Cooperation between Gippsland and Denmark was the focus of a recent address by the Danish Ambassador to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, Her Excellency Mrs Ingrid Dahl-Madsen, who spoke to members of Food and Fibre Gippsland at the Morwell Innovation Centre last Thursday.
Mrs Dahl-Madsen noted the similarities between the two regions and the
opportunities for partnership in food production, sustainability, and renew-
able energy.
“We have similar geographical areas, and Denmark can feed our population of around six million three times over with the food we produce,” she said.
“Our Danish and Australian partnership has increased over the past year, with your Prime Minister meeting ours. Through
cooperation between business and our communities, Denmark is also advancing climate change action in a difficult geographical climate.
“We now work together in the digital and AI space for a green and sustainable future, and it is a privilege to be here strengthening our association.”
Dr Julian Hill, Perry Bridge farmer, scientist and Gippsland Node Lead for Food and Fibre Gippsland, said the connection between Gippsland and Denmark presented strong opportunities for knowledge sharing.
“Gippsland is now connected to Denmark and in a position to transfer positions
and skills from Denmark to Australia,”
Dr Hill said.
Dr Hill’s research interests include land use, renewable energy and the development of Gippsland as a major energy hub for Victoria. He said the two regions share compatible climates and agricultural potential, with Gippsland being slightly warmer and sunnier than Denmark.
During his time in Denmark, Dr Hill focused on areas such as biomethane — renewable energy derived from food waste — Power-to-X technologies that convert renewable electricity into other forms of energy, value-adding to horticultural products, and reducing on-farm energy consumption.
He said it was possible for farms to become entirely “off-grid” operations, though each investment must be carefully measured.
Chris Francis from Sustainability Victoria outlined the State Government’s position on renewable energy, highlighting potential wind power projects in the region and the growing collaboration between TAFE
Gippsland, Federation University and new energy organisations.
The day concluded with a panel discussion facilitated by Darren McCubbin, CEO of the Gippsland Climate Change Network, where business and government representatives discussed the renewable energy sector and the promotion of a circular economy with Danish partners.
A circular economy focuses on the reuse and regeneration of materials and products, reducing material use and recapturing waste as a resource.
Board members of Food and Fibre Gippsland attended the event, including chairman Barry Rogers. Food and Fibre Gippsland works collaboratively across government, community, business and research sectors to deliver industry-led programs that strengthen the region’s economic and environmental future.
New Zealand & Fiji; Prue McTaggart, Manager, Economic Development, East Gippsland Shire Council
