GREATER Shepparton City Council is calling for greater clarity from VicGrid after confirmation that the proposed Central North Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) remains under consultation and has not yet progressed to a formal declaration.
The proposed Central North REZ includes parts of Greater Shepparton, including Dookie, Pine Lodge and Cosgrove. While Council welcomed the update, it says uncertainty remains about the next steps and how community feedback will influence future decisions.
Mayor Cr Shane Sali said residents had provided strong feedback throughout the consultation process and deserved to know how their concerns would be addressed.
“VicGrid has confirmed the Central North Renewable Energy Zone is still in a consultation phase, which is positive news. However, there is a lack of detail around what happens next and how community feedback will be used,” Cr Sali said.
A Council-commissioned review by Sequana found the proposed REZ boundaries include some of Victoria’s most productive cropping land. The review also highlighted concerns from landholders about the potential loss of productive farmland, landscape impacts and perceived inequities in benefit distribution.
Deputy Mayor Cr Geoff Akers said Council would continue advocating for a transparent and community-focused process, encouraging residents to stay engaged as no final decision has been made.
A petition calling for a pause to the Central North REZ has attracted over 8,200 signatures. You can sign it by going to www.protectdookiegoulburnvalley.com/
To provide written feedback to VicGrid on the proposed Central North REZ, email enquiries@vicgrid.com.au
