Wallaroo Solar Farm

I live in Dunlop, ACT and I object to the project for the following reasons:
1. In the Environmental Impact Statement, the site is listed as suitable land with no residential zones, however the sensitive receiver map clearly indicates that there are many dwellings in the ACT that are within 2km of the project.
2. As per the Social Impact Assessment in the Environmental Impact Statement, there is a high residual impact significance in the Surroundings Livelihoods category.
3. I am worried that there maybe Glint and Glare, and a strong negative Visual Impact which will not be reduced by the proposed planting of vegetation. Part of the attraction to me of where I live was the surrounding grasslands and rural land across the (NSW) border, and I am worried that there will be a large negative impact resulting from the Solar Farm.
4. Under NSW State Environmental Planning Policies, Solar Farms cannot be built within 5km of regional residential areas (and the Environmental Impact Statement clearly shows that is not the case).
5. A cross-border issue, but during the proposed 30 year proposed operational lifespan of the Solar Farm, a Wallaroo resident with any complaint, can raise issues with the Yass Valley Council, or alternately the NSW Government, with the power of a ratepayer/voter. Living in the ACT there is no such power.

As an avid bird, bat and nature enthusiast I regularly visit our Canberra and its surrounds for some of the most unique and special bird and bat life of any Australian city, if not the world. (Refer to the Canberra Ornithologist Group for more spectacular information, at https://canberrabirds.org.au/). This animal life is integral and intertwined with the Indigenous Culture and story time - the proposed construction and running of Wallaroo wind turbines endangers our landscape, our wild life, and our living history. This is in violation of Article 8,2a of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. I beg you not to put these wind turbines here, so that one day our children can enjoy the precious natural landscape wild life, just like Indigenous Peoples have done for thousands of years.

As a local Real Estate Agent who sells a lot of homes in the area. My view is that this project will turn buyers away from wanting to buy in this area. One of the many reasons that people buy in this area is because of the outlook and the view of the reserve and parkland. By putting a solar farm in, this will affect the outlook and cause house prices to go down in value.

Dear State Significant Development Team

I am writing to express my strong objection to the proposed Wallaroo solar farm in its current location. There are several significant concerns that must be addressed before proceeding with such a project.

Firstly, it is important to note that the proposed site is not located within a designated NSW renewable energy zone. This raises questions about the suitability of the location for a large-scale solar facility and whether there are more appropriate areas available that align with renewable energy goals and guidelines.

Furthermore, the construction and operation of the solar farm will likely create a microclimate in the area. This potential alteration of the local climate can have far-reaching consequences on the surrounding ecosystems, including flora and fauna, as well as agricultural activities. It is crucial to thoroughly assess and mitigate these potential impacts before proceeding with the project.

The social impact of the Wallaroo solar farm cannot be underestimated. The local community and economy may suffer negative consequences due to the stigma associated with a large-scale solar facility. This could deter visitors and potential investors, impacting the tourism industry and overall growth of the region. It is essential to consider the long-term implications on the social fabric and economic viability of the area.

Additionally, the proposed location of the solar farm is prime blue ribbon farming land. This designation reflects the superior quality and productivity of the agricultural activities in the area. The conversion of such valuable land into a solar farm would not only result in the loss of productive farming capabilities but also disrupt the agricultural industry in the region.

Moreover, the proposed site is the closest acreage to back onto the borders of the Australian Capital Territory. This proximity raises concerns about the potential visual impact and intrusion on the scenic beauty of the region. It is essential to carefully evaluate the visual compatibility of the solar farm in this particular location and consider alternative sites to minimize any adverse effects on the bordering area.

Another critical aspect to consider is the presence of Aboriginal heritage in the vicinity. Findings of hunting materials along the Gooromon pond creek beds indicate the cultural significance of the area for the Aboriginal community. The construction and operation of the solar farm could potentially disturb these important cultural sites and compromise the preservation of Aboriginal heritage. It is crucial to take these cultural considerations into account before proceeding with any development.

Lastly, the proposed name of "Wallaroo solar farm" itself devalues the longstanding reputation and recognition of Wallaroo's Blue Ribbon name. This could have negative implications for the local community, economy, and tourism industry, as the association with a large-scale solar facility might create a stigma and deter visitors and potential investors.

