Subject: Objection to the Mangoplah Barrery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of the Increased risk of biosecurity issues with heavy machinery used during the construction of the substation site bringing in invasive weeds and pests.

I am writing to formally express my objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah. Because of the Increased risk of biosecurity issues with heavy machinery used during the construction of the substation site bringing in invasive weeds and pests.

The site is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land – to me it is not a place to build such a project.

Biosecurity, according to the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, “means protecting the economy, environment, and the community from the negative impacts of pests and diseases, weeds, and contaminants” (p.1, Biosecurity – Weeds Biosecurity, 2025). The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development further state that “weeds are identified as biosecurity risks…because they reduce the quantity and quality of agriculture, horticulture and forestry products, compete and displace native plants and animals; clog waterways…; harbour pests and diseases; increase bushfire intensity; restrict animal access to water sources and shade; lower the natural beauty and monetary value of the land; cause injury, allergies, poisoning, and respiratory problems for humans and animals…(P.2, 2025).

Biosecurity risks such as pests, diseases and weeds are a threat to our agriculture and environment, costing New South Wales between $1.67 billion and $1.9 billion per annum, according to the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions. Furthermore, all biosecurity risks can spread through the movement of animals, people, machinery, and vehicles, according to the NSW Department of Primary Industries (2022).

With the high number of workers and heavy machinery that will be involved with the construction of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, as stated in the Mangoplah BESS Environmental Impact Statement, there will be 120 light vehicle and 64 heavy haulage vehicles per day (p.45, 2025), this amount of traffic will increase risk to the biosecurity not only at the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site but also to the village of Mangoplah and more importantly to the surrounding farmlands with the workers bringing in invasive weeds and species on their vehicles, boots, clothing, and the undercarriage of the heavy machinery used during construction of the Substation at the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site.

With the high number of workers and equipment that will be involved with the construction of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, and the heavy machinery required during the construction, “would include:
• Crane
• Drum roller
• Padfoot roller
• Wheeled loader
• Dump truck
• 30t excavator
• Grader
• Chain trencher
• Water truck
• Telehandler
• Forklift” (p.48, Mangoplah BESS, EIS, 2025).

Samsung C&T Renewable Energy Australia Pty. Limited state that with “The increased movements of vehicles, machinery and people within the Development Footprint, particularly during construction and decommissioning poses the largest risk to biosecurity. Weed seeds can be transported via tyres and undercarriages of vehicles and clothing of staff resulting in a risk of spreading weeds. Confining vehicles and machinery movements to formed access tracks during all phases and implementing a washdown procedure of vehicles entering and leaving the site would mitigate potential risk of seed dispersal” (p. 198, Environmental Impact Statement, 2025), the question being is how and where will this washdown area be located and how is it going to be enforced and more importantly how is this contaminated water, sediment and potential invasive species going to be contained. As these invasive weeds and species will further migrate if bought into the proposed Mangoplah BESS site or are not contained in a suitable way, as birds, animals and wildlife in the vicinity of the proposed Mangoplah BESS site ingest these invasive weeds and species, and in turn transport these through their droppings into the surrounding paddocks, creeks and waterways, which will result in further problems and costs for neighbouring farmers in eradicating these invasive species and weeds, but also to the endangered ecosystem in the vicinity of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site.

It deeply affects and concerns me that a rural community like Mangoplah and the surrounding landholders will be subjected to biosecurity risks by the heavy machinery bringing in invasive weeds and species into their farmland and community, as biosecurity measures are mandatory for farms in NSW, as per the Biosecurity Act 2015, which obligates landholders to take reasonable steps to prevent, eliminate, or minimize biosecurity risks, including controlling pests and weeds, which protect the economy, environment, and community. Weeds are a major threat to Australia’s natural environment, costing the farmers, community and region considerably to eradicate or control.

This change in the land use from agricultural to industrial, I feel will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. I take it upon you to consider the cost to the Mangoplah community and how this project will affect them in the future, as many of the local community members have been in the district for generations and do not want the proposed Mangoplah BESS project to go ahead.

Subject: Objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of the Increased volume of heavy haulage vehicles up to two weeks before and after Henty Machinery Field days carrying farm machinery to field day site, adding congestion to vehicles associated with the construction of the access roadway to the Mangoplah BESS project site.

I am writing to formally express my objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah. Because of the Increased volume of heavy haulage vehicles up to two weeks before and after Henty Machinery Field days carrying farm machinery to field day site, adding congestion to vehicles associated with the construction of the access roadway to the Mangoplah BESS project site.

The site is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land – to me it is not a place to build such a project.

There will be an unacceptable increase in the volume of heavy haulage vehicles travelling not only along the Holbrook Road, and along The Rock Road, through Mangoplah. According to Amber Traffic & Transportation Report state that “the construction traffic volumes for the Project”… “It is anticipated that during peak construction of the Project would generate up to…64 heavy vehicle trips per day” (p.23, Traffic Impact Assessment, 2025), going through the village of Mangoplah, to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, the amount of heavy vehicle movements that will be required to navigate through the village of Mangoplah, not only along the Holbrook Road, but also along The Rock Road, during construction of the access roadway to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site. This amount of heavy vehicles per day is of major concern, as the local roads are already in poor condition, requiring constant repair and with the additional heavy haulage vehicles travelling through Mangoplah and along the Holbrook Road will only exacerbate the roads even more. Moreover, B-Double heavy vehicles are generally not permitted to travel directly from Wagga Wagga to Mangoplah, using the Holbrook Road, because of the narrow bridge crossing Burkes Creek at Mangoplah, instead B-Double heavy vehicles need to travel from Wagga Wagga to Mangoplah via The Rock Road. The same also applies to the south of Mangoplah, travelling along the Holbrook Road to Holbrook, where there are also two narrow bridges, those being Billabong Creek bridge and Back Creek bridge, furthermore, these bridges were built during the 1930’s when the general weights being carried across there was somewhat lighter. It is therefore questionable if the heavy B-Double vehicles would be allowed/permitter to cross these bridges during construction work of the proposed Mangoplah BESS, substation and access roadway.

Moreover, the noise levels from these heavy haulage vehicles that the residents of Mangoplah would have to endure, would be in the vicinity of 88 dBA, whereas, cited in the Territory Battery, Environmental Impact Statement that “the noise levels for residential noise sensitive receivers are…60 dBA” (p.174, 2024), with their estimated speed of 35km per hour, according to Transport for NSW, and Understanding Residential Noise Restrictions in NSW: A Comprehensive Guide, as these heavy haulage vehicles travel through the village of Mangoplah. Additionally, according to the Centre for Environmental Excellence by AASHTO, “noise levels constantly vary with the number, type, and speed of the vehicles that produce the noise”. Moreover, “the loudness of traffic noise is increased by heavier traffic volumes, higher vehicle speeds, and greater number of trucks. Vehicle noise is a combination of the noise produced by the engine, exhaust, and tires”. This level of noise from the likely amount of heavy haulage vehicles going through the village of Mangoplah on a daily basis is of major concern. I feel this increased level of noise will affect the health of the residents within the village of Mangoplah, as many of the residents are elderly or have retired to Mangoplah for the serenity and peacefulness of the surrounding area.

