C4G and CFMP Host Tour of Renewable Energy Terminal

Image Front Left: RDA Gippsland Chair Kellie O’Callaghan, Senator for Victoria Dr Jess Walsh, Southerly Ten Chief Development Officer Erin Coldham, C4G CEO Tony Cantwell and CFMP CEO Josh Sinclair.

Victoria’s offshore wind ambitions were in focus during a private ferry tour of the proposed Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal (VRET) site at Hastings, hosted by the Committee for Gippsland (C4G) and the Committee for Frankston & Mornington Peninsula (CFMP).

The visit brought together regional leaders, industry representatives and stakeholders to hear about plans for the terminal, which is set to play a critical role in supporting the state’s clean energy transition.

Committee for Gippsland CEO Tony Cantwell said the visit was an important opportunity to showcase the scale and significance of the project, and it was great to welcome Minister Walsh to Hastings.

“Victoria’s offshore wind sector represents a generational opportunity for regional communities, and the Renewable Energy Terminal at the Port of Hastings will play a central role,” Mr Cantwell said.

“Industry, government and regional stakeholders are working together to ensure this project is prioritised as a key pillar of Victoria’s offshore wind strategy.

“It’s been fantastic to collaborate with CFMP, Port of Hastings and host Minister Walsh, Regional Development Victoria, Regional Development Australia – Gippsland and our industry partners across the region to keep driving progress for the sector,” he said.

Attendees boarded a ferry at Yaringa Harbour for a guided tour of the proposed terminal site, with Port of Hastings representatives providing a briefing on the project’s scope and timelines. The tour was followed by a networking lunch, offering further opportunity for discussion.

CFMP CEO Josh Sinclair said the terminal will be transformative for Western Port and the broader region.

“The proposed terminal is a significant project for our region, so taking key players from offshore wind and local industry to see the site in person was an incredibly valuable experience,” Mr Sinclair said.

The event was made possible thanks to the support of Western Port Ferries, Hart Marine, Port of Hastings Corporation, and both Committees, reflecting a shared commitment to regional economic development and renewable energy leadership.

C4G and CFMP will continue working closely with stakeholders to ensure regional communities benefit from this transformative project.