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Gippsland to join European Union Program showcasing regional innovation in clean energy, tourism, agriculture and sustainable development

Gippsland has been selected for a European Union research program, showcasing its leadership in clean energy, tourism, and agriculture while promoting international collaboration, innovation, and investment through the IURC initiative.

By news@gippsland - 24th October 2025 - Back to News

Gippsland has been selected to take part in a European Union research initiative, shining an international spotlight on the region's energy diversification, tourism and high quality agriculture. Gippsland joins Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Greater Hobart and South West Western Australia as participants in the global cooperation on sustainable urban development and regional innovation.

One Gippsland Chair Cr Nathan Hersey at the Melbourne launch of the second phase of the International Urban and Regional Cooperation (IURC)

Gippsland gains recognition

One Gippsland Chair Cr Nathan Hersey showcased Gippsland's strengths and ambitions at the Melbourne launch of the second phase of the International Urban and Regional Cooperation (IURC). Next month, Cr Hersey and Latrobe City Council Mayor Cr Dale Harriman will represent One Gippsland at the Smart City Expo World Congress 2025 in Barcelona as guests of the IURC. They will participate in meetings and discussions with regional and city leaders from across the world.

Cr Hersey said Gippsland's inclusion in the IURC acknowledged our region as diverse and ambitious with global relevance. "We're proud Gippsland is being recognised internationally for our role in Australia's clean energy future, our thriving visitor economy and our world-class food and fibre sector. Participation in the program can work towards helping our region attract investment, create new jobs and strengthen skills training so our community can make the most of future opportunities," he said.

Global partnerships strengthen

The IURC promotes multi-city cooperation and builds partnerships between EU and non-EU cities. Participants will be able to work with European and international partners over three years on pilot projects in areas including energy, circular economy, industrial modernisation, urban food systems, culture, education and tourism.

Cr Hersey said One Gippsland would work to deliver lasting benefits for the Gippsland region. "We want Gippsland to be known as Australia's most liveable region by 2040. That means securing investment in freight, digital connectivity, education and skills, renewables, agriculture and tourism."

"This program and potential future partnerships are another opportunity to prepare for the future by strengthening links between local industry, education and government, and demonstrate how regional Australia can contribute to global challenges such as food security, energy security and disaster resilience," he said.

Gippsland powers growth

Gippsland is home to Australia's first offshore wind zone, a $2.4 billion visitor economy built on iconic attractions including Phillip Island's Penguin Parade, Wilsons Promontory and the Gippsland Lakes, and a strong $7 billion agricultural and fisheries sector that feeds Melbourne, contributes to Australia's food supply and exports around the world. Cr Hersey said the region generated $14 billion in gross regional product annually - a figure One Gippsland wanted to grow to $23.2 billion by 2040.

"Gippsland's story is one of resilience and ambition - and now it will be shared on the world stage. I look forward to learning from other cities and regions across the world, to bring back ideas to help strengthen our local economy, employment opportunities and the liveability of Gippsland. One Gippsland will have a particular focus on the areas of agri-food and energy production during its IURC participation," he said.

At the Barcelona congress, One Gippsland will participate in discussions on industrial modernisation, agri-food, clean energy and the sustainable use of ocean resources, known as the blue economy. Cr Hersey's and Cr Harriman's flights, accommodation, some meals and transport, and costs associated with their attendance at the congress will be covered by the IURC.

