents, environment, and future of our community.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my concerns

I object to the proposed solar facility located at 961 Windellama Road, Gundary, due to the overwhelming concerns regarding its size, scale, environmental impacts, fire risk, and adverse social and economic consequences for the community. The development in question is not suitable for this location, and I urge the responsible authorities to reject this proposal.
• Inappropriate Size and Scale
The sheer size of this proposal is completely out of proportion to the surrounding land uses and the local community's capacity to absorb such a development. This scale of industrialization is incompatible with the rural and agricultural landscape of the Southern Tablelands, with significant long-term consequences for both the environment and local residents.
• Proximity to Goulburn and Rural Lifestyle Blocks
The proposed site lies less than 10 km from Goulburn, a regional city. The project site is surrounded by over 100 rural lifestyle blocks, which are the homes of many local residents who have chosen this area for its scenic beauty, peaceful environment, and agricultural history. The massive industrial development will irreparably alter the character of this area and negatively affect the quality of life for local residents, many of whom are likely to experience significant impacts on their health, safety, and property values.
• Historical and Scenic Value of Gundary Plains
Gundary Plains has a rich agricultural and grazing history and is renowned for its unique landscape, which has attracted settlers and families seeking rural lifestyles. The area is also of historical significance, having been observed by early explorers. The development of this industrial solar facility would degrade the scenic quality of the land and detract from the visual appeal that is a primary draw for families looking for rural properties.
• Fire Risk and Public Safety
The fire risk posed by large-scale solar infrastructure, including solar panels, inverters, and lithium battery stations, is a major concern. Gundary Plains has a history of bushfires, and the introduction of highly flammable infrastructure presents a significant fire hazard, especially given the dry conditions often experienced in the region. With over 40 residences on Kooringaroo Road—many of which are on a dead-end road—residents could find themselves trapped in the event of a fire. The presence of a large-scale solar facility could exacerbate this danger, potentially putting lives at risk.
• Property Devaluation and Economic Impact
There is already clear evidence of property devaluation in the area as a result of the proposed development, with some properties seeing value decreases of more than 30%. The inability to sell properties near the proposed site has become a tangible and serious concern for many homeowners. The long-term economic impact on local residents cannot be ignored.

• Environmental and Biodiversity Impacts
The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) prepared by the developer acknowledges that the construction of the facility will result in direct impacts to flora and fauna, as well as the loss of habitat due to vegetation clearing and earth-moving activities. Additionally, there will be indirect impacts to the surrounding ecosystem, including changes to noise, dust, and hydrology during the construction phase. While the EIS suggests that no further biodiversity impacts will occur once the facility is operational, the long-term ecological consequences are uncertain and could be detrimental to the unique environment of Gundary Plains.
• Mental Health Impacts on the Local Community
Finally, the developer's actions have already caused significant mental health distress within the Gundary Plains community. The proposal has created an atmosphere of uncertainty and anxiety among residents, who fear the irreversible changes to their land, livelihoods, and way of life. The social fabric of the community is being undermined by this development, with some residents expressing feelings of helplessness and powerlessness in the face of such a large and intrusive project.
Conclusion
The proposed solar facility at Gundary Plains is ill-suited to its location and represents a significant threat to the environment, the community's safety, the local economy, and the cultural heritage of the Southern Tablelands. Given the substantial objections raised, I urge the relevant authorities to reject this development proposal and consider alternative, more suitable sites for large-scale renewable energy projects.

I object to this proposal due to:

