Our story
Our home is regional Australia, and we strive to support the environment, economy, and the enduring prosperity of regional Australia by the way we invest.
Founded in 1984 by Brendon Collins to complement the family’s farming operations, Lightwood grew from an initial focus on sustainable construction to property development and became a recognised leader in sustainable housing within regional Australia. This includes our Elmwood project in Wodonga, being awarded Victoria’s Best Integrated Housing Development in 2013, a 130-townhouse community that remains among Australia’s highest energy-rated homes and the only regional project to receive the honour.
Drawing on our foundations in sustainable development in regional Australia, under the next generation of leadership, Lightwood expanded its capabilities to become a preferred landholder and partner for clean energy and digital infrastructure. Our long-term presence and networks in regional Australia, together with our focus on energy-dense land with immediate access to infrastructure and an understanding of how large-scale energy and data projects integrate with regional communities, position Lightwood to play a meaningful role in Australia’s energy and digital transition.
Our People
Brendon Collins OAM
Since founding Lightwood with an initial focus on sustainable construction, Brendon has grown to become a recognised leader in sustainable housing development within regional Australia. The Governor-General awarded the Order of Australia Medal to Brendon in 2018 for his life's contribution to the construction industry and the community of regional Australia.
Dan Collins
Dan has over 15 years of experience in commercial property development and construction before returning to Lightwood. With extensive experience in all aspects of property, and within ASX-listed businesses, Dan now leads the strategic direction of Lightwood. Dan also runs a small cattle operation on his farm outside of Albury-Wodonga.
Josh Collins
Josh brings more than a decade of experience spanning corporate agriculture and technology before returning to Lightwood. With extensive experience in Australian agribusiness and digital innovation, Josh leads Lightwood’s land acquisition and operations. Josh also runs a small acreage outside of Albury-Wodonga.