In addition, this amount of heavy vehicle traffic would be extremely dangerous and hazardous especially in the two weeks before and after the Henty Machinery Field days with the additional movement of heavy trucks carrying machinery for display at the Henty Machinery Field days, that will be required to navigate through the village of Mangoplah and along the Holbrook Road, to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site. The Holbrook Road is classified as a Regional Road, with narrow bridges on the northern side of the village of Mangoplah. There have been numerous traffic incidents along the Holbrook Road over the years from minor to serious, resulting in death. In addition, the Holbrook Road is already in poor condition requiring constant repair.
The NSW Government in their Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024, state the “Local councils and Transport for NSW (TfNSW) are responsible for the safe and efficient management of transport networks” (p. 1-2). They go onto say that “Land use developments generate trips that may impact the surrounding transport network, its users, and the surrounding community” (p.1-2). Additionally, the NSW Government sate that “Developments involving the use of heavy vehicles should take note of the requirements stipulated in” (p.2-4, Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024), The Heavy Vehicle National Law, “in relation to transport related matters such as managing the impact of heavy vehicles on road infrastructure…” (p.2-4, Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024).

Furthermore, there has been no consideration for “A thorough understanding of the existing…condition allows for the robust transport impact assessment of a proposed development” (p.3-8, NSW Government, Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024), especially during this very busy period of additional traffic associated with the Henty Machinery Field Day period.
I fell this increased volume of traffic will add to the increased risks and safety concerns for not only the residents within Mangoplah but also for the usual traffic that travels along Holbrook Road and through Mangoplah on a daily basis, as according to Google maps is the best way to travel from Wagga Wagga to Albury is along the Holbrook Road, stating it is approximately 129km and will take 1hr 32min, moreover, according to a Trans Traffic Survey of the Holbrook Road, reported that over 1,000 vehicles travelled along the road, on a daily basis, with these vehicles notoriously travelling with speeds between 100 km and 109 km per hour along the section of road in the vicinity of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site (cited in Traffic Impact Assessment, Amber, Traffic & Transportation Direction, 2025). Moreover, there have been numerous traffic incidents along the Holbrook Road over the years from minor to serious, resulting in deaths.

It deeply concerns and affects me that a rural community like Mangoplah is being put at risk and danger as a result of this increase in traffic in the area, during construction of the access road to the project and the BESS project itself. As a farmer in the area surrounding Mangoplah, I know how difficult and dangerous the roads can be before, during and after the Henty Machinery Field Days, with both the transporting of farm machinery to be on display at the Field Days, but also the general traffic going through Mangoplah to attend the Henty Machinery Field Days. Moreover, this change in the land use from farming to industrial I feel will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. I take it upon you to consider the cost to the Mangoplah community and how this project will affect them in the future, as many of the local community members have been in the district for generations and do not want the proposed Mangoplah BESS project to go ahead.

Subject: Objection against the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of the Increased heavy haulage traffic associated with the construction of the Substation going along The Rock Road and Holbrook Road.

I am writing to formally express my objection against the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah. Because of the Increased heavy haulage traffic associated with the construction of the Substation going along the Rock Road and Holbrook Road.

The site is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land – to me it is not a place to build such a project.

There will be an unacceptable increase in the volume of heavy haulage vehicles not only travelling along the Holbrook Road, but also along The Rock Road and through Mangoplah. According to Amber Traffic & Transportation Report state that “the construction traffic volumes for the Project”… “It is anticipated that during peak construction of the Project would generate up to…64 heavy vehicle trips per day” (p.23, Traffic Impact Assessment, 2025), going through the village of Mangoplah, to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, the amount of heavy vehicle movements that will be required to navigate through the village of Mangoplah, and to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site on the Holbrook Road, and with the Substation at the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, being constructed at the same time, this amount of heavy vehicles per day would double, is of major concern as the local roads are already in poor condition, requiring constant repair and with the additional heavy haulage vehicles travelling through Mangoplah and along the Holbrook Road will only exacerbate the roads even more. Moreover, B-Double heavy vehicles are generally not permitted to travel directly from Wagga Wagga to Mangoplah, using the Holbrook Road, because of the narrow bridge crossing Burkes Creek at Mangoplah, instead B-Double heavy vehicles need to travel from Wagga Wagga to Mangoplah via The Rock Road. The same also applies to the south of Mangoplah, travelling along the Holbrook Road to Holbrook, where there are also two narrow bridges, those being Billabong Creek bridge and Back Creek bridge, furthermore, these bridges were built during the 1930’s when the general weights being carried across there was somewhat lighter. It is therefore questionable if the heavy B-Double vehicles would be allowed/permitter to cross these bridges during construction work of the proposed Mangoplah BESS, substation and access roadway.

Moreover, is the added noise associated with this increase in heavy haulage vehicles be required to navigate through the village of Mangoplah and along the Holbrook Road to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site. “Noise is defined as unwanted or excessive sound. Sound becomes unwanted when it interferes with normal activities…People react to noise differently, based on many emotional and physical factors, such as hearing sensitivity, the degree to which someone is accustomed to noise…” (Centre for Environmental Excellence). Furthermore, exposure to noise from transport has a negative effect on health (Health impacts of exposure to noise from transport in Europe, 2025), loud noise can create physical and psychological stress, reduce productivity, interfere with communication and concentration. “Road traffic noise is the most prevalent source of environmental noise and a main contributor to the overall effects of noise on health” (Health impacts of exposure to noise from transport in Europe, 2025).
In the Umwelt, Neoen Territory Battery, Environmental Impact Statement, 2024, it states that “the noise levels for residential noise sensitive receivers are…60 dBA” (p.174). The noise levels from these heavy haulage vehicles that the residents of Mangoplah would have to endure, would be in the vicinity of 88 dBA, with their estimated speed of 35km per hour, according to Transport for NSW, and Understanding Residential Noise Restrictions in NSW: A Comprehensive Guide, as these heavy haulage vehicles travel through the village of Mangoplah. Additionally, according to the Centre for Environmental Excellence by AASHTO, “noise levels constantly vary with the number, type, and speed of the vehicles that produce the noise”. Moreover, “the loudness of traffic noise is increased by heavier traffic volumes, higher vehicle speeds, and greater number of trucks. Vehicle noise is a combination of the noise produced by the engine, exhaust, and tires”, as well as “compression braking and the use of air brakes” (cited, p. 187, Umwelt, Neoen Territory Battery, EIS, 2024). This level of noise from the likely amount of heavy haulage vehicles going through the village of Mangoplah on a daily basis is of major concern. I feel this increased level of noise will affect the health of the residents within the village of Mangoplah, as many of the residents are elderly or have retired to Mangoplah for the serenity and peacefulness of the surrounding area.