The SIZE & SCALE – 1650 acres, 740,740 industrial solar panels, 154 battery stations & 167 Inverters (each larger than a 40 foot shipping container), a large 7.4 acre high voltage substation with switch and extra transmission towers and a 400 or 800MW grid scale lithium battery.
It is located at GUNDARY, less than 10kms from the Regional City of Goulburn and is located on land that is mapped for Goulburn City’s future growth and is in the middle of over 100 Rural lifestyle blocks within 4km of the site.
FIRE RISK is a serious issue on Gundary Plains. Solar panels with their associated infrastructure and large scale lithium batteries bring an increased fire risk. There are over 40 residences on Kooringaroo Road, a dead end road, that have a likelihood of being trapped by fire.
PROPERTY DEVALUATION which has already occurred and the inability to sell properties in close proximity is real. Devaluation is more than 30% in some cases.
Cumulative impacts are likely as there is another large scale solar “farm” proposed 2 kms apart between Windellama Road and Braidwood Road. The total area will be 14.5sq km.
There is no financial commitment by the developer (a shelf company – Lightsource Development Services Pty Ltd) for the decommissioning and remediation of the site.
This is a completely wrong location for this development. It is prime land in an inhabited area that could cause extreme danger to the residents in that area, especially if a fire was to break out. The fire wouldn’t need to be caused by the panels, bushfires can start so easily due to lightning strikes and can get away so easily as was evidenced on the south coast only four years ago.
There is no on going benefit to the local economy and could in fact cause harm to the area, especially residents who already have suffered the devaluation of their land.

RE: Objection to the Gundary Solar Farm Development

I am submitting this letter to strongly oppose the proposed Gundary Solar Farm project. This development poses significant risks to the well-being of the surrounding community, our environment, and local families' financial stability. It demonstrates a blatant disregard for those who call this area home.

1. Unsuitable Land Use and Disregard for Residents

My parents invested in our 30-acre property to provide a quiet, rural lifestyle for our family. This land represents more than just a home—it’s where we’ve built memories and enjoy the serenity of rural living, all while being close to essential town services. The solar farm, as planned, undermines this lifestyle.

It is deeply concerning that BP’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) does not state that the project’s location avoids conflicts with residential land use, as required by law. Instead, BP’s own Scoping Report reveals their priorities: access to the power grid and open land that avoids clearing native vegetation—decisions motivated solely by profit, with no regard for the impact on nearby residents. The assertion that the project does not conflict with residential land is both misleading and offensive.

2. Environmental Harm

While BP claims to have minimised clearing native vegetation, this development will undoubtedly disrupt the natural environment. Noise, construction, and the industrial footprint of the solar farm will have lasting consequences for local wildlife. Many native species could be displaced or lose critical habitat due to this development.

3. Unexamined Heat Bank Effect

Global studies indicate that large-scale solar farms create a “heat bank” effect, increasing temperatures by several degrees for hundreds of meters beyond the solar panels. This phenomenon is most severe during summer and will significantly impact nearby residents.

Despite this well-documented issue, there has been no effort by Australian authorities to study or evaluate the extent of this effect locally. BP’s Environmental Impact Statement fails to address how this heat impact will affect the families living within its range. This glaring omission renders the proposal incomplete and unfit for approval.

4. Fire Hazards and Safety Concerns

The placement of this project creates an unacceptable fire risk. The area is serviced by a single road, Kooringaroo Road, which could leave residents—including my family—trapped in the event of a fire. High winds, common in our region, would accelerate the spread of flames, placing lives in jeopardy.

Having personally endured the catastrophic Southern Highlands fires in 2019/2020, my family knows all too well the physical and emotional toll of such disasters. The anxiety this project brings to our community cannot be overstated.

5. Severe Economic Impact on Local Families

The proposed development will drastically affect property values in the area, with local real estate experts estimating losses of 30-50%. For my parents, who are hardworking individuals—a school teacher and a shearer—this financial blow would be devastating.

Our family’s property is not only our home but also part of my parents’ retirement plan. Selling it was meant to provide financial security in their later years. Now, the solar farm threatens to devalue their investment by hundreds of thousands of dollars. This is a stark example of corporate greed overshadowing the livelihoods of ordinary Australians.

6. Overlooked Policy and Community Needs

Large-scale solar farms of this nature were never intended to be built in areas like Gundary. Policy frameworks have failed to anticipate the placement of industrial-scale projects in rural residential areas, leaving residents like us exposed to their detrimental effects.

BP is fully aware of these oversights and is pushing forward with this project regardless. They have prioritised their financial gain over the community’s needs, treating residents with disregard throughout this process.

Conclusion

This proposal highlights a severe imbalance between BP’s profits and the negative consequences for local families. It sacrifices our community’s safety, environmental health, and financial security to line the pockets of a corporation with no vested interest in Gundary’s future.

