By Jena Carr
Community environmental groups have renewed their efforts to oppose a proposed gas terminal in Geelong.
The Geelong Renewables Not Gas alliance, including affected residents and environmental organisations, have rallied against the Viva Energy gas terminal project following the release of its revised environmental assessment on September 12.
Australian Conservation Foundation Geelong spokesperson Sanja van Huet said the project had already displayed issues following the Minister for Planning’s call for a Supplementary Environment Effects Statement (EES) on March 6, 2023.
“Last year the Victorian government said that Viva Energy’s environment assessment was deeply flawed, so why should the community trust them this time,” she said.
“More than 2000 people and organisations made submissions against Viva’s project… An additional process places a greater burden on the community to respond.
“During the last assessment, the marine models and studies were found to be inadequate to reflect the conditions in Corio Bay and the extent of flora and fauna to a level of detail required.”
Geelong Sustainability chief executive Dan Cowdell said the terminal was a “step backward” for the community and environment.
“At a time when the world faces a climate emergency, it is vital to transition away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy solutions,” he said.
“The inadequate environmental studies conducted for the project last time raised serious concerns about the potential impacts on Corio Bay and adjacent Ramsar wetlands.”
A Viva Energy spokesperson said the additional studies had been conducted to identify the project’s potential impacts on the marine environment, air quality, noise and Aboriginal cultural heritage.
“Viva Energy recognises that the world is moving to a low-carbon future and that Australia is embarking on one of the most significant energy transitions in its history,” they said.
“Reliable energy is paramount during these shifts to ensure that we maintain public confidence in energy supply as renewables further penetrate the market.
“Without it, we risk alienating those who can least afford to install new electrical appliances in their homes or electrify their businesses at a time of significant cost of living pressures.
“These further studies have now validated the original findings of the EES, demonstrating that the project will have minimal environmental impacts and will avoid disturbing Ramsar wetlands.
“It will deliver gas close to where it is most needed, with only a short connection to the existing gas pipeline network… When it is no longer needed, the facility can be sailed away and repurposed.”
The project’s Supplementary EES and the updated draft Amendment C442ggee to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme (updated PSA) will be on public exhibition until 11.59pm on October 24.
The Inquiry and Advisory Committee process will begin on December 9 and is expected to run for up to three weeks. Visit engage.vic.gov.au/Viva-Supplementary-EES-IAC for more information.
