Myuna Farm powers up

Casey Council chief executive Glenn Patterson, Casey Council administrators chair Noelene Duff PSM, Myuna Farm manager Steve Hill and Casey Council administrator Miguel Belmar. Picture: SUPPLIED

Casey Council recently installed a state-of-the-art wind turbine and battery storage system at Myuna Farm in Doveton.

The first of its kind in Casey, this significant addition to Myuna Farm’s environmental infrastructure would bolster the solar and community electric vehicle charger already in place on the farm.

Casey Council chief executive Glenn Patterson said the council was thrilled to introduce the wind turbine at Myuna Farm.

“This installation represents our continued commitment to environmental sustainability, and we hope it inspires community members to embrace renewable energy solutions,” he said.

“Between 2004 and 2023, energy saving projects at the farm have reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 84 per cent and importantly, halved the energy bills despite rising energy costs.

“Key energy saving projects have included real time electricity monitoring, LED lighting upgrades, insulation upgrades, mechanical servicing, 30kW solar photovoltaic system and Casey’s first community electric vehicle charger.”

Mr Patterson said the wind turbine would “continue to decrease Myuna Farm’s reliance on traditional energy sources”, further supporting energy cost reductions.

“This, in turn, allows Myuna Farm to allocate more resources towards the care and conservation of the farm animals and the enhancement of its popular educational programs,” he said.

With more than 180,000 visitors to the farm a year, the wind turbine would be accompanied by interactive displays and informational signage to provide visitors with insights into the installation.

The 5kW wind turbine stands on a locally made 17 metre tower and is one of the most efficient small wind turbines available.

The system feeds into the current solar system and will save more than 10 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year, delivering on Myuna Farm’s vision of creating a sustainable future for generations to come.