June 1, 2012
Australia

Wind farm debate ‘dividing’ community

ABC News | www.abc.net.au 1 June 2012

Residents of Penshurst, in western Victoria, are warning debate over a proposed wind farm near the town threatens to divide the community.

The growing tensions in Penshurst were on show at a meeting last night at the town hall to discuss the alleged health effects of wind turbines.

At several points the discussion turned into a shouting match.

The meeting was held by anti-wind farm advocates opposed to RES Australia’s plans to build 223 turbines south of the town.

After the meeting, a resident warned there is growing animosity in the community.

“It is dividing, you go to here, there, the footy club, I’m not going to say anything in front of that one because you’ll get your head punched in.”

Annette Deveson from RES Australia rejected claims wind farm cause health problems.

“There is no independent peer reviewed scientific evidence,” she said.

The project is not expected to start construction until 2014.