Pottinger Wind Farm

Wind and Sun are the two energy resources that Australia has in abundance. Australia needs to harness these resources to ensure our energy needs for the future. The use of Wind and Sun reduces the environmental impact on Australia and the world. Pottinger Wind Farm will be able to meet the energy needs and at the same time be mindful of our natural environment in Australia.

Someva is one of few Aussie -owned projects in South-West Renewable Energy Zone (SW-REZ). They focus and prioritise efforts with local communities and local Aussie farming families to host the project. They ensure to engage the communities with authenticity building great social license and uniting the local community through the project benefits.

I am writing in support of the Pottinger Wind Farm.
I am a previous owner of one of the properties within the Pottinger Energy Park. The addition of wind turbines to produce green energy for all Australians combined with pristine grazing lands and protected environmentally valuable areas is how we as primary producers must farm. This sustainable and thoughtful approach will safeguard our local ecosystem for further generations.

I DO NOT CONSENT to our Public Funds being wasted by stupid idiots, socialist zealots & greedy Vested Interests on such Filthy, Toxic, Pathetic, Fake Green, Incapable, Weather Dependent, Intermittent, Industrialised RenewaBULL JUNK like this illogical, Fire hazardous, Toxic Contaminating & useless, CCP reliant, unethical cobalt based, ECOCIDAL Wind Electricity Generating Works + BESS disaster.

AUSTRALIA’S ENERGY SECURITY - FOOD SECURITY - PRODUCTIVITY - ECONOMIC PROSPERITY & NATIONAL SECURITY NECESSITATES INDEPENDENT, RELIABLE, AFFORDABLE, EFFICIENT, PLENTIFUL, SECURE, 24/7 AUSTRALIAN COAL, GAS & A CLEAN, SAFE NUCLEAR POWER FUTURE WITH MINIMAL ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT - NO INTERCONNECTOR NIGHTMARE NEEDED!!

**WIND TURBINES ARE A FAKE GREEN SCOURGE - SHEDDING TONNES OF MICROPLASTICS FROM WIND TURBINE BLADES (KNOWN AS ‘LEADING EDGE EROSION’) - AFTER ONLY A FEW YEARS OF OPERATION. 
Mark Twichell spells out the poisonous truth - why Wind Turbines are a dangerous idea.
The Buffalo News October 2022.
"Wind Turbine Blades leave a toxic waste legacy for centuries to come, but there is an even more immediate threat - their blades naturally erode during operation - spreading tonnes of microplastics far & wide.
The epoxy compounds they shed contain toxins that are finding their way into our oceans & drinking water.
The particles eroded from Wind Turbine blades includes epoxy resin which is 40% Bisphenol (BPA) - a frequently banned endocrine disrupter & neurotoxin” - equally as toxic as blue asbestos & lethal to young children.

“Academic research has shown the potential for 137 pounds of epoxy micro particles to be shed per turbine per year.
The resulting annual BPA release can potentially contaminate 17 million gallons of drinking water per turbine while threatening aquatic & terrestrial life.

Minimising the shedding depends on specialised blade coatings that contain toxic ingredients from the PFAS family of 'forever' chemicals which are biologically cumulative & non-degradable.
These coatings likely need replacement after a few years.
PFAS is a common ingredient in lubricants & hydraulic fluids which routinely leak from Wind Turbines."

**18th August 2022 - Dr Eric Blondeel says:- 
“That the plastics in the blades are toxic - is without doubt!”

As far back as 2012 the World Health Organisation warned about potential carcinogenic properties of endocrine disrupters & concluded that these substances pose a global threat to public health.
Unborn & young children are especially vulnerable because their hormone system is still developing.

**https://stopthesethings.com/category/bisphenol-a-wind-turbine-blades/

**https://greatlakeswindtruth.org/newsworthy/media-release-na-paw-will-bisphenol-a-be-the-end-game-for-industrial-wind-the-pfos-poly-and-perfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas-pfos-is-used-in-lubricants-coatings-paints-varnishes-plastics-and/
https://greatlakeswindtruth.org/newsworthy/essay-by-dr-ir-eric-blondeel/

**https://bergensia.com/bisphenol-a-in-wind-turbines-damages-human-fertility/es-human-fertility/

Bisphenol A - a toxic chemical used in the epoxy resins that are used to make turbine blades. High speed spinning blades 300 KM/H collide with dust particles, rain and hail chipping off small particles of the resin coating.