In conclusion, the construction and operation of the Wallaroo solar farm in its proposed location would have significant negative impacts on the environment, local community, agricultural industry, and cultural heritage. It is crucial to reconsider alternative locations and renewable energy zones that can accommodate such developments while minimizing adverse effects on existing ecosystems and communities.

I urge you to carefully consider these concerns and explore alternative options that balance the need for renewable energy with the protection of valuable ecosystems, community well-being, and cultural heritage.

I've also attached the artist impression given to us from Mr Ben Cranston from new energy development on how the proposed solar farm would be viewed from the living areas of our family home

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Plus refer to the attached document

I confirm I request my name be withheld

This area is known and loved for its beauty including the nature filled outlook and I think the solar farm will have a detrimental outcome on the areas appeal.

I have read the Traffic Impact Assessment dated April 2023.
1. I am concerned that Wallaroo Road, Gooromon Ponds Road and Southwell Road were never designed to take the B Double traffic proposed. As far as I can make out, there is little proposed in terms of structural upgrade to these roads in advance of the project.
2. I am worried that the accident assessment does not take into account recent accidents on the Barton Highway close to the Wallaroo Road junction.
3. For safety, the speed limit on the Barton Highway should be reduced to 80 kph for the stretch of road from the border of NSW to just past the junction with Wallaroo Road. It is a very dangerous junction.
4. I understood that the B Doubles would not be travelling at the same time as the school buses but this does not seem to be the case. Please can they not travel at the same time as the school buses.

As a Real Estate agent that has been working in Dunlop for over a decade now, I don't believe the project is going to benefit the property owners in Dunlop, especially the homes on the fringe of Dunlop who have paid a premium for the homes with wonderful views. I believe the project will be an eyesore and will negatively effect the suburb. I also know quite a few home owners in Wallaroo who have also paid a premium for the natural beauty and landscape that Wallaroo offers and again, I think the solar farm will be an eye sore and effect the properties values in that area.

Wallaroo is know for its natural beauty and lifestyle attributes. Residents and potential residents of the area appreciate the peaceful rural benefits and developing a solar farm in this location will hinder its aesthetic and future growth.

This development proposal has been conducted insidiously and without proper consultation with residents and concerned citizens. There are numerous issues with this proposal and this is not the appropriate sire for such a large piece of infrastructure right in the midst of a densely populated area of a major adjoining city.

I wish to object to the proposed project of Wallaroo Solar Farm.
I am certain that the project will have a significant impact not only on the Wallaroo but the entire YVC region from the property values, tourism and business perspective.
There can be no logical reason to proceed with a development of a solar farm structure in the prominent location like Wallaroo village. The project will have a prodigious diminishing effect on value of many neighbouring properties in this area, on the contrary financially benefiting a single owner of the land for this proposed development. I am not averse to solar energy being developed but I am certain that there are more appropriate locations for such a dominant, unattractive structure. The government has access to many parcels of land elsewhere in the area, where it will not have such a devastating financial impact on rate payers and as a consequence Yass Valley Council itself.

Council will be aware of the significant expenditure on infrastructure attracting tourists to the area. Wallaroo is a wine region, where five different wineries offer their cellar doors to the locals and tourists from all over the country and abroad. There are restaurants and places offering accommodation. Tourists are attracted by beautiful natural scenery and wildlife from kangaroos and deer to ducks, eagles and rare black cockatoos. The access to Murrumbidgee River offers great fishing spots and water activities. There are helicopter companies offering scenic flights and transport to the vineyards for weddings, proposals, anniversaries etc. who will lose their clients when not being able to offer the same service. Moreover, the land for the solar farm is under the local airways from regional landing strips to Canberra Airport where the huge risk factor is created by a light reflection from the solar panels.

To sum up, in recent years many millions of dollars have been invested in attracting tourists to the fast-growing tourism attraction of Hills of Hall making the region and its properties interesting, attractive and valuable. The solar farm development will have an enormous impact on those businesses, tourism, hospitality, farming and overall Yass Valley Council economy.

