Australian Dairy Region Faces Division Over Wind Farm Developments
Source: DairyNews.today
In one of Australia's primary dairy-producing regions, a debate is intensifying as plans move forward to establish wind farms capable of powering all of Victoria’s residential areas for a year. While some local farmers argue that valuable agricultural land should be dedicated solely to food production, others claim wind turbines on their properties provide a stable income stream without negatively affecting their farming operations.
Renewable Energy vs. Agriculture
The Victorian government’s renewable energy initiative, spearheaded by VicGrid, is gaining momentum, with a draft of the Victorian Transmission Plan expected for public consultation in early 2025. The plan includes proposed renewable energy zones (REZs), aiming to integrate wind and solar farms into various regions, including agriculture-rich areas.
However, the question of where to place these renewable energy projects has sparked controversy, particularly among farmers. Some argue that agricultural land should not be repurposed for energy infrastructure, emphasizing that Australia’s ability to grow food sustainably should take precedence. On the other hand, many farmers who have embraced renewable energy installations report minimal disruption to their operations. These farmers highlight the financial security wind turbines provide, particularly during challenging economic periods.
Competing Interests in Moyne Shire
In Victoria's southwest, Moyne Shire—a major dairy-producing region—has already established seven wind farms, with more under development or proposed. This expansion could eventually generate up to 3 gigawatts of energy annually, enough to power every household in Victoria. However, the region also contributes a significant portion of Australia’s milk supply, raising concerns among local farmers about the long-term impact of renewable energy on food production.
Fifth-generation dairy farmers Anna and Joseph Conheady have voiced their support for a green-energy future but emphasize the need for agricultural stakeholders to be involved in planning decisions. "We must consider the broader implications of energy policies, including food security," said Mr. Conheady. The couple advocates for reserving prime agricultural land for farming to ensure Australia’s food production remains as carbon-efficient as possible.
Despite these concerns, the Conheadys acknowledge that wind farms do not directly impede dairy farming operations. However, the legal complexities surrounding land use—such as zoning and permits for worker accommodations—can create additional challenges for farmers.
Not all farmers share the Conheadys’ reservations. Hamish Thorn, a fourth-generation farmer in Western Australia, has successfully integrated wind turbines into his agricultural operations, leasing land to renewable energy companies while continuing to raise sheep and cultivate crops. For Mr. Thorn, the benefits of wind turbines far outweigh any downsides. “The turbines occupy minimal space and provide a guaranteed income,” he said, adding that the additional revenue helps mitigate the risks of fluctuating farm profits.
Thorn believes that co-existence between agriculture and renewable energy will become the norm, especially as climate challenges and rising operational costs put pressure on farmers. “There are some concerns around noise and visual impact, but these issues do not materially affect farming practices,” he noted.
Looking Ahead
As VicGrid prepares to finalize the boundaries for Victoria’s renewable energy zones, the organization is encouraging public feedback to refine its plans. Alistair Parker, VicGrid's chief officer, emphasized the importance of community input in selecting appropriate locations for future wind farms. “We are working to narrow down the areas needed for infrastructure development in a transparent and informed manner,” Parker said.
With renewable energy gaining traction across Australia, the balancing act between food production and energy generation is set to remain a point of contention, particularly in key agricultural regions like Moyne Shire.
As Australia moves toward a net-zero emissions future, the growing overlap between renewable energy projects and agricultural land use presents both opportunities and challenges. The ability to navigate these competing interests will be critical in determining the future of both the country’s energy infrastructure and its agricultural output.
The Victorian government’s renewable energy initiative, spearheaded by VicGrid, is gaining momentum, with a draft of the Victorian Transmission Plan expected for public consultation in early 2025. The plan includes proposed renewable energy zones (REZs), aiming to integrate wind and solar farms into various regions, including agriculture-rich areas.
However, the question of where to place these renewable energy projects has sparked controversy, particularly among farmers. Some argue that agricultural land should not be repurposed for energy infrastructure, emphasizing that Australia’s ability to grow food sustainably should take precedence. On the other hand, many farmers who have embraced renewable energy installations report minimal disruption to their operations. These farmers highlight the financial security wind turbines provide, particularly during challenging economic periods.
Competing Interests in Moyne Shire
In Victoria's southwest, Moyne Shire—a major dairy-producing region—has already established seven wind farms, with more under development or proposed. This expansion could eventually generate up to 3 gigawatts of energy annually, enough to power every household in Victoria. However, the region also contributes a significant portion of Australia’s milk supply, raising concerns among local farmers about the long-term impact of renewable energy on food production.
Fifth-generation dairy farmers Anna and Joseph Conheady have voiced their support for a green-energy future but emphasize the need for agricultural stakeholders to be involved in planning decisions. "We must consider the broader implications of energy policies, including food security," said Mr. Conheady. The couple advocates for reserving prime agricultural land for farming to ensure Australia’s food production remains as carbon-efficient as possible.
Despite these concerns, the Conheadys acknowledge that wind farms do not directly impede dairy farming operations. However, the legal complexities surrounding land use—such as zoning and permits for worker accommodations—can create additional challenges for farmers.
Not all farmers share the Conheadys’ reservations. Hamish Thorn, a fourth-generation farmer in Western Australia, has successfully integrated wind turbines into his agricultural operations, leasing land to renewable energy companies while continuing to raise sheep and cultivate crops. For Mr. Thorn, the benefits of wind turbines far outweigh any downsides. “The turbines occupy minimal space and provide a guaranteed income,” he said, adding that the additional revenue helps mitigate the risks of fluctuating farm profits.
Thorn believes that co-existence between agriculture and renewable energy will become the norm, especially as climate challenges and rising operational costs put pressure on farmers. “There are some concerns around noise and visual impact, but these issues do not materially affect farming practices,” he noted.
Looking Ahead
As VicGrid prepares to finalize the boundaries for Victoria’s renewable energy zones, the organization is encouraging public feedback to refine its plans. Alistair Parker, VicGrid's chief officer, emphasized the importance of community input in selecting appropriate locations for future wind farms. “We are working to narrow down the areas needed for infrastructure development in a transparent and informed manner,” Parker said.
With renewable energy gaining traction across Australia, the balancing act between food production and energy generation is set to remain a point of contention, particularly in key agricultural regions like Moyne Shire.
As Australia moves toward a net-zero emissions future, the growing overlap between renewable energy projects and agricultural land use presents both opportunities and challenges. The ability to navigate these competing interests will be critical in determining the future of both the country’s energy infrastructure and its agricultural output.