I strongly urge the planning authority to reject this proposal. Protecting the interests of the Gundary community must take precedence over corporate greed.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my concerns

My wife and I own ( since 1988) and together with family operate a large farming/grazing property, Lumley Park, located approximately 12 km east as the crow flies of the proposed solar farm at Gundary.
I am concerned about the added fire risk posed by this development. Lumley Park is located just south of Bungonia village and covers an area of about 8000 acres. This year, 2024, marks 200 years of continuous lamb, mutton and wool production on Lumley Park. In that time there have been two devastating bushfires - 1965 and 1984 - on Lumley Park. Both burnt through the Gundary Plains and could not be stopped before reaching the bush at the top of the feature known as Mountain Ash which is approximately 1km east of the solar farm boundary. Once a fire reaches Mountain Ash - which is densely timbered with relatively tall trees and wall to wall undergrowth - the abundant fuel and favourable topography it becomes inaccessible to ground vehicles and uncontrollable with the abundant fuel. To my knowledge there have been no prescribed burns in this area in 40 years. Additionally I don’t think any fire trail maintenance has been carried out anywhere. I have the Rix fire trail on my place which I used to maintain but it is now impassable.
I would doubt the RFS would be able to attempt to control any fire escaping out of the solar farm other than by air. There is just too much potential danger to firefighters.
Both the 1965 and 1985 fires caused massive damage. In the nearly 40 years since the last fire most of the area has been sub divided into small holdings typically of 100 acres or smaller. Many of these properties are located in extremely fire prone situations off Mountain Ash Road.
The population has increased significantly and a major fire going through the area now would present problems with evacuation. There are only two exit roads - Mountain Ash and Jerrara. A fallen tree blocking either could be disastrous.
Apart from the 1965 and 1984 fires there have been many others which have been stopped on the Gundary Plains by RFS fire trucks and private fire fighting vehicles. Lightning strikes are very common on the Gundary Plains - has the EIS looked at the geology? I wouldn’t be surprised if there are areas of iron stone encouraging lightning strikes.
I have noticed over the years that no matter where fires start they end up at Gundary. The topography seems to funnel fires to Gundary. As noted, many grass fires have started on Gundary over the years which fortunately have been controlled before reaching the Mountain Ash bush. Some of these have been serious and have resulted in injuries to fire fighters. My concern is that fire trucks will not be able to drive through the dense array of panels; long dry grass growing around the panels will accelerate any fire making it uncontrollable; the proposed fire break around the development is so small it is ludicrous; the quantity of water proposed for fire fighting is similarly ludicrous even if fire trucks could reach a fire in the panels. The key to controlling a fire is to get onto it fast and this is usually done by RFS trucks but if the source of the fire is inaccessible in the middle of 1500 acres of solar panels then the RFS people will just have to sit outside the fire while it builds into an uncontrollable inferno.
The EIS does not address the extreme fire risk this development poses to properties such as Lumley Park who are not immediate neighbours.
Everyone is also aware of reports of solar panels and associated equipment going into failure mode and catching fire. This is a new risk in country already considered fire prone by Goulburn Mulwaree Council.
So in summary the development in an area with significant bush fire history is not a smart move and should be rejected.

GUNDARY PLAINS IS THE WRONG PLACE FOR A LARGE INDUSTRIAL SCALE SOLAR ENERGY GENERATION FACILITY!!!!

We are Allan and Susan Christie, residents of the heritage property “Gundary Plains”- Circa 1914, 1013 Windellama Road Goulburn. We have lived here for 38 years, raising a family and now assisting with caring for grandchildren.
The Gundary homestead was the centre piece of a large rural holding. Over time the property has been divided into many small holdings providing a rural environment for families, hobby farms and farmers with small numbers of livestock, orchards and tree plantations, retirees living on off farm income are part of our community. The Gundary Plains is a quiet picturesque, peaceful place, a good place to live. BP Lightsource plan to change that!
For the last 2.5 years we as community have been struggling with BP Lightsource as they seek approval to establish a massive solar factory on our Gundary Plains. The factory will cover a huge swathe of our space with 750, 000 solar panels and supporting BESS battery storage. A massive 14-acre substation is placed right in front of our heritage property dominating our views to the North and violating our sense of space and appreciation of where we live and why we live here.

