Geelong Sustainability wins big at Premier’s Awards

LOCAL not-for-profit Geelong Sustainability has solidified its standing as a driving force for renewable practices in the region, after taking home two awards at the 2023 Premier’s Sustainability Awards.

Geelong Sustainability secured the prestigious Premier’s Regional Recognition Award and the Industry Leader Award in the Healthy and Fair Society category.

CEO of Geelong Sustainability Dan Cowdell said the awards underscore the organisation’s commitment to creating climate-safe, comfortable living environments for low-income households.

“Receiving the Premier’s Regional Recognition Award and the Industry Leader Award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the team who came together to work on this project.

“I wish to thank our past board member Tim Adams who initially came up with the idea, as well as our team and project partners from CSIRO, City of Greater Geelong, Uniting and Ecomaster.”

The awards night was held on Thursday, November 23 where Premier Jacinta Allen personally selected Geelong Sustainability for one of the top two honours, while the other Premier’s Recognition Award went to Assembled Threads.

Geelong Sustainability received the Premier’s award for its work through its Climate Safe Rooms initiative, which offered free home energy upgrades for low-income households.

Households were selected where at least one resident received home care support services for an existing chronic health condition, which put them at risk from heatwaves and extreme cold.

“We are honoured to be acknowledged for the impact of our Climate Safe Rooms initiative in creating positive change for vulnerable households,” Mr Cowdell added.

“We would also like to acknowledge our fellow finalists.

“It was an honour to meet so many people who are doing amazing work for our community and environment.”

To find out more about the Climate Safe Rooms initiative, head to geelongsustainability.org.au/climatesaferooms/