Kirrilee Warr calls for upgraded power line to Geraldton to be included in State Government budget

A petition demanding reliable power for Geraldton residents was launched in State Parliament last week, backed by local member Kirrilee Warr.

The petition calls for an upgraded transmission line, a dedicated backup, and a clear timeline for these upgrades.

Households, essential services, schools, local businesses, and industry are all impacted by power outages, and Geraldton has had ongoing issues with power supply over the years.

“It’s clear the current transmission is no longer fit for purpose, and I urge the State Government to ensure upgrades for Geraldton are a priority,” Ms Warr said.

The petition also demands ongoing consultation with local governments, industry, businesses, traditional owners, and community stakeholders.

Geraldton operates with a 125kVA line, and the petition calls for a 330kV transmission line in order to best provide reliable power.

“Power reliability has been flagged with me as a concern for residents, community leaders, and business owners,” Ms Warr said.

Notably, power went out for 22 hours across 23,000 homes in Geraldton from Saturday, December 13 after a thunderstorm damaged power poles across the Mid West.

It’s clearly still a concern at the front of residents’ minds, as torches and lanterns sold out across camping stores and supermarkets in the lead up to cyclone Narelle.

“How many outages does the region need to suffer through in order to be heard?” Ms Warr said.

Ms Warr encouraged the State Government to include the upgrades in the budget in May.

As Geraldton continues to grow through projects like the Oakajee Strategic Industrial Area, Ms Warr said the town needs to grow with it.

“The current infrastructure does not allow for growth, and Geraldton’s repeated issues with power over a number of years is an example of this,” she said.

““The State Government has flagged Oakajee for several years in its renewable plans, but without improved capacity, the project remains in doubt.”

The petition will close on August 4, and can be signed online.