Matt Moncrieff, First Nations Engagement Manager, David Carson, Senior Manager, Business Development, Dan Little, Senior First Nations Engagement Advisor & Ingrid McCabe, Senior Project Developer, Business Development, embarked on an On Country community trip, visiting the Endorsed Parties (EPs) of Herries Range Wind Farm. The purpose of the trip was to respond appropriately to the feedback provided by the EPs over the last 12 months.

The objective of the trip was to reset the relationship, rebuild trust, show gratitude and demonstrate respect by listening deeply to EP aspirations and laying the foundation for a collaborative Shared Benefits Agreement process. As the team met each EP and their communities, feedback, personal stories, needs and aspirations shone through however there was also similar themes that emerged throughout the conversations which reinforced some of the everyday struggles that impact First Nation communities everyday.

Dan said, "The visits were invaluable, such a privilege to have done this! There’s no better way to learn and understand, than doing it in person and through the ‘lens’ of First Nations community members."

The team reflected on their journey back home, acknowledging a great team effort and positive outcomes resulting from the trip, such as building trust, clarity on aspirations, commitment to Collaboration, a foundation for next steps, and cultural exchange.