The Mt Alexander Net Zero Working Group has been busy behind the scenes highlighting the efforts of local businesses in working towards 100 per cent renewable energy.
Following the success of their first short film featuring The Mill Castlemaine, the group successfully applied for a Mount Alexander Shire Council grant to assist with the production of a second film.
The new short featuring Mostyn Street Clinic’s use of solar panels, plus ways the clinic is attempting to reduce waste, is now in post-production so keep your eyes peeled for its upcoming release.
MANZWG has received a further $3500 donation via The Hub Foundation to use in their campaigns including articles discussing local businesses’ achievements in working towards net zero – available on the MANZWG website.
The latest article, written by MANZWG member Fran Gleeson, features the work being done by the new owner of the Maldon Bakery, Rebecca Barnett.
Rebecca purchased the historic bakery in 2022 and spent countless hours renovating and restoring the old building and its contents, including bringing the 170-year-old scotch oven back to life.
Fran talked to Rebecca about her desire to reduce emissions from the old oven by using sugar gum to increase heat efficiency and offset emissions via a partnership with Maldon Primary School encouraging the children to propagate seedlings specific to the region.
Rebecca has replaced the refrigerator with a more efficient unit, which utilises cups that are compostable with recyclable lids, as well as offering discounts for the use of keep cups. She is also hoping to have solar panels installed in the near future.
To read the full story of the Maldon Bakery or for more information about working towards net zero visit: mtalexnetzeroworkinggroup.org.
