Help the ATA install a wind monitoring system in Sunshine

In 10 days the ATA will start work installing a 34m meter high wind monitoring system at the Sunshine Energy Park in Melbourne’s west. The system will be used to record wind data for 12 months as part of a site assessment of a potential wind energy development at the site.

We need four or five volunteers to help with a variety of tasks over two days. No experience is required, and it is a great opportunity to learn about wind monitoring, wind energy and wind turbines from a couple of experts, Craig Memery (ATA’s wind energy specialist) and Trevor Robotham (Sun Wind and Power, wind and solar energy installer).

Schedule
The installation will take place Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th of Feb, from about 9:30am until 5:30pm (subject to weather conditions and site access).

To minimise management and site access issues, volunteers will be required for a minimum of 4 hours at a time. Lunch and a transport allowance will be given to those who are available for a full day (6-8 hours).

There may also be the opportunity to help with preparations on Monday the 15th, and additional site visits to test the system later in the week or on the weekend.

Tuesday 16th tasks include:
loading (offsite) and unloading (on site) of equipment
preparing ground anchors and tower base
preparing and assembling the tower and gin pole
fitting and aligning sensor mounts
raising, levelling and lowering the tower
Wednesday 17th tasks include:
fitting the sensors and signal cables (3 anemometers and 1 wind vane)
wiring up and programming the data logger
raising and levelling the tower
connecting and configuring the wireless communications
testing and commissioning the entire system
Additional tasks over both days include:
documenting of system configuration and site data
head scratching, problem solving and troubleshooting
ideally we will have someone to take photos and/or video at all times so we can document the whole adventure in ReNew and on our website
we need a designated safety officer, at all times on both days (one volunteer could perform both of these roles)
What to bring
enclosed footwear
long sleeve shirt
sun, rain and wind protection
hot and cold weather gear
bring snacks to eat during the day as food cannot be purchased on or near the site. Lunch will be provided for full-day volunteers
drinking water will be provided on both days.
Personal Protective Equipment (hard hats, high vis vests and gloves) will be provided, please advise if you can bring your own
camera or digicam
Interested?
To volunteer, or for more information, contact Craig Memery on craig@ata.org.au or 9631 5418 before 12:00PM, Wednesday 10th Feruary..

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *