Community members are invited to tour the Dulacca Wind Farm when the Queensland Community Renewables Forum (QCRF) heads to Roma next week.
The Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) has partnered with Dulacca Wind Farm owner, Octopus Australia, and asset manager, RES, to host a free site visit of the Western Downs facility a day after the popular QCRF event visits Roma on Tuesday, 1 April.
Maranoa locals are invited to register their interest for this informative tour, which allows participants to observe wind turbines operating side by side with cropping activities and livestock grazing on the host property.
QREC chief executive Katie-Anne Mulder said she was excited to offer the tour a second time after a successful visit as part of the inaugural QCRF in Miles last year.
“These forums give local communities the opportunity to engage with renewable energy projects, ensuring they align with community values and create shared benefits, while the wind farm site visit highlights how renewable energy and agriculture can coexist,” Ms Mulder said.
Octopus Australia Assets Lead Kate McClure said the company was delighted to offer the site visit as part of the Queensland Community Renewables Forum.
“It is an opportunity for community members to see firsthand how a wind farm operates and understand the local opportunities they offer,” Ms McClure said.
The visit was announced just one week out from the QCRF’s arrival in Roma, where the Maranoa community will join renewable energy developers, agricultural leaders, and key government representatives at the Roma Bungil Cultural Centre to have meaningful conversations about the opportunities and challenges presented by large-scale renewable energy development in the region.
Maranoa Mayor and portfolio spokesperson for Major Stakeholder Engagement, Wendy Taylor, said Council has long advocated the importance of the community being consulted and informed about issues that may impact the region.
“The Forum and Dulacca Wind Farm Tour will provide the opportunity for all residents – whether confirmed, curious or concerned – to hear more and have their questions answered,” Cr Taylor said.”
Day one will feature information booths, presentations, and interactive Q&A sessions, before a day two offers community members the chance to register for the Dulacca Wind Farm visit.
These forums aim to keep locals informed about upcoming renewable energy projects and foster a shared understanding of their benefits and management.
With the support of a Queensland Government grant, the Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) and Coexistence Queensland are working together to deliver these forums, offering essential insights into the renewable energy transition and its long-term benefits for local communities and Queensland as a whole.
Community members are encouraged to register for the Roma Forum event and the Dulacca Wind Farm visit at queenslandrenewables.org.au
KEY FACTS
Tuesday, 1 April
• Expo: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Presentations: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
• Light refreshments and lunch provided
• Free attendance, online registration preferred
• Roma Bungil Cultural Centre – 57 Bungil Street, Roma 4455
Wednesday, 2 April
• Dulacca Wind Farm Site Tour
• Free return bus from Roma Bungil Cultural Centre
• Depart Roma 7:45 AM – Return to Roma 1:30 PM
• Morning tea provided
• Free attendance, online registration required
