Site Management
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The fence line
A nominal 20 metre wide strip of lake foreshore extending from the northern boundary of the site to the tip of the outlet channel northern training wall has been transferred to the Lake Illawarra Authority (LIA) for public access. In addition to providing the strip of land TRUenergy has fully funded the construction of a fenceline along the new site boundary.
A pragmatic approach has been taken to the survey of the fence line to ensure that tree clearing was avoided and to minimise the need to construct bridges over or paths around gullies, thereby facilitating ease of public access.
Consultation regarding the rural fence line was undertaken with:
- The Lake Illawarra Authority
- Wollongong City Council
- Illawarra Land Council
- The relevant TRUenergy Lessees.
Local contractors were engaged to erect the fencing and associated works.
Fence Line map and LIAA areas adjacent to the TRUenergy Site [PDF, 92KB]
Bushfire management
Under the Rural Fires Act 1997, we are obliged to undertake reasonable efforts to prevent fire leaving its property. In accordance with the current Act, we have implemented a comprehensive bushfire management strategy in cooperation with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), and has completed the fire mitigation strategy.
Vermin & weed control
We have taken advice on the control of foxes and rabbits from the Rural Lands Protection Board. In response to this advice we have commenced two baiting areas of the Tallawarra site, the first in August 2003 and more recently in December 2004 using a product called Foxoff. Signs are placed in areas when the baits have been laid.
Materials Data Sheet for Foxoff Baits [PDF, 412KB]
We handle noxious weeds in accordance with its land management plan, and works closely with the Illawarra Noxious Weeds Authority (INWA) in controlling weeds on its site. The site was subject to an evaluation by INWA and a control program was formulated. There are seasonal requirements to successfully controlling the range of weeds on the site.
Mowing & slashing
The other major fire risk area is around the perimeter of the power station compound. This area is mown on a five-week mowing cycle as part of the existing fire management plan.
Sewage
The site has a sewage treatment works that is licensed by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA). This License permits outfall from the treatment works to be safely sprayed within certain parameters. We operate the plant within the parameters specified in the License. In our South Australian operations a substantial investment into on-site water treatment has been made which has afforded us significant experience in this field.
Contamination
During the decommissioning of the old power station by Pacific Power, permission was granted to create an asbestos repository on site. Materials from the demolition process have been treated and stored in accordance with EPA recommendations. Access to this site is strictly limited and the repository is monitored on a regular basis. All contamination management is in compliance with relevant legislation.