LOCH residents are showing strong and growing support for the Loch Resilience Project, a local initiative focused on building practical, community-led solutions to energy, communication, and emergency challenges.
A successful project launch in February, saw 25 residents come together to share concerns, ideas, and priorities around the impacts of power and communication outages.
They also heard from Alison Skinner of the Venus Bay Energy Project, whose story inspired a discussion about what’s possible when communities lead the way.
The project team held a community stall at the last Loch Village Market, hosted by the Strzelecki Lions Club.
Locals shared feedback, asked questions, and expressed interest in the project’s next phase: a pair of open workshops in May where the community will help shape a long-term plan for Loch’s resilience.
“We had some great conversations,” said project co-lead Alona Charuvi, a university lecturer, science communicator, and Loch resident.
“People are thinking ahead about their kids, their neighbours, and what happens when the power and communication go out. It has affected everyone differently. It’s clear that locals care deeply about making the Loch community and surrounding townships stronger and more resilient.”
“Since the launch meeting, we’ve received support from residents, the Strzelecki Lions Club, and interest from community groups including the CFA and Loch Primary School. We all share the vision of working together to build a plan that supports the current and future needs of our community,” Alona said.
The project is funded by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) and Mycelia Renewables and supported by the Loch Community Development Association (LCDA).
Through upcoming workshops, small group sessions, and community surveys, the group will deliver a draft community resilience plan that will guide the next steps needed to make Loch’s resilience vision a reality.
Karen Raabe, a communications and engagement consultant who lives on a farm outside of the Loch township, also joined the team at the market to speak with residents and share information about the project.
“This is really about the Loch community shaping its own future,” said Karen.
“We welcome everyone to come along, whether they live in Loch Village or the surrounding areas, and share what matters to them, and build something that reflects the needs of our whole community.”
Everyone is welcome to attend upcoming workshops and RSVPs are appreciated to help with planning.
Workshop 1: How do we see Loch’s resilience in the future? Will be held on Tuesday, May 13 from 6pm – 8.30pm at the Loch Town Hall.
Workshop 2: Co-designing ideas into reality, will be held on Sunday, May 23, from 1pm – 4pm at the Loch Memorial Reserve. There will be activities for kids so parents can join in.