5th April 2024
Cowboy State Daily.com
Meet the Expert on Climate Eagle Deaths The Wind

**GROUND WATER SUPPLIES MUDDIED BY PILE DRIVING FOR THE MASSIVE WIND TURBINE BASES.
*Wind farm woes continue as Victorian turbines fail after only five years – www.cairnsnews.org - 11th April 2024
https://cairnsnews.org/2024/04/11/wind-farm-woes-continue-as-victorian-turbines-fail-after-only-five-years/
Overseas in Ontario, Canada, farmers are regretting the day they signed up with wind farm operators back in the early 2000s. What they didn’t bargain on was their groundwater supplies being muddied up by pile-driving for the massive wind tower bases and the ongoing effects of blade vibrations. Incredibly, some claim that the vibrations cause deformities in the feet of livestock.
Bill Clarke, an independent hydrogeological consultant who ran Waterloo Geoscience Consultants Ltd, says he is opposed to those developments that may cause serious and possibly irreparable damage to the environment.

**Wind Turbine Fire
https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/news-media/media-alerts/wind-turbine-fire-at-redhill-7-february-2024/#:~:text=A%20fire%20has%20destroyed%20a,around%20the%20collapsing%20wind%20turbine.

** A wind turbine has burst into flames last night in Portland. The wind farm operator is investigating the cause of the fire. #7NEWS https://x.com/7NewsMelbourne/status/1806869935706231003
29th June 2024

**Gateway Energy Storage System Fire: Otay Mesa, CA - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7UY4ioP4VQ

**BLOOD BATTERIES - THE DARK SIDE OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES - Gravitas Plus YouTube
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=RFHvq-8np1o

**THE DISTURBING REALITY OF COBALT MINING FOR RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES.
“CLEAN COBALT IS A FICTION – THERE IS NO CLEAN COBALT - IT'S ALL MARKETING!”
https://www.news.com.au/finance/business/mining/harvard-professor-explains-heartwrenching-source-of-electric-vehicle-iphone-batteries/news-story/db881f47c76db89581409c092a740c4c
Joe Rogan exposes sad truth about cobalt used in electric vehicle, iPhone batteries |news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site.
Cobalt is in all iPhones, tablets & crucially EV's - it maximises charge & stability.
Before anyone knew what was happening the Chinese Government & Chinese companies took control of almost all of the big mines in the Congo, with the local population displaced & the Congolese people under duress - digging in subhuman, gut wrenching conditions - using all raw human force - clanking the cobalt out of the ground!
Throughout the whole history of slavery, never has there been more suffering that generated more profit than was linked to more lives of people around the world than what is happening today in the Congo - mining cobalt in appalling, heart wrenching & dangerous conditions.

**NSW Fire & Rescue - SARET Research:-
“There is a general lack of guidance and provisions in building codes, standards, and legislation in relation to safety to address the potential risks from these emerging technologies. Part of the problem is that we do not yet know enough about their probability of failure, their mechanisms of failure and potential consequences of failure.”

Ugly Industrialised Wind Electricity Generating Works & Battery Energy Storage hazards will NEVER provide reliable, affordable Australian power which is an essential service for the people of NSW.
Depending on the weather means they are flaky, a very silly idea & DON’T WORK most of the time.
This toxic contaminating plan DOES NOT belong on essential, irreplaceable Food growing land at all as irreversible environmental harm will inevitably occur & our children’s Energy Security & Food Security future will be ruined forever!

To whom it may concern, as a farmer and local business owner in the community, I fully support the Pottinger Energy Park wind farm.
There are so many direct benefits that this project could bring to our agricultural community. This project promises to stimulate our local economy by creating jobs and increasing demand for local services. The Benefits Sharing Program are exactly what we need to keep our community thriving and will provide a much needed boost to our region and a stronger local economy will benefit us all.
I am also someone deeply committed to environmental change and I am pleased that our region can play a key part in the transition to renewable energy for Australia. This project has the potential to significantly reduce our carbon footprint by approximately 2.8 million tonnes annually. This initiative not only represents a major step forward in clean energy but also aligns perfectly with our goals for a sustainable future, and what we are striving for in our farming business.

