Responsible Future’s First Offshore Wind Event in Kiama: A Resounding Success

Responsible Future successfully hosted its first event in Kiama on July 9, 2024, which was a resounding success. To another full house of 300 concerned citizens, we welcomed many new faces at The Pavilion in Kiama, highlighting that word is spreading as the community becomes increasingly aware of the declaration of the Illawarra Wind Area by Minister Chris Bowen. The session focused on educating the Illawarra community about the irresponsible gamble of the proposal, showing that it is not environmentally, technically, or economically feasible.

This is the third community event run by Responsible Future over a few months, all to full houses, and we can feel the momentum building in the community for the opposition of this proposal.

Key Insights from the Event:

Michael Feneley is a cardiologist, research scientist and co-founder of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute shared his extensive research. Michael highlighted the unprecedented scale and sensitivity of the proposed offshore project off Australia’s East Coast, noting that no other floating project in the world has attempted such a feat in environmentally sensitive areas. He demonstrated why this proposal is not viable in the projected timelines from an engineering and financial perspective and that power prices will increase with this form of energy.

Panel with Mark Horne (LobFish Lobster Fisherman) and Jay McIlquham (President Shellharbour Gamefishing Association) – Both long-term local passionate fishermen with deep community roots, they expressed their profound concerns about the proposal and all the “unknowns” that pose risks to the fishing industry and seafood supply. Their insights emphasised the potential widespread impact on gamefishing and tourism.

Jenny Cullen, President of Responsible Future, critiqued the government’s response to public submissions on the Illawarra Offshore Proposal, which sought to undermine the 65% opposition expressed by the community. She highlighted political candidates at a local, state and federal level who are opposed to this proposal and called on the community to vote wisely at the upcoming elections to prevent the advancement of such offshore wind plans under the current Labor government. Jenny’s call to action was a powerful reminder of the legacy we wish to leave for future generations.

The event received positive feedback from attendees, including state and local political representatives and councillors from Kiama, Shellharbour, and Wollongong. Their presence highlights the growing concern and interest in the community’s opposition to the proposal.

A Rally is Planned: Mark This Date – Sunday 28 July

We highlighted in the session that we need to oppose this proposal through political means, and we are planning a Rally on Sunday July 28 from 11 AM to 2 PM. We need a strong number to attend this rally to show that people in our community are asking questions and actively opposing the proposal. Please mark the date in your diary, start letting others know, and stay tuned for more details.

Copies of the Slides and Research Links:

We’ve uploaded a PDF of the event slides and a comprehensive list of research materials on our website. These resources are designed to provide thorough insights into the topics discussed and support your further exploration of the issues. Simply click the link below to access these materials.

Additionally, we recorded the session and are currently editing the video. We’ll upload it as soon as possible. Coordinating this effort across our volunteer team takes some time, so we appreciate your patience.

Join and Support Responsible Future:

Established by and for the community, Responsible Future is dedicated to enhancing awareness and driving actions against the Illawarra wind proposal. By becoming a member with a $50 annual fee, you join a community actively involved in this cause. Your membership fees are vital, helping to fund community events and sustain our advocacy efforts.

Interested? Signing up is easy through our online application process through the below button.