Southern New England Landcare (SNEL) has appointed Dr Carolina Dutra as Community Energy Project Officer for a new three-year project funded by the NSW Government’s Community Energy Activation Program.
The project will provide trusted, independent information and practical support to households, farmers and community groups across the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), helping them understand and participate in the region's renewable energy transition.
“Through community information sessions, workshops, individual consultations and partnerships with local organisations, our new project officer will help urban and rural residents to access trusted information about energy efficiency, government incentives, renewable energy developments and opportunities for community participation,” said Karen Zirkler, CEO at Southern New England Landcare.
Based at Southern New England Landcare’s office in Armidale, the project will support communities at Armidale, Guyra, Uralla, Walcha and surrounding areas, including high altitude parts of the Tamworth region, until June 2029.
The initiative builds on SNEL's longstanding relationships with local communities and its commitment to supporting informed decisions, environmental sustainability and positive outcomes for the New England region.
The project will also engage local landholder Mr Justin Hoad as a guest presenter at selected events, where he will provide practical demonstrations of on-farm energy efficiency methods.
“Justin has a strong track record in electrifying his farming operation, including passive solar house design, solar-powered pumps and electric farm motorbikes,” said Karen.
“Carolina began in the role on 6 October and will work remotely until she is able to relocate to Armidale,” said Karen.
“We look forward to welcoming Carolina to Armidale and supporting her as she works with communities across the region,” she said.
As part of its commitment to helping communities engage with the region’s renewable energy transition, Southern New England Landcare also encourages community members to have their say on the EnergyCo’s New England REZ Network Infrastructure Project during the current public exhibition period, which closes on 26th of November.
Information about the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and how to make a submission is available here: https://www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/our-projects/new-england-rez/network-infrastructure-project/environmental-impact-statement#about
Image - Carolina Dutra pictured outside the Southern New England Landcare Office. Image courtesy of the Office of Brendan Moylan MP.
