Winterbourne Wind Farm

Our aging coal fired power stations need replacing, and I believe that renewables are the way of the future, rather than burning coal. We all, apart from the few who manage to live off grid, rely on electricity being delivered to our homes and businesses, and this will not continue to happen unless we get on with developing alternate power options.

My name is Anna Young. I have been in Walcha for over 13 years and work as a Clinical Psychologist in our community.
Once again - I strongly object to this project and the amendment report (which is full of errors, contradictions and significant issues).
While there are numerous areas I could focus on I wish to highlight my concerns about this project in terms of its size and it's limited support socially.
Firstly, this project is noted to include the use of 1655 oversized vehicles over 20 months,. Our roads are not designed for this and we do not have good enough alternate routes to allow our local traffic to continue business and other operations between Walcha and Armidale with these disruptions. There is no clear plan outlined about them getting approval for use of these roads. There is also no notes about how local resources (which already are scarce) will be impacted. There is no clear plan of how they can make this work without significant impact on people locally. This also poses health concerns with Armidale being a main option for many of our community to access health services.

Secondly, once again this project has NO SOCIAL LICENSE. Time and time again our community has highlighted this is not something we want. Our community has voted and we do not want wind turbines here (the majority of constituents). Winterbourne continue to disregard genuine engagement with our community.

This project should not be approved.

Kind regards,
Anna Young

No wind farm

I object to the WWF Amendment Report. I object to the 52 month construction period. During this time, the amenity of our community will be severely impacted. The use of our road network will be impacted with our roads being destroyed by OSOM and project traffic. The community will not be able to travel freely to regional centres. Businesses will be impacted and are likely to relocate to other areas. Our industries will be affected. How will cattle and sheep be transported efficiently?

The workforce required by the project will prevent local businesses from functioning. Where will these businesses and Council find workers.

There will be no accommodation for visitors and tourists to our town.

Rental prices will increase meaning our most vulnerable residents will not be able to afford their rent in Walcha. They will be forced to leave the community and are unlikely to return.

This time frame is too long. It is too much to expect our community to put up with this.

*Turbines with a 6km radius of Walcha is not on. The planning draft guidelines state they must be at lease 10km from Walcha
*This project is destroying our town unity.
* why should we have to put up with unsightly huge wind turbines to provide power for all the city people
*How safe will our kids be being bused to and from Walcha or to Armidale as many are
*Our roads are in no shape and not designed to carry the proposed number of large vehicles - and never will be
*the size of the proposed turbines will pose enormous inconvenience to those who travel this road daily for work, appointments, business or other social reasons
*We still do not know how much these turbines cost individually and who will be responsible for all the danger associated with building these structures let alone what happens when one is not carefully installed or they get to end of life? We are not getting any truth from governments at all levels
*The incentive of money to the Community Benefit Fund is utterly unfair if it does not benefit all the community and we are dreaming if we believe wind and of solar will provide cheaper and cleaner power
*It is incredibly hard for many people to put in the many hours to try and understand the amended report let alone how to go about writing a submission and how do we know that our submissions will be what was intended to write given that there are many forms of intervention that could be applied before our submissions are considered
*How will those people manage who choose to have wind turbines on their properties when a cyclone or huge winds turn up. If we believe all the information we are bludgeoned with about climate change anything may happen
*Why do those on neighbouring properties who do not want these turbines have to be forced to put up with this dislodgement to their lives. Their beautiful landscapes will be ruined by lumps of plastic made in China
*I am concerned about the mental health of those forced to look at wind turbines day and night and FORCED TO HAVE POLES AND WIRES RUNNING THROUGH THEIR PROPERTY. These people have a right to privacy on their properties and a right to very safe travelling on their roads. The indigenous can claim 'on country' AND SO CAN THOSE PEOPLE WHO LIVE AND BREATHE THEIR PIECE OF LAND THEY WORK AND OWN
*There is no rental accommodation available in Walcha now, where will the workers live. If they travel that entails more fuel and more traffic on the roads.
*How do we know locals will be employed to work on the every stage of the structure of the turbines
*Will the water from the dam we fought so hard to get to help Walcha during droughts will not be used on these structures
*our beautiful town welcomes many visitors during the year, our tourist info centre has worked hard to put Walcha on the map. This project will remove that beauty and discouraged visitors for obvious reasons-cant get here because roads are blocked and motels and hotels are booked out by 'workers'