To whom it may concern, I am writing to provide my support for the Pottinger Energy Park. As a local farming business who sees the direct benefits this project could bring to our agricultural community we are supportive of the proposed windfarms in the area. The diversification of income streams and improved drought resilience are critical for our survival and prosperity in challenging climate conditions. This project will strengthen our community’s economic foundation and ensure we can continue farming for generations to come.

It it important that the project is owned by an Australian company. This will not only provide comfort for all stakeholders but also allow Australians to be part of the required investment in Australia, an important point for future generations of Australians.
Furthermore, Somevas' investment in the local community and the time taken by their people to explain the project and ensure the the local community is part of the process and will enjoy the benefits is a fundamental indication of their sincere commitment to a successful outcome for all stakeholders. I strongly support this project.

To whom it may concern,
I am a very strong supporter of the Pottinger Wind Farm, I am especially impressed by how the Someva-AGL team have worked with the local landholders to get their involvement, understanding and input into the project from such an early stage.
The landholders in this region have managed their farms with a strong environmental consciousness for many decades, looking to preserve the land for economic and environmental benefits - the two will always go hand-in-hand and it is reassuring to see organisations that respect and are working with that.
I understand the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process, which typically spans over 24 months, aims to assess the impact on local biodiversity thoroughly. From what I've seen, the EIS for the Pottinger project has been conducted with precision and care. I note the aim to ensure the protection of environmentally valuable areas, which have been completely excluded from the development's footprint. This thoughtful consideration demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding the land and community interests.
Additionally, Someva have demonstrated an important commitment to supporting the local community through projects across both the Hay and Edward River Council areas, meaning that the largest number of people possible will benefit from the windfarm. It is significant that the benefits of these renewable energy projects provide economic support to the entire region.
The change that renewable projects will bring to the region is significant, but with the right project such as the Pottinger Wind Farm I feel that residents can be confident that this will be done in a way that is sympathetic to both the regions history and for its future.
Kind regards, Monica

As a parent in our community, I am in favour of the Pottinger Energy Park wind farm. The future of our children is my top priority, and I believe this project contributes to creating a healthier, more sustainable environment for them to grow up in. Additionally, the job opportunities and community programs will provide them with a better quality of life right here at home.
I am also someone who is dedicated to the welfare of our region. I fully endorse the wind farm as the project's thoughtful placement minimizes visual impact while maximizing economic and environmental benefits. With local road improvements and substantial job creation, this project aligns with our strategic goals for sustainable development and deserves strong community support

As a farm business owner in the community, I fully support the Pottinger Energy Park wind farm. This project promises to stimulate our local economy by creating jobs and increasing demand for local services. The dedicated efforts to enhance our infrastructure and the Benefits Sharing Program are exactly what we need to keep our community thriving. This is a golden opportunity for economic growth that we should all get behind. As someone deeply committed to environmental conservation, I am thrilled by the project's potential to significantly reduce our carbon footprint by approximately 2.8 million tonnes annually. This initiative not only represents a major step forward in clean energy but also aligns perfectly with our goals for a sustainable future.

SSD-59235464 Pottinger Wind Electricity Generating Works.
My objections include the following
The turbines are very weather dependent and have a low electricity generation capacity factor and therefore need base load power to make up for lack of energy produced.
They are an additional fire risk as displayed at Portland Vic, South Australia recently and around the world often catching on fire, adding toxic contamination to land and water.
Oil leaks and microfibers from the blades also contaminate the local environment.
Unhealthy EMR and EMF from all the cabling will affect people, animals and birdlife.
These windfarm and solar farm projects forever are environmentally destructive and are not nature positive or caring for "country".
The biodiversity and ecological habitat destroyed by these projects in the Western Riverina will create an extensive footprint (26,400 ha) that can't be remediated 100% without huge costs.
Other options such as gas or nuclear, or the latest low emissions coal generators take up very small footprints some of which exist already. ( 40 - 100ha!)
It is not cheapest form of power as it relies on huge subsidies for the life of the project.
The Local Councils/Community will ultimately bear the responsibility and liability of the land
and water Contamination/Pollution caused by Wind/Solar Electricity Generating Works if the developer /owner goes broke.
The wind noise and infrasound from turbines blades will have detrimental consequences on all surrounding livestock, native creatures and people. The critically endangered Plains Wanderer bird will be driven out of this area by the infrasound generated by the turbines.
The blades will kill many birds as well.
The network of roads required to install and maintain these 247 Turbines will have a huge impact on the natural water flow across the countryside and wetlands associated with the creeks and waterways.

