Published Wednesday, 02 March, 2005 at 12:00 AM
Others
The Honourable John Mickel
BARRON GORGE HYDRO COMMENCES WORLD CLASS UPGRADE
During a visit to the power station Mr Mickel said that Stanwell Corporation would invest just over $13 million in the first stage of the upgrade which involves the installation of new generator transformers, new administration and visitor facilities and bridge works.
"This project reinforces Stanwell's commitment to the environment through the replacement of oil insulated generator transformers with gas-insulated generator transformers, reducing the risks associated with the plant's operations.
"The upgrade also underlines the importance of having a secure electricity network which supports economic growth and job creation.
"We are moving ahead with projects which will deliver benefits to the Far North, unlike the Howard Government which can't even make a decision on the route for a replacement high voltage power line between Innisfail and Tully.
"This is the largest project undertaken at the power station since it was commissioned in 1963 and involves extensive renovations to improve facilities for Stanwell's work force and the 20,000 tourists who visit here each year," he said.
The Member for Barron River, Lesley Clark, welcomed the investment in the local community.
"I am also pleased that local businesses will have the opportunity to supply services to the project.
"The sorts of services which will be needed are accommodation and meals, transport, security, equipment hire and building supplies.
"By sourcing these supplies locally, Stanwell Corporation is benefiting businesses and families in this region," Ms Clark said.
Stanwell Chief Executive Ross Rolfe assured the community that the refurbishment would not interrupt power supply to consumers and when complete, would improve the hydro's operational reliability.
Mr Rolfe said it would take 11 months to complete the work scope, which may also be expanded to include improvement of the hydro's electrical and control systems.
"The upgrade project is an important part of Stanwell's commitment to continuous improvement in all aspects of our operations."
"To undertake this work the hydro-generators will be decommissioned for a six month period in the second half of this year."
Mr Rolfe said that in the interests of public health and safety, access to the area would be restricted for most of 2005.
"We have commenced the process of notifying and consulting with local community groups and regulators about the planned works, including tourist groups and rafting companies.
"The construction site is a designated restricted area, which means we cannot operate a temporary tourist facility while construction work is happening, and as such there will be no visitor centre for the duration of the work. "While we regret any inconvenience that this may cause, public health and safety is our first priority," he said.
"The project will ensure we continue to operate a world-class hydro power facility for the people of Far North Queensland.
"Traffic along the Gorge Road which accesses Lake Placid will be restricted at times because of heavy vehicle transportations.
"The bridge will be closed for periods of time to allow bridge upgrade works to proceed," he said.
Signage will be installed to alert motorists of increased heavy vehicle traffic using the road.
The walking track from the bridge to the railway line, known as the Surprise Creek Walking Trail, has also been closed.
The refurbishment project has commenced with establishment of the temporary site accommodation.
It is expected that the entire project will be completed by the middle of next year.
Media contact: Anne Syvret (Minister Mickel) 3225 1819
Anne Savage (Stanwell Corporation) 33357467