Complex transport task complete as 372 components arrive on site

The last massive wind farm tower section has arrived at a remote West Coast site, marking the end the project’s 18-week transport program – the biggest seen in the area.

Granville Harbour Wind Farm. Picture Chris Kidd

THE last massive wind farm tower section has arrived at Granville Harbour Wind Farm marking the end the project’s 18-week transport program – the biggest seen on Tasmania’s West Coast.

A total of 372 over-size items – including tower sections, turbine blades, nacelles, hubs and drive trains – were delivered to the construction site, near Zeehan.

The over-size loads travelled 193km from Burnie, leaving before dawn to minimise disruption to local drivers.

Project Director, Lyndon Frearson the transport exercise had been an incredibly complex with windy roads and regular bad weather conditions.

“We are indebted to residents and local businesses who have been very patient and understanding of occasional traffic delays that occurred during our over-size transport program,” Mr Frearson said.

Wind turbine pylons ready to be unloaded from the AAL Hong Kong in the Port of Burnie. PICTURE CHRIS KIDD

Specialist drivers for over-size transport contractor, Rex Andrews, worked a total of 17,820 hours over five months to deliver all items to site.

MORE NEWS:

Tasmanian landlords fire up over ‘bogan’ tenants amid rule changes

Index reveals women face greater economic impact through COVID-19

Coroner hands down findings into the death of Kim Leonie Maree Szemes

So far 20 wind turbines have been installed, with the project’s switchyard and 11-kilometre transmission line also complete.

Construction works for the $280 million wind farm are expected to be complete in August.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael Ferguson said each of the loads weighed up to 146.5 tonnes and were up to 67 metres long and were accompanied by two transport safety escort vehicles and Transport Safety Officers.

Minister for Energy Guy Barnett said the wind farm had the potential to power 46,000 homes once all 31 turbines are installed and operational.

“Renewable energy development like Granville Harbour Wind Farm will be an integral part of the COVID-19 recovery process, fostering economic development and job creation,” Mr Barnett said.

“Renewable energy is one of Tasmania’s largest economic opportunities for the next decade, with our Battery of the Nation pumped hydro plans, new wind farm projects and the second interconnector set to create thousands of jobs and billions in investment for Tasmania over the coming years.”