Project update - November 2025
1 December 2025
Local steel for offshore wind
We’ve been working with steel makers and fabricators to understand and define specific opportunities for Australian steel in offshore wind.
After touring factories in the Latrobe Valley, Geelong, Bendigo, Melbourne, Illawarra, Hunter and Perth, we found that up to 300 tonnes of steel components per turbine can be made right here in Australia – with Gippsland fabricators able to play a key role.
Intricate ‘secondary steel’ components such as platforms, walkways, ladders and railings are the key opportunity. These parts are attached to turbine foundations and require a skilled workforce to fabricate and install. This means jobs, apprenticeships, and investment in regional areas with the capability to deliver, like the Latrobe Valley.
We're connecting global experts with local manufacturers to align our foundation designs with Australian standards and capabilities, putting our 'look local first' commitment to buy local wherever possible into action.
See our steel factory tour below or read more about this opportunity here.
Latrobe steel manufacturer shares hope for offshore wind future
As part of our steel factory tour, we visited BMC in Morwell.
BMC’s Operations Manager, Emma Baptist, spoke with ABC Gippsland about the company’s future in Gippsland and the need for new industries like offshore wind to keep experience and capability in the region: "There's a great opportunity for Gippsland to take a leading role in building the renewable energy supply chain, whether that's in fabrication, manufacturing or logistics.”
Emma said offshore wind will give young apprentices something to work towards - "It means they can build their careers here in Gippsland instead of having to move away."
Meet a local sparky excited about offshore wind
Calvin is a qualified electrician from Sale, currently working in the Bass Strait oil and gas sector. He’s known locally for his music - recently forming a band as the lead singer and guitarist.
He came along to an Offshore Wind Day in Seaspray this month to ask about the steps he can take to prepare for a future career in offshore wind.
"As the first of its kind in Australia, it's something Gippsland can be proud of - it’s up to us to make it happen and move Australia and Gippsland forward", he told us. "Wind energy just makes sense as it never runs out - I’m a big fan of the big fans."
If you’re looking towards a future career in offshore wind too, check out the Offshore Wind Jobs Guide to learn more.
Out and about at local events this month
Thank you to everyone who came and spoke with us this month at events in Seaspray, Port Welshpool, Port Albert and at the Yarram Agricultural Show.
As always, it was great to see familiar faces and share an update on how the project is progressing. We also met people from across Gippsland and visitors to the region curious about what offshore wind could mean for them, the local area, the environment and future opportunities.
The top questions we heard were:
How can I prepare now for a career in offshore wind?
What happens next? When will construction start?
What role will Gippsland ports play in supporting offshore wind?
What does it mean for fishing?
How will marine life be protected?
Next up is the Promontory produce and craft market from 8:30 am at the Foster Showgrounds this Sunday 7 December. We'd love to chat with you about offshore wind - come and say hello.
Have your say on VicGrid’s transmission plans
VicGrid recently released a draft preferred route for a new shared transmission line to connect offshore wind energy from the Gippsland coast to Victoria's electricity grid. They're seeking feedback to continue refining the route.
Find out more and share your feedback here until Sunday 14 December 2025.
Webinar alert – The Energy
This is one for our fellow energy nerds! Our Chief Development Officer Erin recently took part in a webinar, hosted by The Energy, discussing the cost, delivery pressures and opportunities Australia's energy transition presents.
