What can we achieve when a community comes together with a shared vision for a healthier, fairer and more resilient Southern Highlands?
WinZero 2025: Community Action, Clean Energy & a Healthier HighlandsWinZero’s 2025 Chair Report celebrates a year of practical action, fresh ideas, scientific research and community collaboration — all driven by a commitment to protecting the natural environment and building a more sustainable future for our region.
In the annual report, WinZero Chair Chris McGuigan reflects on the achievements, challenges and partnerships that have shaped our work over the past year.
From protecting our waterways and wildlife to pioneering community energy solutions and exploring a more regenerative local economy, the report demonstrates what can happen when passionate volunteers, researchers, businesses and community organisations work together.
Protecting Our Waterways and Natural Environment
The health of our rivers, waterways and drinking water remains a major concern for the Southern Highlands.
Throughout 2025, WinZero worked with scientists, environmental organisations and local residents to raise awareness of water quality issues, including PFAS contamination, and support community-based research.
Our advocacy also continued for the protection and restoration of biodiversity, including the proposed Southern Highlands National Park and the Thin Green Line — a vital wildlife corridor connecting habitats along the Illawarra Escarpment.
These initiatives recognise that healthy ecosystems are fundamental to the wellbeing and resilience of our community.
Building a Stronger, More Regenerative Local Economy
One of the year’s exciting developments was the Highlands Homegrown Economy Workshop, bringing people together to explore how the Southern Highlands could build a more resilient, locally connected and regenerative economy.
The workshop generated practical ideas for strengthening local food systems, supporting businesses, protecting natural resources and creating opportunities that benefit both people and the environment.
The Southern Highlands Future Forum also provided an important opportunity for residents and experts to explore solutions to some of our region’s most pressing challenges.
Pioneering Community Energy Innovation
WinZero’s Virtual Energy Network continued to demonstrate the potential for locally generated renewable energy to deliver greater value to households and communities.
The project also contributed to a national research study led by Deakin University, investigating how rooftop solar and other consumer energy resources could help create a fairer and more efficient energy system.
This work reflects WinZero’s commitment to finding practical ways to reduce carbon emissions while helping communities benefit from the transition to clean energy.
Giving Our Community a Voice
As development pressures increase across the Southern Highlands, WinZero has continued advocating for responsible planning that respects our region’s unique environmental and community values.
We believe economic development must go hand in hand with protecting biodiversity, water resources, agricultural land and the character of the Southern Highlands.
Informed and meaningful community participation is essential to achieving better long-term outcomes.
Celebrating the People Behind WinZero
None of this work would be possible without the dedication of our volunteers, members, community partners, researchers and supporters.
Chris’s report acknowledges the many people who have contributed their time, expertise and energy throughout the year, including a special farewell to Clive West.
Their collective efforts demonstrate the power of local action and the difference that committed individuals can make.
Help Shape the Future of the Southern Highlands
WinZero is a volunteer-led community organisation working towards a healthier, fairer and more resilient Southern Highlands.
Whether you’re passionate about clean energy, protecting wildlife, improving river health or building a thriving local economy, there are many ways to contribute.
Together, we can turn good ideas into meaningful local action.
Visit www.winzero.com.au to learn more, become involved or support our work.
We’d love to hear your thoughts: What environmental issue or opportunity do you believe should be a priority for the Southern Highlands in the year ahead?