AFTER 15 years of helping people, one of the region’s most prolific charities is going solar.
Fishers of Men provides nearly 1000 meals to vulnerable locals, and operates more than a dozen freezers alongside their commercial kitchen.
With power bills a challenge, a solar company has stepped in to prove that renewable, energy and onsite battery storage cannot just cut power bills but eliminate them all together.
The latest project for the Rochedale South charity includes a a high-efficiency 29.04kW solar system paired with a 28.8kWh Goodwe battery.
This state-of-the-art installation is designed to significantly lower electricity costs, reduce carbon emissions, and provide long-term energy resilience.
The inclusion of efficient energy storage ensures the organisation can operate with minimal reliance on the grid, securing a stable and sustainable energy future.
“We are in awe of the work that Branwen and Bobby do at Fishers of Men, and with Bruce and RESINC Solar’s help they can extend their support further across our neighbourhood,” Springwood MP and former state energy minister Mick de Brenni said.
“With the increased cost of living, Fishers of Men is cooking and distributing over 900 meals a week to people doing it tough. Our power bill is through the roof, (now is going to be paid for by solar panels on the roof!).”
The solar and battery system is expected to provide Fishers of Men with:
- Annual Savings: $8,852
- Bill Reduction: 99%
- CO₂ Reduction: 35 tonnes annually
- Return on Investment (ROI): 45.7% over 10 years
- Breakeven Period: 3.3 years
“By reducing operational energy costs, Fishers of Men can reinvest these significant savings into their core mission, further strengthening their impact on the community,” Mr de Brenni said.
“This project serves as a testament to how clean energy solutions can drive both financial and environmental benefits, creating a lasting positive change.
“This installation underscores the transformative power of solar energy in enhancing operational efficiency while meeting sustainability goals. Fishers of Men now benefits from predictable energy costs, reduced carbon emissions, and a resilient power supply that will support their mission for years to come.”
Photo from left to right
Eli Allan: RESINC Solar Electrician
Mr Mick de Brenni State Member for Springwood
Bruce Manning: RESINC Solar General Manager Commercial
Bobby Mearns: One of the founding directors of Fishers of Men
Branwen Mearns: One of the founding directors of Fishers of Men
Brett Robinson: Longi Solar National Sales Manager
Brook Button: RESINC Solar Electrician


