Helicopter inspections across Southern Queensland in coming months will help network operator Powerlink Queensland maintain a safe and reliable power supply to five million Queenslanders.
Powerlink executive general manager operations and service delivery Gary Edwards said the inspections were essential to Powerlink’s ongoing maintenance program across Queensland.
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“Helicopter inspections are an efficient and cost-effective way of identifying vegetation encroachments along transmission line easements and checking our infrastructure for any maintenance issues,” Edwards said.
“Our aim is to be as quick and non-disruptive as we can when completing these inspections as we want to minimise any potential disturbance to local residents near our transmission lines while this essential work is carried out. We appreciate their cooperation and patience.”
Inspections will take place from April to June (weather permitting) in areas of southern Queensland where Powerlink’s transmission network is located.
Edwards said during the aerial inspections, the helicopter pilot would endeavour to maintain the maximum distance practically possible from houses, livestock and crops.
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“Local residents may see the helicopter moving relatively quickly and at a low level along our transmission lines, and in some instances, it may need to hover to enable closer inspection of the lines,” he said.
Edwards said Powerlink was aware that low-flying helicopters had the potential to startle livestock and encouraged anyone with questions about the patrols and the planned timing to contact Powerlink for further information.
