In 2023, it was confirmed that the Western Renewables Link is now proposed as a 500kV transmission line from near Bulgana to Sydenham. As a result, the previously proposed terminal station to the north of Ballarat is no longer required, instead a new terminal station near Bulgana is required for the Western Renewables Link.

After working with landholders and undertaking field surveys and investigations in the area, we have identified a proposed site for the new terminal station, which is to the north-east of the existing Bulgana Terminal Station. Based on landholder and community feedback, and technical specialist advice, we have also made several additional updates to the proposed route at various locations, which are shown on the updated interactive map.

The other key changes to the proposed route detailed on the web-map include the southern option at Hepburn Lagoon and to the north of Waubra, as previously confirmed.

At Waubra, rather than following the existing 220kV transmission line and connecting into the existing Waubra Terminal Station as previously proposed, the new proposed route runs north of the existing Waubra Terminal Station. You can view these changes on the project website's interactive map, under the map layer 'Updated proposed route May 2024'.

At Hepburn Lagoon, the southern option will be the proposed route for the Western Renewables Link transmission line. This decision was based on what we currently know about the visual impact, biodiversity, residences, land use, historic heritage, social and Aboriginal cultural heritage impacts in this area. We are continuing to work with landholders and neighbours around Hepburn Lagoon to undertake surveys that will inform the project’s Environment Effects Statement and Cultural Heritage Management Plans.