Project update - November 2024
29 November 2024
Star of the South continues to evolve
Star of the South has been under development since 2019. Over this time, we’ve collected vast amounts of scientific data, listened to local advice, and adapted to industry developments and government requirements.
Using this data, feedback and new information, we’ve been able to refine the project and confirm some extra details.
Some key updates include:
The maximum number of turbines proposed has been reduced from 200 to 150, reflecting advancements in turbine technology
Turbines will be positioned to avoid high profile reefs, to protect marine habitat
The gap between the ocean and turbine blades has increased from 25 m to 35 m, based on bird flight height data, to provide a safe zone for seabirds to fly and forage
Established and cutting-edge technologies to reduce underwater construction noise are being explored, to ensure the right measures are in place to protect whales
A ‘no trench’ construction method will be used where cables come to shore, to protect the beach and dunes above
Work is underway to adapt the project’s underground transmission route, in line with VicGrid requirements.
Scientists collecting data to inform our environmental assessments and project design
Offshore wind days
Thanks to the 170 people who came along to talk offshore wind with us in Seaspray, Foster, Traralgon and Yarram this month.
It was great to join other offshore wind projects and representatives from Offshore Wind Energy Victoria, VicGrid and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water to bring information about offshore wind to local communities.
Some of the key topics we were asked about included:
Project timing and next steps
Ports for construction and long-term operations
Protecting marine life
Jobs and local business opportunities
Fishing in an offshore wind farm.
Didn't make it? Find out how to reach us and get involved here.
Our team enjoyed meeting locals at Seaspray, Foster, Yarram and Traralgon
Register your business
We’re excited to involve local businesses in the development, construction and operation of our projects. To express interest in supplying Star of the South and Kut-Wut Brataualung, follow these steps:
Go to ICN Gateway
Set up a supplier account
Search for the project name - “Star of the South” or “Kut-Wut Brataualung”
Register your interest for each project individually.
We encourage businesses of all types and sizes to register as this helps us find and learn more about you, make connections with our contractors and share updates about current and future opportunities.
Offshore Wind Net Positive Challenge
We're proud to be working with Ocean Impact Organisation to uncover innovative solutions to help offshore wind projects have a positive impact on climate, the ocean and biodiversity.
Applications close Wednesday 18 December.
New interactive tools
Star of the South is proposed to be location at least 10 km off the coast near Port Albert, McLoughlins Beach and Woodside Beach. Now you can see how it could look from these places at different times of day and different weather conditions, using our online interactive map.
To see it on a bigger screen and talk with us about the project, drop into our Gippsland office at 310 Commercial Road, Yarram. We’re open Tuesdays and Wednesday 9 am – 5 pm or by appointment.
Yarram Primary School students were the first to check out the interactive tools
Current investigations
Ecology surveys along parts of Star of the South’s transmission investigation area will continue into early 2025, building on data we’ve collected over recent years to understand native plants and habitat in the area. This work will be used to inform the location of our transmission route and the project’s environmental assessments and approvals.
Ecologists are surveying native plants and animal habitat
Community Advisory Group milestone
This month, the Star of the South Community Advisory Group celebrated its 30th meeting. Established in 2020, this group provides a forum for members to hear updates, provide local advice and share feedback with the project team.
Thank you to the Independent Chair and group members, past and present, who have contributed their time, community spirit and goodwill to help shape Star of the South.
Celebrating the group’s 30th meeting in Yarram and online