After much community advocacy, the Carroll Labor Government has decided not to proceed with the proposed Central North Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
The Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, has welcomed the decision and labelled it as a “common sense” win for communities across the Shepparton District electorate.
“This proposed renewable energy zone sought to destroy some of the most productive agricultural land in the nation and right in the heart of our region between Shepparton East and Dookie.
“In the original draft planning process, these communities were excluded and as you can imagine they were blindsided when the inclusion of their communities were made public.
“I raised this in Parliament with the Minister and why this should not go ahead. We must protect our land and stand up for our farmers and primary producers,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
Ms O’Keeffe applauded the community who have fought hard and congratulated more than 11,000 signatories of a petition that was recently tabled in the Legislative Council of the Victorian Parliament, that called on the Minister for Energy and Resources and VicGrid to remove the eastern section of the Central North REZ from the 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan until proper consultation with affected landowners and community is undertaken.
“The community has spoken with their voice, the 11,000 plus signatories of the recent petition have had their voices heard loud and clear.
“I have been proud to be by their side every step of the way. Earlier this year I had the opportunity to join with over 200 concerned locals to hear from representatives from VicGrid about the proposed zone.
“Right throughout the process those affected by the proposed Central North REZ have made it clear that they just want their voices to be heard and their concerns taken on board and considered.
“It hasn’t been about infrastructure; it has been about protecting a way of life that has been built over generations after generations.
“I am pleased that the Minister and government have listened to the community as well as their concerns about the proposed zone.
“This is a common sense win not only for those affected but also protecting prime agricultural land in our region.”
