The VNI West project proposes a high-capacity double-circuit overhead transmission line that will cut across agricultural land, forming a conduit between the Western Renewables Link project at Bulgana, east of Stawell, to New South Wales.
Wallaloo and Gre Gre District Alliance posted photos on its Facebook page at the weekend, accusing TCV of hanging documentation about compulsory access in a plastic pocket on a post on a public road in front of an affected landowner’s property.
VFF president and Quambatook farmer Brett Hosking, whose farmland will be affected by the project, said the timing and manner of the move was ‘deplorable and demonstrates a complete lack of respect for farmers’ rights and businesses’.
“Forcing access to farms at one of the busiest times of year, at the height of harvest, a time when biosecurity and protection of the crop is paramount shows just how out of touch this process has become,” he said.
“They don’t care, they won’t listen and at this point, it seems they will move heaven and earth to drive a bulldozer through generational farming families in their way.
“Shame on them for swinging a wrecking ball at some of the best farming land in the country.”
In July, landholders along sections of the project easement were advised of the need for spring and summer ecology surveys.
TCV says its staff followed up with reminders in October, outlining the benefits of voluntary access and the available pathways for the work.
VNI West program director Mick Douge said where agreement had not yet been possible, the Notices of Access confirm the survey timing and approach in line with statutory requirements – also detailed in TCV’s Landholder Guide.
“Our strong preference is that wherever possible, we work with landholders to set access conditions that suit their operations, considering aspects such as biosecurity, access points, timing and seasonal requirements,” he said.
“These surveys are a necessary step to keep VNI West on schedule to support Victoria’s future energy need.
“We’ve agreed on voluntary access conditions for 165 properties in the project region so far and conducted more than 270 surveys on private property.
“For a small number of properties where we haven’t been able to reach agreement, these Notices of Access confirm our legal ability to access for surveys.
“However, that doesn’t close the door on voluntary discussions.”
Mr Douge said compulsory access remains TCV’s last resort.
“The Notices of Access being issued now are not using newly legislated enforcement powers. At all times our focus is on reaching agreement on access arrangements with landholders, that best support each property, farming or business operation,” he said.
“Our goal is to keep this project moving responsibly: maintaining open communication, minimising disruption, and designing VNI West with input from the people who know the project region best.”
The VFF has created an online resource, outlining landholder and farmer rights, which can be found at www.vff.org.au/know-your-rights-vni-west-land-access-notices.
Authority change
VicGrid announced last week it had taken over the role of planning Victoria’s electricity transmission network, with a new, independent board, chaired by energy executive Steve Rieniets to oversee its work.
VicGrid has officially become a state business corporation and will be responsible for planning Victoria’s shared transmission network, work which was previously carried out by Australian Energy Market Operator Victoria Planning, AVP.
The change means VicGrid now has ultimate responsibility for major projects like the Western Renewables Link, WRL, and the VNI West projects.
AusNet Services remains responsible for the design, approvals, construction, operation and day-to-day management of WRL but TVC, which is overseeing the delivery of VNI West, will now transfer from AVP, to VicGrid.
The responsibility for managing connections to the transmission network has now also transferred to VicGrid from AVP.
VicGrid will continue to work closely with the Australian Energy Market Operator, AEMO, in its broader National Energy Market-wide roles.
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