Walcha farmers oppose proposed EnergyCo worker camp and hub

Cattle farmers in Walcha are expressing significant concern regarding proposed infrastructure projects within the New England Renewable Energy Zone. EnergyCo has identified a potential site for the Central South Energy Hub, a permanent substation, and a temporary workforce camp located approximately 13 kilometres outside Walcha.

The proposed worker accommodation is expected to house between 400 and 1,200 non-local temporary employees. Local farmers, including James and Aimee Norton, have raised issues regarding the proximity of these developments to their property, noting that the camp and transmission lines would be within their direct line of sight.

Additional concerns include the potential impact on local resources, specifically the use of bore water to sustain the large workforce camp. The situation has drawn attention from local political figures, including Coffs Harbour Member Gurmesh Singh and opposition leader Kellie Sloane.