Historic moment shines bright a century on as iconic bridge goes green and gold

Transgrid will join the annual Festival of W with the milestone celebration to mark completion and energisation of EnergyConnect and recognise local communities and businesses across the Riverina, Murray and Sunraysia regions for helping to deliver the nation-critical project.

The historic bridge will be transformed into a dazzling illumination of green and gold during the week-long community light activation next week from 13-19 July.

Transgrid CEO Brett Redman said the event is an opportunity to recognise the historic connection to Wagga Wagga’s energy past and future.

“In 1922, Mayor Hugh Oates helped usher in a new chapter for Wagga Wagga when he first switched on the city’s electricity supply, with strings of lights decorating the Wollundry Lagoon Bridge in celebration of the milestone,” Mr Redman said.

“Over a century later, the illumination of the same bridge will provide a symbolic link between that historic moment and the energisation of EnergyConnect, which continues that legacy, powering the future of communities across southern NSW.

“Australia’s renewable energy future runs through the Riverina, where three major transmission projects will intersect, as well as being home to the South West Renewable Energy Zone.

“We are delighted to mark this special occasion with a celebration to recognise the huge contribution the region’s communities are making to this transformative change.”

Forty high powered, energy efficient searchlights will light up the bridge and sky above to create a dramatic, constantly moving and evolving beacon of light that will progress through stunning geometric patterns and aerial effects. Visible from kilometres away, the installation will also allow visitors to the Festival of W to walk across the bridge and between the banks of lights to gain a unique perspective.

Executive General Manager of Stakeholder Engagement and Environment Maryanne Graham said Transgrid and construction partner Elecnor Australia are proud that EnergyConnect has left a lasting legacy in communities across the Riverina, Murray and Sunraysia regions.

“The project has provided a range of social and economic benefits including jobs, support for local businesses, educational and training opportunities, skills development, and community grants and partnerships,” Ms Graham said.

“Our workforce accommodation camps also provided a welcome boost to towns including Lockhart and Hay, with local businesses significantly benefiting from increased patronage.

“We sincerely thank local residents, businesses, councils, landowners, traditional custodians and other key stakeholders for helping us deliver this nation-critical project which is the first transmission line to be built to support Australia’s renewable energy transition.”

EnergyConnect will increase renewable energy sharing between NSW, Victoria and South Australia, providing access to lower-cost wholesale energy, and improving reliability and security of supply for households and businesses before coal-fired power stations retire.

Benefits for regional communities during EnergyConnect construction

• Up to 1,500 jobs created, primarily in regional NSW
• $300 million invested in supply contracts with 350 local businesses across the Riverina, Murray and Sunraysia regions
• $2 million in scholarships for engineering students at Charles Sturt University
• $1.5 million partnership with Regional Development Australia Riverina to drive jobs and skills
• More than $500,000 in grants for community and not-for-profit organisations. 

Media enquiries: Mark Nolan – 0429 047 136