The Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) has signed an Engagement Agreement with the developers of offshore wind project Blue Mackerel, reinforcing GLaWAC’s leadership in shaping how large-scale renewable energy projects engage with Traditional Owners during early planning.
The agreement marks a key milestone, ensuring that Gunaikurnai people are actively involved at the feasibility stage of the proposed Blue Mackerel Offshore Wind Project, which aims to deliver up to 1GW of renewable energy, enough to power over half a million Victorian homes by 2032.
The agreement provides initial resourcing for GLaWAC to advocate for the rights, interests and aspirations of the Gunaikurnai community throughout the feasibility stage. This includes cultural protections, employment pathways, sustainable economic development, and genuine community engagement.
“This agreement is about being involved early and on our terms. It’s not an endorsement of the project, although it reflects a shared commitment to respectful engagement. The Gunakurnai voice must be part of every conversation from here,” GLaWAC acting chief executive officer Charee Smith said.
“We have a responsibility to protect what matters to our members and to make sure any future development, should it proceed, reflects our values and aspirations.”If the project progresses beyond feasibility, GLaWAC will consult with members to determine the best path forward and ensure any future development respects Gunaikurnai Country and delivers meaningful benefits for members and the broader community.
As with all current feasibility proposals in the region, GLaWAC remains committed to transparency. Any future decision-making will involve consultation with Gunaikurnai members, and a careful assessment of how potential development aligns with community priorities.
“Signing an agreement with GLaWAC is an important step in Blue Mackerel’s ongoing development process allowing Blue Mackerel to further mature its current relationship with the Gunaikurnai people,” Parkwind Australia Country Head, Anil Chanana, said.
“It formalises our commitment to working collaboratively with Gunaikurnai people, respecting their rights, culture, and aspirations.
“We look forward to building a lasting partnership that delivers meaningful, long-term benefits for the Gunaikurnai community and the broader Gippsland region.”
Blue Mackerel is being developed by Parkwind, an integrated offshore wind business with 10 years’ experience in developing, financing and operating offshore wind farms in Europe.
Since April 2024, Parkwind has been wholly owned by JERA Nex that invests in, owns and operates a global portfolio of offshore wind, onshore wind, solar and battery storage projects totalling 3.4GW.
