Project Newsletter | August 2026
Keeping our community informed as the project progresses
Welcome to the latest edition of the Goombi Renewable Energy Hub Project Newsletter
The past few months have seen some significant progress for the project, including the submission of the Development Application to the Queensland Government. This important milestone follows several years of planning, environmental studies, technical assessments and ongoing engagement with landholders, neighbours and the wider community. Read more here.
We have also executed the first ever Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) with the Western Downs Regional Council. The CBA will see $30 million invested into the Western Downs region over the next 35 years, supporting local priorities including housing, skills development and community infrastructure. By taking a long-term approach, the agreement provides certainty for the region and helps ensure the project leaves a lasting, positive legacy. Read more here.
We've also continued to invest in our local communities through our Community Sponsorship Program and by participating in a range of events across the Western Downs.
In this edition you'll find:
Development Application update
Round 3 Community Sponsorship recipients
Recent community activities
Upcoming Coffee & Chat sessions
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to engage with the project. We value your feedback and remain committed to keeping the community informed as the project progresses.
Project at a Glance
✅ Development Application - Submitted
🔍 State Assessment - Under Assessment
📢 Public Notification - Expected during the assessment process
🤝 Community Sponsorship - $75,000 Invested Through Community Sponsorship
☕ Community Engagement - Monthly Coffee & Chat Sessions Continue
📅 Next Sponsorship Round – September 2026
Development Application Submitted
The Goombi Renewable Energy Hub is pleased to advise that the project's Development Application (DA) has now been submitted to the Queensland Government for assessment.
The submission of the DA marks a significant milestone for the project and follows extensive environmental studies, technical assessments and community consultation undertaken over several years.
What happens next?
Government Assessment
The Development Application will now be reviewed by the relevant Queensland Government agencies as part of the State assessment process. During this time, the assessment team may request further information from the project team and its technical specialists.
Public Notification
The project will also enter a public notification period, providing members of the community with an opportunity to review the application and make submissions. We will notify the community in advance of the public notification period.
Assessment Timeframe
The assessment process is anticipated to take approximately 6–12 months, although timeframes may vary depending on the assessment process.
Ongoing Updates
As the assessment progresses, we will continue to keep the community informed and provide updates on key milestones, project activities and opportunities for community participation.
Round 3 Community Sponsorship Program
The Goombi Renewable Energy Hub is pleased to announce the successful recipients of Round 3 of the Community Sponsorship Program.
This round saw 22 local organisations receive funding to support projects and initiatives that strengthen the Western Downs community.
Round 3 Recipients
Chinchilla Tennis Club
Rural and Remote Mental Health
Cameby Hall & Recreational Committee
Pink Up Your Town Miles
Chinchilla Polocrosse Club
Murilla Kindergarten Association Inc
Miles from Anywhere Auto Group
Western Downs Suicide Prevention Network
Chinchilla Meals on Wheels Association Ltd
St Joseph's P&F
Chinchilla Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Chinchilla Auto and Motor Group
Chinchilla Squash Centre Inc
Chinchilla Rugby League Football Club
Chinchilla Lapidary & Gemstone Club
Queensland Blue Light Chinchilla Branch
Miles Community and Commerce
Queensland Police Sporting Association
Chinchilla Pony Club
Crossroads Cricket Club
Chinchilla Community Centre
Murilla Community Centre
This funding round attracted more than $85,000 in requests, demonstrating the strong commitment of local community groups. While only $25,000 was available, we were pleased to support 22 organisations delivering valuable community outcomes.
Since launching the program, the Goombi Renewable Energy Hub has now invested $75,000 into local communities through the first three funding rounds.
The next funding round will open in September 2026.Keep an eye on our website for opening dates and further information. More details, including eligibility criteria and application guidelines, can be found on our website - Goombi Renewable Energy Hub - Sponsorship
Coffee & Chat
Come along and meet the project team, ask questions and receive the latest project updates.
📍 Chinchilla
Tuesday 4 August
9:30–11:30am
Chinchilla RSL
📍 Miles
Tuesday 1 September
9:30–11:30am
Creek Café
📍 Chinchilla
Tuesday 6 October
9:30–11:30am
Chinchilla RSL
Recent Community Activities
Chinchilla Show
The Goombi Renewable Energy Hub team enjoyed attending the 2026 Chinchilla Show, meeting hundreds of local residents and answering questions about the project.
As a proud sponsor of the Poultry, Floriculture and Pot Plant Sections, it was wonderful to support one of the Western Downs' most popular community events.
Miles Senior Citizens Thank You Morning Tea
Community Engagement Officer Catrina attended the Miles Senior Citizens Thank You Morning Tea to celebrate the success of the exercise classes supported through the Community Sponsorship Program.
It was wonderful to meet participants, hear about the positive impact of the program and receive a thoughtful thank you gift from the group.
TSBE Indigenous Connector Event
Representatives from TagEnergy and LP Renewable Projects attended the TSBE Indigenous Connector Event during NAIDOC Week, connecting with Indigenous businesses from across the Western Downs and exploring opportunities for future collaboration.
CCCI Welcome Dinner & Careers Expo
The project team attended the Welcome Dinner before hosting an information booth at the CCCI Careers Expo.
Throughout the day, students and job seekers learned more about renewable energy careers, future employment opportunities and the proposed Goombi Renewable Energy Hub.
The team enjoyed speaking with students, teachers and community members about career pathways within the renewable energy industry.
Thank You
Thank you for your continued interest and support.
As the Goombi Renewable Energy Hub progresses through the Development Application process, we remain committed to working closely with our community, keeping you informed and providing opportunities to stay involved.