Our main worry is the traffic on Wallaroo & Gooroomon Ponds Roads.

I am a nearby resident of 31 years living only hundreds of metres from the site of the proposed Solar Farm. My family and I drive past the site at least 4 or 5 times per day. Furthermore I am a licensed Real Estate agent with 45 years experience and have an in depth knowledge of values in the area .
I submit that this project , should it go ahead, will have a significant derogating affect on the values of surrounding and nearby properties.The region has become a Mecca for visitors to high quality local wineries and the many other diverse businesses bringing revenue to the area and YVC.
The project will ruin the attractiveness of the spectacular surrounding landscape and despite attempts to minimise the visual impact it will not succeed based on the plans I have seen. Council will be aware of the significant increase in real estate values in the area contributed to largely by substantial expenditure on infrastructure by many of these business enterprises. People come from all around the area including the ACT to enjoy the spectacular views, popular cellar door and wineries as well as a Miriad of other businesses which generate huge revenue. Council benefits from increased rates and fees which contribute significantly to its vision for tourism in the region.
Why would council agree to a development that will obviously discourage tourism to the area due something that will be a blight on the picturesque landscape and cause huge financial losses to many of its residents all for the urge financial benefit of one landholder?
On weekends many bike riders and other travellers come out to enjoy the countryside, a coffee, wine, meals and much more. This will diminish as the beautiful ‘Hills of Hall’ become known as ‘that area out at Wallaroo with the big ugly Solar farm.’
Not only will values definitely fall but the revenue will decrease and potentially business owners will lose millions that they have invested in good faith. People will be less inclined to visit the restaurants, cafes, accomodation, wedding centres, helicopter and flight training centres, wineries and cellar doors, river walks, fishing, photography, nature walks and the joy of witnessing the plethora of amazing wild life….it will be simply less attractive as a destination.
One wealthy land holder will receive a huge amount of money to the detriment of the rest. People will sell up and move elsewhere.
As a pilot for 30 years I am also concerned that there might be some danger to aircraft flying in the area, affected by flashing reflected light. Only time will tell if that is to be a significant risk.
I’m sure Council knows there are other places more suitable for such a development that won’t have the same detrimental affect on real estate values and won’t cause financial loss to the many enterprising families that moved to the beautiful Hills of Hall and invested their life time savings to build something special.
In closing, I have great confidence that Council will heed the cries of the local residents near this proposed ugly metal and glass monolith and suggest a better alternative location.
Regards,
Derek Whitcombe

Dear Council Members,
I am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed solar farm development in our special area of Wallaroo. I want to emphasise from the outset that I am not against the concept of renewable energy, which I wholeheartedly support. However, I have severe reservations about the specific location proposed for this development and its potential negative impacts on our community.
Foremost, the visual impact of the solar farm is a significant concern. Many of us chose Wallaroo as our home for its natural beauty and tranquillity. Introducing a large-scale industrial facility would drastically alter the landscape we all appreciate and disrupt the aesthetic character of our rural area.
In addition to the visual impact, I am concerned about the potential noise associated with the operation of the solar farm. While the panels are silent, the related infrastructure, such as inverters and transformers, can generate considerable noise. This could introduce an unwanted level of noise pollution, disrupting the peacefulness we currently enjoy in our residential area.
Furthermore, the construction and ongoing maintenance of the solar farm could significantly increase traffic, including heavy vehicles. This increased traffic could disrupt our community's quiet, peaceful nature and cause wear and tear on our local roads, which are not designed to handle such heavy use.
Finally, it is crucial to consider the potential impact on property values. While I understand that the effects of solar farms on property values can be complex and depends on various factors, I share the concerns of many residents that the proposed development could negatively impact the value of our homes. This is a significant concern for many of us who have invested and are investing in this community.
While I fully support the move towards renewable energy, such initiatives must be implemented in a way that respects the local environment and the quality of life of its residents. I kindly ask the council to reconsider the proposed location for this solar farm, considering the potential visual, noise, and traffic impacts, along with the concerns about property values and the long-term implications of the project.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I trust that our concerns will be carefully reviewed and actions will be taken in the best interest of our community.

