Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) and the Future of Orbost and District (FoOD) project are calling on local community groups, volunteers and business leaders to join the next stage of their collaborative governance initiative with the hands-on workshop Building Orbost Together: From Principles to Prototypes, taking place on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 8.30am to 2pm at the Orbost Arts Centre.
This workshop is the latest in a series designed to strengthen local decision-making and governance, building on the insights gathered during previous sessions in August and September.
Participants will move beyond discussion to actively design practical governance models that reflect Orbost’s unique needs and priorities.
The focus is on developing structures that enable local organisations, businesses, and government to work together more effectively, supporting community resilience and prosperity beyond the ongoing forest industry transition.
“This is the moment to turn months of conversation into tangible action,” chair of the FoOD project governance group, Liz Mitchell said.
“We’re inviting community groups, volunteers, and local leaders to roll up their sleeves and help create governance solutions that are practical, testable, and truly reflective of Orbost’s values.
“This is about shaping a collaborative future for our district.”
The workshop will guide participants through hands-on prototyping exercises, mapping community connections, defining roles and responsibilities, and developing decision-making pathways.
By the end of the session, attendees will leave with a governance prototype ready for real-world pilot testing.
ABV and FoOD are particularly encouraging community groups who have not yet participated to attend, alongside previous workshop participants. This is a unique opportunity for anyone passionate about shaping Orbost’s collaborative future to have their voice heard and contribute to a structure that will support the community for years to come.
Registration is limited to 30 participants to ensure meaningful collaboration.
Community members and group leaders are encouraged to secure their place early.
Morning tea and lunch will be provided.
ABV are supporting these events as a part of the Resilient Regions program, funded by the Australian and Victorian governments.
The Future of Orbost and District project is a response to the impacts of the end of native timber harvesting in Victoria’s state forests, and the need to transition the local economy.
The project is delivered by the Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which is overseen by a community-led governance group.
