South West shire vote to raise community concerns to Federal Government about offshore windfarms

Amid community concerns about the proposed offshore windfarm, the Harvey Shire Council is set to reach out to the Federal Government.

The council voted unanimously to put forth a submission detailing concerns about the Federal Government’s offshore windfarm before the public consultation period closes on May 3.

The motion was put forth by Councillor Craig Carbone, who said it was important to make sure the people involved in the project knew the community’s concern.

The motion originally hoped councillors could meet with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s offshore renewable energy team to arrange a community presentation session, which was declined by the Department, according to council documents.

Cr Carbone said it was disappointing from a councillor’s point of view the council was not given time to gauge their community’s response to the project.

“Personally, I am dead against it, (the offshore windfarm),” he said.

“But climate change people have got to do something, and they put the proposals forward.”

He said taking this step now allowed them better control about future proposals or plans that may come from the Federal Government.

Cr John Bromham said the motion calling for a submission highlighted the fact council was working for the community and making sure the Federal and State governments understand the council is interested.

“We can make sure we get the best outcome for the people who live in the Shire of Harvey,” he said.

Public consultation of the proposed area is the second stage of an eight-step project, expected to last several years.