13 July 2022
MEDIA RELEASE
Climate Action on Show at Great South Coast Sustainable Energy Forum
More than 100 food and fibre, government, commercial and community leaders came together for a powerful showcase of regional and industry leadership to driving climate action through sustainable, innovative and community-led endeavours.
Food and Fibre Great South Coast organised the forum, which was held at Deakin University’s Warrnambool Campus. Platinum partner Powercor showcased their newest assets for community safety, resilience and recovery – the Lidar-equipped helicopter and MusterTruck.
Sustainability and renewable energy champions, Moyne Shire, SEAM and REDEI Enterprises rounded out the list of event partners and took the opportunity to show their leadership in optimising community amenity and value from renewables, embracing cutting-edge energy technology to reduce emissions whilst simultaneously increasing energy access and affordability.
Victorian Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, the Hon Lily D’Ambrosio, congratulated the region on the forum. The hefty program included a showcase of various leading-edge hydrogen applications being applied across the region, including applications for dairy tankers, net zero commitments and action taken by key livestock and dairy sectors, Wannon Water and forestry.
Key industry leaders including Emma Germano, President of the Victorian Farmers’ Federation, and Dr Anne Astin, Chair of Food Agility Cooperative Research Centre addressed the topical subjects of renewables on farmland, and the interface between food production and energy, respectively.
Food and Fibre Great South Coast Chair Georgina Gubbins, said the program calibre and industry-wide support the forum had received was reflective of the important discussions to be had.
“As representatives of the top agricultural production region in Australia, Food and Fibre Great South Coast is serious about promoting long-term, meaningful and coordinated climate action.
Our aim is to build consensus around the important issues we face right now, like a fair transition to sustainable energy consumption and production as well as ensuring no member of our community is left behind. Today, we’ve brought the region together to share that we’re on the pathway towards net-zero livestock industries and forestry production – that’s something most Australians simply don’t know.”
Chief Executive Natalie Collard noted, “Australian agriculture, particularly farming, is a leader in sustainability innovation and emissions reduction. We are proud of our collaborative approach to problem solving and front-foot approach to facing the challenges of climate change together.”
“It’s vital that we continue to look at how to apply emerging energy solutions to a local environment, whether that be from hydrogen innovation, decarbonisation or considerations of energy as a basic right with the urgent need for regional 3-phase power upgrades.”
Chair Georgina Gubbins said the forum had instilled her with confidence. “Ultimately, today has been about collaboration – a region working together to showcase to our community that we are serious about taking climate action and that the work is well underway.
The feedback we have received has affirmed that food and fibre remains a trusted, responsible steward of our natural resources and shared future in the eyes of our community.”
MEDIA CONTACT
Natalie Collard 0413 009 373
Food and Fibre Great South Coast
Food and Fibre Great South Coast is the representative body for Victoria’s agricultural powerhouse that spans its South West. Representing some $4 billion in agricultural output annually, Food and Fibre GSC drives strategic change where it’s needed most: water management, sustainable practices, workforce issues and championing a positive industry image.
For more, visit https://foodfibregsc.com.au/