ARGYLL and Bute’s island communities are known for their resilience and innovation – and it is therefore fitting that a major conference looking at those very qualities should be taking place on the isle of Mull later this month.

The Scottish Islands Federation (SIR) has organised the Resilience and Innovation: The Islands Challenge energy conference on Friday 21 September, within Craignure Hall on the island.

A number of key topics for island communities such as grid connection and European Union islands policy will be debated, and those attending will also be able to participate in workshops focusing on particular island issues.

There will also be the opportunity to learn how other island communities around Europe handle challenges and make the best use of their natural resources.

Argyll and Bute Council’s lead councillor for community, Louise Glen-Lee, welcomed the news that one of the area’s islands is to host this major conference.

Councillor Glen-Lee said: “This is an excellent opportunity to get together with people from other island communities, who understand the challenges that island life can bring but who also know how to make the very best use of the opportunities and resources available to them.

“It promises to be an informative day and I am sure that our island communities will be able to share their own experiences as well as learning from others.”