As we gear up for a pivotal moment, the Regional Victoria Power Alliance is resolute in our fight for justice. In just 25 days, we will stand before the Supreme Court to challenge the December 2023 judgment that dismissed our case against the Victorian Government’s “VNI West and WRL” Ministerial Orders.

This appeal is more than just a legal battle; it represents our collective stand against government mandates that disregard the voices and well-being of rural and regional communities. The Victorian Government, in collaboration with AEMO, plans to impose massive powerline projects like VNI West and WRL without considering the profound impact on our lives and environment.

We are now gearing up for the hearing, and we want you to be informed and engaged. Here’s the latest information from the Court regarding our upcoming appeal:

Date: 7 August 2024

Time: 9.45 am

Location: Blue Court, 459 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

The Court also advised that it has reserved a second day of hearing, 8 August 2024, should it be needed.

We will keep you informed if there are any updates and when we have a court web link so that you can watch the hearing. In the meantime, there is still a lot of work for our Counsel and solicitors to do to prepare for the hearing, to ensure they make the best possible argument on the day, for all of us.

But to secure our place in the courtroom, the RVPA urgently needs your continued support to raise the final funds. This David and Goliath battle is for the thousands of people who will be directly impacted by the WRL and VNI West projects. The repercussions of these developments will extend far and wide, affecting many more lives.

Please consider donating – $250/$500/$1000/$2000 or whatever you feel is appropriate – sincere thanks to those who have already donated in 2024 to this critical fight.

You can transfer funds directly:

Moorabool and Central Highlands Power Alliance Inc.*

BSB: 633 000

ACC: 175 892 850

Or donate at any Bendigo Bank branch.

*This is the legal name of the RVPA.

When deciding how much to donate, consider the direct and indirect impact and financial loss you, your community, and the environment will suffer at every stage of these projects, from construction to decades of operation.

Are you a supporter who wants to help stop rural and regional Victorians from being bulldozed by the government? Every donation, no matter the size, is greatly appreciated.

As we’ve emphasized before, justice doesn’t come cheap, but THE TIME IS NOW OR NEVER! We have momentum and a crucial, hard-won opportunity to halt these two projects right now.

Together, we will make our voices heard and fight for the future of our communities. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach this crucial date.

Thank you for your unwavering support.

The Regional Victoria Power Alliance

The picturesque landscapes of rural Victoria are under siege. Towering high voltage transmission lines, dubbed “Sentinels of Death and Destruction” by concerned residents, are set to carve through the heart of these tranquil communities. As the push for renewable energy continues, the method of transmitting that energy—through massive, dangerous and unsightly transmission infrastructure—threatens to bring more harm than benefit to the rural areas that must host them.

The Encroaching Threat

Western Victoria’s countryside, known for its serene beauty, agricultural productivity, and rich biodiversity, faces an unprecedented threat from the proposed high voltage transmission lines. These massive structures are designed to transport electricity generated from distant wind and solar farms to urban centres. While the intention is to support a cleaner energy future, the execution of the WRL and VNI-West projects disregards the significant and adverse impacts on the local environment and communities.

Environmental Devastation

High voltage transmission lines are not just metal towers—they are harbingers of ecological disruption. The construction and maintenance of these lines involve clearing large swaths of vegetation, which lead to habitat destruction and fragmentation. This is particularly concerning in areas that serve as vital habitats for wildlife and are critical for maintaining biodiversity.

The clearing of land for transmission corridors results in the loss of flora and fauna, some of which is endangered. The disruption to these ecosystems is long-term, as the land under and around the transmission lines is kept clear to prevent interference with the electrical current, effectively sterilizing the land for decades to come.

Economic Impact on Agriculture

Farmers and rural businesses rely on Western Victoria’s fertile land, the introduction of high voltage transmission lines pose a direct threat to their livelihoods. Agricultural activities are severely hindered by the presence of these structures. Not only do they occupy valuable land, but they also restrict farming operations near the lines due to safety concerns.

The risk of fire from high voltage lines is a significant threat to agricultural productivity. These lines have been known to spark fires, which can devastate crops, livestock, and farm infrastructure. In a region prone to bushfires, adding another fire risk is not just dangerous—it’s reckless.

Health and Safety Concerns

Beyond the immediate environmental and economic impacts, the health and safety of residents living near high voltage transmission lines are also at stake. Prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) pose health risks, including an increased risk of certain cancers and other health conditions.

Safety concerns are further exacerbated by the risk of structural failure. The collapse of a transmission tower or lines can lead to catastrophic consequences, including fatalities, which are particularly alarming for those living directly under or near these structures.

The Social License Dilemma

The concept of a social license—community acceptance and approval of a project—is crucial for the success of any infrastructure development. Yet, the approach taken by proponents of these projects has been woefully inadequate in securing this license.

Our communities have repeatedly voiced their opposition through public forums, legal actions, and direct appeals to government officials. They have cited the lack of genuine consultation, the disregard for local concerns, and the minimal effort to mitigate the negative impacts as reasons for their resistance.

Proponents have often conducted consultations that are more about ticking regulatory boxes than truly engaging with the communities. This perfunctory approach has only deepened the distrust and resentment among residents, who feel their concerns are being brushed aside in favour of broader, impersonal agendas.

The Call to Action

As these “Sentinels of Death and Destruction” loom over Western Victoria, it is imperative to reconsider the current approach to energy transmission. While the transition to renewable energy is essential, the means of achieving it should not come at the cost of destroying the very communities and environments we seek to protect.

Actionable Steps:

1. Genuine Community Engagement: Developers must engage in transparent and meaningful dialogue with affected communities, incorporating their input into project planning and implementation.
2. Comprehensive Risk Assessments: A thorough and independent assessment of environmental, economic, and health impacts should be conducted, with mitigation strategies clearly outlined and implemented.
3. Exploration of Alternatives: Consider underground cables or distributed energy systems that minimize the need for extensive above-ground transmission infrastructure.

The communities of rural Victoria deserve a voice in decisions that fundamentally alter their way of life. As the push for renewable energy continues, it is crucial to balance progress with the protection of our communities and natural landscapes. The path forward must respect the environment, support local communities and economies, and, most importantly, honour the wishes of the people who call these areas home.