Banana Range Wind Farm and Dawson Wind Farm Social Impact Assessment Survey

This survey relates to two projects, the Banana Range Wind Farm (BRWF) and the Dawson Wind Farm (DWF). Both the BRWF (up to 41 wind turbines and a total generation capacity of up to 230 MW), and DWF (up to 75 wind turbines, with a total capacity of up to 600 MW and a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) of up to 600 MW) are located in Banana Shire LGA, adjacent to each other and on privately-owned grazing properties. Both projects include associated infrastructure such as substations, site buildings, laydown areas, access roads, and off-site accommodation villages for the construction workforce. Meteorological masts are already installed and collecting wind data for both sites.

BRWF has received Development Approval and is in the pre-construction phase. DWF is anticipated to lodge its Development Application and environmental assessments in early 2026. Although at different planning stages, stakeholder engagement has been ongoing since 2022 across both projects, including regular drop-in sessions.

As part of the Development Application for the Dawson Wind Farm, and to align Banana Range Wind Farm with the newly released Queensland Social Impact Assessment Guidelines, a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) is being undertaken for both Projects. The SIA process will identify, predict and evaluate potential social impacts and opportunities that may arise from the Project, and inform ongoing management and enhancement strategies.

Survey Purpose

Umwelt has been engaged by EDF power solutions to undertake Social Impact Assessment’s (SIA’s) for both Projects. The SIA as part of the EIS relies on community input to understand and capture the views, interests, and concerns of all those potentially affected by the Project and to understand the level of impact on you or others around you. Your responses will also help us to understand and develop appropriate management measures tailored to your concerns or experiences as the planning progresses, as well as in identifying opportunities where the Project can bring local benefit.