The Hon. Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell, Member for Northern Victoria Region, Media Release, 9 October 2023

Member for Northern Victoria Region Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell has introduced her first bill of the parliamentary year, aimed at protecting Victoria’s prime agricultural land from large-scale solar farm development.

Mrs Tyrrell introduced the Planning and Environment Amendment (Soil Protection) (Solar Power Generation Facilities) Bill 2023 in State Parliament last week to protect precious agricultural land and water catchment areas from large scale solar farms.

“While net-zero emissions through solar and wind generation is a noble goal, we must proceed responsibly to ensure the broader implications of large solar farms on the environment and local communities,” Mrs. Tyrrell said.

“Communities know their land better than anyone and consultation with locals regarding planned projects is vital.

Mrs Tyrrell said her first Private Members Bill was inspired by her work with the Bobinawarrah community concerned about plans for the proposed Meadow Creek solar farm, a project that will cover 566 hectares of prime agricultural land that comprises of flood zones, bushfire-prone overlays and portions of Wangaratta’s domestic water catchment supply. Mrs. Tyrrell recognized the significance of Victoria’s agriculture sector in supporting the nation’s food production and economy and urged the protection of this vital industry while highlighting the importance of sustainable land management.

“We must preserve our land and assets for future generations and protect the soil and water from potential leakage of heavy metals and toxins from solar panels,” Mrs Tyrrell said.

“In our pursuit of sustainability, we must ensure responsible land-use practices that benefit both the environment and our economy, safeguarding our communities, agricultural heritage, and the environment while promoting economic growth.”