I am writing to express my strong objection to the proposed solar farm application. While I acknowledge the importance of renewable energy and the potential benefits of solar power, I believe that the current proposed location is unsuitable and would have significant negative impacts on the surrounding environment and local community.

My objections are based on the following grounds:

Environmental Impact: The proposed solar farm would entail the destruction of a substantial portion of the existing natural landscape. The conversion of this land into an industrial site would disrupt local ecosystems, harm wildlife habitats, and potentially contribute to the loss of biodiversity in the area. Alternative sites, such as brownfields or already disturbed areas, should be considered to minimise the environmental impact.

Visual and Aesthetic Concerns: The size and scale of the proposed solar farm are disproportionate to the surrounding landscape and would have a detrimental impact on the visual aesthetics of the area. The installation of numerous large solar panels and associated infrastructure would significantly alter the scenic beauty and character of the countryside, which is valued by residents and visitors alike.

Noise and Glare: Solar farms often generate noise during construction and operation phases. Noise pollution can disturb the tranquility of nearby residential areas, affecting the quality of life for residents. Additionally, the glare caused by sunlight reflecting off the panels can be visually intrusive, leading to potential safety concerns for drivers on nearby roads.

Property Values: Studies have shown that the proximity of solar farms can adversely affect property values in the surrounding area. The visual impact, noise concerns, and perceived industrialisation of the landscape can deter potential buyers and lead to a decrease in property prices, causing financial hardship for residents who are already suffering a cost of living crisis.

Community Engagement: The proposed solar farm has not undergone sufficient public consultation and community engagement. It is essential to involve residents in the decision-making process and provide them with an opportunity to voice their concerns, suggestions, and alternative proposals.

Considering these objections, I respectfully request that the local council denies the current application for the solar farm. Instead, I encourage you to explore alternative sites that minimize the environmental impact, preserve the visual aesthetics, and take into account the concerns of the local community. Renewable energy projects should be developed with careful consideration for the unique characteristics and needs of the area.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and trust that you will carefully consider the objections raised. Thank you for your time and consideration.

I totally oppose the construction of Wallaroo Solar Farm.

I support the considered investment in renewable energy in locations fit for purpose without large scale negative impact on the environment, already poor regional infrastructure (such as roads) and local rural communities and services.

Solar farms are best suited to flat topography to maximise exposure to sunlight, and reduce the impacts on surrounding dwellings from light pollution and glare. This is not the case in this location. Due to the undulating and hilly topography, many homes in the area will be directly impacted by the light/glare and other visual impacts by being above the panel height, looking down.

Additionally, with current housing/land shortages in the ACT, the recent selling of NSW border property to the ACT for expansion, and the long term growth of the area, this project is short-sighted and not in the best interest of the whole local ACT/NSW community.

In terms of what reports have been provided:

The traffic report significantly underestimates the impact on roads and traffic flow as described, and does not reflect what landowners were told previously. It was stated by the representatives the proposed solar farm that Southwell road was the main thoroughfare and now the report states the new use of Gooroomon Ponds as the single transport route. It does not take into consideration post-covid traffic numbers, has not assessed the impact specifically on Gooroomon Ponds Road and businesses that already operate on this thoroughfare such as Gooroomon Park or the winery traffic, whom generally utilise Gooroomon Ponds to access Brooklands Road. Any consideration of access should be from Wallaroo directly to Southwell Road to reduce impact on houses close to the road, local school bus traffic/frequent stopping and the hilly terrain which will no doubt require trucks to use air-braking. None of this is considered in the traffic or noise report. Additionally both reports contain errors with road names/locations and the photographs accompanying the truck turning requirements at the Wallaroo/Gooroomon Ponds intersection clearly shows that the incoming truck will be on the verge despite the description stating the intersection allows 2 trucks to pass safely. Additionally these rural roads are used extensively by cyclists and locals for walking etc. There are no footpaths or even road shoulders to allow these people to avoid passing traffic or take evasive action if necessary, especially in the face of large trucks and individuals unfamiliar with the road. This is why currently heavy vehicles are not permitted on Gooroomon Ponds Road - a road with poor road maintenance, no shoulders, no safety barriers in areas of steep drop-off, livestock kept close to the road and limited line markings to differentiate two way traffic lanes.

