Upgrade delivers power to the people in Brisbane’s eastern suburbs

Power supply to Brisbane’s rapidly-growing eastern suburbs is being given a big boost with a $70 million upgrade to a major substation in Mansfield, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today.

Minister Wilson, who was in the electorate of Chatsworth earlier this week with the Premier, all her Ministers and heads of departments for the Bligh Government’s Community Cabinet Meeting, said the work being undertaken would meet the growing need for power now, and well into the future.

“Powerlink is replacing old equipment that was built in the 1970s with today’s state-of-the-art technology,” Mr Wilson said.

“This is more than an investment in the electricity network. It’s an investment in the people who live and work in the eastern suburbs. We’re giving them a more reliable and secure electricity supply to take them well into the future,” Mr Wilson said.

Member for Mansfield, Phil Reeves, said all the work would be done within the existing substation site off Wecker Road in Mansfield.

“Our community is growing at a rapid rate with more and more people attracted to our wonderful lifestyle and strong economy. What we’re building today will underpin the region’s strong growth.

“It’s about looking beyond the horizon and planning for the future. It’s Q2 with its sleeves rolled up,” Mr Reeves said.

Mr Reeves said Powerlink had been talking about the project and listening to the needs of local landowners and other stakeholders for two years.

“And Powerlink has given me an assurance that they will continue to work closely with our community right through the building stage,” Mr Reeves said.

The project is expected to be completed by the summer of 2010/11.

Media Inquiries: Minister’s office 3225 1819