Results from testing at Waubra windfarm have led Ballarat University lecturer, Graeme Wood, to consider undertaking further investigation to understand what effects the turbines are having.

"There are grounds for investigation," he said.

Funding is available and Mr. Wood says himself and Dr. Vincent Rouillard from Victoria University are looking at carrying out an in-depth study.

There are 128 turbines in the windfarm, which is owned by Acciona. It is claimed to be the largest renewable energy project in the Southern Hemisphere.

While results from testing at Waubra wind farm remain inconclusive at this point, Mr. Wood says some interesting aspects are emerging from tests carried out.

Details are not available at this stage.

The first study followed requests from some Waubra district residents who say their health has deteriorated since the windfarm began operation. Headaches, nausea and sleeplessness are among symptoms described. The residents believe low frequency noise and vibration from wind turbines in the vicinity of their properties are the cause of their symptoms.

As reported on September 15, Mr. Wood has been using sophisticated equipment which takes measurements every 30 seconds.

Speaking last Friday, he said that noise levels are not extreme, but there is a much broader band present than originally expected. "There is more noise at low frequency than expected. The turbines make a range of sound," he said.

Also of interest are high pulses of sound, several times a second.

"We need to go a little further, but it does make sense," Mr. Wood said.
He believes 'cluster' effects from multiple turbines could be significant.