Published 22 November 2024

Created to provide a two-way communication channel between CleanCo and the Ipswich community, CleanCo’s Swanbank Clean Energy Hub Community Reference Group (CRG) has wrapped up for 2024, holding its final meeting for the year at Ripley on 20 November.

This was the third time our CRG has met after being formed in May 2024.

Diverse mix

CleanCo has been fortunate to assemble a CRG that is truly representative of the local community – with people as young as 15 right through to their 80s; members of First Nations communities; residents with connections to Ipswich’s European settlers as well as more recent arrivals representing the city’s rapidly growing population; people with technical knowledge of renewable energy and others who are deeply involved in their community through work and volunteering.

Sounding board

The local knowledge and insights of the CRG members are an invaluable sounding board for CleanCo as we progress a range of projects associated with the Swanbank Clean Energy Hub. The CRG also provides for advice about the best channels/mechanisms for engaging with the Ipswich community.

Positive feedback

At the end of the November meeting, CRG members were surveyed for their feedback about how effective the forum is as a two-way communication channel. The responses were overwhelmingly positive. Some comments included: “Everyone is included and able to contribute ideas”, “It gives an opportunity to have a bigger part in the community and talk with people I wouldn’t usually” and “I feel my input is valued and respected by the CleanCo team”.

A sincere thanks to our CRG members for helping us build a Clean Energy Hub the community can be proud of for many years to come!