New wind turbines arrive on King Island

Three new 25-metre wind turbine blades have arrived on King Island, marking the next stage in repairs to one of Hydro Tasmania’s damaged turbines.

The blades were shipped from Devonport aboard the John Duigan, working in partnership with TasPorts’ Bass Island Line crew. Their arrival clears the way for major repair works to proceed.

The replacement blades will be installed on a turbine that sustained damage during extreme wind conditions. The next phase of works will also include repairs to the tower and concrete foundation, replacement of the nacelle and installation of the new blades.

Hydro Tasmania’s consulting arm, Entura, is overseeing the project.

Entura Project Manager Kristian Payne said moving components of that scale required detailed coordination.

“The logistics behind transporting blades of this size requires careful planning, coordination and collaboration,” Mr Payne said.

“From loading the blades in Devonport to safely delivering them to King Island, this has been a complex operation and we thank TasPorts and Total Freight Solutions for their expertise and support.”

Bass Island Line General Manager Toby Terry said the shipment demonstrated the capability of the service and crew.

“Moves like this highlight the versatility of the John Duigan and the skill of our crew,” Mr Terry said.

“Managing cargo of this scale alongside regular freight services requires disciplined planning and precise execution, particularly when operating within the constraints of tides and vessel stability requirements.”

The blade delivery comes after Hydro Tasmania recently completed refurbishment works on four other wind turbines on the island. Those units have returned to service, with only minor works still to be finalised.

Hydro Tasmania expects the full wind turbine repair program to be completed by the end of 2026.