A new volunteer-based not-for-profit is driving innovation that supports our community as renewable energy development reshapes the employment landscape. With an inclusive approach celebrating our coal and steel heritage, Hi Neighbour is helping locals get ready for the future.

Words Helen James

Images Chris Frape and Stephanie Simcox

Yael Stone knows that the Illawarra was built on the back of coal and steel. The proud granddaughter of a steelworker, Yael is a Bulli local with first-hand understanding of the issues our community faces in transitioning to renewable energy. For generations, steel and coal have put food on our families’ tables, thriving industries against a backdrop of striking natural beauty. With the beach, bush and escarpment at the heart of our daily lives, we all want to preserve our uniquely Illawarra outdoor lifestyle and its freedoms for our children and the generations to follow.

Yael, an internationally-acclaimed actor, was compelled to return home from the US after the devastating Black Summer bushfires in 2020, tearing up her green card and committing to channelling her energy into environmental conservation in her hometown. “The politics around climate change have nourished deep divisions in communities like ours,” says Yael. “But we can move forward, understand and look after each other”. Seeing a need for inclusive, solution-focused initiatives, Hi Neighbour was born. “The future can be better for the environment and for people,” says Yael. “Our area has unique issues that need a fair, dynamic and inclusive transition to sustainable energy”.

Inviting collaboration across the community, Hi Neighbour draws volunteers from diverse backgrounds including mining, conservation, energy research and law. Hi Neighbour’s focus is two-fold: to reduce emissions, and to upskill locals for our future industry. Valuing local lived experience, Hi Neighbour welcomes all voices to contribute. “It’s not just an energy transition we need to go through, it’s a human transition too,” Yael recognises.

Darryl Best is one of the community voices informing Hi Neighbour. Recently retired after a lifetime in the coal industry, he clearly sees the challenge on the horizon. “How do you go from being a coal miner, to someone who actively cares for the environment but also deeply cares for the future of the people still working in mining?”

Hi Neighbour’s inaugural initiative tackles this polarity head on. Partnering with Buckaroo Leatherworks, Hi Neighbour has financed a loan covering the costs of solar installation at Buckaroo’s Bellambi manufacturing site. A scholarship fund pool of $20,000 has been established, to be distributed to 10 local electricians who apply to upskill in solar grid collection and installation or solar battery installation. And in a self-sustaining cycle, the interest on Buckaroo’s loan repayment will replenish the scholarship fund, with a new training opportunity on offer for locals. “This is local investment supporting local business and local workers” says Darryl. “And it’s an ongoing program, with a variety of training on offer for the skills the low-carbon industry skills needs”.

Buckaroo Leatherworks has operated at Bellambi since the eighties and remains committed to investing locally, says CEO Dan Burns. Their new 100kW solar system will deliver 100% of daytime production needs, reducing operating costs, securing local employment, and significantly reducing Buckaroo’s carbon footprint.

Local solar businesses are also reporting consistently increasing demand for specialist installers. The opportunity for electricians to move into sustainable energy employment makes the Hi Neighbour scholarships a valuable opportunity. “We are constantly looking for qualified, trained solar installers” says Phil O’Brien, Business Development Manager at SunPeople Solar at Oak Flats. “There are lots of installers out there who aren’t specifically trained. It’s vital to use specialists employed by reputable local businesses to avoid problems.”

Yael sees a bright future for our community. “We’re going to need each other. Our neighbours are the ones who will ultimately be there. Just put your hand up to help. Those contributions, big and small, add up and are always so meaningful”. And Darryl agrees. “Let’s bring workers, our communities, and industries together in this monumental transformation to secure jobs and protect the environment for generations to come”.

To get involved or for details of Hi Neighbour’s local business and scholarship opportunities, visit hineighbour.com.au