AusNet Services is undertaking a large-scale maintenance program on power lines connecting Bairnsdale to Mallacoota (VIC).
The shutdowns will give more than 150 line workers safe access to complete almost 400 individual maintenance tasks – a more customer-friendly alternative than multiple weekly shutdowns to finish the critical work before bushfire season.
John Wills, AusNet Services’ Customer Support Team Manager in Gippsland, said that efforts have been made to limit the electricity disruptions to residents and businesses.
“We understand the inconvenience of being without electricity, so we have been doing ‘live line work’ wherever possible, and will now pool resources from across the state to complete the work in two days,” Mr Wills said.
“Condensing the work to one weekend means customers reliant on these power lines won’t be inconvenienced by weeks of ongoing outages to complete the necessary work before the bushfire and the tourism seasons.
“It’s been two years since we did a similar program in East Gippsland and we thank customers for their understanding as we work to further improve the safety and reliability of their electricity supply,” he said.
The scope of work includes almost 400 individual maintenance tasks, including the replacement of seven power poles, fire break and vegetation work, and zone substation upgrade works. The work program will involve 150 line workers, 30 ‘cherry picker’ trucks, and eight cranes.
