Someva Renewables and Mainstream Renewable Power have released results from a community survey on potential benefits from the proposed Sunny Corner Wind Farm in Sunny Corner State Forest.
Among 140 survey respondents, top priorities for the project’s Community Benefits Fund were local fire management (42%), environmental protection (42%), and community infrastructure (38%). For supporting local businesses, respondents favoured infrastructure upgrades (48%), grants for innovation (39%), and sponsorships (30%).
Near neighbours indicated they would value annual cash payments (31%), solar or battery system grants (28%), and electricity bill rebates (24%).
While the survey reflects strong interest in potential benefits, some community members have raised concerns about the project’s environmental impact, changes to the landscape, and whether benefits will be fairly distributed.
Jamie Chivers, Managing Director of Someva Renewables, said community input is central to shaping the benefits programs. “This project has the potential to support regional prosperity, but we recognise there are diverse views. Ongoing dialogue is crucial to ensure benefits are meaningful and widely shared,” he said.
Greg Politakis, Country Manager for Mainstream Renewable Power, said, “If approved, the wind farm’s Community Benefits Fund could deliver tens of millions of dollars in direct local investment.” He noted priorities include road upgrades, fire management, environmental projects, business partnerships, and support for near neighbours.
The proposed 500MW wind farm could power around 300,000 homes with renewable energy for 30 years. Technical studies for the Environmental Impact Statement are ongoing, with public exhibition expected in 2026.
Community discussions continue as locals weigh potential economic and environmental benefits against concerns about impacts on the region’s landscape and character.
