We are committed to continuing to work collaboratively with the local community and their representatives to understand and address key concerns so we can develop a project that delivers long-term benefits. Together with relevant experts, we are shaping a project that prioritises safety, contributes to the region’s energy future and creates economic opportunities for local people and businesses.
In October 2025, the Planning and Environment Court approved the development application for the project with conditions that reflect community feedback and ensure the highest standards of safety, environmental care, and visual integration.
Key community-focused commitments include:
- Bushfire safety: A dedicated 576,000-litre firefighting water tank, internal fire breaks, and perimeter fire trails designed for emergency access will be in place before operations begin.
- Emergency preparedness: We will work closely with the Queensland Fire Department and local fire authorities to develop and implement comprehensive emergency and fire safety plans.
- Visual integration: All battery containers will be finished in muted green tones and non-reflective materials to blend with the natural surroundings.
- Vegetation buffering: A wider and more varied vegetation buffer will be planted around the site to improve screening and support local biodiversity.
- Site rehabilitation: At the end of its operational life, the site will be fully decommissioned and rehabilitated to approved standards.
Creating shared value through a $3.6 million benefit sharing program
The Central BESS project will deliver $3.6 million in benefit sharing funds to neighbours of the project, the local community, and First Nations groups. Through support for grassroots initiatives, scholarships, education programs, and enduring partnerships with local organisations, the project will drive meaningful and lasting outcomes in the region. These contributions are designed to foster long-term social, cultural and economic benefits that reflect community priorities, and we will work with the local community to develop the benefit sharing program.
Thank you for joining us in Bouldercombe
A big thank you to everyone who came along to our sessions in Bouldercombe in November. It was great to see some of you again, meet you for the first time, hear your ideas for the benefit sharing program and Community Reference Group, and discuss the project.
Join the Community Reference Group (CRG)
We’re looking for passionate locals to help shape a Community Benefit Fund that supports meaningful and impactful initiatives. As a CRG member, you’ll play a key role in guiding priorities and ensuring the Fund delivers real impact.
You can find the CRG Terms of Reference and an Expression of Interest form below. We are currently aiming to establish the CRG by mid-2026, with the Community Benefit Fund to start supporting initiatives from construction start (mid-late 2026).
Interested?
Get in touch with our team at info@thecentralbess.com.au to submit your Expression of Interest or let us know if you have any questions. We’d love to connect with you.