The NSW Government in their Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024, they state that “Local councils and Transport for NSW (TfNSW) are responsible for the safe and efficient management of transport networks” (p. 1-2). They go onto say that “Land use developments generate trips that may impact the surrounding transport network, its users, and the surrounding community” (p. 1-2). Additionally, the NSW Government state that “Developments involving the use of heavy vehicles should take note of the requirements stipulated in” (p.2-4, Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024), The Heavy Vehicle National Law, “in relation to transport related matters such as managing the impact of heavy vehicles on road infrastructure…” (p. 2-4, Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024).

Furthermore, there has been no consideration for “A thorough understanding of the existing…condition allows for the robust transport impact assessment of a proposed development” (p. 3-8, NSW Government, Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024), especially during busy farming periods, such as harvesting, when surrounding farmers are travelling along the Holbrook Road in tractors, trucks and headers, with very little room to pull over safely to allow oncoming traffic past due to how narrow and how busy the Holbrook Road can be. The community of Mangoplah and surrounding landholders are concerned about the roads in the area of influence, with the current movement, place function and the current access, to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, will impact greatly upon the farmers during these busy farming periods as a result of the development.

Moreover, there is currently no turning treatments at the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site access for these heavy vehicles and a speed limit of 100km/hr applies along the Holbrook Road, the NSW Government state that “Early consideration of site access facilities and layout design is critical to driving positive outcomes for a development’s occupants and affected road users” (p. 7-2, Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024), further stating that “the proposed measures should focus on maximising sustainable and safe accessibility to the development” (p.3-12).

I feel this increase in heavy haulage vehicles will add to the increased risks and safety concerns for not only the residents within Mangoplah, but also for the usual traffic that travels along the Holbrook Road and through Mangoplah on a daily basis, as according to Google maps is the best way to travel from Wagga Wagga to Albury is along the Holbrook Road, stating it is approximately 129km and will take 1hr 32min, moreover, according to a Trans Traffic Survey of the Holbrook Road, reported that over 1,000 vehicles travelled along the road, on a daily basis, with these vehicles notoriously travelling with speeds between 100 km and 109 km per hour along the section of road in the vicinity of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site (cited in Traffic Impact Assessment, Amber, Traffic & Transportation Direction, 2025). Moreover, there have been numerous traffic incidents along the Holbrook Road over the years from minor to serious, resulting in deaths. there have been numerous traffic incidents along the Holbrook Road over the years from minor to serious, resulting in death, is of major concern as the local roads are already in poor condition, requiring constant repair.

It deeply concerns and affects me that a rural community like Mangoplah is being put at risk and danger because of this increase in traffic in the area, during construction of the access road to the project and the BESS project itself. This change in the land use from farming to industrial I feel will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. I take it upon you to consider the cost to the Mangoplah community and how this project will affect them in the future, as many of the local community members have been in the district for generations and do not want the proposed Mangoplah BESS project to go ahead.

Subject: Objection against the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of the Increased damage to Holbrook Road because of the increase in traffic from extra vehicles transporting workers and in particular heavy haulage vehicles.

I am writing to formally express my objection against the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah. Because of the Increased damage to Holbrook Road because of the increase in traffic from extra vehicles transporting workers and in particular heavy haulage vehicles.

The site is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land – to me it is not a place to build such a project.

The amount of additional traffic travelling through the village of Mangoplah and along the Holbrook Road during the construction of both the proposed Mangoplah BESS project and the Substation will be substantial, from light vehicles to heavy B-Double vehicles carrying heavy construction materials. According to Amber Traffic & Transportation Report state that “the construction traffic volumes for the Project”… “It is anticipated that during peak construction of the Project would generate up to 120 light vehicles and 64 heavy vehicle trips per day” (p.23, Traffic Impact Assessment, 2025), going through the village of Mangoplah, to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, the amount of heavy vehicle movements that will be required to navigate through the village of Mangoplah, and to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site on the Holbrook Road, and with the Substation at the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, being constructed at the same time, this amount of heavy vehicles per day would double, is of major concern as the local roads are already in poor condition, requiring constant repair and with the additional heavy haulage vehicles travelling through Mangoplah and along the Holbrook Road will only exacerbate the roads even more.

Furthermore, as stated by Samsung C&T Renewable Energy Australia Pty. Ltd. in the Scope Report that “the construction phase…is expected to take approximately 12-18 months” (p.26), and with the Environmental Impact Statement stating that the equipment that would be used throughout the construction of the project will include heavy machinery including, excavators, mobile cranes, graders, telehandlers, forklifts, drum/padfoot rollers, wheeled loader, dump truck, trencher, water truck, along with hand tools, this heavy machinery and equipment will not only generate constant noise, but also emissions from using these heavy on-site machinery during construction of the access roadway, the substation and the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, these emissions have been “associated with a wide range of adverse health effects including exacerbation of respiratory issues, reduced lung function and increased risk of cardiovascular disease” (cited, p. 216, Neoen Territory Battery EIS, 2024). In addition these emissions would lead to “localised increases in greenhouse gas emissions. In turn, this would contribute to climate change” (cited, p.216, Neoen Territory Battery EIS, 2024).

Moreover, is the added noise associated with this increase in heavy haulage vehicles be required to navigate through the village of Mangoplah and along the Holbrook Road to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site. “Noise is defined as unwanted or excessive sound. Sound becomes unwanted when it interferes with normal activities…People react to noise differently, based on many emotional and physical factors, such as hearing sensitivity, the degree to which someone is accustomed to noise…” (Centre for Environmental Excellence). Furthermore, exposure to noise from transport has a negative effect on health (Health impacts of exposure to noise from transport in Europe, 2025), loud noise can create physical and psychological stress, reduce productivity, interfere with communication and concentration. “Road traffic noise is the most prevalent source of environmental noise and a main contributor to the overall effects of noise on health” (Health impacts of exposure to noise from transport in Europe, 2025).

In the Umwelt, Neoen Territory Battery, Environmental Impact Statement, 2024, it states that “the noise levels for residential noise sensitive receivers are…60 dBA” (p.174). The noise levels from these heavy haulage vehicles that the residents of Mangoplah would have to endure, would be in the vicinity of 88 dBA, with their estimated speed of 35km per hour, according to Transport for NSW, and Understanding Residential Noise Restrictions in NSW: A Comprehensive Guide, as these heavy haulage vehicles travel through the village of Mangoplah. Additionally, according to the Centre for Environmental Excellence by AASHTO, “noise levels constantly vary with the number, type, and speed of the vehicles that produce the noise”. Moreover, “the loudness of traffic noise is increased by heavier traffic volumes, higher vehicle speeds, and greater number of trucks. Vehicle noise is a combination of the noise produced by the engine, exhaust, and tires”, as well as “compression braking and the use of air brakes” (cited, p. 187, Umwelt, Neoen Territory Battery, EIS, 2024). This level of noise from the likely amount of heavy haulage vehicles going through the village of Mangoplah on a daily basis is of major concern. I feel this increased level of noise will affect the health of the residents within the village of Mangoplah, as many of the residents are elderly or have retired to Mangoplah for the serenity and peacefulness of the surrounding area.