We object to the Winterbourne Wind (WW) Farm for the following reasons:
These proposed turbines are too large and too many. Are you also taking into account the proposed Ruby Hills development? If approved these huge turbines will swamp the whole Walcha district and severely impact on agriculture, transport, aviation, biodiversity of flora and fauna – especially our protected native species, and human and animal health. There is the very real potential problem of flaking Bisphenol A (BPA) resin getting into our animals, waterways and then humans and who cares? The WW estimates of just leading edge flaking (50gm per blade per year) are far from the scientific ones of flaking from the whole blades.
The logistics of getting these monsters to the sites, which are mostly natural vegetated ridges and forest are enormous. Firstly – decimate the ridges, trees etc at the site. Then many new roads that will have to be constructed to reach the sites, decimating even more our natural timbered landscape. Upgrading of the present road system to be able to take these OSOM vehicles will need to be done. Therefore, there will be huge disruption to businesses, local traffic, other traffic (especially those with emergency medical issues) even BEFORE the movement of all the OSOM vehicles (with their compulsory entourage) damaging it all again. I have not even mentioned all the transporting of sand, gravel, cement, steel, for construction, let alone all the workers’ vehicles.
Agriculture will suffer hugely with the constraints imposed by these huge structures impeding the spreading of fertiliser and weed spraying, not to mention medical retrievals and fire fighting. Because the proposed turbines are on high ridges, the impact on general aviation travelling from the coast to the west, or vice versa in inclement weather will be increasingly dangerous.
PEOPLE IN WALCHA ARE FED UP. They are fed up with the lack of community consultation and the fact that their questions remain unanswered by the developers. They are fobbed off. They are fed up that they have made representation to Governments, and bureaucratic entities like yours (especially yours!) over and over and now there is a revised EIS, with very little change (but lots of words) and they have to do it all again. Many won’t, as they feel they should not have to do the same thing over and over – and WHO listens to the ordinary citizens?? The developers, Governments and their agencies obviously don’t, but rather run over them. Yes, we are aware that the “due process” must be followed, but many feel that the goalpost are just moved to suit by Governments or their entities.
WHY DO WE KEEP TRYING WHEN SO MANY ARE TOO TIRED OF IT ALL? We wonder that ourselves!! It’s so tempting to quit, but we suspect that is what Developers and you all want. We keep trying because this is our land, our agriculture that is threatened, our wonderful community that is already fragmented by all of this developer reaction to the forming of the NEREZ.
It is fueled by money, greed and government subsidies. Pigs in the trough.
It has NO social licence. It is NOT green (consider all the imported components needed for its VERY short life). There is no real plan for decommissioning which has the potential to leave a wasteland for the community to cope with. Can developers be held to decommission and remove everything? Will Governments underwrite the decommissioning? Where is the plan? Apparently that comes later – nearer to the time? Can we trust this, when there is so much else wrong?
Each turbine is TOO large. There are too many too close to Walcha. It is a poorly planned proposed installation in the WRONG place, which will damage our ecosystem, our agriculture, our native vegetation, our animals and our humans, directly and indirectly.
Our community is already suffering. DO NOT ALLOW IT TO BE WRECKED COMPLETELY.

I would like to express my strong support for the Winterbourne Wind Farm and commend its commitment to collaborating with the local council. This partnership not only demonstrates a dedication to sustainable energy but also highlights a genuine effort to engage with the community and address local concerns.
By working closely with local officials and residents, Winterbourne Wind Farm is ensuring that the project aligns with the needs and values of the community it serves. This approach fosters transparency, builds trust, and paves the way for a more inclusive dialogue about renewable energy in our region.
Moreover, the wind farm’s investment in local infrastructure and job creation further emphasizes its positive impact. It’s encouraging to see a project that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and community well-being.
Thank you, Winterbourne Wind Farm, for your commitment to working with the local council and for paving the way toward a greener, more sustainable future for us all.

