Black Rock wind turbine to be dismantled

Australia’s first wind turbine is set to be dismantled “due to high risk of failing” after nearly 40 years.

After near 40 years, the iconic Black Rock wind turbine is about to be dismantled.

Australia’s first wind turbine is set to be dismantled “due to high risk of failing” after nearly 40 years.

The 60kW turbine near the Black Rock water reclamation plant in Connewarre was installed in November 1987 after being transported over from Western Australia where it was manufactured.

It is understood that Barwon Water is preparing to dismantle the wind turbine due to a “high risk of failing”.

Barwon Water general manager planning, delivery and environment Seamus Butcher confirmed it was preparing to decommission the wind turbine.

Mr Butcher said with replacement parts no longer available, it was not technically or financially viable to maintain.

“We know the wind turbine is a local landmark, and we are engaging with community groups and neighbours to understand how we can best recognise its historical and cultural significance,” he said.

Barwon Water last month said it would focus on bringing online other sources of renewable electricity.

“These innovative new technologies will deliver greater benefit, including reducing emissions, saving on energy and operational costs, and helping keep customer bills affordable,” it said.

Barwon Water’s facilities use an amount of electricity annually that could power 6000 homes.

In August, Barwon Water announced its services were now being delivered by net-zero emissions electricity, with all its facilities powered by 100 per cent renewables, a full year ahead of the Victorian government’s 2025 target.

It is believed to memorialise the local landmark, Barwon Water is considering a ground-mounted monument at the current site of the turbine, using its head and blades.

“The turbine has been a local landmark and at the forefront of transitioning to a renewables-based electricity grid,” an email from the authority to locals said.

Barwon Water has told nearby residents that works to dismantle the wind turbine will commence towards the end of the year and are expected to take approximately one month.

Black Rock and Thirteenth Beach Roads will remain open throughout the works.

Originally published as Black Rock wind turbine to be dismantled