Spare a thought for Energex workers this Christmas

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today he supported Energex holding a Family Day at Sea World this weekend.

Minister Wilson said that in a couple of weeks, Energex workers would ramp up their roster system, with more workers on call, ready to tackle whatever the weather throws at the electricity network.

“We should all spare a thought this Christmas for the Energex worker who, more often that not, will be out in that bad weather, restoring power so that we can enjoy Christmas dinner with our family and friends,” he said.

“Energex workers have families too. That’s what this weekend’s Family Day is all about.

“It’s about families that don’t get to spend Christmas Day or other special days over the holiday season with their son, father, mother or daughter because he or she has been called out to repair power lines damaged by storms.

“This summer storm season, it’s not a matter of if storms strike but when, and when they do, Energex will be ready for action.

“For instance, on the 9^th October last year, Energex crews worked through the early evening and into the night, restoring power to homes and businesses hit by thunderstorms and strong winds.

“More than 10,000 lightning strikes were recorded as the storm passed over the south east – over a region that includes more than 35,000 kilometres of overhead power lines.

“So if Energex wants to thank their staff with a Family Day outside of the summer storm season – good on them.

“Their job is not nine to five – it can be hazardous, and for that we owe them our thanks,” Mr Wilson said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819