1. SEPP (Special Environmental Protection Provisions)
We enjoy the SEPP, the government’s own protection mechanism protecting the rites of residents living inside a 10-kilometre zone from the centre of Goulburn City. These provisions prohibit large scale industrial developments that adversely impact a resident’s sense of belonging, space and appreciation of the Gundary Plains. More than 2/3 of this development is inside the 10km zone. These provisions were upheld recently by the Land and Environment Court when BP Lightsource proposed and another solar factory inside the 10km zone of the city of Mudgee, the project was not approved!

2. Loss of Land Value
Licenced valuers on inspections have advised us to expect up to a 20% reduction in property value for Gundary Plains and that protracted listing times are inevitable. We have neighbours trying to sell with no interest, the solar factory is a major negative. This has created major hardship for them. Neighbours that have managed to sell have had to discount heavily. No compensation from BP Lightsource has been offered!

3. Fire
We are in a grass fire prone area. The solar installation will be fully fenced. A fire entering or starting on the solar farm will be very difficult to defend. The restricted space between rows of panels could easily trap firefighters with disastrous results. Our local R.F.S will not enter the fenced area, a fire driven by our intense North Westerly winds will move rapidly through the solar factory and create critical risk to the many residents on the Eastern Side. The Kooringaroo Road is a dead end, partially dirt with narrow crossings, it would not cope with firefighters entering and locals escaping. People will be trapped. Loss of property and possibly loss of life will result. The R.F.S have been highly critical of the BP Lightsource fire management provisions.

4. Heat Bank Impact
Scientists recognise the heat bank impact in summer months – we will be very close to the installation and substation. BP Lightsource have no right to impact our environment or our space by modifying local climate conditions.

5. Sydney Water
The Gundary Creek is part of the Warragamba catchment, the solar farm is adjacent to and encroaches on the on the Gundary Creek. Pollution of water resources in establishment, operation and deteriorating metal and cabling as well as panel over time will compromise water quality. A fire in the solar factory would be a disaster for Sydney Water releasing toxins into the water supply.

6. Physical and Mental Health
The past 2.5 years since BP announced this project have been devastating for our family. We have had to face the destruction of our deeply valued environment and our enjoyment of it. The impact on our general and mental health, as well as neighbours has been frightful. There has been no recognition of this by BP as if it doesn’t exist, let alone assistance.

7. Remediation and Decommissioning
The mining industry has clear guidelines on remediation and decommissioning, not so for the solar industry. Depositing funds to cover remediation is essential as the ownership may change many times over 30 years. The end owner may declare bankruptcy and walkaway. This leaves the local government and taxpayers with a mammoth bill. BP has made no specific commitment to rehabilitating the Gundary Plains.

8. Roads and Access
The Windellama Road on the Western side is a mosaic of repairs at the moment. The road needs to be rebuilt to take the 2 years of heavy transport in the establishment phase. Fifes Bridge is a serious big transport risk as it is narrow and on a blind curve. The bridge needs to be rebuilt and widened, and the road straightened to take the large trucks. Will B.P be providing finance for these works?

Summary
BP Lightsource’s attraction to our area is easy access to established transmission with taxpayer funded incentives and substantial profits. Pushing aside over 60 families living on or adjacent to the solar factory boundary and hundreds of others also impacted. This is a closely populated rural community of hobby farms, retirees, young families, living on small acreages enjoying a rural lifestyle. The government has a duty to uphold the provisioning of the SEPP and protect these people from inappropriate industrial style developments. The Goulburn Mulwaree Council is also against this development as it conflicts with council vision for future growth. This project needs to be moved to a more appropriate site where it respects the provisions of the SEPP and causes minimum disruption to the local community. And functions with maximum efficiency.


Allan and Susan Christie
Gundary Plains, Goulburn

I question the fairness of the proposal.

Please refer to the attachment.

