Why Liddell is much more than a humble power station

It might seem strange to some to celebrate the life of a power station but to employees, current and former, Liddell is far more than a humble power station. For many, especially those who have committed 20, 30 or even 40 years of their working lives here, Liddell is a second home and, like any family home, we have experienced the highs and lows together.

Liddell is not my first power station but it is one of the most memorable. Walking in the gate each morning is to walk among the history created by the people here. The level of pride and commitment in the workforce is unparalleled to anywhere else in the world.

As the station's general manager, I knew from my first week here that the people were united to deliver power safely and reliably for their community. Despite plenty of change over the many years of operation, that commitment remains true.

We are now preparing for the region to transition to new forms of energy, with the Hunter once again at the centre of that shift, building on the legacy of the generations who have worked here. For me, it's very meaningful to know that we've supported the development of skills and life-long careers, including those who remind me they began here as an apprentice and know the power station like the back of their hand.

We know it's essential for large industrial businesses to help develop the next generation of workers, too. It's an important legacy for both Liddell and Bayswater power stations and not only contributes to our community but is the fabric of our story.

As we celebrate Liddell's 50th year of operation, we do so with mixed emotions. Our people are preparing for the energy transition too, just as the power station is for its next role in the way we generate electricity. The energy transition will bring with it some challenging moments, of course, but if there is one thing you learn from the people and the history of Liddell, it's that together we will work hard to deliver a responsible transition that protects and honours the legacy of our people.

Today, we're getting together at Liddell to celebrate the legacy these remarkable people have created. It will be the first of many Liddell milestones we'll be commemorating over the next two years, as we progress along the road to transition.

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