eNews #22

The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Network Infrastructure Project is on public exhibition until 12 November 2026.

The project includes new high-voltage 550kva transmission lines, energy hubs to connect renewable energy generated in the New England REZ to the existing electricity grid near Muswellbrook and a series of temporary worker camps.

The EIS assesses potential environmental, social and economic impacts and outlines proposed measures to avoid, minimise and manage them.

Southern New England Landcare encourages community members, landholders and other interested stakeholders to learn about the proposal and take part in the consultation process.

Reviewing the EIS is an opportunity to understand the potential impacts on local communities, land and the environment, and share feedback with the NSW planning authorities.

Community information sessions and webinars

EnergyCo is holding information sessions across the region, where community members can view the EIS, speak with project specialists and ask questions. Online webinars will also cover topics including landholder questions and biodiversity and environmental impacts.

To view upcoming sessions and webinar times, check venues and register for webinars, visit the New England REZ engagement portal. Scroll down for the online and in person webinar topics and times.

How to have your say

You can access the EIS, technical reports, fact sheets and an interactive project map through the links below.

• Read the EIS and make a formal submission via the NSW Planning Portal
• Visit EnergyCo’s engagement portal for project information, maps, resources and consultation events

Submissions close on 12 November 2026. Formal submissions must be made through the NSW Planning Portal and late submissions will not be counted or considered.

Community feedback is an important part of the planning assessment process, helping ensure that local concerns and perspectives are considered as the project is assessed.

Southern New England Landcare will hold its 25th Annual General Meeting at 6 pm on 11 November at the Uralla Community Centre and all members are invited to attend. The AGM meeting notice and agenda can be found here. Minutes of the 2025 AGM can be found here.

Immediately following the AGM, a general meeting - the November Member Muster - will commence, with updates from Around Our Groups, Guest Speakers and the announcement of the 2026 John Winter Irving Bequest and Coordinator’s Choice Awards. The Member Muster Agenda can be found here.

This year there will be two guest speakers. 

Emily Sims, Uralla Shire Council Strategic Planner will speak on the Uralla Renewable Energy Strategic Action Plan (RESAP). For better or worse, the State-led development of new transmission infrastructure is likely to be the most significant economic and social change-driver Uralla has seen in a century. When it is all done and dusted, we want a thriving rural Shire where the renewable energy transition has strengthened community life, supported local livelihoods, and protected the Shire's unique identity. In a context where Council's influence is limited, change is coming fast, and priorities compete, the RESAP gives a clear basis to act on things like Regional Water Security, Heavy Vehicle Routes, Land Use Planning and Biodiversity.

Keith Walker (RLC) & Julian Prior (TBC) will then speak on a Natural Capital Accounting Feasibility Study for Landcare in New England. New England Landcare Network Inc (NELN) is developing a natural capital accounting feasibility study for Landcare in the New England region. Hear from Keith Walker (Regional Landcare Coordinator) and Dr Julian Prior (to be confirmed) about this project and how it stands to benefit Landcare farms, groups and networks in our region.

Speakers will be followed by a Q&A session.

The board of Southern New England Landcare will also announce the 2026 John Winter Irving Bequest recipient, and staff will announce their 'Coordinator's Choice Award' recipient.

These awards are a way of recognising and appreciating those locals who have made a significant contribution to Landcare in our region.

All members are invited. Supper provided so registrations are essential by phone 02 6772 9123.