The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, says more must be done to ensure local wildlife is protected during the construction of renewable energy projects.
Ms Cleeland raised the concerns of local residents during the most recent sitting week of Parliament, saying property owners and wildlife groups had contacted her about animals being impacted.
“The rapid development of renewable energy projects across my electorate has raised significant concerns among residents and environmentalists regarding the impact they are having on local biodiversity and native wildlife,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Projects like the Goorambat East solar facility, Glenrowan solar farm, Cooba solar farm, and others in Winton, Ruffy and the Strathbogie Ranges are either underway, already built or about to begin.
“With each new project we see large areas of land cleared, hundreds of trees removed, and constant activity disrupting natural habitats.
“While national attention has been drawn to gliders and koalas, here we are seeing local species like birds, bats, insects and unique plant life facing similar threats.
“Many residents have shared photos of injured animals appearing on their properties and displaced by nearby construction.”
Failing to protect local wildlife joins the long list of concerns about the projects from locals, with Ms Cleeland saying there was significant room for improvement when it comes to delivering renewable energy in the region.
“We know these projects are already challenged by issues like insufficient community consultation, poor site selection and potential harm to local wine and agricultural industries,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Now we are witnessing an environmental toll that contradicts the very principles these projects claim to uphold.
“Renewable energy projects in the region serve a purpose, there is no doubt, but there are a lot of factors that need improvement.
“If this government or the corporations in charge of these projects will not do it, then it is crucial that our local wildlife groups receive the resources and support needed.”
