Bell goes "big" to celebrate new tourist attraction
Published on 11 November 2024
The Western Downs town of Bell is going big this weekend to celebrate the unveiling of its new tourism attraction the 'Big Blade'.
Free giant games, jumping castle, sausage sizzle and a range of supersized activities will be on offer at the 'Big Blade' grand reveal this Saturday, 16 November, from 10am to 12pm, at the historic Bell Railway Station site.
Western Downs Regional Council partnered with Coopers Gap Wind Farm and its owner Tilt Renewables to install the wind turbine blade as a regional attraction that encourages visitors to stop and learn more about the Western Downs' status as the Energy Capital of Queensland.
Weighing in at a whopping 22,339kgs and around 67m in length, the 'Big Blade' was donated by Tilt Renewables, including transport costs, and is available for tourists and locals to visit up close.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith encouraged residents to head to Bell and check out the region's newest "big thing".
"This attraction further promotes our region as a vibrant tourism destination, so next time you're going past, stop in, grab a selfie with the 'Big Blade', and help promote our region, and therefore our local businesses," Cr Smith said.
Mayor Smith said the 'Big Blade' celebrates the diversity of the region's energy sector, which includes wind, solar, coal, gas, and battery.
"The Western Downs powers more than two million Australian homes every day, and our residents are proud that our region is recognised as the Energy Capital of Queensland," Cr Smith said.
"The renewable energy sector is a crucial contributor to the region's energy mix and economy, and the Western Downs is home to two fully operational wind farms at Coopers Gap and Dulacca.
"Most people only get to view a wind turbine from a great distance; the 'Big Blade' offers a unique opportunity to get up close and understand the sheer size and scale of these machines.
"Renewables are an important part of the region's energy sector as we work towards achieving the State Government's target of net zero emissions by 2050."
Tilt Renewable Chief Executive Officer Anthony Fowler said the wind turbine blade presents a link between the rich heritage that has grown this region and the new industries of today that will help drive future growth.
“Western Downs and the broader region continue to embrace the opportunities presented by the energy transition," Mr Fowler said.
“We are proud to be able to provide a wind turbine blade to the community of Bell and hope it further cements its role as a destination for all visitors to the region.
“Tilt Renewables would like to thank the people of Bell and the broader region for their continued support for the Coopers Gap Wind Farm.”
The 'Big Blade' unveiling is on this Saturday, 16 November, 10am to 12pm, at 32 Dennis Street, Bell.
For more information contact Council on 1300 268 624 (COUNCIL).