I am writing to express my support for the Winterbourne Wind Farm project. One important aspect to highlight is that wind farms, including Winterbourne, use minimal water during their operation.
Unlike traditional energy sources, which require significant water for cooling and processing, wind energy relies primarily on the natural elements. The operational processes of a wind farm involve the conversion of wind energy into electricity without the need for extensive water use. This greatly reduces the overall environmental impact compared to fossil fuel or nuclear energy plants, which can consume thousands of gallons of water daily.
By choosing wind energy, we are not only promoting sustainable power generation but also conserving precious water resources. This is especially crucial in areas that may be prone to drought or where water is a limited resource. Supporting the Winterbourne Wind Farm aligns with our commitment to a more sustainable future, where we can harness renewable energy while minimizing our ecological footprint.
Thank you for considering my perspective in favor of the Winterbourne Wind Farm.

I would like to express my support for the Winterbourne Wind Farm project, particularly commending the thoughtful design of its transmission line connection.
The careful planning and engineering behind the transmission line demonstrate a commitment to not only efficiency but also to minimizing environmental impact. The design prioritizes safety and reliability while ensuring that the integration with existing infrastructure is seamless. This thorough approach reflects a deep understanding of the area's ecological and community needs.
Furthermore, the attention to detail in routing the transmission lines to avoid sensitive habitats and minimize disruption shows a responsible approach to renewable energy development. By investing in such comprehensive planning, Winterbourne Wind Farm sets a commendable standard for future projects.
This initiative not only contributes to sustainable energy production but also reinforces the importance of community engagement and environmental stewardship in the transition to greener energy sources. I wholeheartedly support this project and look forward to its positive impact on both the local community and the broader goal of reducing carbon emissions.

I still object to the Winterbourne Wind Project for the following reasons that have still not been addressed in the Amended Winterbourne Wind report.

- I am still concerned about the shadow flicker and noise and do not believe that enough independent research has been done.

- Walcha is a prime agricultural production district, and the impost of such a large windfarm in the district will compromise Walcha's productivity and contribution to food production.

- I am concerned that the project has turbines still located very close to the Apsley Falls and the GONDWANA RAINFORREST WORLD HERITAGE AREA.I would like to see a 10km radius around Walcha and the national park.

- The damage and reduction of already threatened wildlife habitat from the construction of extra roads to service the turbine installation and operation is scant on details. I would like to understand how that propose to do this with minimal change to the existing footprint.

- I have concerns that the wind technology being used is already being moved away from in many parts of the world.

- This project is causing much anxiety and division in the community.

- The majority of the profits from the project are going off shore, owned and operated by a foreign company and this still concerns me.

- The size and scale of this project is out of proportion to the size of the town - this is one of the largest windfarms with some of the tallest towers to be built in Australia.

- The plan to start planning and funding for decommissioning of this enormous wind farm towards the end of life of the project is an unacceptable risk to the community and landowners. A decommissioning bond needs to be lodged prior to construction starting. This is still not addressed in the Amended report.

- How will Walcha support and house the influx of up to 400 workers during the construction phase. The developer has not provided any concrete information on the housing of such a large workforce. This will have an impact on housing and rental markets, with prices increasing during the construction phase, current low income residents being displaced, and then a crash at the end of the construction phase.

This continues to be an ill thought off project and if it goes ahead it will be to the detriment of all of Walcha and surrounds.

I wholeheartedly support the Winterbourne Wind Farm project, particularly because of the thorough hydrology study that has been conducted. This study reflects a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
By meticulously analyzing the hydrological impacts, the project demonstrates its dedication to preserving local water resources and ensuring that ecosystems remain healthy. Such comprehensive research not only addresses potential concerns but also highlights the project's proactive approach to mitigating any adverse effects on the surrounding environment.
It's reassuring to see that the developers are prioritizing scientific analysis and community well-being. This level of diligence will contribute to the long-term success and acceptance of the wind farm, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the local community.

I am writing to express my strong support for the Winterbourne Wind Farm project. One of the key aspects that sets this proposal apart is its comprehensive noise study, which has been meticulously conducted to address community concerns.
The thoroughness of the noise study demonstrates a commitment to transparency and environmental responsibility. It has carefully analyzed potential impacts on nearby residents, ensuring that noise levels remain within acceptable limits. This proactive approach not only adheres to regulatory standards but also prioritizes the well-being of the local community.
Furthermore, the transition to renewable energy sources like wind power is essential for reducing our carbon footprint and combating climate change. The Winterbourne Wind Farm represents a significant step toward sustainable energy production, providing clean power for generations to come.
I urge you to consider the benefits of this project and the diligence shown in its planning and impact assessments. Supporting the Winterbourne Wind Farm aligns with our shared goals of environmental stewardship and community welfare.
Thank you for considering this submission.

