Powerlink Queensland is busy preparing for the upcoming storm season with helicopters taking to the skies to inspect high voltage transmission lines and wash insulators in North and Far North Queensland.
This essential work will take place in areas including Townsville, Woodstock, Mareeba, Clare, Ayr, Tully, South Johnstone and Moranbah between October and December (weather permitting).
Powerlink Chief Executive Merryn York said these activities were an important part of ensuring the safety and reliability of the transmission network ahead of storm and cyclone season.
“Powerlink has an important responsibility to deliver a reliable supply of electricity to almost four million Queenslanders,” Ms York said.
“The helicopter inspections and insulator washing activities help ensure our network is ready for the unpredictable weather the region experiences over summer.”
Ms York said local residents may see the helicopter moving relatively quickly and at a low level along the transmission lines and it may pause to wash the insulators – the strings of porcelain or glass discs located near the top of the steel towers.
“Washing is carried out on some towers to remove any contaminants, including dust, which can build up on the insulators during the drier parts of the year,” Ms York said.
“Highly trained pilots fly the helicopters, which are fitted with a rigid metal hose that sprays demineralised water at high pressure to clean the insulators.
“The pilots will endeavour to maintain the maximum distance practically possible from houses, livestock and crops, and be as quick and non-disruptive as possible.
“As with all of our activities, we want to minimise any potential disturbance to local communities near our infrastructure.
“We understand that low-flying helicopters have the potential to startle some livestock such as horses and cattle, and encourage people with any questions to contact us for further information.
“We appreciate the cooperation and patience of the local community while this essential work is carried out.”
Powerlink’s pre-summer preparations include emergency exercises, reviews of contingency plans, vegetation management, and routine inspections and maintenance of transmission lines and substations across the state.
Further information about Powerlink’s summer readiness activities can be obtained by phoning FREECALL 1800 635 369 (during business hours).
