VicGrid, the Victorian agency charged with establishing the preferred zones for renewable energy, called the meeting to explain how the zones worked and to start gathering relevant information about the region.
Although the official consultation period for the draft zone has not yet started, the meeting provided plenty of feedback for VicGrid to consider.
VicGrid was originally going to use the Dookie Hall supper room for an expected handful of interested people, but just a few days beforehand, sensing there was more interest, VicGrid booked the recreation reserve rooms, and at least 200 people turned up on Tuesday night.
VidGrid explained that establishing the zone would not involve compulsory acquisition, as energy developers would have to reach consensual agreements with land owners.
During a vigorous question and answer session, residents sought responses to a range of issues, and many forcefully rejected the application of a draft zone.
Farmers presented figures to establish that the region was among the most productive cropping land in Victoria.
CIty of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali said the strong attendance highlighted the community’s desire to be actively engaged in decisions that could impact the region’s future.
“Our region is home to some of the state’s most productive farmland, vibrant rural communities and sensitive natural landscapes. It’s critical that any renewable energy planning respects what our community values and is based on fair and transparent consultation,” he said.
“We know there are strong views in the community, and that’s understandable. The transition to renewable energy must not come at the cost of our most productive farmland or without proper engagement with the people who live and work here.”
Deputy Mayor and Pine Lodge Ward representative Geoff Akers said ongoing and genuine consultation was important.
“The Dookie community made it very clear that they want their voices heard in these discussions. This isn’t just about infrastructure — it’s about protecting a way of life that has been built over many generations,” he said.
“Dookie sits in the heart of some of our most productive agricultural land, and that came through strongly in the conversations last night. It’s important that VicGrid continues this strong engagement which we saw in Dookie.”
VIcGrid has invited submissions to the draft plan.
More stories in next week’s Country News.
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