The Future of Orbost and District (FoOD) Project recently hosted forums that sparked new connections and shared ideas and tools for supporting the district’s future.
On November 13, almost 20 community members with diverse interests gathered to explore Collective Leadership and Strategic Doing for Collective Impact.
The session featured an online talk by Bobbi McKinnin of Solar Integrity, who shared her experience with Totally Renewable Yackandandah and Renewable Albury Wodonga.
Ms McKinnin emphasised “community energy is a complex thing but far from impossible,” stressing the importance of aligning community needs and motivations.
Participants were introduced to Collective Leadership and Strategic Doing, key principles supporting collective action and impact.
These approaches emphasise shared responsibility, agile decision-making and incremental steps to address complex challenges.
They include dynamic frameworks which encourage continuous learning and collective problem-solving, empowering communities to drive positive change.
Liz Mitchell, chair of the FoOD governance group, expressed encouragement at the increasing community engagement in economic diversification and innovation.
She emphasised that success hinges on passionate individuals who turn ideas into action.
“We want people and groups to feel empowered to progress opportunities, and for us to better understand what support might be required,” Ms Mitchell said.
On November 19, another group came together to explore the evolving need for physical spaces to support local initiatives, concluding that greater coordination and connection between groups is essential.
The concept of an Activation Hub is also under development by the FoOD project to foster this collaboration and advance emerging opportunities.
The FoOD project responds to the challenges posed by the end of native timber harvesting in Victoria’s state forests, focusing on transitioning the local economy.
Its goal is to build on Orbost and district’s existing strengths and leverage opportunities for positive economic, social and environmental outcomes.
The project receives support from the
Victorian Government’s Forestry Transition Program’s Community Stream until September 2025.
The Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry has an agreement with the Department of Energy Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) to deliver the FoOD project, which is overseen by a community-led governance group.
