Transgrid crews have installed eight new permanent steel pole along a storm-damaged section of the high–voltage transmission line supplying power to far west New South Wales communities.
The new steel structures have been erected on the 3.5km section of the 220kV transmission line, south of Broken Hill, damaged by the extreme weather event in October 2024.
Personnel, including Astar Rigging Constructions, have used a 60t crane to carefully lift eight new steel pole structures into place.
The new section of line comprises six 40m-tall transmission structures and two three-pole tension structures that will connect to the existing line at either end.
Transgrid Head of Far West Operations Response, Sam Pickering, said, “We are very pleased with the solid progress our specialist crews are making in completing these complex works.
“Transgrid has also engaged Fabtec, another Broken Hill business, who is supplying steel mesh for the earth grid and step bolts and brackets for the poles.”
Mr Pickering said other local businesses to benefit from the $9 million project include Mawsons Broken Hill, which has supplied concrete for the tower foundations, and GTE Broken Hill, which is providing water carts for dust suppression, waste services and site amenities.
“GTE has recently expanded its involvement, now carrying out excavation works for the earth grid,” he said.
“Our crews have worked hard to continue the momentum, with fine weather conditions also assisting the operation. We remain on schedule to complete the transmission line reconstruction works by mid-year.”
Up to 30 personnel are expected to begin conductor stringing works in late April 2025 and the switchover to the new permanent poles is expected to take place over two consecutive nights in May 2025. The final step of the project will involve dismantling the seven temporary structures installed in 2024.
“Our personnel involved in the operation would again like to thank the local businesses and members of the community for supporting the project and our teams on the ground,” Mr Pickering said.
“Transgrid is continuing our focus on ensuring the ongoing safety and reliability of the 260km transmission line from Buronga to Broken Hill while working with key stakeholders to develop longer-term solutions for the provision of safe, reliable and affordable energy to far west New South Wales.
“We would again like to thank the communities of Broken Hill and far west New South Wales for their patience and understanding as we complete these essential works.”
