Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group - Riddells Creek Cool Changes

In 2022 the citizens of Riddells Creek identified two foundational values of their community - to create a more connected community, and to reduce emissions. In response to these values, the Riddells Creek Environment and Energy Expo (now the 'Riddells Creek Sustainability Festival') was created by the Riddells Creek Cool Changes action group. The Festival was first held in 2024, and has since run each year. Over these three years, Riddells Creek Cool Changes has engaged over 140 volunteers to plan, develop and run the event. It has also involved approximately 100 businesses and organisations, and attracted over 1000 visitors.

The Festival is a free, annual, and community led event that brings together community members, experts and innovators from across the state in order to explore sustainable living solutions that benefit both the environment and the household budget. It boasts many high quality opportunities for education and motivation regarding water usage behaviour change, and wider waterway protection strategies. Both Greater Western Water and Melbourne Water have participated as stallholders in previous years. The Festival also holds panels and presentations led by experts in a variety of fields, and runs many sustainability-focused activities for both adults and children.