Friday May 9, Be.Bendigo hosted its quarterly Partner Breakfast at Red Energy Arena, proudly presented in partnership with Agnico Eagle Fosterville Gold Mine. The session brought together business leaders and regional stakeholders for an engaging conversation led by Will Wettenhall, Environment and Community Manager at Fosterville. The breakfast highlighted the evolving role of the mining sector in shaping a more sustainable, community-driven future, not just for the industry but for the wider Bendigo region.
Inside the Fosterville Approach
Will Wettenhall gave attendees a compelling look into what responsible mining looks like at Fosterville. With a focus on world-class environmental stewardship, the session unpacked the mine’s strategic efforts in advanced water treatment, tailings management, air quality monitoring, and noise reduction. These aren’t just box-ticking exercises, they’re evidence of a business deeply committed to its environmental obligations and future legacy. Beyond the environmental lens, Will also delved into Fosterville’s broader philosophy: We Listen, We Care, We Act. It’s a mindset that drives meaningful community engagement, support for local businesses, and a respectful and proactive approach to working with Traditional Owners.
Why These Events Matter
Our Partner Breakfast series is more than just a morning catch-up—it’s a unique space where leaders gain insights, challenge assumptions, and walk away with practical ideas to implement in their own organisations. For many in the room, the key takeaway wasn’t just about mining. It was about how principles of accountability, innovation, and stakeholder collaboration can (and should) be embedded across all sectors. Attendees told us they were inspired by how Fosterville’s approach to environmental and community strategy could apply to their own industries, sparking ideas for stronger sustainability initiatives, internal leadership development, and deeper local partnerships.
Looking Ahead
We extend our sincere thanks to Will Wettenhall for his leadership, to the Fosterville Gold Mine team for their ongoing support as Platinum Partners, and to Red Energy Arena for their exceptional hospitality.
As we continue to support our partners with events that inform, inspire, and build stronger business ecosystems, we are reminded of the power of connection and knowledge-sharing. Our Partner Breakfasts are a space to listen, to learn, and most importantly, to act.