It is inappropriate to propose a project which neither accounts for the terms and conditions of the 'Modern Slavery Act" nor has any relevant proposal to properly dispose of the waste created by the construction process as well as the end of life of components. One must be aware that packaging has to disposed as though it is contaminated from the leaking greases and oils encountered in the processes of delivery of these components.
There must also be significant plans for the disposal before any items are introduced into our delicate , productive environment.
Independent evaluation of pre-testing of air, temperatures, water and soils soils is a necessary requirement that cannot be either underestimated or overlooked.

To whom it may concern,
I am writing to object to the Wallaroo Solar Farm.

I'll try to keep this to the point. There is a community on Gooroomon Ponds Road, WALLAROO, NSW 2618 which are here to enjoy the Rural Zoning this land is set aside for. It includes residential, hobby farm and horse-riding folk. We love the scenery, the quietness, the wineries and general ambiance of the area. There are children catching buses, which pick them up on the side of the road of a morning and return them in the afternoon. People ride their horses along this road and Wallaroo Road too.
This is not for large industry and construction for power stations.
I am objecting to the number of trucks this will incur on our road during every stage of this project.
I am objecting to the noise pollution it will create.
I am objecting to the danger and risk it will put every road user at daily, with blind corners, school buses, elderly, horse floats and general tourists visiting the wineries and primary producer farms (olives and figs etc.).
I object to the environmental damage and pollution with the addition of so many engines, dust, solar panel reflection, 4m panels that you cannot see over when in place.
I point out the potential risk to the mental health of the people in this area, before, during construction and after, should they no longer have what they originally purchased their property for.
I object to the awareness process only touching parts of the affected community. Knowing firsthand that some residents of Dunlop, ACT community are unaware of such development.
I object to an individual trying to gain wealth from a possible project at the expense of this community.
I object to the site chosen for this project. When there are many better options to choose from.
I object to a NSW location being nominated for the services of ACT residents, and cost to NSW residents.
I think you get my point. I can continue. This is an object for my reasons above and not to mention the many others whom have their reasons too.
Kind regards,
Troy Klep

To Whom it may concern

Re: Propsed Wallaroo solar farm (SSD-92628283)

I am writing to express my strong objection and concern to the proposed Wallaroo solar farm in its current location. We are a nearby resident at 151 Gooromon Ponds Road Wallaroo.

Our property aesthetics and view will be significantly impacted by this development. Our property has been designed to capture the views which is directly inline with the location of this development. This will significantly devalue our land and home.

The Wallaroo region is known for its prime farming land. This designation reflects the superior quality and productivity of the agricultural activities in the area. The conversion of such valuable land into a solar farm would not only result in the loss of productive farming capabilities but also disrupt the agricultural industry in the region.

The construction and operation of the solar farm has the potential to impact the local climate effecting the surrounding ecosystems, including flora and fauna, as well as agricultural activities.

The social impact of the Wallaroo solar farm cannot be underestimated. The local community and economy may suffer negative consequences due to the stigma associated with a large-scale solar facility. This could deter visitors and potential investors, impacting the tourism industry and overall growth of the region. It is essential to consider the long-term implications on the social fabric and economic viability of the area.

To summarise, the construction and operation of the Wallaroo solar farm in its proposed location would have significant negative impacts on the environment, local community, agricultural industry, and cultural heritage.

I urge you to carefully consider these concerns and explore alternative options that balance the need for renewable energy with the protection of valuable ecosystems, community well-being, and cultural heritage.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Rachael and Luke McCarroll

151 Gooromon ponds rd
Wallaroo

Ruins the natural beauty of Wallaroo

The location of the proposed project is immediately neighbouring residential land in an area of natural environmental appeal where we live & the beauty of the environment is the reason why we live here. If the Solar Farm proceeds, this appeal will be gone. There are many alternate sites close to the Canberra region where the project would be welcomed & be closer to relevant electricity substations. The current Wallaroo Solar Farm management have not responded to my introducing them to the alternate site/s. This project should not proceed, being located so close to many residences.