The NSW Government in their Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024, state the “Local councils and Transport for NSW (TfNSW) are responsible for the safe and efficient management of transport networks” (p. 1-2). They go onto say that “Land use developments generate trips that may impact the surrounding transport network, its users, and the surrounding community” (p.1-2). Additionally, the NSW Government state that “Developments involved in use of heavy vehicles should take note of the requirements stipulated in” (p.2-4), Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024), The Heavy Vehicle National Law, “in relation to transport related matters such as managing the impact of heavy vehicles on road infrastructure…” (p.2-4, Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024).

Furthermore, there has been no consideration for “A thorough understanding of the existing…condition allows for the robust transport impact assessment of a proposed development” (p.3-8, NSW Government, Guide to Transport Impact Assessment, 2024), especially during busy farming periods, such as harvesting, when surrounding farmers are travelling along the Holbrook Road in tractors, trucks and headers, with very little room to pull over safely to allow oncoming traffic to pass due to how narrow and how busy the Holbrook Road can be. The community of Mangoplah and surrounding landholders are concerned about the roads in the area of influence, with the current movement, place function and the current access, to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, will impact greatly upon farmers during these busy farming periods as a result of the development.

I fell this increased volume of traffic will add to the increased risks and safety concerns for not only the residents within Mangoplah but also for the usual traffic that travels along Holbrook Road and through Mangoplah on a daily basis, as according to Google maps is the best way to travel from Wagga Wagga to Albury is along the Holbrook Road, stating it is approximately 129km and will take 1hr 32min, moreover, according to a Trans Traffic Survey of the Holbrook Road, reported that over 1,000 vehicles travelled along the road, on a daily basis, with these vehicles notoriously travelling with speeds between 100 km and 109 km per hour along the section of road in the vicinity of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site (cited in Traffic Impact Assessment, Amber, Traffic & Transportation Direction, 2025). Moreover, there have been numerous traffic incidents along the Holbrook Road over the years from minor to serious, resulting in deaths.

It deeply concerns and affects me that a rural community like Mangoplah is being put at risk and danger because of this increase in traffic in the area, during construction of the access road to the project and the BESS project itself. This change in the land use from farming to industrial I feel will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. I take it upon you to consider the cost to the Mangoplah community and how this project will affect them in the future, as many of the local community members have been in the district for generations and do not want the proposed Mangoplah BESS project to go ahead.

Subject: Objection to the Mangoplah Barrery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of the Increased risk of biosecurity issues with heavy vehicles bringing into the site invasive weeds and pests during construction of the BESS project.

I am writing to formally express my objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah. Because of the Increased risk of biosecurity issues with heavy vehicles bringing into the site invasive weeds and pests during construction of the BESS project.

The site is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land – to me it is not a place to build such a project.

Biosecurity, according to the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, “means protecting the economy, environment, and the community from the negative impacts of pests and diseases, weeds, and contaminants” (p.1, Biosecurity – Weeds Biosecurity, 2025). The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development further state that “weeds are identified as biosecurity risks…because they reduce the quantity and quality of agriculture, horticulture and forestry products, compete and displace native plants and animals; clog waterways…; harbour pests and diseases; increase bushfire intensity; restrict animal access to water sources and shade; lower the natural beauty and monetary value of the land; cause injury, allergies, poisoning, and respiratory problems for humans and animals…(P.2, 2025).

Biosecurity risks such as pests, diseases and weeds are a threat to our agriculture and environment, costing New South Wales between $1.67 billion and $1.9 billion per annum, according to the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions. Furthermore, all biosecurity risks can spread through the movement of animals, people, machinery, and vehicles, according to the NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2022.

“The NSW Biosecurity Strategy 2013-2021 introduced the principle of shared responsibility as:
“Government, industry and the people of NSW working together to protect the economy, environment and community from the negative impacts of animal and plant pests, diseases and weeds for the benefit of the people of NSW.”
On 1 July 2017, the shared responsibility of government, industry and the community to manage biosecurity in NSW was implemented by the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 (the Biosecurity Act).
The broad objectives for biosecurity in NSW are to manage biosecurity risks from pests and diseases, weeds and contaminants by:
●preventing their entry into NSW
●quickly finding, containing and eliminating any new entries, and
●effectively minimising their impacts, through robust management arrangements, if they cannot be eliminated” (p.4, NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2020).

The NSW Department of Primary Industry further states “Section 22 of the Biosecurity Act includes the general biosecurity duty, which states:
“Any person who deals with biosecurity matter or a carrier and who knows, or ought reasonably to know, the biosecurity risk posed or likely to be posed by the biosecurity matter, carrier or dealing has a biosecurity duty to ensure that, so far as is reasonably practicable, the biosecurity risk is prevented, eliminated or minimised.”(p.5, 2020).

The NSW Department of Primary Industry defines that “Biosecurity matter is any living thing or part or product of a living thing (other than a human), any part of a plant or animal, a disease, a prion, a contaminant, or a disease agent (section 10 of the Act). A carrier is anything (including a human) that has or is capable of having biosecurity matter on it (section 11 of the Act)” (p.5,2020).

Moreover, the NSW Department of Primary Industries states “When developing regional strategic plans, district strategic plans and local strategic planning statements, the relevant planning authorities must have regard to economic, social and environmental matters (Part 3, Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979). Similarly, when determining a development application, a consent authority must take into account the likely impacts of the development, including environmental impacts on both the natural and built environments, and the social and economic impacts in the locality, and the public interest (section 4.15, EP& Act).
This means the planning system plays an important role in protection of NSW from biosecurity risks caused by proposed developments. Examples of such development activities include, but are not limited to: …
● state significant developments
● other proposed developments near existing agricultural businesses, transport corridors, pipelines or other industries” (p.6, 2020).

The NSW Department of Primary Industry further states that “Biosecurity should be considered in all phases of the planning and assessment process to ensure that biosecurity risks are identified and managed appropriately.

It is important that development proponents, landholders, and planning consent authorities consider the potential biosecurity risks of new developments, and that development proposals adopt reasonably practical measures to prevent, eliminate or minimise the potential impact on the environment, the economy and the community in the locality of the development” (p.7, 2020).

With the high number of workers that will be involved with the construction of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, as stated in the Mangoplah BESS Environmental Impact Statement, there will be 64 heavy haulage vehicles per day (p.45, 2025), this amount of traffic will increase risk to the biosecurity not only at the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site but also to the village of Mangoplah and more importantly to the surrounding farmlands with the workers bringing in invasive weeds and species on their vehicles, boots and clothing. The Mangoplah BESS Environmental Impact Statement states that with “The increased movements of vehicles, machinery and people within the Development Footprint, particularly during construction and decommissioning poses the largest risk to biosecurity. Weed seeds can be transported via tyres and undercarriages of vehicles and clothing of staff resulting in a risk of spreading weeds. Confining vehicles and machinery movements to formed access tracks during all phases and implementing a washdown procedure of vehicles entering and leaving the site would mitigate potential risk of seed dispersal” (p. 198, 2025), the question being is how and where will this washdown area be located and how is it going to be enforced and more importantly how is this contaminated water, sediment and potential invasive species going to be contained.