Winterbourne Wind Farm's dedicated efforts to sponsor local clubs and community initiatives is massive. The commitment to fostering local engagement and development is commendable and truly makes a difference in our community.
The sponsorship of local clubs not only provides essential financial support but also strengthens community ties and encourages healthy, active lifestyles. By investing in these organizations, the project team is helping to create a vibrant and connected community that benefits everyone.
The developor's initiative reflects a genuine understanding of the importance of community involvement and environmental responsibility. It sets a powerful example of how renewable energy projects can positively impact local lives beyond just energy production.
I strongly support his project. Appreciate its great contribution to the local community.

The detailed transport route survey demonstrates a clear commitment to ensuring that the logistics of this significant renewable energy initiative are thoughtfully planned and executed. The thorough consideration of potential impacts on local communities, wildlife, and the environment reflects a responsible approach to project development.
By prioritizing safety and efficiency in the transport route planning, the project is setting a positive example for future renewable energy projects. This dedication not only helps to minimize disruption during construction but also fosters trust within the community regarding the project's long-term benefits.

I am writing to express my strong support for the Winterbourne Wind Farm and to commend its dedication to conducting a thorough visual impact analysis. It is encouraging to see a project that prioritizes environmental stewardship while considering the aesthetic concerns of the local community.
The commitment to assessing visual impact demonstrates a proactive approach to balancing renewable energy development with the preservation of our landscape. By engaging in this comprehensive analysis, Winterbourne Wind Farm not only acknowledges the importance of visual considerations but also fosters transparency and dialogue with local stakeholders.
As we face the urgent challenge of climate change, the need for sustainable energy solutions is more critical than ever. Wind energy represents a vital step toward a greener future, and it is reassuring to see that Winterbourne Wind Farm is dedicated to implementing these solutions responsibly.
I encourage continued collaboration with the community and stakeholders to address any concerns that may arise and to further enhance the project's positive impact. Your efforts are commendable, and I look forward to seeing Winterbourne Wind Farm set a standard for responsible and thoughtful renewable energy development.
Thank you for your dedication to both sustainability and community engagement.

I am writing to express my strong support for the Winterbourne Wind Farm project, particularly in recognition of its exemplary efforts to engage local Aboriginal communities and protect our shared heritage.
The commitment shown by the project team to involve Aboriginal communities in meaningful dialogue reflects a deep respect for their cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. By prioritizing these partnerships, Winterbourne Wind Farm not only fosters a sense of ownership among local Indigenous groups but also ensures that their voices are integral to the decision-making process.
Additionally, the measures taken to protect and preserve local heritage sites are commendable. It is crucial that development projects honor the rich history and cultural significance of the land, and Winterbourne Wind Farm has set a positive example in this regard. Their proactive approach to heritage management will contribute to the sustainable coexistence of renewable energy initiatives and cultural preservation.
I applaud the commitment to transparency and collaboration demonstrated by Winterbourne Wind Farm and encourage continued support for projects that prioritize community engagement and heritage protection.
Thank you for considering my support for the project.

I am writing to express my support for the Winterbourne Wind Farm project, particularly in light of the comprehensive heritage survey and studies conducted as part of the planning process.
The thoroughness of the heritage assessments demonstrates a strong commitment to preserving the historical and cultural significance of the area. It is commendable that the project has taken the time to identify and evaluate potential impacts on local heritage sites, ensuring that any developments will respect and enhance the region's rich history.
The findings of these studies reflect a balanced approach to sustainable development, showing that it is possible to harness renewable energy while safeguarding our heritage. The proactive engagement with local communities and heritage organizations has further underscored the project’s dedication to transparency and inclusivity.
Investing in renewable energy is crucial for addressing climate change, and the Winterbourne Wind Farm represents a significant step forward. By prioritizing both environmental and heritage considerations, this project sets a positive example for future developments.
I strongly encourage the approval of the Winterbourne Wind Farm, confident that it will contribute positively to our energy goals while respecting and preserving our shared heritage.
Thank you for considering this important initiative.

