In a move that has sparked both hope and controversy, a billion-dollar wind and battery project once thought dead is refusing to stay buried. The Moonlight Range wind farm, a massive renewable energy initiative capable of generating up to 450 megawatts (MW) of power, has re-entered the federal approvals process after a dramatic cancellation by Queensland’s Liberal National Party (LNP) earlier this year. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the LNP cited new development codes and local concerns as reasons for axing the project, critics argue the decision was politically motivated, fueled by anti-renewable lobbying. And this is the part most people miss: only 25% of the submissions opposing the project came from locals, raising questions about the legitimacy of the backlash.
Located 40km west of Rockhampton, the project initially received state government approval in December 2024 under the newly elected Crisafulli government. However, just five months later, Deputy Premier and Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie overturned the decision, claiming the project failed to meet the requirements of State Code 23 and new wind farm rules introduced in April. Bleijie highlighted “significant feedback” from local residents and stakeholders, as well as concerns over infrastructure and environmental impacts. Yet, industry observers point to organized, politically driven anti-renewable groups as the real force behind the opposition.
Greenleaf Renewables, the project’s owner, has vehemently disagreed with Bleijie’s decision, emphasizing their “thoughtful and transparent” community engagement efforts. Now, nearly six months later, they’re pushing forward with the federal Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) approvals process, a move they see as a chance to rebuild trust and address environmental concerns. But here’s the kicker: this process is entirely separate from the state’s, offering a potential lifeline for the project—if it can navigate the political and public scrutiny.
In a recent statement, Greenleaf stressed its commitment to fostering strong relationships with local stakeholders and the Rockhampton Regional Council. They view the EPBC process as an opportunity for the community to review and comment on the project’s environmental aspects, promising robust and transparent assessments. Moonlight Range Wind Farm’s senior development manager, Django Tricker, assured that community views would be “meaningfully considered,” with plans for a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) in 2026—a key requirement under the LNP’s new rules.
As the project enters the public exhibition stage from November 11 to December 8, Greenleaf is bracing for feedback. Director Chris Righetti emphasized the importance of community input, stating, “This process ensures transparency and accountability in how we assess and manage potential environmental impacts.” Yet, the question remains: can a project mired in political controversy win over skeptics and secure its future?
Controversy Alert: While the LNP defends its decision as a response to local concerns, others see it as a setback for renewable energy in Queensland. Is this a legitimate stand for community and environmental interests, or a politically driven blow to clean energy progress? Weigh in below—your thoughts could shape the conversation.
For those eager to dive deeper, Moonlight Range’s planning and application documents are available online and at the Rockhampton Regional Library and the State Library of Queensland. And if you’re passionate about clean energy, join over 27,800 subscribers for the latest updates—click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter.
