Scott River farmers’ mixed views on possible Synergy wind farm project

Farmers inland of Margaret River are expressing mixed views on the possibility of a long-planned renewable energy project in the Scott River area.

State Government electricity provider Synergy was canvassing residents in the region about the possibility of a wind farm linked to the long-held ambitions of the Augusta-Margaret River Clean Community Energy group.

Scott River dairy farmer Ross Woodhouse was among landholders being considered as a possible site for the project that he welcomed.

Mr Woodhouse told the Times there was a lot he liked about the concept, which would build upon his sustainability ambitions that recently saw him awarded a $2 million State Government grant for a new dairy project.

“I feel excited that as a landowner we produce enough milk for 268,000 West Australians every day, we (could) produce electricity to keep their lights on, we produce wool, we produce meat, and we’re minimising our carbon footprint,” he said.

“It really would have a minimal impact on us in terms of our day-to-day operations, and very compatible.”

But other farmers weren’t keen and feared future restrictions based on changed land uses.

Scott Baxter told the ABC the region was an important food bowl.

“The Scott River district is an area of importance to feed the growing population of the future,” he said.

“Turbines will ensure no one will be able live or work on the farm in the future.

“I have greater concerns about is the farmer being given a fair go? Will we be paid fairly?”

A Synergy spokesperson confirmed the utility was in the investigation process for its project as well as canvassing other sites.

“The Scott River area … is one area identified as a potential site for a wind farm development, amongst other locations,” they said.

“Synergy is investigating the feasibility of a potential development at this site.

“The investigation is still in its early stages of feasibility.”

AMRCCE chair Jessica Worrall confirmed Synergy’s involvement in its ambitious plan previously identified as a possible hybrid renewable energy project.

“AMRCCE started investigating the feasibility of a potential wind farm in the South West region six years ago and is excited to see this work continue,” she said.

Synergy was unable to confirm any green light for the Scott River project.

The provider said any wind farm would be “in addition” to bigger renewable projects under development that included a new wind farm at King Rocks, near Hyden, and an expansion of Bright Energy Investments’ existing Warradarge Wind Farm near Eneabba.