- Published:
- Tuesday 30 September 2025 at 9:15 am

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Earlier this month our CEO Craig Robertson attended the Gippsland New Energy Conference (GNEC25), Australia’s premier gathering for regional leaders driving the transition to renewable energy.
GNEC25 is where Government officials, industry pioneers, and community advocates come together to shape the future of the Gippsland Renewable Energy Zone home to Australia’s first declared offshore wind zone.
Craig's panel focused on building a skilled workforce in Gippsland to support the region's accelerated growth in wind energy development.
The discussion featured Joanne Brunt, a Gunai Kurnai woman who leads a highly successful First Nations employment program in Gippsland. Joanne provided valuable insights into her community's training and skills priorities, highlighting what First Nations people are seeking from workforce development opportunities.
Representatives from TAFE Gippsland and Federation University also participated in the panel, discussing strategic partnerships between governments, educational institutions, and industry to develop training programs like through Asia Pacific Renewable Energy Training Centre (APRETC) and the Clean Energy Centre currently under construction in Morwell.
The GNEC25 conference is designed for supply chain businesses, local energy providers, farmers, local manufacturers, offshore wind developers, government representatives, and community members offering the insights, connections, and expertise needed to drive renewable energy development and sustainable living.
Above: VSA's CEO Craig Robertson talking on the Gippsland New Energy panel.
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