GeelongPort will develop up to 25 ha of land at its Oyster Cove site and build a new offshore wind farm terminal.
The development aims to support the renewables industry in the Gippsland and Southern Ocean zones.
Deputy prime minister and federal member for Corio Richard Marles and member for Lara Ella George attended an event held by the Committee for Geelong to showcase preparations for GeelongPort’s renewables terminal.
“This will see significant economic benefits for the wider Geelong region, with the project forecast to create more than 4,200 direct and indirect jobs for Victorians during construction and an additional 850 once operational,” they said.
The project is set to be delivered in late 2028 or early 2029, in line with the Victoria government’s development targets.
At the event, ceo Brett Winter said GeelongPort was looking forward to working with both federal and state governments to achieve their renewable energy targets.
“Given the natural advantages of the Oyster Cove site and the speed at which we can get our project up and running, we are well placed to help get this new industry off the ground and achieve Australia’s offshore wind targets,” he added.
GeelongPort’s site at Oyster Cove has the required space and berth depth for an offshore wind terminal to facilitate the supply of wind farm equipment to Victoria’s offshore wind development zones.
“We believe there is a genuine opportunity for Geelong and GeelongPort to play a role in the development of the offshore wind industry. We have a highly skilled workforce, advanced manufacturing focus, leading tertiary educators and a world-class port ready, willing and able to support this vital industry,” said Committee for Geelong ceo Michael Johnston.
GeelongPort first announced the plans in July 2022.
