Written by Squadron Energy |

Squadron Energy, Australia’s leading renewable energy company, is upgrading a former nursing home in Wellington to provide temporary accommodation for workers on renewable energy projects in the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).

Squadron has leased a 32-room building that was formerly the Bellhaven Aged Care Nursing Home, for five years, with an option to renew for a further five years.

Squadron Energy Regional Economic Development Manager Bart Sykes said that Squadron will refurbish the property to house workers on its Uungula Wind Farm, with a commitment to use local First Nations businesses to do the work.

“By accommodating workers in this facility we are doing our part to minimise the impact on the local rental and tourist accommodation,” Mr Sykes said.

“There are significant opportunities for local businesses to work on the refurbishment and then also in the facility once it’s up and running.

Bellhaven nursing home  

“This upgrade tackles a real challenge – making sure construction workers have somewhere to stay reducing the pressure on local housing or tourist stays while creating jobs and economic benefits for the region.

“It’s a practical example of how Squadron Energy partners early, solves local problems, and leaves the region stronger – not just by building energy projects, but by investing in what communities need along the way.”

The principal contractor for the refurbishment is Tyecon, a local First Nations company run by Tye Forrester.

Jake Newman, who is a First Nations electrical contractor working on the upgrade, said it was great to be working on a Squadron project again after working on the fit out of Squadron’s Wellington and Dubbo offices.

“It helps me to be able to keep work in town. I was born and raised here, and I’ve got my own little family here now, so it’s been good,” Mr Newman said.

“Since starting on the project, I’ve brought on a first year apprentice. It’s been a good opportunity to get to work with a company like Squadron.”

Share

Other Articles