Protests Against Mt Challenger Wind Farm Continue

By Sebastian Conidi

On Wednesday 21st January, more than 70 protestors gathered by the Proserpine Community Centre to campaign against a proposed wind farm by Alinta Energy.

The event was organised by Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group, who took to Facebook stating: "This is our moment to stand together. We need your presence this afternoon to show the strength of community opposition to Mt Challenger Wind Farm. Every person there matters. Every face counts."

The Mt Challenger Wind Farm is a proposed wind turbine development by Alinta Energy in the Whitsundays region of North Queensland. The proposal involves two separate project locations at Mt Challenger and Crystal Brook/Kelsey Creek with plans for up to 30 industrial wind turbines, each reaching approximately 240 metres in height. Several of the proposed turbine locations are close to existing rural homes and properties, with some situated within 1.5 kilometres of residences and less than 9 kilometres from Proserpine.

There have been ongoing community concerns about the impact on wildlife, safety and liveability. According to the Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group website, there is still scepticism over the accuracy of the information that is being provided.

Communication action developed after Alinta Energy held a public consultation at the Proserpine Tennis Club on 16th October, 2025. Since then, the group launched a page on social media and have held several protests.

Federal MP Andrew Wilcox has since raised community concerns with the Federal Parliament. In a statement made on 5th December, 2025, Wilcox provided official comments on the matter.

"There is nothing safe, fair or responsible about placing this project in the middle of a rural community. The location is wrong, the risks are real. The majority of the community is united and I will not allow these families to be steamrolled," said Mr Wilcox.

In the same month, State MP Amanda Camm also spoke in Queensland Parliament, reiterating public concerns and stressing the need for proper community engagement.

As of January 2026, a community petition against the wind farm has surpassed 5000 petitions.

According to Alinta Energy's page, they are currently at the 'feasibility and engagement' stage of development, which includes site investigations, raising awareness of the project and seeking feedback from the community.

With Alinta Energy's return to the site this January, it is likely that discussions and campaigning will continue for the foreseeable future.

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A protest was held outside Proserpine Community Centre on 21st January

Photo Source: Whitsunday Wind Farm Action Group

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