New England Sustainability Strategy Launched Media Release, 26 August May 2008 A new consortium of leading regional professionals

and organisations the New England Sustainability Strategy Executive, nicknamed NESSiE has been contracted by Armidale Dumeresq Council to develop the New England Sustainability Strategy. The development of the New England Sustainability Strategy is a significant opportunity for the New England community to address the pressing issues of sustainability that are facing us and every other region across Australia says Adam Blakester, spokesperson for NESSiE. A Public Forum on Monday 22 September is the first step in creating the Sustainability Strategy. The Forum is part of the Sustainable Living Expo '08. Eight specialist working groups have been formed to analyse of the current sustainability of the New England Region and to identify environmental, social, Indigenous, government, economic, youth, cultural and global opportunities and challenges both current and emerging. This Strategy can position the New England Region as a leader in sustainability and attract people, business and investment, continues Blakester. The NESSiE consortium members are excited to work with the community to address not only the challenges of sustainability but also the many opportunities arising. The New England Sustainability Strategy is funded by NSW Minister Verity Firth for the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change. Armidale Dumeresq Council have agreed to the strategy taking a New England focus matching the strategic alliance of New England Councils (NESAC) which also includes Walcha Council, Guyra Shire Council, Uralla Shire Council and the New England Weeds Authority. The leadership, creativity, collaboration and education required to address sustainability are strong qualities of our vibrant New England culture, says Blakester. Since ancient time our Region has been known by the Ainawan people as a meeting place of higher knowledge the very kind of knowledge, skills and capacity required to address sustainability. Community leadership, support and involvement are key to the success of this Strategy, says Blakester. Together we can develop a Regional Strategy that enhances our social, environmental and economic base. Doing this will be regionally relevant and globally significant. Community members and leaders from the New England Region, and those with a stake in the sustainability of the Region, are invited to be involved and encourage their networks and organisations to be involved. For further information and to register your interest in attending the Public Forum or contributing to the New England Sustainability Strategy go to www.slex.com.au or contact Adam Blakester on adam@paradigmplay.net or 02 6775 2501. The NESSiE consortium members are: Adam Blakester (ParadigmPlay); Ken McLeod (Creative Edge Facilitators); Tex Skuthorpe and Anne Morrill (Tuckandee Training); Michael O'Loughlin, Lindsay Teychenne, Lazlo Szabo (Evolveris), Dr Rebecca Spence (Peaceworks ); Zoe Miller (Armidale Family Support); Peter Sniekers (NSW Department of State and Regional Development); Maureen Chapman and Nickie Murcell (Department of Premier and Cabinet); Jackie Bowe and Sonia Williams (Southern New England Landcare Coordinating Committee) and Steve Widders (Armidale Dumeresq Council). Media Contact | Adam Blakester | 02 6775 2501 | 0419 808 900

NESSiE
New England Sustainability Strategy Executive