Ardlethan and the work around it
Ardlethan is a former tin-mining town in Coolamon Shire, out in dryland wheat country. The 2021 Census counted 472 people in Ardlethan and 4,385 across the shire.
On wheat farms the electrical work is mostly about buildings and distance: machinery sheds, workshops, pumps, house paddocks a long way from the road, and private power lines between them.
Power to the shed, done right
Running power to a new or existing shed is one of the most common farm jobs. The questions are always the same: how far, how much load, single or three-phase, and whether the switchboard can take it. Our power to a shed guide walks through it, and sheds and workshops covers lighting, power and machine circuits.
A few points that matter in a farm shed:
- Long cable runs need the right cable size so voltage doesn't drop too far under load.
- Portable tools used in dusty or wet conditions need RCD protection.
- If the shed is a workplace (and on a working farm it usually is), WHS duties apply to the equipment in it.
Private poles and lines
On many rural properties, the poles and lines past the connection point (often the first pole on the property) belong to the owner, and so does their maintenance. Essential Energy recommends having private poles and lines inspected every year before bushfire season and after major storms. Private poles carry a "PP" label.
Our private power poles guide explains it. Some of this work has to be arranged with Essential Energy or an authorised Level 2 ASP; Nelson can tell you what's what.
Travel to Ardlethan
Ardlethan is about 104 km from Wagga by road. Travel is free close to Wagga and charged further out, so a trip this far does carry a travel charge. The online estimators work it out from your address, and for other work Nelson includes it in your written quote.
At that distance, it's worth saving up a list. A shed circuit, a couple of outside lights and a switchboard check make a better day than three separate trips.
Nearby towns
Ariah Park is about 99 km from Wagga, Temora about 88 km and Barellan about 136 km. Coolamon, the shire's main town, is about 43 km.
Ardlethan is on the Essential Energy network. For outages, fallen powerlines or a shock or tingle, call 13 20 80, or 000 in an emergency. Stay at least 8 m from a fallen line.
Common questions
How far can you run power to a shed?
A long way, with the right cable size. The distance and the load decide the cable. Nelson works it out before quoting, so the shed gets the voltage it needs.
Who is responsible for the power poles on my farm?
Generally, poles past the connection point are the property owner's to maintain. Ask Nelson if you're not sure where yours is.
How is the cost worked out for a job in Ardlethan?
The price depends on the work itself and the travel from Wagga, which is charged at this distance. Call Nelson or send the job through for a written quote before work starts. Fault finding is charged by the hour, so Nelson will talk you through that when you book.
Can I put up the shed lights myself and get them checked?
No. Installing lights is electrical wiring work and must be done by a licensed electrician in NSW. DIY electrical work is illegal and can void your home insurance.