The NSW Department of Primary Industry state that “Wash-down facilities allow site employees, contractors and visitors to clean their vehicle and equipment in an easily managed area where wash water is contained. Wash-down facilities should be located between the driveway and farm roads, and away from production areas. A sealed (concrete or bitumen) surface or a pad of packed gravel is ideal, with a sump to collect wastewater and debris. There should also be access to power and high-pressure water. Together, these will ensure that biosecurity matter is not moved from one property to another and will help to keep mud, soil, and plant materials away from crops, storage areas and waterways. However, it is still important for the sump and area surrounding the wash-down facility to be treated or checked regularly for the presence of pests or weeds. Any new pests should be managed as soon as possible” (p.13, 2020).

It deeply affects and concerns me that a rural community like Mangoplah and the surrounding landholders will be subjected to biosecurity risks by the heavy vehicles being used during construction of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project bringing in invasive weeds and species into the farmland and community, as biosecurity measures are mandatory for farms in NSW, as per the Biosecurity Act 2015, which obligates landholders to take reasonable steps to prevent, eliminate, or minimize biosecurity risks, including controlling pests and weeds, which protect the economy, environment, and community. Weeds are a major threat to Australia’s natural environment, costing the farmers, community and region considerably to eradicate or control.
This change in the land use from agricultural to industrial, I feel will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. I take it upon you to consider the cost to the Mangoplah community and how this project will affect them in the future, as many of the local community members have been in the district for generations and do not want the proposed Mangoplah BESS project to go ahead.

Subject: Objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of The risk of damage to other lithium-ion batteries within the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site in the event of an explosion.

I am writing to formally express my objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah. Because of The risk of damage to other lithium-ion batteries within the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site in the event of an explosion.

The site is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land – to me it is not a place to build such a project.

In the event of a fire involving large-scale lithium-ion batteries, the primary risk to other batteries is the potential for thermal runaway, which can lead to a chain reaction of fire and explosions. This can be triggered by factors like overheating, physical damage, or electrical faults. The spread of fire and toxic gases from one battery to another can cause rapid escalation of the incident, this was evident in the Geelong BESS fire in 2021, where the Megapacks were installed in close proximity to each other. Moreover, lithium-ion battery fires pose a significant thermal hazard, with fires reaching extreme temperatures ranging from 700-1000 degrees Celsius, further increasing the risks and danger facing the local Rural Fire Service members who are untrained and ill-equipped to fight such a fire. The Industrial Lithium-Ion Battery Emergency Response Guide, for Tesla Industrial Energy Products, further state that “Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs) and structural firefighting gear” (p.17, 2024).

Furthermore, “Runaway reaction in a Li-ion battery cell, should it occur, can result in the generation of excessive heat inside or outside the cell which keeps on generating more and more heat. The chemical reactions inside the cell in turn generate additional heat until there are no reactive agents left in the cell” (p. 19, cited in Fire Safety study Broken Hill Battery Energy Storage System, 2023).

Moreover, according to Industrial Lithium-Ion Battery Emergency Response Guide For Tesla Industrial Energy Products including Megapack and Powerpack it states that “If subjected to abnormal heating or other abuse conditions, electrolyte and electrolyte decomposition products can vaporize and be vented from cells. Vented gases are a common early indicator of a thermal runaway reaction – an abnormal and hazardous condition” (p.14, 2024). They further state that “In close proximity, vented gases may irritate the eyes, skin, and throat. Cell vent gases are typically hot; upon exit from a cell, vent gas temperatures can exceed 600 degrees Celcius (1,110 degrees Fahrenheit ). Vented electrolyte is flammable and may ignite on contact with a competent ignition source such as an open flame, spark, or a sufficiently heated surface. Vented electrolyte may also ignite on contact with cells undergoing a thermal runaway reaction” (p.14, 2024).

In addition, the Industrial Lithium-ion Battery Emergency Response Guide for Tesla Industrial Energy Products goes onto state that “Prolonged exposure of the product to conditions beyond these limits may increase the potential of thermal runaway and result in a fire. Exposure of battery packs to localized heat sources such as flames may result in cell thermal runaway reactions and should be avoided.

Mechanical damage to the product can result in a number of hazardous conditions (discussed below) including:
• Leaked battery pack coolant
• Leaked refrigerant
• Leaked cell electrolyte
• Rapid heating of individual cells due to exothermic reaction of materials (cell thermal runaway), venting of cells, and propagation of self-heating and thermal runaway reactions to neighboring cells.
• Fire” (p.13, 2024).

Moreover, The Industrial Lithium-Ion Battery Emergency Response Guide, for Tesla Industrial Energy Products gives these crucial information “In Case of Emergency” (p.13, 2024).
“WARNING: In case of emergency, severe physical impact, or transportation accident, do not approach the product or open any of its doors” (p.13, 2024), and “WARNING: In case of severe physical impact or transportation accident, it may take time before any visible indication of an abnormal and hazardous condition (e.g., smoke or fire) can be observed. Contact Tesla for guidance” (p.13,2024), and “CAUTION: Response should only be performed by trained professionals” (p.13, 2024).

The main question here is, where is the closest trained professional, and how long will it take for this professional to be onsite.
Furthermore, The Industrial Lithium-Ion Battery Emergency Response Guide, for Tesla Industrial Energy Products state that,
“During storage or operation, emergencies include but are not limited to:
• Suspicious odor observed near the product
• Smoke or fire emanating from the product
• Severe physical impact on the product
In case of emergency, isolate, deny entry, and perform the following:
1. If possible, and if trained and properly equipped, shut off the unit/system (see Shutting Down in an Emergency on page 18).
2. Evacuate the area.
3. If not already present, notify appropriately trained first responders, the local fire department, and any appointed subject matter expert (SME) if available.
4. Contact Tesla for guidance” (p.16, 2024).
Shutting Down in an Emergency
WARNING: Shutting off power to the product does not de-energize the battery, and a shock hazard may still be present.
WARNING: If smoke or fire is visible, do not approach the product or open any of its doors.
WARNING: In case of flooding, stay out of the water if any part of the product or its wiring is submerged.
To shut the product down in an emergency, perform the appropriate steps below and then contact Tesla…Megapack System
1. If an external emergency stop (E-Stop) button or remote shutdown contact to the Megapack is present, engage it.
2. If the Megapack is serviced upstream by an external AC breaker or disconnect, open the breaker or disconnect”(p.18,2024).
This information is very disconcerting for the local Rural Fire Service member, the residence of Mangoplah and the surrounding landholders when in the Mangoplah Environmental Impact Statement it states that “The Tesla MP2XL supersedes the model of Tesla Megapack which was the subject of the Victorian Big Battery Fire in 2021. Learning from the Victorian Big Battery Fire contributory factors, the Tesla MP2XL includes improvements in commissioning procedures, fault protection devices, and thermal roof design including:
• A new commissioning procedure which improves the inspection of the coolant system, avoids using the keylock switch, reduces the telemetry setup connection time for new Megapacks from 24 hours to 1 hour, and avoids the keylock switch unless the unit is actively being serviced
• Firmware improvements including additional alarms to possible coolant leaks, electrical safety protection which remain active regardless of keylock position, and active monitoring and controls for the Pyro-fuse’s power supply circuit
• Thermally insulated steel vent shields are now installed in the newly designed thermal roof, which can protect the plastic overpressure vents from direct flame impingement or hot gas intrusion inside the unit” (p.118, 2025).

