Energy company AusNet has faced a blockade of farmers while attempting to scout new sites. 

AusNet has sought access to land to investigate its proposed Western Victorian Transmission Network Project (WVTNP) - which includes 500-kilovolt high-voltage transmission lines to transport renewable energy from Bulgana, north of Ararat, to Melbourne. 

Following protests in several areas, up to 45 farmers blockaded a property at Kingston to protest the transmission corridor plan.

The power company reportedly called the police to help, but an AusNet spokesperson said they decided they could not safely access the property.

“We understand this is a difficult time for the landholders at the property,” the company said.

“The project thanks the landholders of the property for working constructively with our representatives.

“The project will work with the landholders to arrange access at another time.”

More details are accessible here.