Powerline opponents dig in

LANDHOLDERS who will be adversely affected by overhead powerlines to the Wonthaggi desalination plant are urged to get behind a key group campaigning to get them underground.
The Power Grid Option Group (PGOG) is in the final stages of its campaign to get the State Government to put the powerlines underground. The group estimates underground powerlines are comparable in cost to overhead ones.
Cardinia Shire Council chief executive Garry McQuillan wants as many residents as possible to sign up with the organisation.
“It is important we work together and this group is working extremely hard to have our community’s views heard and is adding a strong voice to the council’s own lobbying efforts,” he said.
The State Government has estimated that putting the lines underground would cost $530 million – more than twice the $220 million price tag for overhead powerlines.
However, there was no ruling on the power source in Planning Minister Justin Madden’s report, meaning that consortiums bidding for the multi-billion dollar project will more than likely decide whether powerlines are built above or below ground.
PGOG chairman Alan Fraser said the group had talked with the two bidders.
“We’re getting significant support from some key organisations,” he said.