Council Announces Withdrawal from Council Alliance

Published on 08 May 2025

Yarriambiack Shire Council Announces Withdrawal from Council Alliance to Prioritise Mining and Renewable Energy Advocacy

On May 7, 2025, Yarriambiack Shire Councillors convened to deliberate on the benefits of the Yarriambiack Shire Council remaining in the Council Alliance initially formed to advocate for their communities regarding the impacts of transmission lines, renewable energy and mining.

Mayor Zanker confirmed that, “After extensive discussion and thoughtful consideration, our Councillor group has decided to withdraw from the Alliance”.

“As a Council, we recognise that the Alliance's primary focus is on the VNI West project, which does not affect our Shire directly”. Mayor Zanker noted that “the VNI West project has a substantial footprint and impact on the Loddon, Northern Grampians, Gannawarra and Buloke Shire residents, which requires their Councils total focus and advocacy efforts”.

Mayor Zanker continued, “At least four renewable energy projects (that we are aware of) are being planned across our Shire. In addition, a mining licence has been issued, and an associated workplan is undertaking the approvals process. These developments are having a significant impact on our Shire residents and requires our direct attention and advocacy efforts”.

"Our project types, stages, advocacy efforts, and key asks differ from those of Buloke, Loddon, and Gannawarra. We must represent our residents and align our advocacy with community sentiment in our respective Shires," stated Mayor Zanker.

“We will continue to collaborate with our neighbouring Shires where we align in projects and efforts, and we wish them every success in their advocacy”, continued Mayor Zanker.

Mayor Zanker confirmed, “that on 29 January 2025, the Councillors of Yarriambiack Shire endorsed their position statement on mining, renewable energy, and transmission lines, showing unanimous agreement”.

“We acknowledge that the mining, renewable energy, and transmission projects are being driven and supported by the State Government, with the objective of advancing Victoria's clean economy ambitions. Furthermore, mineral sands mining is intended to facilitate the energy transition. Contrary to some reports, it is important to note that as a Council, we do not have authority over the transition, nor are we the approving body for mineral sand mining and renewable energy projects, which are causing community concern”, stated Mayor Zanker.

“However, this does not deter us as a Councillor group from strongly advocating for our communities. We have been relentless with pushing forward and making the Government aware of the rising angst in our community regarding these significant projects”. concluded Mayor Zanker.

END OF RELEASE

Mayor Kylie Zanker