MEDIA RELEASE

Multinet to bring natural gas to the Yarra Valley (8 NOVEMBER 2004)

Multinet Gas has welcomed today's announcement by the State Government that it has been selected to deliver natural gas to the Yarra Valley region.

CEO Multinet Gas, Mr Hugh Gleeson, said the company's winning bid meant that natural gas would start to flow to the Yarra Valley by the end of 2005.

"Multinet is absolutely delighted that we will be bringing natural gas to homes and businesses in this rapidly developing region on Melbourne's eastern fringe," Mr Gleeson said.

"The area is already experiencing significant growth associated with its wine and tourism industries and is attracting more and more people looking to make their home in a semi rural environment while enjoying all the amenities of the metropolitan area.

"The introduction of natural gas can only make the region an even more attractive place to live and do business."

Mr Gleeson said Multinet's move into the Yarra Valley was a logical extension of its gas network which already delivers natural gas to 634,000 consumers in Melbourne's southeastern and eastern suburbs.

He said the State Government's $70 million Natural Gas Extension Program had provided the catalyst for the network extension program to begin, subject to the Essential Service Commission's review.

"We have always been keen to extend into the Yarra Valley and now, with the Government's financial support for the project, the region will soon start to experience all the benefits of a safe and efficient natural gas supply."

The $24 million project will make natural gas available to more than 6,000 homes and businesses in Yarra Glen, Wandin, Seville, Seville East, Woori Yallock, Launching Place, Yarra Junction, Wesburn and Millgrove.

Mr Gleeson said Multinet has selected Jemena Network Services (ANS) to manage the construction, maintenance and operation of the new distribution networks. ANS General Manager, Mr Peter Magarry said the Yarra Valley project would involve the construction of 150 kilometres of gas mains over three years, beginning in the middle of 2005.

"This is a exciting project for ANS and our people are looking forward to working with the Yarra Valley communities to ensure the construction program proceeds smoothly and with a minimum of disruption.

"ANS will be visible in the area almost immediately as we begin the necessary survey and planning work for the network extension."

Mr Gleeson said Multinet planned to begin a community consultation and information program early in the new year which would provide details on the construction program, natural gas connection process and appliance conversion.

Further information, please contact: Alain Grossbard 0417 364 836 (24 hours)