Construction has today started on Atmos Renewables’ Parron Maam Marang Farm, a 470-megawatt wind farm near Badgingarra.

Construction has today started on Atmos Renewables’ Parron Maam Marang Farm, a 470-megawatt wind farm near Badgingarra, bringing new opportunities for regional workers and businesses, as well as a long-term funding commitment for community initiatives.  

The project in the Shire of Dandaragan, approximately 200 kilometres north of Perth, is expected to support around 400 jobs at peak construction and 15-20 ongoing operations and maintenance roles. Local workers will be prioritised where possible. 

The start of construction was marked with a sod-turn ceremony today, attended by key representatives from Atmos, Shire of Dandaragan, Yued Aboriginal Corporation, Synergy, Vestas, Genus, Western Power and the local community.  

Atmos Renewables CEO Nigel Baker said construction would create opportunities for a range of businesses across the region. 

“A project of this scale needs people and services well beyond the construction site, from earthworks and transport through to accommodation, catering and cleaning,” he said. 

“We want local businesses and workers to have the opportunity to be part of it, and we encourage them to register their interest as construction gets underway.” 

The project includes a commitment to spend more than $700 million with Australian and New Zealand businesses and suppliers. 

Additionally, a Community Benefit Fund will provide $470,000 annually to support initiatives that improve life in the Shire of Dandaragan and surrounding region. 

“The wind farm will be part of this region for decades, and we want its benefits to continue well beyond construction,” Mr Baker said. 

“The community fund will provide ongoing support for local initiatives, alongside the jobs, business opportunities and training the project will bring.” 

Atmos has also signed a Relationship Agreement with Yued Aboriginal Corporation, providing for local jobs and contracting opportunities, cultural and community initiatives, and ongoing involvement of Yued rangers in caring for Country. 

The project includes ambitious targets for contracting, procurement and engagement of First Nations businesses, as well as $282,000 for First Nations training and workforce development. 

A further $200,000 is committed to local employment initiatives in partnership with North Metro TAFE, supporting the development of Western Australia’s renewable energy workforce. 

Parron Maam Marang Farm will co-exist with existing farming activities and supply renewable electricity under a long-term agreement with Synergy. Atmos will own the project through construction and operate it once complete. 

Maam Marang means ‘strong wind’, recognising the project’s connection to Country and partnership with the Yued People. 

The project is expected to be operational by the end of 2028. 

Local businesses, suppliers and jobseekers can register their interest in project opportunities at atmosrenewables.com.au/project/parron-wind-farm.