Joint Committee Site Tour of Renewable Energy Terminal

This week the Committee for Frankston & Mornington Peninsula and the Committee for Gippsland hosted members for a private tour of the proposed Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal Site at the Port of Hastings.

We were grateful to be joined by some key stakeholders, including Senator Jess Walsh, multiple local governments, TAFE Gippsland, Chisholm TAFE, Star of the South, Iberdrola, Department of Transport and Planning, Regional Development Australia, Greater South East Melbourne, Marinus Link, Federation University, Esso and SPX Aids to Navigation - among many others.

Guests were provided a detailed briefing on the proposed renewable energy terminal by the Port of Hastings onboard a Western Port Ferries vessel as they made their way towards the proposed project footprint in between the berths at Bluescope and Esso. 

Thank you to Committee for Gippsland, Western Port Ferries (Searoad Ferries), Hart Marine, and the Port of Hastings for their support in facilitating this event. 

Quotes attributable to Josh Sinclair, CEO Committee for Frankston & Mornington Peninsula:

"The proposed terminal is a significant project for our region, so taking key players from offshore wind and local industry to see the site in person was an incredibly valuable experience. Western Port Bay includes within it an industrial port located in environmentally significant Ramsar wetlands and a unique biosphere. This makes getting the right balance and positive outcomes on projects like this so crucial."

"Should VRET receive the appropriate environmental approvals, we want education and industry leaders from our region to make the most of it. The Mornington Peninsula will have a unique opportunity to provide the skills, workers and expertise to develop this industry and cement Western Port as the renewable energy hub of Victoria."

"Both Committees continue to work together on supporting the offshore wind industry and the proposed VRET in Hastings, and we look forward to participating in the upcoming EES Exhibition process in 2026."