Nelson Bay, NSW – Liberal candidate for Paterson, Laurence Antcliff, has voiced strong opposition to the proposed offshore wind turbines in Port Stephens, calling out what he describes as a “lack of community consultation” and criticizing the Labor government’s handling of the project.
Speaking at d’Albora Marinas in Nelson Bay, Antcliff stated, “If I am elected as the Federal Member for Paterson, I will fight every single day to ensure these wind farms do not end up on our pristine coastline. Our local federal member, Meryl Swanson, is asleep at the wheel on this issue. The locals do not want offshore wind off our beautiful coastline.”
Antcliff was joined by Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, who expressed her support for his campaign. Ley emphasized the importance of listening to community concerns and accused the Albanese Government of ignoring the voices of local residents.
“We’ve heard how people are struggling with this awful Albanese Government,” Ley said. “They promised to leave no one behind, but they seem to have left everyone behind. The lack of consultation on these offshore wind projects is shocking.”
Ley questioned the impact of the proposed wind farms on local fishing, tourism, and wildlife. “The community deserves to know the effects on fishing licenses, the environment, and the local species,” she said, adding that the process has been “woefully inadequate.”
In response to questions about the Liberal Party’s stance on nuclear energy, Ley assured the public that significant community consultation would take place before any nuclear projects are considered. “Our proposal involves thorough engineering and scientific studies, unlike the rushed approach we’re seeing with this wind farm project,” she argued.
With the next federal election approaching, Antcliff and Ley vowed to prioritize local consultation and accountability if elected. “Our first order of business would be to return to Port Stephens to engage directly with the community,” Ley concluded.
This latest push by the Liberals highlights the growing tensions over renewable energy projects in the Hunter region, as residents demand greater transparency and input in decisions affecting their coastline.
