Wambo Wind Farm is setting a new benchmark for supporting and strengthening regional Queensland communities by sharing financial benefits with not only participating landholders, but near neighbours as well.

With the first turbines for Stage 1 of the project starting to produce energy to the grid, the project owners – Cubico Sustainable Investments and Stanwell Corporation Limited – are reaffirming their commitment to the local community through the launch of the wind farm’s Neighbour Benefit Scheme.

The initiative will provide annual payments ranging from $7,500 to $37,500 to eligible neighbours during the operational phase of the wind farm. The amount will depend on the number of operating turbines in proximity to the neighbouring property.

Stanwell CEO Michael O’Rourke said the scheme would deliver approximately $9 million in voluntary payments to neighbours over the life of the wind farm.

“We believe that it’s not just the host landholders that should benefit from the financial investment the Wambo Wind Farm is bringing to their community, but neighbouring landholders as well,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“This scheme reflects our strong commitment to ensuring that those who live near Wambo Wind Farm are acknowledged, valued, and directly benefit from the infrastructure in their neighbouring backyards.

“Wambo Wind Farm is about more than clean energy – it’s about building a long-term legacy in the community.

“We’re proud to be delivering environmental and economic benefits hand in hand, and to be setting a standard for how renewable projects can work in partnership with their neighbours.”

Cubico Sustainable Investments Country Head of Australia David Smith said the Neighbour Benefit Scheme was a meaningful extension of Cubico's commitment to the region and a clear example of how renewable energy projects can deliver shared value.

“This initiative is in addition to Wambo’s significant contributions to the local area through council rates, host landholder agreements, community benefit fund and local sponsorships. It recognises the surrounding community's role in hosting this important infrastructure and ensures that our neighbours share in the financial benefits of the project.

“At Cubico, we believe in setting a higher standard for community engagement and social contribution, and this scheme is part of a broader legacy we are proud to build alongside our partner Stanwell.”

Eligible neighbours will also be offered support to access independent advice in respect of their participation in the scheme. Participation in the scheme is entirely voluntary.

In addition to the Neighbour Benefits Scheme, Wambo Wind Farm continues to invest in the broader community. Up to $200,000 per year is available through the project’s Community Benefit Fund to support local groups and organisations during both the construction and operational phases.

Over $30,000 is also invested annually in sponsorships for local events and initiatives that contribute to making the region a great place to live, work and play.

When operating, the Wambo Wind Farm will provide approximately $5 million in direct financial contributions to the region per year.