Submission for Winterbourne Wind installation 01.11.24 David Salter
I wish to object to the revised Winterbourne Wind Project EIS for the following reasons,
Very little seems to have changed.
The access road seems to have been changed, ie from the Oxley Highway to Thunderbolts Way, via Uralla. Will this really make any appreciable difference to Walcha people? Those travelling to Armidale will still have to negotiate the wind turbine traffic.
And construction time has blown out to 52 months, and the project hasn’t even started!
What about roads? How will Thunderbolts Way stand up to the enormous increase in traffic. The road is barely standing up to regular traffic now, without the massive increase in size and weight of these trucks.
Where is the workforce coming from? We have great difficulty in sourcing labour now, let alone if supposedly 130 extra workers are going to be sourced from the Walcha LGA.
Gravel supply seems to be an issue. What about water? Still no definite plans of where the water is going to come from AND what effect putting down numerous bores will have on ALL landholders.
What about decommissioning? Still nothing set in concrete as to how this will be achieved, and realistically, who’s responsibility will it be at projects end of life?
There still seems to be almost complete lack of community consultation. Yes, there have been some so-called information sessions, but I believe they are only to tick boxes, and the developers take no notice of community sentiment.
What about the effect on aviation? The Walcha area has traditionally relied on aerial spreading of fertiliser, and spraying of weeds, from the air. With hundreds of towers all over the landscape, this will be next to impossible to carry out, and if it can be carried out, will be much more expensive as well as potentially dangerous.
Helicopters are used almost on a daily basis these days, for medical retrievals, and turbines will make these missions very difficult if not impossible in some cases, therefore endangering lives.
What about bio security? It will be next to impossible to keep the New England “clean and green”
if wind turbines are allowed to be built. Instead of the New England, Walcha in particular, being known as The Pasture Wonderland, it will be known as The Pasture Wasteland, all in a time when we are supposed to be feeding the world!
These are just some of my concerns, which I believe have not been addressed, to the satisfaction of the community. It would seem to me that almost without exception, the only people in favour of wind turbines, are the people who stand to gain financially. In my view, a very short sighted attitude! AND are they really going to save the planet??

I am writing to express my support for the Winterbourne Wind Farm project, particularly highlighting the safety aspects regarding bushfire risk.
As we face the challenges of climate change and the urgent need for renewable energy sources, wind farms present a viable and environmentally friendly alternative. One significant concern often raised is the potential for bushfires associated with these developments. However, research and data indicate that the likelihood of bushfires caused by wind farms is exceptionally low.
Wind farms are designed with multiple safety features, including:
Fire-resistant Materials: Modern wind turbines are constructed using fire-resistant materials, significantly reducing the risk of ignition.
Monitoring and Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance are conducted to ensure that all equipment operates safely. This proactive approach helps identify and address potential hazards before they escalate.
In contrast to fossil fuel energy sources, which can pose a far greater risk of fire due to spills, leaks, and emissions, wind energy provides a clean and sustainable alternative. The long-term environmental benefits, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preserving natural habitats, far outweigh the minimal risk associated with bushfire incidents.
In conclusion, I fully support the Winterbourne Wind Farm project and believe it represents a significant step towards a sustainable energy future. The low probability of bushfires related to wind farms, coupled with the numerous safety measures in place, makes this project a responsible choice for our community and the environment.
Thank you for considering my submission

I am writing to express my strong support for the Winterbourne Wind Farm project. This initiative not only represents a significant step towards sustainable energy but also embodies a commitment to engaging and empowering the local community.
From the outset, the developers have prioritized transparency and inclusivity, ensuring that community voices are heard and valued. Through a series of public consultations, residents have had the opportunity to share their thoughts and concerns, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that is crucial for the success of any large-scale project. The feedback gathered has been instrumental in refining the project to better align with community values and needs.
Additionally, Winterbourne Wind Farm will create local jobs and stimulate the economy. By investing in our community, the project will provide long-term employment opportunities and contribute to local businesses, ultimately strengthening our economic resilience.
In conclusion, the Winterbourne Wind Farm is not just about generating clean energy; it is about building a sustainable future together with our community. I wholeheartedly support this initiative and encourage others to do the same.