News
5 November, 2024
Save Somerset sparks
Kilcoy residents opposing the proposed development of a battery storage facility in Hazeldean have created an action group, called Save Somerset, to spread awareness and protest the proposed battery, which would be one of the largest in Queensland if approved.
Save Somerset Action Group (SSAC) member and organizer, Murrough Benson, shared that the group formally developed after an initial residents' meeting in Yowie Park on May 26.
Since then, SSAC has established a name, launched a website, and distributed flyers to businesses and homes throughout Somerset.
“Our main focus is just trying to raise awareness,” Benson said.
“There is a lack of interest or awareness, not just in this community but everywhere, so we’re informing people about the dangers.”
He emphasized that while SSAC supports renewable energy, the proposed development's proximity to residential areas and associated fire risks are primary concerns.
On October 10, SSAC met formally with Somerset Council in Kilcoy.
The meeting involved Mayor Jason Wendt, Deputy Mayor Helen Brieschke, council officers, and three SSAC members.
Benson described the meeting as productive, noting that council seemed open to hearing residents' concerns about the development and explaining the decision-making process.
“They didn’t just block us,” Benson said. “Council, in my words, is hamstrung because they have to work within State Planning guidelines, and they have to assess things on their own merits. We totally understand that.”
A council spokesperson confirmed the meeting aligned with Council’s Policy - Development Matters and the Role of Councillors (PED/04), adding that “Council outlined the development assessment and clarified the decision-making process as prescribed by the State’s planning legislation.”
Over the past few months, SSAC has distributed more than 2,000 flyers from Kilcoy to Hazeldean, Esk, Toogoolawah, Moore, and Linville. Several local businesses have agreed to display SSAC posters, and the group's website, savesomerset.org, has been live since mid-August.
A Facebook group opposing the battery project, ‘Stop the battery storage development in Hazeldean,’ was created in June and now has nearly 300 members.
SSAC holds monthly meetings, with the next one scheduled for 5:30 pm on November 7, and the final meeting of the year at the start of December.
Those interested in attending can email Benson at bensonmj@bigpond.com for details on the date, time, and location.
