The contribution was marked by the official handover of a cheque from Origin representatives to council last week.
This funding will support the delivery of a modern medical facility that will strengthen access to health services for residents across the district.
Murrumbidgee Council Mayor Ruth McRae OAM said the project is a key initiative that will support the long-term health and wellbeing of the local community.
“This is a very exciting milestone for Jerilderie and the wider region. Council is pleased to be working with Origin to deliver this essential health infrastructure,” Cr McRae said.
“Once operational, the new facility will provide vital services close to home and help secure ongoing medical care for our residents.”
The proposed centre will offer general practice, dental care, allied health and minor procedures.
Cr McRae said the project also aims to address the challenges rural communities face in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals.
“This purpose-built facility will not only enhance the services currently available but also support the recruitment and retention of medical staff in the Jerilderie area,” she said.
Origin’s head of approvals, access and social advocacy Lauren Barnaby was on hand for the cheque presentation.
“Our Yanco Delta Wind Farm will not only supply renewable energy for homes and businesses in New South Wales, we also expect to make a substantial financial contribution to the region through our community benefits program,” she said.
“For over a decade, Origin has proudly supported New South Wales communities through community investment programs, and I’m delighted our latest contribution will be used by council on such an important piece of infrastructure to support community health and wellbeing.”
While funding has now been secured, the location for the new medical centre is yet to be confirmed.
The council is consulting with stakeholders, and a project timeline has not yet been set.
Origin Energy announced its acquisition of the Yanco Delta project from Virya Energy in April 2024.
Under the conditions of consent, the project proponent is required to enter into a Voluntary Planning Agreement with local councils to support public infrastructure.
The Yanco Delta Wind and Energy Storage Project has received both NSW Government development approval (December 2023) and Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation approval (February 2024).
It is one of four South West Renewable Energy Zone projects granted ‘right of access’ by EnergyCo in April this year.
Others granted right of access in the South West REZ are Spark Renewables Dinawan Energy Hub near Jerilderie (wind, solar and battery), Someva’s Pottinger Energy Park (wind and battery) and the Bullawah Wind Farm project proposed by BayWa r.e. which are both located between Deniliquin and Hay.
The South West REZ is centred around Hay and stretches from near Jerilderie to Balranald and Buronga.
Between them, the four projects will see the construction of 693 wind turbines, the installation of 1.7 million solar modules and the provision of two battery storage systems with 300 megawatt and 400 megawatt capacities.
The project scope for Yanco Delta alone is to include up to 208 wind turbines, with reports it will become Australia’s largest wind farm on completion.
It is being developed about 10km north-west of Jerilderie, with its name inspired by the Yanco and Delta creeks which run through the development area.
