Dalby power infrastructure to go green with bright ideas

Community groups in the Dalby region are being urged to apply for a share in $200,000 for innovative environmental projects to be completed in the vicinity of Powerlink Queensland’s infrastructure.

The funding is being offered as part of Powerlink Queensland’s Community Environmental Program.

The program, being run in conjunction with Dalby Regional Council, is designed to enhance the natural environment and improve amenity near electricity infrastructure.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson encouraged groups to send in their green ideas.

“Powerlink is a good neighbour and strong supporter of the local community in which it operates,” he said.

“It takes very seriously its responsibilities not only to the local community, but to the environment.”

Mr Wilson said projects should be designed to create more liveable, sustainable communities.

“They could protect and enhance the natural environment or improve the visual amenity near Powerlink infrastructure. For example, they might plant trees to provide future screening of powerlines or undertake work to stabilise soils and minimise erosion near Powerlink's easements.

“We encourage interested groups to contact Powerlink or their local council for an application kit.”

Dalby Regional Council Mayor, Cr Ray Brown said the program offered local community organisations and groups the opportunity to complete projects that may have otherwise remained on their ‘wish list’.

“This funding will make a valuable contribution to ‘greening’ communities in the region, improving current facilities, and enriching the environmental value of the local area,” Cr Brown said.

Powerlink’s Chief Executive, Gordon Jardine said Powerlink had a track record of funding many worthwhile projects to protect, maintain and re-establish natural habitats and provide real benefits to Queensland communities.

“Through our community and environmental programs, Powerlink aims to make a positive contribution to improve facilities, amenity and environmental outcomes for communities in close proximity to our existing and future infrastructure,” Mr Jardine said.

“As part of our commitment to support the communities in which we operate, we look forward to working with groups in the Dalby region over the next two years through the Community Environmental Program,” he said.

Applications for the first round of funding will close on Friday 6 February 2009.

For more information, free call 1800 635 369.

Information packages are available from Dalby Regional Council or from Powerlink’s website www.powerlink.com.au

Powerlink Queensland is the State Government-owned corporation responsible for the transmission of high-voltage electricity from the power stations to the distribution companies such as Energex and Ergon.

Media contact: Minister’s office 3224 7332.