VICGRID has released a draft of its first Victorian Transmission Plan – outlining locations and details for major renewable energy infrastructure across the state.
The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, is urging locals to provide feedback on the plan, saying it’s a crucial opportunity for farmers, residents, and local industries to have their voices heard.
Towns including Colbinabbin, Stanhope, and Girgarre are identified in a proposed Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), with large-scale developments like the Cooba Solar Facility already planned for the region.
The controversial Cooba project would see 740,000 eight-metre-tall solar panels installed across 665 hectares – just 4.5 kilometres from Colbinabbin – sparking serious community concern.
Other areas such as Ruffy, Winton, Goorambat, Glenrowan, and the Strathbogie Ranges have also raised objections to renewable projects in recent years, despite not being located in official REZs.
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Ms Cleeland said changes made by the Labor Government to reduce community appeal rights through VCAT had made projects more divisive and left rural communities feeling powerless.
“Labor has stripped away the ability for locals to meaningfully challenge these developments, creating serious tension and division in our towns,” Ms Cleeland said.
“These aren’t small decisions – they permanently change landscapes, affect neighbouring farms, and disrupt the lives of people who’ve worked the land for generations.
“Too often, prime agricultural land is being targeted when there are more suitable sites available.
“I strongly encourage anyone who may be impacted to have their say – it’s one of the few opportunities left to influence these decisions and ensure proper protections for farming land."
