Renewable Energy in Rural Victoria: Community Division and Conflict
As Australia aims to transition towards a more sustainable energy future, rural Victoria finds itself at the forefront of this renewable energy push. However, the journey is fraught with division and tension within traditional farming communities. Once peaceful landscapes are now marred by bitter feuds, misunderstandings, and a “hit list” naming farmers who have embraced wind turbines.
Historical Harmony Erodes
Jim “Spud” Hepworth, an 85-year-old farmer from Victoria’s Wimmera region, has witnessed the transformation firsthand. He has observed as some farmers eagerly signed contracts for wind turbines, while others remain staunchly opposed. Hepworth laments the erosion of community cohesion, stating, “There are people who have farmed next to each other for 100 years and now they’re not talking to one another. It’s not the way of country people.”
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Mr Hepworth says it saddens him to see neighbours turn against each other over renewables. (ABC Rural: Angus Verley)
Battle Lines Drawn
The push for renewable energy has long been a contentious issue, dividing communities across Australia. As Victoria aims for 82% renewable energy by 2030, the debate rages on over不仅仅 wind turbines but also the VNI West transmission powerline project. In the Wimmera alone, 39 wind farms are operating, while many more are approved or under construction.
Supporters Weigh In
Craig Henderson, a grain grower from western Victoria, supports the wind turbines. He believes these projects can bolster small towns, providing an alternative income source amid declining rural populations. Henderson stands to earn approximately $40,000 annually per turbine, with a contributing sum to a community fund, totaling $2,000 per turbine per year. Despite these benefits, Henderson contends, “If you’ve got a question, talk to us,” after finding himself on a so-called “hit list” for supporting renewables.
Craig Henderson believes renewables projects can benefit both farmers and their communities. (ABC Rural: Kellie Hollingworth)
Opposition Vows Strong Stance
However, opposition remains strong. Ross Johns, president of the Wimmera Mallee Environmental and Agricultural Protection Association, argues that the renewable energy push has created significant division among community members. Johns claims WestWind Energy attempted to pressure him into signing a contract in 2018 by offering a cash bonus. WestWind Energy denies these allegations, asserting,
The claim of offering cash payments to pressure landholders into agreements is not accurate,
and emphasizing their commitment to transparency.
Wimmera farmer Ross Johns says renewable energy developers have alienated communities. (Supplied: Jackie Peacock)
A History of Conflict
The tension surrounding renewable energy projects is not unique to Victoria’s Wimmera region. Social scientist Rebecca Colvin from the Australian National University has observed this dynamic across various settings. Colvin emphasizes the importance of clear communication and transparent consultation with communities. However, she acknowledges that in some cases, deep-seated opposition may remain unchanged despite extensive consultation.
Rebecca Colvin says good consultation with communities over new projects is paramount. (Supplied: Hannah Scott, ANU)
Mixed Messages
The landscape of public opinion on renewable projects in rural areas is complex. Advocacy groups report differing levels of support. Farmers for Climate Action’s survey found 70% support, while Farms for Food, formed in direct response to divisions, reported 92% opposition. These contrasting views highlight the diversity of sentiment within affected communities.
There’s a noticeable presence of signs like this in the town of Birchip. (ABC News: Emile Pavlich)
Compensation Criticism
Another point of contention is the compensation offered to farmers hosting wind turbines. Belinda Randall, from Birchip, questions whether the financial benefits are commensurate with the impact on local communities. Randall argues, “It’s very tokenistic, what’s on offer for the community.” This sentiment echoes broader concerns about the perceived prioritization of corporate interests over community well-being.
Belinda Randall says she doesn’t want to see the industrialisation of her region. (ABC Mildura-Swan Hill: Emile Pavlich)
Toward a Resolution
Despite the challenges, there are efforts to mend fences and find common ground. National Farmers Federation President David Jochinke posits that effective communication is key. He suggests that benefits should extend beyond direct landholder profits to encompass broader community needs such as education, health, and infrastructure development.
David Jochinke says while the process has been problematic, there are solutions in sight. (ABC News: Emile Pavlich)
Conclusion
The push for renewable energy in Victoria’s rural regions brings both opportunities and challenges. While some view these projects as a pathway to economic stability and environmental sustainability, others fear the loss of community cohesion and the impact on their way of life. As stakeholders continue to debate the merits and drawbacks, the quest for balanced and inclusive solutions becomes increasingly critical.
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