Going green going well

Published on 06 September 2023

Our new Environmental Sustainability Officer, Luke Lister, has hit the ground running, tackling everything from coastal and estuary management to renewable energy and reducing our carbon footprint.

Why choose environment work as a career?

I think growing up in an eco-resort on the Far South Coast and having an inspiring Earth and Environmental Science teacher led me to university and subsequent employment.

I get a real satisfaction out of giving back to the environment and feeling connected to it.

What drew you to council work?

I have worked for a range of employers in the private and public sector, from not-for-profits like Conservation Volunteers to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

This is the second council I’ve worked for, and honestly, I enjoy the level of engagement with the community that I get out of the projects I work on, as well as the structure that council brings.

What projects are on the go at the moment?

There’s always something to keep me busy, and I usually have several projects running at the same time.

I’m currently working on a river bank stabilisation project at Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park, developing a Coastal Management Plan, weed control at Baileys Island, investigating sustainability improvement for the Leisure Centre, data management to measure progress on renewable energy and ‘Net Zero’ targets, and our work as part of the Cities Power Partnership.

You recently planted more than 700 trees with Kiama High School students, what was that like?

I thoroughly enjoyed working with local Year 7 students on National Tree Day, teaching them how to plant local native species of grasses, shrubs and trees, and to care for our environment.

They really enjoyed learning about our local environment and getting their hands dirty planting trees.

The single most rewarding experience for me is inspiring people to have an interest in and passion for environmental management.

I also enjoyed being part of an event that bought the students together with our community, Landcare groups, and of course our great environment team and outdoor workers.

What’s something exciting you’re working on?

The development of the Kiama Coastal Management Plan. We’ve just received the Stage 3 report which we’re aiming to publish very soon and work on the draft Stage 4 report is already underway.

Once the Coastal Management Plan is complete, it will provide a science-based, practical way to manage our coastline.

What are some of the challenges you face?

Working in a small council means keeping on top of your work. It also means you learn to be a ‘Jack of all trades’ when it comes to environmental management, doing the planning, paperwork, budgeting and getting your hands dirty all at the same time.

Give us some fun facts about the environment in our LGA?

Storm Bay in Kiama is one of only two homes of the critically endangered marine slug Smeagol hilaris.