Sustainability leaders, deep tech investors, and resource industry leaders are among the thought-provoking speakers sharing their experiences and insights at the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit. Held on Thursday, May 23, at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC), this summit promises morning and afternoon panel sessions packed with invaluable insights and practical strategies to propel businesses toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
A unique opportunity for local businesses
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) CEO Kylie Porter emphasises the summit’s importance for local businesses to learn about the latest solutions and strategies for a low-carbon future. “We believe that our region has the potential to be a leader in decarbonisation, and this summit is an important step towards achieving that vision,” she said. Porter urges businesses across all industries to attend, noting, “As the summit moves closer, we urge local businesses to consider spending a day to learn about what is not only in our future but what is here, working in our community today. We encourage everyone to secure their tickets as soon as possible to ensure they don’t miss out.”
Focus on the METS sector
Steven Boxall, CEO of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE), highlights the summit’s initial focus on the METS sector and its crucial role in supporting the coal sector’s decarbonisation efforts. “This summit will provide a forum for exploring the opportunities and challenges ahead, and for networking with industry experts and peers. Decarbonisation will impact the entire Australian resources sector, and we believe that our local businesses and industries have the potential to thrive,” Boxall explained. He encourages attendance to secure the economy of the region and the jobs of the future.
Keynote speakers and panels
The summit opens at 8.30 am, featuring keynotes from change strategist Michael McQueen, ThinkZero founder and Managing Director Cle-Anne Gabriel, and Founder of Goterra, Olympia Yarger. In addition to these keynote presentations, thought-provoking panel discussions with experts from diverse sectors will be held.
Morning panel: “Why should we be excited about decarbonisation?”
The morning panel, facilitated by RCOE CEO Steven Boxall, includes:
- Charlotte Connell: An award-winning sustainability leader and Director of Impact at Climate Zeitgeist. Connell will discuss unlocking Australia’s potential as a climate tech superpower and connecting climate solutions to capital and customers.
- Phil Morle: A partner at Main Sequence, founded by CSIRO, Morle will share stories about investing in groundbreaking deep tech companies and advising major organizations on practical growth and cultural change strategies.
- Dr. Kristy Nell: An expert in carbon emissions management and sustainability in mining, Dr. Nell will discuss ways to assist the mining sector in achieving its sustainability targets.
Afternoon panel: Overcoming hurdles and leveraging potential
Facilitated by GW3 CEO Kylie Porter, the afternoon panel includes:
- Dr. Neville Plint: CEO of Mining3, Plint is a visionary leader with over 30 years of experience in driving sustainable growth and technological advancements in the mining industry.
- Jenny Agnew: Business Sustainability Manager at Sedgman, Agnew brings 22 years of experience in the resources industry and expertise in integrating environmental, social, and governance factors into strategic decisions.
- Kieran Cusack: CEO of Queensland Hydro, Cusack will explore how Queensland Hydro will assist the region in its decarbonisation journey.
Breakout streams and networking
Alongside the panels and keynotes, the summit will feature four breakout streams covering various aspects of decarbonisation, including people, industry, environment, and opportunity. The day will conclude with networking drinks at 4.30 pm.
Secure your tickets now
Tickets are on sale for only a few more days. For more information and to book tickets, visit the Decarbonisation Accelerated website.
About the organisers
The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a joint initiative of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3). The Greater Whitsunday Alliance is the region’s peak, independent economic development body committed to making the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday region strong for generations.
