South Burnett Mayor Kathy Duff critiques division caused by renewables in the region
Mayor Kathy Duff says that the community in Queensland’s South Burnett region is divided over a push for renewables, especially with a proposed nuclear reactor in the area.
The South Burnett region, located on Queensland’s Great Dividing Range three hours from Brisbane, is known for its agricultural industries, quiet lifestyle, and picturesque views.
However, in recent years, the region has seen a surge in renewables, leaving the local government feeling powerless to intervene. Tarong, within the South Burnett region, is a potential site for a nuclear reactor if Peter Dutton becomes prime minister in the next federal election.
Mayor Kathy Duff welcomes the discussion on nuclear energy, feeling that there is a double standard in how the environment and renewables are viewed.
The region already supports wind and solar farms, with a battery farm in progress. Mayor Duff expresses concerns about the lack of community input in the placement of renewables, which she considers heavy industries.
Despite efforts by the council to impose a moratorium on a solar farm near Kingaroy, the court ruled against it, further exacerbating community tensions.
Mayor Duff believes that exploring nuclear energy options could bring more job opportunities to the region compared to renewables. She emphasizes the importance of thorough investigation before moving forward with any plans.
Although some politicians have expressed opposition to nuclear energy in Queensland, Mayor Duff sees merit in exploring the possibilities for the region.
Farming and Winery Hub Facing Renewables Expansion
Renewable energy projects have been reshaping the landscape of the South Burnett region, with solar farms and wind farms spanning the area.
One solar farm near Kingaroy covers 118 hectares, while another site in Blackbutt aims to repurpose former grazing land for solar energy production.
The Coopers Gap Wind Farm, previously Australia’s largest, is now powering thousands of homes in the region.
Plans for battery energy storage systems are also in progress, utilizing advanced technology to store energy from renewable sources.
