Western Downs energy stakeholders come together to focus on future of renewable energy in region
The Shape Your Energy Future program has brought together more than a dozen local government, farming and energy stakeholders to focus on the future of renewable energy.
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Local government, farming and energy stakeholders across the Western Downs and South Burnett regions have come together as part of a leadership network to capitalise on renewable energy opportunities.
Over the past few months stakeholders have been participating in the Shape Your Energy Future program targeted at communities at the forefront of energy transformation in the Southern Queensland Renewable Energy region.
Funded by Boundless Earth and delivered in partnership by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation and Queensland Conservation Council, the program brings together stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to work collaboratively and make a difference.
Participants took part in interactive workshops to equip them with communication, planning and advocacy skills, to help drive change in the interest of their community.
Going forward they will work collectively on projects that promote the adoption of renewables in the region ranging from end-of-life recycling of renewables infrastructure, upskilling workers, landholder consultation and community engagement.
Powerlink community relations adviser Bec Coffey said the program, based at the Bunya Mountains, had led to a strengthened connection between the different groups
“Through the incredible program we have gained deep and personal connections,” she said.
“Together we dedicated a week away from our normal day to day lives to fully engage in the course and network-strengthening activities. We shared residential houses and focused on connecting throughout the week, which truly strengthened the amazing networks that we walked away with.”
Landholder and ag construction consultant Adrian Story reflected on how the cohort stepped outside of their comfort zone and put aside their different views to engage.
“If you get that many people in a room and we all sit there and smile and nod, we’re not engaged. We’re not thinking, we’re not actually getting any results, we’re not going to change who we are,” he said.
“The fact that we actually had some tension … it might be a little bit uncomfortable, but it’s actually very healthy.”
ARLF chief executive Matt Linnegar said collaboration was crucial in steering the regions toward renewable energy.
“Everyone has a part to play to help shape the energy future of your community and region, but the pathways and tools to influence change are not always clear,” he said.
“We understand the power of collective leadership in navigating such change and the potency of networks to support ideas and projects that make a difference.
“Regional leadership programs don’t just benefit individual participants, the community benefits by gaining a group of courageous and influential people, committed to action and outcomes.”
QCC director Dave Copeman echoed this sentiment.
“Every community has different needs and visions that must be considered as renewable energy projects are developed,” he said.
“It’s the local leaders that are vital to ensuring the best outcomes for their own region and their leanings and skills gained from this program will support them to do that.”
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