General News
10 May, 2025
Second council leaves alliance
Yarriambiack Shire Council has announced its withdrawal from the 5-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.
“After extensive discussion and thoughtful consideration, our councillor group has decided to withdraw from the Alliance," Mayor Kylie Zanker said.
“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”.
“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.
“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."