Alinta Energy has today announced four successful grant recipients for the first round of grants from the Mt Challenger Wind Farm Community Fund.
The funding will support initiatives led by organisations working across conservation, community education, health and recreation in the Bowen and Proserpine region.
The successful recipients are:
Alinta Energy’s Head of Power Development (East Coast) Amanda Weston congratulated the recipients and said the successful projects reflected the energy, creativity and commitment at work in the local community.
“Great local ideas deserve practical support, and these four projects have plenty to offer,” Mrs Weston said.
“They will help people explore and better understand the region’s natural environment, learn more about protecting our seas, get active together and enjoy improved community facilities.
“We’re pleased to be able to give these organisations a hand to turn their ideas into action.”
The funding round offered grants of up to $10,000 to eligible not-for-profit organisations, community groups and sporting clubs within 30 kilometres of the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm.
Applications were assessed on their community benefit, ability to encourage local participation, long-term value and organisational governance.
Mrs Weston thanked every group that applied, saying the quality and variety of submissions highlighted the important work being done across the region.
“Local organisations understand what matters to their communities because they are part of them,” Mrs Weston said.
“We saw thoughtful, practical proposals from groups committed to making the Bowen and Proserpine region an even better place to live, work and visit.
“While we couldn’t support every application in this round, we appreciate the time, care and local knowledge that went into each one.”
Mrs Weston said the Community Fund aims to make a positive contribution during the development phase of the proposed wind farm.
“Through this funding, our focus is to provide practical support to local organisations delivering important work on the ground and responding to local priorities.”
Applications for the next round of funding will open in early 2027.
If the Mt Challenger Wind Farm proceeds, it will bring broader investment to the region through construction and operational jobs, local supply and procurement, potential road and infrastructure upgrades, environmental enhancement programs and ongoing support for community initiatives. The project will also contribute to Queensland’s energy supply and electricity grid.
Acknowledgement of Country
Mt Challenger Wind Farm acknowledges the Gia people of the land on which we propose this project, and also acknowledges the Ngaro, Juru, Jangga, Birrah nations of the surrounding Country. We acknowledge their continuing connections to Country and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