In the Preliminary Hazard Analysis that during testing it demonstrated that the MP2/2XL that the cells over heated and failed in six cells and “initiated thermal runaway in a seventh cell” (p. 15, 2025), the Preliminary Hazard Analysis report further stating that “this destructive unit level test led to a slow progressing fire that burned for 6 hours and 40 minutes” (p. 15, 2025). This technology and testing is well and good, but under normal circumstances, such as bushfire, and extreme weather conditions, including high temperatures, strong winds or rainy wet weather, these testing results would be somewhat completely different.

Fire risk and safety to the local Rural Fire Service members of getting heat radiation, radiation burns, and injury is of major concern in the event of an explosion of a lithium-ion battery and fire occurring within the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, which can be life changing for the local Rural Fire Service members who are aging volunteers. These fires also have the potential threat of thermal runaway and release of toxic chemicals into the air affecting the village of Mangoplah, the surrounding farmland, crops and livestock but also leaking into the local waterways and creeks.

It deeply affects and concerns me that a rural community like Mangoplah is being exposed to this degree of risk and being impacted so heavily. Please consider the fire risk and the added pressure posed to the local Rural Fire Service members and the broader community. In addition, changing the land use from farming to industrial will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. Please consider the cost to the Mangoplah community – their environment, their safety, their homes and many farming families who have been here for generations will all be at increased risk if the proposed Mangoplah BESS project goes ahead.

Subject: Objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of the Increased risk of flooding in nearby paddocks due to changes in the water flow with construction of the new access roadway to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project.

I am writing to formally express my objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah. Because of the Increased risk of flooding in nearby paddocks due to changes in the water flow with construction of the new access roadway to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project.

The site is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land – to me it is not a place to build such a project.

Water is a vital commodity in and around the area of Mangoplah, not only for the local village community but more importantly for the farmers in the area. It is of major concern that during construction of the new access roadway, to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site and the Substation site that there will be changes to the natural flow of the current waterways into the surrounding creeks within the roadway and project areas, with the Paper Forest Creek, which is classified as a 5th order stream flows directly through the access roadway to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site. These natural waterflows which include a variety of Strahler Steam Order waterflows from 1st order through to >5th order streams, as per the Mangoplah BESS Scope Report, play a vital role in water runoff into the dams on neighbouring farming properties, but also into the main creek lines of Paper Forest Creek and Burkes Creek, which flow into the Murrumbidgee River, any changes in the natural flow of the current waterways of these creeks could result in increased risk of flooding into nearby paddocks.

It was noted in the Draft Traffic Impact Assessment by Amber Traffic & Transportation Direction, in a report by Fife Pty. Ltd., that was submitted to Amber Traffic & Transportation Direction, that the current “track consists of both formed and unformed sections” and “the remaining 1.5km remains an unformed boundary track lacking structured drainage and surface reinforcement” (p. 1, Appendix B, 2025). The report states that “four culverts are present along the formed sections…installed by the landholder to manage water flow during wet periods” (p.1, Appendix B, 2025). The report goes onto further state that two of the four culverts “appear to have flow directions opposite to natural drainage patterns” (p.1, Appendix B, 2025), this would account for the amount of water flowing from the waterways and in particular Paper Forest Creek flooding onto the Holbrook Road and Paper Forest Road during heavy rain events.

Furthermore, the new access roadway to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site will involve the installation of culverts along the roadway, changing the natural water course by constricting flow, altering velocity, and creating potential for erosion and sediment buildup upstream and downstream, particularly along Paper Forest Creek. Moreover, these culverts have the potential to cause debris blockage or erosion, washing away road material, which can worsen flooding, not only in the surrounding paddocks but also onto Paper Forest Road, and Holbrook Road, which already occurs during periods of heavy rain. In addition, “crossings have the potential to disrupt the hydrologic, hydraulic, and geomorphic functions of a watercourse affecting flows, bed and bank stability and the ecological values and functions of the riparian corridor”(p.1, NSW Government, Department of Planning and Environment, n.d.). The Department of Planning and Environment go onto state that “The design and construction of works or activities within a watercourse or adjoining waterfront land should protect and enhance water flow, water quality, stream ecology and existing riparian vegetation. Impacts on the hydrologic, hydraulic and geomorphic functions of a watercourse should also be minimised” (p.1, n.d.).

It deeply affects and concerns me that a rural community like Mangoplah is being exposed to this degree of risk of having the BESS built within close proximity to the village of Mangoplah but also very close to productive farming and grazing land. Additionally, the change of land use from farming to industrial will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. Please consider the environment, the cost to the Mangoplah community and surrounding farming families, many of whom have been here for generations, working hard to keep the area going, do not want the proposed Mangoplah BESS project to go ahead.

Subject: Objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of the High risk to the environment from materials and waste from the construction of the Substation, adjacent to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project.

I am writing to formally express my objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah. Because of the High risk to the environment from materials and waste from the construction of the Substation, adjacent to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project.

The site is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land – to me it is not a place to build such a project.

The proposed Mangoplah BESS project would generate a range of different waste types including spoil, green waste, packaging, human rubbish and waste, and equipment, which according to Umwelt (Australia) Pty. Limited, in their Environment Impact Statement, 2024, are at risk of “Environmental damage from inadequately stored or managed waste, high volumes of waste from excessive material usage, and improper or incomplete site clean-up” (p.225, Territory Battery). Moreover, they state that loose materials stockpiled on site, such as spoil or green waste could be transported by stormwater or wind into nearby waterways or sensitive vegetation or habitat, which has the potential to impact ecosystems, and the blockage of waterways. In addition, there is also the potential for food scraps from the workers associated with the construction of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project, “attracting pests and other animals to the site, leading to a spread of invasive species in the area and impacting the balance of existing ecosystems” (cited, p. 225, Umwelt, Territory Battery EIS, 2024). Furthermore, human waste from workers associated with the construction of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project “could also severely impact water quality of groundwater or surface water bodies, vegetation condition or soil condition if transported off-site by stormwater. Human waste also poses a health and amenity risk to on-site personnel exposed to uncontained waste or odours” (cited, p.225, Umwelt, Territory Battery EIS, 2024).

Moreover, the Mangoplah Environmental Impact Statement states that “The final volumes of waste materials would not be known until the detailed designs are completed and a construction contractor is appointed” (p.222, 2025). The report goes onto further state “Wastes that are likely to be generated from the Project during construction include:
• Vegetation from site clearing – this is expected to be limited to grasses
• Surplus spoil from earthworks required for the Project – excess spoil would be reused onsite to fill in trenches and stabilise cleared areas
• General construction waste e.g. concrete, steel, timber – this is expected to be minimal with quantities of building materials required to be accurately estimated
• Domestic waste materials including plastics, packaging materials, putrescible waste generated by construction personnel
• Chemicals and oils
• Wastewater generated at construction compounds
• Waste from onsite amenities i.e. septic disposal” (p.223, 2025).

