Historic Newspaper Factory Revamped into State-of-the-Art Sharon AI Data Center Close to Albury, NSW

Brief Overview

• Sharon AI intends to convert an outdated paper mill in Ettamogah into a cutting-edge data centre.
• The location possesses current infrastructure suitable for a high-performance computing facility.
• NSW regulations stipulate that data centres must utilize renewable energy sources, with a minimum of 40% derived from wind.
• The establishment will make use of existing water treatment systems, minimizing effects on local water resources.
• Situated close to major fibre optic lines, guaranteeing strong internet connectivity.
• Community engagement and environmental safeguards are essential to the project’s success.

A New Chapter for a Historic Location

The redevelopment of the previously operational newspaper mill on RW Henry Drive at Ettamogah signifies a new era for the site. Once home to a large newsprint production machine operated by Norske Skog, the facility ceased operations in late 2019, leading to job losses and leaving the industrial site abandoned. In 2026, Sharon AI, a publicly traded tech firm, purchased the property with the intention of transforming it into a high-performance computing centre.

Optimal Use of Existing Infrastructure

Why an Old Paper Mill is Perfect for Technology

The Ettamogah mill presents a viable solution for Sharon AI’s data centre requirements. Unlike new developments, which necessitate extensive zoning approvals and environmental assessments, this brownfield site is already designated for heavy industry and linked to a high-capacity power grid, making it an excellent choice for the energy-demanding operations of a data centre.

Meeting Energy Demands

NSW regulations require data centres to secure additional renewable energy, with at least 40% sourced from wind. This ensures the facility does not overburden local power supplies, though the renewable energy generation does not need to be directly adjacent to the Ettamogah site.

Water Resource Benefits

The location is already fitted with water treatment capabilities, a remnant of its paper production history. Contemporary data centres utilize closed-loop cooling mechanisms, diminishing the need for fresh water and safeguarding local agricultural water availability.

Strong Internet Connectivity

Located near significant fibre optic infrastructure along the Hume Highway, the site is distanced from residential neighborhoods, thereby lessening noise and traffic issues. NSW’s Data Centre Guidelines emphasize the advantages of selecting brownfield sites with established energy and water resources.

The Effect on Regional Technology Advancement

Albury is familiar with data centres, featuring existing operations such as those from Leading Edge Data Centres. However, Sharon AI’s initiative signifies a considerable increase in scale, essential for training AI models that necessitate extensive computational resources. Community engagement and commitment to environmental protections will be vital for the project’s success.

Conclusion

The adaptation of the historical paper mill into a data centre by Sharon AI is a strategic decision capitalizing on current infrastructure to accommodate the rising demand for AI capabilities. With an emphasis on renewable energy and minimal ecological impact, the project offers a promising opportunity for regional growth.