Pictures from One Gippsland website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Danny O'Brien is urging families to apply for the Get Active Kids program, offering up to $200 for children's sport and recreation costs to ease cost-of-living pressures and encourage participation.
• Spring flows planned to support native fish migration and river health across West Gippsland
  West Gippsland CMA's Environmental Water team is planning Spring river flows to support native fish migration, enhance river health, and balance environmental care with community enjoyment of waterways.
• Farm fencing grants protect 300 hectares of biodiversity and boost waterway health across West Gippsland
  Over 300 hectares of farmland will be fenced through West Gippsland CMA's farm fencing grants, protecting waterways, biodiversity, and livestock while supporting sustainable farming and revegetation across the catchment.
• Darren Chester praises Moogji Aboriginal Council for advancing health and sustainability in East Gippsland
  Darren Chester visited Moogji Aboriginal Council in Orbost, praising its vital health, youth, and environmental programs that support East Gippsland communities and promote Aboriginal culture, wellbeing, and environmental sustainability.
• Darren Chester slams Albanese government's 'lazy' plan to cut regional speed limits, urges investment in safer roads
  Darren Chester has criticised the Albanese government's plan to lower regional speed limits, labelling it "lazy" and urging greater investment in repairing and upgrading unsafe roads to reduce fatalities.
• Darren Chester praises Orbost Community College student leaders for passion, ideas and commitment to East Gippsland's future
  Darren Chester praised Orbost Community College student leaders for their passion and ideas during discussions on education, health, economy, and community, highlighting the importance of listening to youth for regional Victoria's future.
• Martin Cameron questions Labor government for denying regional crime crisis and the ongoing failures of 'Bail Laws'
  The Nationals' Martin Cameron has accused the Allan Labor government of failing Victorians with weak bail laws, after repeat offenders continue to walk free and regional crime remains out of control.
• Nature positive farming field day, sustainable practices, carbon insights, and soil management at Malabar farm
  Join Jenny and Paul O'Sullivan at Malabar Farm on 20 November 2025 for a free Nature Positive Farming field day, exploring sustainable practices, greenhouse gas estimation, soil carbon, and carbon farming benefits.
• Tim Bull slams Labor's cuts to 'Youth Crime Prevention', unveils $100M Safer Communities Plan
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull criticised Labor's youth crime prevention cuts, promoting The Nationals' $100 million Safer Communities Plan combining tougher laws with prevention programs to improve safety and restore community confidence.
• Drouin Picnic Racing Club receives $13,519 upgrade boost through Allan Labor government's Regional Customer Facilities Program
  Drouin Picnic Racing Club will receive $13,519 to upgrade facilities and enhance race day experiences, part of the Allan Labor government's $730,000 investment improving regional racing venues statewide.
• New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
  Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing.
• New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
  Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing.
• Tim Bull slams government over firewood shortages, fuel loads and lack of practical solutions
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull has slammed government policy for firewood shortages, warning rising bush fuel loads pose serious risks, calling for extended collection areas, longer seasons and practical fire management.
• Tim Bull demands transparency on missing $13.15M for cancelled Marlo to Cape Conran pathway
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull has demanded answers on the missing $13.15 million for the cancelled Marlo - Cape Conran pathway, urging funds be redirected locally if the project is abandoned.
• Melina Bath appointed Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation, championing regional lifestyles and economic opportunities
  Melina Bath has been appointed Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation, pledging to champion outdoor access, community wellbeing, and the vital economic and lifestyle benefits outdoor activities bring to regional Victoria.
• Nationals pledge to restore Parentline funding, criticise Labor's decision to axe vital family counselling service for Gippslanders
  The Nationals vow to reinstate Parentline funding if elected, condemning Labor's cut to the vital family counselling service that supports Victorian parents, particularly in regional communities facing limited access to services.
• Danny O'Brien condemns Labor for empty social housing amid growing waitlists and rental shortages in Gippsland
  Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor for leaving social housing vacant as waitlists grow, citing fewer homes, shrinking rental availability, rising costs, and failed policies driving investment away in Gippsland South.
• Darren Chester welcomes $2.7M investment in cutting-edge MRI technology at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service
  A $2.7 million upgrade at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service includes Australia's first MRI unit of its kind, improving diagnosis accuracy, patient comfort, and access to affordable, high-quality local healthcare.
• Martin Cameron says Labor fails on crime, wasting millions on machete bins instead of protecting Gippsland
  Crime in Latrobe has surged under Labor, with Moe incidents up 26% and retail theft 65%. Nationals' Martin Cameron says only their Safer Communities Plan will restore safety.
• Danny O'Brien warns Labor is risking beachgoers safety by forcing councils, ratepayers to cover LSV funding shortfalls
  Danny O'Brien warns the Allan Labor government is forcing Gippsland councils and ratepayers to cover Life Saving Victoria shortfalls, risking reduced lifeguard patrols despite billions in new emergency services taxes.
• Danny O'Brien slams Labor's police station maintenance cuts despite backflip restoring partial funding for grounds upkeep
  Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor's partial backflip on police station maintenance cuts, saying Gippsland officers deserve safe, clean workplaces and stronger government support amid rising regional crime rates.
• Darren Chester welcomes $6.2M Traralgon Recreation Reserve redevelopment with upgraded facilities for Latrobe Valley sports clubs
  Darren Chester welcomed the $6.2 million Traralgon Recreation Reserve redevelopment, providing modern changerooms and upgraded facilities through joint funding to support Latrobe Valley sports and long-term community participation.
• Martin Cameron supports Tee Up for Mental Health Golf Day raising vital funds for Lifeline and Rotary
  More than 150 golfers joined the Tee Up for Mental Health Golf Day in Traralgon, raising a record $30,000 for Lifeline Gippsland and Rotary's local mental health initiatives.
• Forge Theatre's school holiday season brings classic tales, comedy chaos and heartfelt community spirit to East Gippsland
  The Forge Theatre's school holiday season features The Velveteen Rabbit, Polite Mammals, and The Heartbreak Choir, offering family fun, comedy, and heartfelt community spirit with something for everyone to enjoy.
• Bass Coast wins National AustStab Award for sustainable road recycling and innovative rehabilitation
  Bass Coast Shire Council won the 2025 AustStab Award for Excellence for pioneering road recycling methods, cutting emissions by 85%, truck movements by 80%, and delivering faster, more sustainable, durable roads with less disruption.