Strong turnout at community energy forum

Community members from across the Goondiwindi and Southern Downs shires turned out in force at the Queensland Community Energy Forum in Inglewood yesterday.

More than 80 local landholders and community members, along with local and state government, agriculture and energy industry representatives came together to discuss the energy future of the region.

Community members quizzed developers, agriculture and industry representatives on a range of issues, from decommissioning renewable energy infrastructure to local economic and business development opportunities.

The forum and expo provided an opportunity for open dialogue, where attendees could engage directly with developers, government representatives, and professionals from the agriculture and environmental sectors.

Goondiwindi Regional Council Mayor, the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM, said the strong turnout demonstrated the community’s commitment to understanding the opportunities and challenges associated with energy development.

“It was great to see people from across the region who wanted to learn more and ask questions direct from the source,” Cr Springborg said.

“People left with a better understanding of how energy projects are assessed and where community can have their say.

“Yesterday’s forum was an important milestone, but it’s only one part of an ongoing conversation. As energy development continues across the region, it’s essential communities remain informed and involved.”

Coexistence Queensland CEO, Warwick Squire, said the forum demonstrated the value of bringing communities and industry together for informed discussions.

“The conversations throughout the day showed people are looking for practical information and honest discussion,” Mr Squire said.

“Landholders, community members and project proponents all had the opportunity to better understand each other’s priorities and concerns.

“Building trust takes time, and forums like this help establish those long-term relationships.”

Queensland Renewable Energy Council CEO, Katie-Anne Mulder, said the forum reinforced the importance of ongoing engagement between industry and the communities where projects are proposed.

“Strong projects rely on strong relationships. The industry is committed to continuing these conversations as projects progress,” Ms Mulder said.

“The relationships built through events like this are just as important as the technical aspects of project development.”

For more information, visit qldenergyforum.org.au.