After fires, floods farmers face their biggest battle yet

Having survived drought, fires, poor seasons and unpredictable markets, the fight against wind turbines could end up being the biggest battle of these farmers’ lives, writes James Willis.

Long-time Binalong residents Anne and Paul Glover at their property, next to a sign opposing the Bendenine Wind Farm project. Picture: Supplied

One thing was abundantly clear as The Daily Telegraph toured the magnificent country towns under threat from Australia’s green energy revolution.

Having survived drought, fires, poor seasons and unpredictable market prices, the fight against wind turbines could end up being the biggest battle of their lives.

The properties near Yass, three hours from Sydney have some of the finest agricultural land in the world.

The fresh air, valleys and peaceful silence offer an escape from the daily struggles of being a primary producer.

Earlier this year their problems were exacerbated after discovering a green energy company had secretly made deals with some of their neighbours to host more than 90 wind turbines, each measuring 260 metres tall.

No Wind Turbines sign in Binalong. Picture: Martin Ollman

The handful of farmers who have agreements with Wind Prospect will pocket lucrative incentives for decades to come.

Meanwhile, those outside the tent are forced to live next door to these giant structures, without receiving the same compensation as the family next door.

Then there is the ongoing and valid concern about permanent depreciation of land values.

For many farmers in the bush, every cent saved is fed into their property.

The land is their retirement fund and their present to the next generation.

Angus Oberg and daughter, Emma Webb on their property “Leswell.” Mrs Webb said they would refuse to “sell out” her community. Picture: Martin Ollman

Any drastic reduction in real estate value could be catastrophic.

Nine journalist and author Peter FitzSimons recently trivialised concerns about what happens to regional wind farms when they stop working and reach “end of life.”

One could only imagine the outrage from “Fitzy” if a 260 metre turbine was proposed to block his luxury views on Sydney’s north shore.

Surely, the need for Australia to reduce emissions and achieve Net Zero in 25 years cannot be achieved by forcing our farmers off their land.

Particularly when they toil in a job few of us would be willing to do

Do you have a story for The Daily Telegraph? Message 0481 056 618 or email [e-mail]