We are a local farm business owner in the community, we fully support the Pottinger Energy Park wind farm. This project promises to stimulate our local economy by creating jobs and increasing demand for local services. The dedicated efforts to enhance our infrastructure and the Benefits Sharing Program are exactly what we need to keep our community thriving. This is a golden opportunity for economic growth that we should all get behind.

I support the Pottinger Wind farm. I believe that renewables are safer and our children and grandchildren deserve us to do our best for their future. The Hay Plains are a perfect place to have wind turbines. It is always windy and the placement of the turbines will have minimal visual impact to the local community. Our community will be so much better off with local road upgrades and a substantial impact on job creation. This project can droughtproof our region and bring tremendous economic gains to our region.

I am writing to express my support for wind farms, particularly in the Riverina area, which I believe is a suitable location. I think it will be great for small remote communities to have more investment put into these areas. However, it's crucial that the scenic view from the Cobb Highway across the Hay Plains is preserved. Having examined projects within the SW REZ and noted the oversubscribed upcoming tender for access, I am convinced that the Pottinger Project is strategically positioned. Set well back from the Cobb Highway, it ensures the maintenance of the picturesque landscape that the Hay Plains are renowned for. This careful planning demonstrates a thoughtful approach to balancing development with natural beauty.

I am writing in support of the Pottinger Wind Farm project.

I am a supporter of wind and solar farms, but in the right landscape.
I am very concerned that many of the proposed wind farm projects in the Riverina may attract public concern from wind farms spoiling the scenic view from the Cobb Highway. The Cobb Highway is a tourist route known as “The Long Paddock”. Quoting a New South Wales tourist web site “the Long Paddock, an iconic touring route that meanders through the heart of Australia inviting travellers to embark on a journey through landscapes that resonate with history, culture and the spirit of the outback”.
The Potttinger Wind Farm is located 15 kilometres east of the Cobb Highway, “out of sight and out of mind”.
The Pottinger Wind Farm careful planning demonstrates a thoughtful approach to balancing development with natural beauty.

I am writing to express my strong endorsement of the Pottinger Energy Park wind farm. As someone deeply committed to environmental conservation, I am thrilled by the project's potential to significantly reduce our carbon footprint by approximately 2.8 million tonnes annually. This initiative not only represents a major step forward in clean energy but also aligns perfectly with our goals for a sustainable future. I have watched local farmers within the Riverina region make proactive steps to ensure sustainable farming practices are implemented for future generations and see the Pottinger project as an addition to the strategies already implemented by the farming community.
Kind regards
Sally Finlay

I am a keen supporter of renewable energy and understand how we as a local and broader community need to work towards the transition to renewables, I support the Pottinger wind farm and think the Riverina is a very suitable area for this infrastructure in particular the Pottinger wind farm which is set back from public view which is the major concern I have and hear in the community. People are happy for the renewables but don't want to be able to see them easily.

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

Save Our Surroundings objects to this proposed project as it poses so many risks to the local human and animal populations. Risks still include grass/bush fires, noise, soil and water contamination, very high disposal costs, unclear responsibility for end-of-life cleanup, lack of economic viable recycling of such huge volumes of toxic components, and the risk of obsolescence as much better technologies, such as small nuclear reactors become available over the next few years. Australia's oldest wind electricity plant recently reached its end-of-life and rather than undertake the decommissioning, etc. that it promised, the owner just declared it a museum. How many more wind and solar projects will not meet their EIS commitments, as is happening in other countries? No upfront bond means no skin in the game.