Farmers in rural Victoria are facing off against the Albanese government's ambitious renewable energy project, VNI West, which threatens to disrupt their livelihoods and reshape their land.
Farmers in the rural Victorian town of Wycheproof are fiercely protesting the Albanese government's renewable energy infrastructure rollout, which they argue will severely impact their livelihoods. Sky News Australia host Peta Credlin, a Wycheproof native, returned to her hometown to highlight the farmers' plight. The contentious project, known as VNI West, involves constructing a massive transmission line spanning from Sydney to Melbourne, cutting through private land along its route.
Farmers face a significant battle to protect their properties from the line's impact.Credlin explained that the VNI West transmission line will consist of towering structures reaching 18 meters high, comparable to the floodlights at Melbourne's Cricket Ground (MCG). These structures will support high-voltage cables, and despite farmers' resistance, the government has indicated a willingness to use compulsory acquisition of land if necessary. Credlin emphasized the lack of meaningful consultation with farmers and the disconnect between policymakers and the real-world consequences of their decisions. Local farmer James Burke, whose family has owned their property for 150 years, expressed concerns about the domino effect VNI West could have on Australian agriculture. He fears increased production costs will inevitably lead to higher food prices for consumers nationwide.Burke also criticized the government's compensation offer to farmers as inadequate and insufficient to cover the potential losses they face. He highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the use of land under the transmission towers and questioned the long-term viability of their farming operations. Credlin warned that Australians should brace for even higher costs for both energy and food once this project is fully implemented. Emma Burke, another local farmer, voiced her anxieties about the potential exodus of families from the community if the project becomes too burdensome. She stressed that the loss of residents would negatively impact local schools, sports clubs, and hospitals, making it difficult to attract and retain essential workers. The farmers remain resolute in their fight against VNI West, vowing to resist the government's efforts and utilizing media attention to raise awareness about their cause. They are confident that their collective strength and determination will prevail
RENEWABLES FARMERS VICTORIA TRANSMISSION LINES GOVERNMENT ALBANESE PROTEST
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