Regional Voices: Lessons from Totally Renewable Yackandandah - Matthew Charles-Jones & Matt Grogan

In this episode of emPOWER, Wendy Agar sits down with Matt Charles-Jones (MCJ) and Matt Grogan from Yackandandah, Victoria, to explore how a small regional town has taken charge of its energy future. Both deeply involved in the Totally Renewable Yackandandah (TRY) movement, they share practical lessons on how communities can embrace renewable energy, drive local action, and create meaningful change. Reflecting on Cathy McGowan’s words—“If not now, when? If not you, who?”—this conversation highlights the power of community-led energy transitions and the opportunities for regional Australians to shape a fair, coordinated, and locally-driven energy future. Together, they explore: How Yackandandah turned a vision for 100% renewable energy into reality The characteristics of communities that self-organise to embrace big ideas Critical relationships and partnerships that enable lasting local change Lessons for developers, engagement practitioners, and regional leaders on empowering communities Insights from the Regional Energy Accord process and why local collaboration matters Whether you’re working in renewable energy, regional development, community engagement, or are a community leader, this episode offers inspiring, actionable ideas for putting regional voices at the centre of the energy transition. emPOWER is proudly supported by The Energy Charter, a CEO-led collaboration across the national energy sector committed to delivering better outcomes for communities and customers during the energy transition. Produced by The Podcast Boss

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