Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
One of North Queensland’s largest renewable energy projects is moving into its construction phase, bringing hundreds of jobs, business opportunities and new community funding closer for the Hinchinbrook region.
Located about 65 kilometres south-west of Ingham on Gugu Badhun Country, the Gawara Baya project has reached financial close following more than six years of planning, development and community engagement.
The project comprises a 408MW wind farm and 104MW battery energy storage system and is expected to generate enough electricity to power about 240,000 Queensland homes once operational.
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners has acquired full ownership of the project from Windlab, providing the investment required to move towards construction, while Windlab personnel will remain part of the delivery team.
Early works are expected to begin progressively from September, starting with preparation of the accommodation camp area. Access road upgrades are scheduled from October, followed by civil construction activities from November and accommodation camp construction from December.
At peak construction, more than 500 jobs are expected to be created, with the project anticipated to generate more than $200 million in regional economic activity through employment, procurement and supply-chain participation.
Hinchinbrook community groups will also have an opportunity to benefit directly, with a $200,000 annual Community Benefit Fund becoming available as construction gets underway.
The first funding round is anticipated to open in the final quarter of 2026, supporting community initiatives across the Hinchinbrook Shire and Charters Towers local government areas.
The project has also committed to employment, training and business opportunities for Gugu Badhun People and other First Nations communities.
As early works begin, locals may notice increased project vehicles, contractors and activity around the project area, with further community updates to be provided as construction progresses.
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