The winds of change
SMALL TOWN’S BIG FUTURE IN RENEWABLES
urbine, ne ers. he s arped i turbines bi were turned d on l last year.
Wind farms at Berrybank, Dundonnell, Lal Lal, Mortlake South and Stockland Hill are also l in i the h works. k
The contribution of wind energy to the state’s renewable production has grown since June 2016, and is expected to grow further as plans for 113 turbines in the southwest wait approval. At Rokewood, land owners slated for wind t turbines on their properties sa said the additional income wou would be insurance against vaga vagaries of farming. A Andrew Whitlock, who farm farms merino on 2000ha, said vari variances in temperature had an impact on the quality of woo wool he could take to sale. ““We are dealing with i increasingly wetter winters and hotter summers,” Mr Whitlock said. “Sheep need consistent management, and changes in temperature can lead to a weakening of the wool.”
He said income generated from turbines could be put to expanding his operation.
Andrew Rizzoli, whose 2500ha family farm is slated for multiple turbines, dismissed concern the noise they created would be unbearable.
“There’s no difference to the trees and the noise they make when the wind blows,” Mr Rizzoli said.
He welcomed investment into Rokewood and the surrounds via a community fund Westwind would set up.
Westwind spokeswoman Erin Gray said a community fund of up to $228,000 and free electricity for those living within 3km of a turbine would be offered.
“We are committed to providing a community benefit fund comprised of $1000 per constructed turbine, per year; distributed annually once construction commences for (about) 25 to 30 years,” Ms Gray said.
Community reference group member Sophie Whitlock said grants would be available to community groups within 10km of the project.
“There’s so much room for growth in Rokewood it hasn’t