This high risk to the environment from materials and waste from the construction of the Substation, adjacent to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project, is alarming and of major concern if these materials and wastes are transported either by wind or by stormwater runoff into the waterways, and creeks that surround the Substation, adjacent to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project, as they will impact on the local environment, the ecosystem and biosecurity of the nearby landholders.

Furthermore, as stated in the Mangoplah Environmental Impact Statement that “The NSW Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001 include waste minimisation and management objectives to encourage the most effective use of resources and to reduce environmental harm in accordance with the principles of ecologically sustainable development” (p.220, 2025), with the report further stating “The project’s resource management options would be considered against a hierarchy of the following order:
· Avoidance of unnecessary resource consumption
· Resource recovery (including reuse, reprocessing, recycling and energy recovery)
· Disposal” (p.220, 2025)

This is somewhat contradictory when the Mangoplah Environmental Impact Statement states that “Regional capabilities are highly relevant for ensuring waste reuse options are fully explored. The region has low population density over large distances, which limits waste collection, separation, reuse and recovery options” (p.221, 2025), in other words, how and where are all the materials and waste created during the construction of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project going to be safely disposed of in an appropriate manner, and location.

It deeply affects and concerns me that a rural community like Mangoplah is being exposed to this degree of risk of having the proposed Mangoplah BESS project built within close proximity to the village of Mangoplah but also very close to productive farming and grazing land. Additionally, the change of land use from farming to industrial will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. Please consider the environment, the cost to the Mangoplah community and surrounding farming families, many of whom have been here for generations, working hard to keep the area going, do not want the proposed Mangoplah BESS project to go ahead.

Subject: Objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of the Inappropriate recommendation by Samsung C&T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Limited to have an Asset Protection Zone of only 11 metres, around the Substation, adjacent to the proposed Mangoplah BESS project.

I am writing to formally express my objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah.

According to Australia Bushfire Protection Planners Pty. Limited, 2024, “Bushfire risk is defined as the chance of a bushfire occurring that will have harmful consequences to human communities and the environment” (p.19). Further stating that “Risk has two elements: likelihood, the chances of a bushfire occurring and consequence, the impact of a bushfire when it occurs” (p.19). Most of the bushfires that occur within the area of Mangoplah and the surrounding farmlands, is the result of lightning strikes, moreover, are the prevailing adverse fire weather conditions, such as strong winds, and the bushfire season from October to March. Further exacerbating the risk of migration of a bushfire according to Australian Bushfire Protection Planners Pty. Limited, 2024, is “a fire in the landscape which is not effectively suppressed” (p.19), as a result a bushfire within the vicinity of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site will be exposed and “has the potential to rapidly travel across the landscape…over-running the BESS site” (Australian Bushfire Protection Planners Pty. Limited, 2024).

This is of major concern as the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land and is classified as being in a ‘High Fire Prone Area’, according to the NSW Rural Fire Service, in addition the area around the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site is classified as being Category 1 and 3 vegetation, as stated by Ember Consulting Pty. Ltd. (p.19, Bushfire Assessment Report, 2025), with “Vegetation Category 1 is considered to be the highest risk for bushfires…” and “Vegetation Category 3 is regarded as a medium vegetation…” (p.19, Bushfire Assessment Report, 2025), which according to the NSW Rural Fire Service requires a buffer zone of 30 metres, whereas, the Mangoplah BESS Scope Report states that there will be an Asset Protection Zone of only 11 metres.

Furthermore, there should be a 100 meter Buffer Zone around the entire Mangoplah BESS project site, because of the close proximity to “hazardous woodland vegetation”, as per photos iii and vi (p.27, Ember Bushfire Consulting, Bushfire Assessment Report, 2025).

Moreover, as stated by Ember Bushfire Consulting, “Bushfire protection measures generally serve a dual purpose: protecting the site from external fire threats, containing fire within the site should it occur, and stopping it from escaping onto adjoining lands” (p.32, Bushfire Assessment Report, 2025). Further stating “Given the heat-sensitive nature of the Mangoplah BESS substation and associated infrastructure, larger APZ and setback dimensions are recommended than those prescribed…”(p. Bushfire Assessment Report, 2025).

More controversial , is that the Australian Bushfire Protection Planners Pty. Limited, state “The BESS proposal is classified as ‘industrial’ development and…therefore, the default position for providing protection for ‘industrial’ development located in a bushfire prone area is to provide a defendable space (Asset Protection Zone) wide enough to prevent flame contact on the structure, or in the case of the BESS, the cabinets housing the battery packs and the electrical equipment in the Substation” (p.24, Bushfire Risk Assessment Report, TBESS, 2023).

In the Preliminary Hazard Analysis report states that “BESS separation distance may be the most effective control to reduce the likelihood and consequence of multi module fire propagation as a result of a thermal runaway event. The separation distances…,
• 4.0 m between back to back pairs of MP2XL units (east/west)
• 3.0 m between back to back pairs of MP2XL units (north/south)
• >460 mm between back to back MP2XL units
• 4.0 m from accessible means of egress and exposures (such as buildings, public ways, and hazards not associated with electrical grid infrastructure)
• 1.5 m between MP2XL units and step up transformers” (p.14, 2025).
NSW Fire and Rescue, state that “Where multiple battery energy storage system (BESS) units are…in open…project site, FRNSW recommend the following measures to mitigate fire risk and assist with firefighting intervention:
 The BESS units must be segregated into clusters, with each cluster not exceeding 50 metres in length on any side.
 The BESS units must maintain a minimum separation distance of 6 metres from any fire source feature (e.g. at least 6 m away from any building, structure or site boundary)” (2024).

The proposed Mangoplah BESS project site layout contradicts the requirements required by the NSW Fire and Rescue, as each MP2XL is 8.8 metres in length, in the layout of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project, rows east to west consisting of 4 x MP2XL Battery containers plus the inverters, so it is questionable if the overall layout of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project meets with these fire safety requirements and recommendations.

The NSW Rural Fire Service, also states that the proposed Mangoplah BESS site is located within a Priority 2 area, which prioritizes firefighter safety, then people, then property, then the environment, and finally restoring normality. This means that when responding to an incident, the safety of firefighters is paramount, followed by the protection of human life, and then the protection of structures and other assets.

Moreover, according to Vic Emergency “Bushfires and grassfires start quickly, often without warning and they can threaten lives and properties within minutes”, with them going onto say that “grassfires can be just as dangerous as bushfires – grass is the most predominant fuel type in Australia. It ignites very quickly, burns rapidly and can travel at speeds of up to 25 kilometres per hour”(Facts of Fire/Emergency Victoria, n.d.). Moreover, as stated in the Mangoplah BESS Bushfire Assessment Report that the Forest Fire Danger Index (FFDI) is rated at 80, (p.19, Ember Consulting Pty. Ltd., 2025), which according to the Australian Fire Danger Rating System is classified as “Extreme” stating to “Take action now to protect life and property” “Fire will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous”.

