Bendigo Sustainability Group
One Small Change
Through a new initiative that Bendigo Sustainability Group was trialling, where people who are interested in sustainability can drop in to learn more about BSG activities, volunteering opportunities, discussing own ideas and concepts and meeting others; I found myself sharing my thoughts on a project I had been wanting to work on, got some great input and feedback, and now working on developing this group of thoughts (from each person) into a reality.
Aside from helping to come up with the idea of having a casual social gathering, I assisted with organising the get-together, by liaising with The Old Church on the Hill, and other fellow volunteers, designing and creating posters, and distribution of event information.
The launch of One Small Change occurred on August 1, 2023 at The Old Church on the Hill. The evening featured a screening of “Together We Grow” (Happen Films), and participants brought snacks to share, and spoke to each other about what they would like to see come out of One Small Change.
Together We Grow told the inspiring story of a thriving community hub that has been helping its local community to build resilience. They do this by growing, sewing, repairing, and sharing.
Giving Power
Giving Power is a collaboration with Bendigo Community Health Services, which provides fully-funded and installed solar PV systems to low-income families in financial need across the Loddon Mallee region.
The project addresses two key & overlapping issues:
Providing solar systems for households that cannot afford them
Transitioning to cleaner energy sources as critical to our environment
My work on the campaign included calling potential donors, sending emails, and updating data to communicate with colleagues.
Energy Literacy and Efficiency
The Bendigo Sustainability Group is providing free home energy literacy and efficiency workshops for all, throughout the Loddon Mallee regions, including small towns and localities, as well as Bendigo itself.
These workshops provide regular people with insights into the basics of energy, including power bills, as well as how to reduce or minimise costs. The workshops are for both home owners, and those who rent – anyone can gain an insight into the basics behind achieving an energy efficient home in our region.
Points in the workshops include:
– Where does my energy come from? Why does it matter?
-How to understand your bill and your consumption data.
-Choosing a retailer. What should I consider?
-Power Saving Bonus Program
-Energy efficiency in context and energy basics
-Why would we want an energy efficient home?
-Appliances and efficiency
-Heating, cooling, hot water systems, and lighting
-Building Shell Efficiency
-Draughts, insulation, windows – practical tips and demonstration pieces
My role for this project is with organising the events – contacting venues and communities for hosting and attending, as well as organising catering, and other aspects for the programs to run smoothly.