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Energy minister Geoff Wilson has asked Powerlink to explain why it is seeking court costs from a Cooroy resident who unsuccessfully challenged their right to enter his property.

During parliament in Brisbane yesterday, Nicklin MP Peter Wellington accused the state government-owned corporation of using “bully boy tactics” to intimidate landowners involved in the Woolooga to Eerwah Vale power line upgrade.

Cooroy Country Cottages owner Jim Cooney, whose three unit accommodation facility lies in the upgrade’s path, questioned whether workers had a right to drive on his land outside an easement in Maroochydore District Court.

Heavy vehicles driving on the property outside the easement could damage the land which would mean the three cottages would not be able to accommodate people and Mr Cooney would lose income.

Mr Cooney’s legal bid to stop Powerlink was not successful and the company has since asked the court to order Mr Cooney to pay costs which are estimated to be as much as $20,000.

Mr Wellington said Powerlink was “going in for the final kill”.

“They knew Mr Cooney was not legally represented so they sought orders that he pay,” Mr Wellington said.

“I believe there is no valid case for Mr Cooney to have to pay Powerlink’s legal team’s cost for this matter.”

Mr Wellington questioned whether Powerlink’s claims in a recent report that they valued their relationship with the community were true.

Late yesterday, the energy minister said high standards were set for government owned corporations and Powerlink was expected to engage with the community at a high level.

Mr Wilson would not say if he thought it was appropriate for Powerlink to ask for court costs because he did not know details.

“We expect them to be good corporate citizens,” Mr Wilson said.

“In relation to the gentleman that Mr Wellington spoke to, I’ve asked Powerlink to provide me with a full briefing on the matter.

“When that’s received, I’ll consider what they have to say.”

Mr Wilson understood residents had concerns about the power line upgrade but insisted it was needed to prepare Queensland for the future.

“It’s about planning the construction of infrastructure that anticipates the growth on the Sunshine Coast,” he said.

“(That growth) is averaging about 4% to 5% and is in some places 7%.

“No one would thank Powerlink if they didn’t do long term planning.”

Mr Cooney was not available for comment yesterday because he was out of the country.

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