I support the project as a boost to NSW's renewable energy infrastructure to keep the lights on and reduce emissions . The Goulburn LGA does not host any such large scale projects to date and the community/neighbour benefits from these projects are substantial. I see a lot of positive work going into negotiating a decent benefit sharing agreement by many local people of good will and it appears the proponent is responsive. I understand that the Indigenous assessment with respect to special sites has been undertaken thoroughly and sensitively. Some of the opposition appears to be politically motivated, some arguments against the project constitute misinformation and come from people who are not in direct line of sight of the project. I think those directly affected visually should receive benefits and interventions that mitigate their concerns but do not derail the project. We live in the 21st century and should be building 21st century technology to address environmental concerns and climate change. Please approve this project with an emphasis on substantial benefit sharing & local jobs. I believe there is considerable support for action on climate change in the Goulburn electorate and LGA. It is the noisy minority that make change so difficult to achieve. I feel for the folks who are genuinely affected but there are mechanisms in place to negotiate compensation and benefits that far outweigh concerns.

I object to this proposal - it is in a completely inappropriate location and should be in a more remote area, far away from local residents and township. The risk of fire is already a high probability prior to the implementation of this proposal. The proposed plans to fight a fire at this location and beyond its boundaries are not adequate. It puts the local residents and surrounding homes at risk for a catastrophic event. There is very little benefit for this solar farm for the local residents, even though there has been talk about putting money back into the community, the people who need to benefit are the locals who surround the site, this is not the case.

I cannot understand how something like this can planned on prime agriculture land . The whole area will covered in solar panels , rendering it useless for farming or grazing, not to mention fire hazard. When will someone listen to the everyday person we don’t want this in our back yard.

I object to this project. Until the Proponent can fully articulate how its project can, with a medium term capacity factor over 12 months of under 30%, be relied upon to provide electricity 24/7 in the quantities when needed then this project must not be approved. My property requires electricity to run 24 hours a day for my house and my farm operations. Getting electricity for 7.2 hours a day, or on some days zero hours, from this project or any similar project is just unacceptable and ridiculous. To claim the project will supply electricity for "x" number of households is blatantly false. Stop the green washing. Be honest and tell us your project is based on falsehoods.

Your sincerely
An Unhappy Australian

The proposed project is the most environmentally damaging of the alternative electricity generation methods. Not just at the local level but globally too. Wind, solar, BESS and pumped hydro projects require massive amounts of resources resulting in the destruction of wildlife ecosystems and threatened and endangered species. The project should not be approved.

The proposed project will negatively impact our energy and national security. The bulk of the components will be made in China, who is not only the world's increasingly higher greenhouse emissions country but has already used trade bans against Australia. This project will make Australia even more dependent on current and future supply of electricity components. Do not approve the project for the sake of our children and their children.

I oppose this project because it is very unlikely that the decommissioning, removal and land rehabilitation will occur due to the exorbitant cost that will be involved. The cost in 20 years or so time will likely exceed today's cost to build the project. Unlike mining companies there is no requirement for this developer to lodge a bond to cover this future cost. Who will ultimately pay? The new owner of the plant, the host landholders, the local ratepayers or the State and/or Federal governments. The project must not be approved unless such a bond is in place.

I oppose this project as it is just one of many that will cumulatively destroy our country life-style and country environment, which will be devastating for decades, including for tourists.

I am opposed to Gundary solar farm project for a number of reason:
Large scale solar projects such as this one is only a short term solution for a long term renewable power issue. I believe the sight was chosen due to its close access to the grid system, without taking into account the viability of the land, the families, and beautiful area so close to a thriving small community. Solar panels/batteries will eventually wear out and need to be disposed of, creating waste that will have an environmental impact. It is not clear in this submission how/where old solar equipment/batteries will be disposed of, who is responsible to pay for this?
The fire risk and fire management proposal is catastrophically under estimated. The fire risk/management plan is undeniably not adequate to deal with the historical extreme dry weather events that the Gundary Plains experiences, this puts more than just neighbours at risk if a fire was to escape the proposed project area.
Property values to the adjoining project have already been negatively impacted and if the project is approved will continue to have a negative impact.
Even though there is proposal to block as much view of the solar farm from homes and road, it just isn't possible to eliminate the eye sore it will be on the land. Why destroy a beautiful area for short term gains? Please stop this project from advancing, it's in a location which is in the wrong area, there are plenty of other unpopulated land, in sunnier locations than Gundary Plains.

I support this project , please see my PDF attachment