GCCN eNews Spring 2026

Welcome to the GCCN eNews Spring edition 2026.

This edition of the newsletter highlights some major events and announcements that will have a major impact on the future of Gippsland. Once again, we have just concluded our fifth Gippsland New Energy conference which was a major success. Nearly 1,00o attendees came together to discuss the clean energy transition and the importance of this for Gippsland as a region leading in renewables, what it means for the economy, jobs and emissions reduction. A key point to note from this year’s conference is that the energy transition has begun and it’s not just about what might be in the future. Also a big thankyou to the volunteers who supported the conference, it could not have been done without you.

Gippsland regional leaders united at a Gippsland Offshore Wind Parliamentary Showcase on the evening of August 26, the night of the announcement of the Offshore Wind Auction. The Gippsland Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA) brought together representatives from business, community, education, the Gunaikurnai Land and Water Aboriginal Corporation, offshore wind proponents and government agencies to the showcase. The showcase demonstrated the depth of regional support, the strong social licence for renewable energy development in Gippsland and highlighted the massive potential for the Gippsland region. The major announcement of he launch of the Offshore Wind Auction by the State Government was made that evening.

The auction process will close in August 2027with the intention to award contracts in 2028. This heralds a step forward for local businesses and communities; for developers will increase their regional engagement as they develop their bids.

Finally, the Gippsland Coastal Assembly, which was facilitated by Democracy Co and GCCN, has been recognised by the Australian Good Design award 2026 and invited to the award ceremony in October. This highlights some of the community work GCCN has undertaken.

There are exciting times ahead for Gippsland in the renewable energy transition and we invite you to take this journey into the future with us.

Warm Regards
Rob Dimsey
GCCN Chair