Outback residents in the dark without permanent Ergon staffer

Residents and businesses in Boulia, a remote town in North West Queensland known for its Min Min lights phenomenon, are enduring persistent electricity outages that leave them in the dark for up to 14 hours a day. These frequent blackouts have been plaguing the community for several weeks, raising concerns about the town's livability.

The core issue, according to locals, is the absence of a permanent Ergon Energy electrician for the past 18 months. This lack of on-site expertise means that minor electrical problems often escalate into major outages. Bob Spilsbury, owner of Boulia's Min Min Store for five decades, highlighted the severe impact on his business. "We've just got to look after our customers; we've got to look after our stock to save ourselves a loss in the future," he said, noting that the store is the sole food supplier in town and relies heavily on electronic systems for sales and stock control.

“

I'm going to give it one more blackout and, if not, I'll go ahead and buy our own standby plant because we just can't be inconvenienced, the way it has been, in future.

Spilsbury explained that since the departure of Ergon Energy's resident powerhouse superintendent, there has been no one available to address issues promptly. "It all comes back to no-one here in attendance to look after the minor problems, which become major problems," he stated. When problems do arise, electricians must travel from Winton, approximately 360 kilometers away, a journey that consumes a full day for repairs. This situation is particularly difficult for a remote community that expects reliable essential services.

“

It all comes back to no-one here in attendance to look after the minor problems, which become major problems

Boulia Shire Mayor Rick Britton echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the blackouts are hindering the start of the outback tourism season. "We can't have sales unless you've got cash," he said, referring to the inability to process electronic payments. The loss of perishable food stock is also a significant worry for businesses. With Boulia's famous Camel Races festival approaching, which attracts thousands of visitors to the town of 350 people, the lack of reliable power poses a substantial threat to the local economy and the event's success.

Spilsbury is considering purchasing his own standby power plant if the situation does not improve, stating, "I'm going to give it one more blackout and, if not, I'll go ahead and buy our own standby plant because we just can't be inconvenienced." He stressed that while residents understand outages can occur in remote areas, the provided services must be adequate and responsive.

“

We can't have sales unless you've got cash