Live in Queensland’s Western Downs or South Burnett region? Want to engage in the energy future of these regions?
The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) and the Queensland Conservation Council (QCC) has launched a new program to help grass-roots leaders shape the energy future of their regions in regional Queensland.
The Shape Your Energy Future leadership development program is designed to support communities and industry navigate challenges and opportunities that accompany renewable energy development. It’s focusing on the Western Downs and South Burnett regions based in the Southern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone.
Fully funded leadership development to champion your region
The five-day program is funded by Boundless Earth and will be delivered by experienced facilitators from the ARLF and QCC. It will deliver tangible community benefits and serve as a model for other regions facing the ups and downs of energy transformation.
“Everyone has a part to play but the pathways and tools to influence change are not always clear,” ARLF chief executive Matt Linnegar says.
“We understand the power of collective leadership networks in navigating change and complexity, and in supporting ideas and projects that make a difference.”
QCC director Dave Copeman adds: “If you’re engaging with the complexity and impact of energy transformation – whether you’re a landholder, someone involved in economic development or regional planning, or passionate and interested to know more and get involved, this program is for you.
“Every community has different resources and assets that need to be considered as renewable energy projects are developed. It is local leaders that are vital to ensuring the best outcomes for their own region.”
Ben Lyons, a local and director of USQ’s Rural Economies Centre for Excellence, hopes as many voices as possible will be heard in the energy transformation process.
“I really hope we can approach this upcoming energy opportunity with inclusiveness and equity, and that will largely come from leadership within the regions.”
Find out more
The Shape Your Energy Future leadership development program will be held 5-9 February 2024 near the Bunya Mountains followed by virtual project coaching. A public forum and graduation event will be held in March. Full details and key dates will be confirmed shortly.
If you’d like to know more, the ARLF and QCC will be running two online information sessions on Tuesday 31 October and Monday 13 November (6:30pm Queensland time/7:30pm AEDT). These webinars will be structured as informal Q&A sessions.
Applications to the program are now open and close 20 November.
