General News
10 June, 2024
EB fuelling benefits locally
Last year’s Energy Breakthrough (EB) event has received “extremely positive” feedback — hailed a success for boasting significant cost savings while driving millions into the local economy. Not only is it considered to be the Central...
Last year’s Energy Breakthrough (EB) event has received “extremely positive” feedback — hailed a success for boasting significant cost savings while driving millions into the local economy.
Not only is it considered to be the Central Goldfields Shire’s largest annual undertaking, EB is also the biggest and “longest running science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) educational program in the country”.
Jointly managed and delivered by council and the Country Education Partnership (CEP), for more than three decades EB has showcased the best of Maryborough’s offerings — and 2023 was no exception.
According to its debrief report, endorsed unanimously by councillors at the latest council meeting, the program raced ahead without any major bumps on the road.
Marking its 31st edition last year, the event looked different from its predecessors.
Following the pandemic, and rising costs, the organising committee decided to implement a new model to save expenses.
One major change saw all primary and secondary school races taking place on the same track one circuit.
This move contributed to savings of around $100,000, “allowed for smooth scheduling”, and resulted in “far less” stress.
The report tabled at the meeting added that the 2023 event was up by seven percent in entries and schools compared to 2022 — with a total of 227 teams from 108 schools competing.
It is estimated, with 3500 students, teachers, and families camped across Princes Park during the five-day event, the benefit to the local economy was worth around $3.66 million.
“Local businesses are consistently engaged to provide services for the event whenever possible, resulting in a direct contribution of $132,000,” the report said.
“Plus, a range of community groups are contracted to deliver services including catering, waste management, track setup/pack-up, and cleaning valued at $30,000.
“In addition, some local community groups fund raise at the event and is estimated at a total of $35,000.
“Volunteers continue to play an important role in the delivery of the event, with over seven hundred active volunteers contributing more than 2340 hours per annum, equivalent to $75,000.”
Speaking at the council meeting, Cr Geoff Lovett praised the event and its track record.
“[It’s] absolutely fantastic,” he said.
“As EB evolves and adapts to changing circumstances, its enduring impact on education, local economies and the community, remains steadfast.”
While there were numerous favourable takeaways, the debrief report also noted “key challenges or aspects that did not work well at the event”.
Some of these covered issues around overall event management, volunteer support, safety and waste and engagement with schools.
In response to the challenges, opportunities for improvement were also appropriately identified by involved stakeholders.
Looking ahead to this year’s program, according to the report tabled at the meeting, “efforts are underway to secure funding through tax-deductible donations and philanthropic avenues, leveraging CEP’s approved status”.
“Moreover, discussions surrounding the 2024 event budget anticipate additional revenue streams, maintained by the efforts to cultivate community relationships,” the document further stated.
“Despite the funding challenges and uncertainties, EB remains resilient, fuelled by the dedication of its stakeholders and the unwavering support of the community.”