Furthermore, “during a fire, embers can travel up to 40 kilometres ahead of a fire front…starting spot fires well ahead of the fire-front-often without warning” (Facts of Fire/Emergency Victoria, n.d.). More concerning however is the fact that “Flame temperatures can reach up to 1100 degrees Celius and radiant heat fluxes high enough to vaporise vegetation, only adding speed to the scorching hot flames…so fires can spread and become out of control quickly” (Facts of Fire/Emergency Victoria, n.d.). In addition, according to the Australian Bushfire Protection Planners Pty. Limited, “a dangerous and damaging fire has the potential to occur when the following conditions prevail: continuous available fuel…exposure of vulnerable assets…a combination of weather conditions that generate a…grass fire danger index of Very High or greater…a fire in the landscape which is not effectively suppressed”(p. 20, Bushfire Risk Assessment Report, TBESS, 2023). As a result of these hot dry windy conditions, it is possible that a bushfire has the ability to, and is “likely to impact on the BESS site…and the “fire is likely to over-run the site” (p. 20, Australian Bushfire Protection Planners Pty. Limited, Bushfire Risk Assessment Report, TBESS, 2023).

Furthermore, in the Bushfire Assessment Report, for Mangoplah BESS, it states that “it is a SEARs requirement that the location of a electricity generating infrastructure, including BESS, should avoid any land subject to identified natural hazards (such as bushfires) and should not contribute to an increase of a natural hazard (bushfire)” (p.19, Ember Bushfire Consulting, 2025).

Moreover, as stated by Umwelt Environmental & Social Consultants, that during construction, there is a high risk of “sparks from construction machinery, vehicles or electrical works, or a fault occurring in the Proposal equipment (e.g. battery packs), start a fire, resulting in fire spreading onto the surrounding landscape and/or toxic chemicals/fumes being released” (p.251, Neoen, Territory Battery, EIS, 2024).

Despite there being 3 Rural Fire Service Stations around the area ranging in distance from 2.5km to 22km away from the Mangoplah Bess site, it can take approximately 1 hour to manage to get a crew together to man even one tanker, this is due to the Fire Captain not being notified of an incident, also the Fire Captain not able to be notified because of being in a ‘blackspot’ mobile phone area, or other rural fire members not able to attend the fire, as they also cannot be contacted.

It deeply affects and concerns me that a rural community like Mangoplah is being exposed to this degree of risk and being impacted so heavily. Please consider the fire risk and the added pressure posed to the local Rural Fire Service members and the broader community. In addition, changing the land use from farming to industrial will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. Please consider the cost to the Mangoplah community – their environment, their safety, their homes and many farming families who have been here for generations will all be at increased risk if the proposed Mangoplah BESS project goes ahead.

Subject: Objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System – SSD-77527735.

Because of The extreme lack of equipment available for the local Rural Fire Service members to fight a lithium-ion battery fire.
I am writing to formally express my objection to the Mangoplah Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project proposed by Samsung C & T Renewable Energy Australia (SREA) Pty. Ltd., to be located within the property on 4178 Holbrook Road, Mangoplah. Because of The extreme lack of equipment available for the local Rural Fire Service members to fight a lithium-ion battery fire.

The site is within close vicinity to the village of Mangoplah and is surrounded by agricultural and grazing land – to me it is not a place to build such a project.

Fire Risk and Safety to the local Rural Fire Service members and their lack of equipment to fight a lithium-ion battery fire, is of major concern in the event of a fire occurring within the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site, as the NSWFR state “that large-scale LiBESS pose a unique challenge to firefighters when responding to and managing an incident”, the NSWFR goes on to say that “large-scale LiBESS as a hazardous electrical, chemical and fire risk with the risk of community consequence that necessitates special consideration”. In addition, Superintendent James O’Carroll, stated “that BESS facilities present special problems of fighting fire…” (NSW Fire & Rescue, 2025).

In addition, radiant heat, is a form of heat transfer, it can cause severe burns even without direct contact with flames, according to the NSW Rural Fire Service, rural fire service members responding to bushfires face the risk of radiant heat burns due to the nature of the environment, the NSW Rural Fire Service goes onto state that “to mitigate this risk, firefighters wear protective clothing”, this can be extremely difficult in the event of a lithium-ion battery fire, due to the lack of appropriate protective clothing, including self-contained breathing apparatuses and structural firefighting gear, required to fight such a fire, this equipment is only at the disposal of appropriately qualified members and experienced to fight such a fire, according to the NSW Fire & Rescue.
Furthermore, lithium-ion battery fires pose a significant thermal hazard, with fires reaching extreme temperatures ranging from 700-1000 degrees Celsius, additionally lithium-ion battery fires can produce toxic gases and potentially lead to explosions, further increasing the danger facing the local Rural Fire Service members.

Moreover, is the lack of appropriate equipment, such as self-contained breathing apparatuses and structural firefighting gear, which according to the NSWFR, should only be used by appropriately qualified members. This is of major concern to the local Rural Fire Service members, because they only have the knowledge, experience and equipment to fight bushfire, not fires of this nature, but then in the Deniliquin EIS Report it states that “Following commissioning of the BESS, the preparedness of local RFS and Fire and Rescue brigades would be enhanced through site orientation and information events and the facilitation of training in the management of LFP battery fires” (p.132, 2025).

The very idea of being asked or told that the local Rural Fire Service members are to be involved in fighting a fire that may occur near or within the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site is outrageous, our local Rural Fire Service members are volunteers who are not directly paid for their time, and are not volunteers to sacrifice their lives to protect the proposed Mangoplah BESS project in the event of a fire occurring near or within the area of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site infrastructure but another whole range due to lithium-ion batteries and potential toxicity (Bowman, 2025).

This is very concerning for the local Rural Fire Service members, as they are volunteers who are not directly paid for their time and are not volunteers to sacrifice their lives to protect the proposed Mangoplah BESS project in the event of a fire occurring near or within the area of the proposed Mangoplah BESS project site.

Fire Risk and Safety and the lack of equipment available for the local Rural Fire Service members to fight a lithium-ion battery fire, is of major concern in the event of a fire occurring within the BESS, not only from the potential threat of thermal runaway and release of toxic chemicals into the air affecting the village of Mangoplah, the surrounding farm land, crops and livestock but also leaking into the local waterways and creeks.

It deeply affects and concerns me that a rural community like Mangoplah is being exposed to this degree of risk and being impacted so heavily. Please consider the fire risk and the added pressure posed to the local Rural Fire Service members and the broader community. In addition, changing the land use from farming to industrial will negatively impact Mangoplah’s rural setting and lifestyle. Please consider the cost to the Mangoplah community – their environment, their safety, their homes and many farming families who have been here for generations will all be at increased risk if the proposed Mangoplah BESS project goes ahead.