Sparking Awareness, One Conversation at a Time
Katrina van den Brenk
Katrina van den Brenk
For Katrina van den Brenk, becoming a Volunteer Energy4Seniors Volunteer Energy Champion was driven by a simple but powerful observation: many seniors are worried about their rising electricity costs, yet aren’t sure where to turn for practical, trustworthy advice.“Many people just keep living the way they always have,” Katrina explained. “They know costs are increasing, but they don’t know what measures they can take to reduce them—or even where to look for information.”
Determined to make a difference, Katrina joined the Council on the Ageing Queensland’s Energy4Seniors Project to help older Queenslanders understand their options and feel empowered to take action.
Creating Impact Through Everyday Conversations
Katrina embraced her role as an Energy Champion in her daily life. Whether chatting with neighbours, speaking to friends over the phone, or connecting with people as she moves around her community, she regularly raises the topic of energy use and costs.
Katrina often prompts people to think differently by asking simple, important questions:
• Are you aware of the concessions you may be eligible for—and have you applied?
• Do you read your electricity bill and understand it, or do you simply pay it and grumble?
• Have you checked whether a different provider or plan could save you money?
• Are there easy habits you could change—like boiling only the water you need?
She’s also quick to direct people to energymadeeasy.gov.au, a resource many are surprised to learn exists.
“These conversations get people thinking,” Katrina said. “Some go on to consider options they never realised were available.”
A Ripple Effect of Positive Change
Katrina noticed the ripple effect. Friends who have heard her Energy4Seniors tips often go on to share the information with their own networks.
“It spreads from person to person. People realise they thought they were doing everything they could—but there’s actually much more they can do.”
Learning and Growing Along the Way
For Katrina, volunteering with the Energy4Seniors project has been both rewarding and humbling.
“It’s made me realise that although I work happily with other volunteer organisations, I’m finding E4S a bit perplexing at times,” she admitted with honesty and good humour. “Even trying to watch a recommended YouTube video gave me a challenge!”
Still, she’s committed to growing her skills and continuing her learning—an experience that many seniors can relate to as technology and information move quickly.
Concerns and Insights from the Community
Katrina frequently hears sentiments that concern her—comments that highlight misunderstandings about energy use, subsidies, and long-term planning:
• “My electricity isn’t costing me much—those government subsidies really help.”
• “Why bother with energy-efficient appliances? I won’t be around much longer.”
• “Why are power points so often placed so low and hard to reach?”
These remarks remind her of the importance of clear information, forward planning, and advocating for safe, accessible homes for seniors.
A Thoughtful Voice for Seniors
Katrina brings honesty, curiosity, and compassion to her role as an Energy4Seniors Energy Champion. Even before delivering her first presentation, she is already making an impact—one conversation at a time.
Her work reflects an important truth: empowering seniors isn’t always about grand gestures. Sometimes, it begins with a small suggestion, a question, or a friendly reminder that help and information are available.