Darling Downs Environment Council

MEDIA RELEASE
27th of February 2025

Tickets moving fast for Darling Downs renewables forum 

On Wednesday 26 March 2025, the ‘Shaping Renewables on the Downs’ forum will bring together landholders, community members, industry experts, and government representatives in Toowoomba to discuss how Australia’s shift to a grid powered by renewable energy can best serve the Western, Southern and Darling Downs regions. With almost half of the tickets already gone, anyone wishing to attend is encouraged to book tickets soon. 

The forum is organised by Darling Downs Environment Council (DDEC), Queensland Conservation Council (QCC) and RE-Alliance, to provide independent feedback to government and developers. 

Renewables present an opportunity for the Downs

DDEC Coordinator Ahri Tallon said renewable energy presents a huge opportunity for Toowoomba and the Downs — but only if it is done right.

"The Downs region is at the heart of Queensland’s renewable energy transition, so we need to make sure our communities are actively involved and supported,” Mr Tallon said.

"Farmers, regional towns, and local businesses stand to benefit, but we also need proper planning and safeguards to protect our natural areas and agricultural land. This forum is about making sure renewables work for communities across the Downs, and our environment. We’re calling on farmers, community groups, and regional leaders to come along, share their views, and join the conversation on a roadmap for a better future," Mr Tallon said.

Event Details:

 Date: Wednesday 26 March 2025
 Time: 8:45 AM – 3:45 PM
 Venue: Karl Langer East Room, Burke & Wills Hotel, Toowoomba
Tickets: $15 (includes morning tea and lunch)

Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/shaping-renewables-on-the-downs-forum-working-together-for-better-outcomes

For media inquiries or interview requests, contact:
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More Info

The forum will feature expert speakers and panel discussions on key topics, including:

• The future of farming and renewables — how to balance agriculture with clean energy projects

• Biodiversity and nature protection — minimising environmental impacts of development

• Industry perspectives — the opportunities and challenges for renewable energy companies

• Community benefits and challenges — how to ensure better outcomes for regional towns

• Vision for the future — what policy changes are needed to get the rollout right

Key Speakers and Panellists include: 

• Geoff McDonald, Mayor of Toowoomba Regional Council

• Brent Finlay, Southern Downs Farmer

• Clare Silcock, Queensland Conservation Council

• Renee King, Western Downs Regional Futures

• David Carr, String Bark Ecology

• Rick Humphries, Farmer and Granite Belt Sustainability Action Network President

• Dr Kathryn Reardon-Smith, Farmer and UniSQ

• Damian Hewat, Electrical Trades Union

• Shannon Bauwens, Bunya Peoples Aboriginal Corporation

• Kim Mallee, Community Power Agency

• Professor Ben Lyons, UniSQ

• Todd Rohls, Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce

• Ben Lyons, Institute of Resilient Regions UniSQ

• Maria Baker, Acciona

• Nikki Macqueen, Millmerran Commerce and Progress Inc

• Jamie Dennison, AgForce

• Rachelle Cooper Kulkarni, Sustainify

• Plus speakers from PowerLink,

Feedback from the forum will be taken directly back to industry and local and state government, ensuring decision-makers and industry hear directly from the community.