History

The Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group emerged from the Woodend Sustainable Living Community (2003-2008). The predecessor organisation was responsible for the development of the Sustainability Hub at the rear of the Neighbourhood House and the lay out of the permaculture garden; including negotiations with the local council and Sustainability Victoria.

The WSLC partnered in the development of the Sustainability Hub and retains an ongoing lease of the office, store room, function room, undercroft and permaculture garden area.

In 2008 the committee decided a the sustainable community organization should seek influence over a broader cross section of the Macedon Ranges if it was to achieve its vision. As a result the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group was born in August 2008 with a new committee, a new structure, a business plan and a focus on events and practical activities that would seed sustainable living across the shire.

Like minded town- focused groups such as the Greening of Riddells and the Newham Sustainability Group were invited to auspice their activities funding and communications through the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group. The WISEgroup joined MRSG as a dedicated energy focused project team.

Since 2007 Movies that Matter have become a permanent fixture on the monthly calendar, initially pinning black out curtains and blankets around the function room before securing funding for Holland Blinds. Movies that Matter and major forums in relation to population, transport, energy efficiency and renewable energy generation attracted increasing membership.

Stalls at Farmers markets and articles in the local newspaper (especially Elliott Press) contributed to new memberships, which reached 410 with the first Macedon Ranges Sustainable Living Festival in February 2010.

MRSG TALKS

MRSG members will give talks about sustainability and our activities to community groups, schools and any others who would be interested. Here is a recent thank you letter from the Community Leadership program for Loddon Murray region. Click here Leter of thanks to MRSG461