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General News

20 June, 2024

Talking about BIG weather

As the frequency of extreme weather events increases across the world, “what do you reckon” can be done to mitigate their impact? That’s the question locals, especially the youth, are being asked to think about as part of the Building the...

By Prealene Khera

Big weather demands big thoughts, especially from younger people like Chelcee Whittingslow, Saf Rowe and Jade Marson — and an upcoming event will provide a platform allowing them to do just that.
Big weather demands big thoughts, especially from younger people like Chelcee Whittingslow, Saf Rowe and Jade Marson — and an upcoming event will provide a platform allowing them to do just that.

As the frequency of extreme weather events increases across the world, “what do you reckon” can be done to mitigate their impact?

That’s the question locals, especially the youth, are being asked to think about as part of the Building the Future — Young People Taking the Lead event, which is coming to town next week.

The event is part of the ‘Let’s Talk About BIG Weather’ initiative, which will see six sessions hosted across the Loddon Mallee region, with the first one launching in Maryborough on June 25.

Broadly, the program addresses the impacts of extreme weather and explores new ideas and solutions for a better-prepared future.

According to Karen Corr from Make a Change — the not-for-profit organisation spearheading the program — the upcoming event presents young people with the opportunity to share experiences that can help others understand local challenges.

“We want to know if and how they’ve been impacted in the past,” she said.

“It’s important to know how they got through it and what their thoughts are on responding to extreme weather events in the future.

“Our theme this time is based on the fact that young people are going to be the most impacted by extreme weather and so they need to be part of the solution — their perspectives need to be heard.”

On the day, audiences will hear from:

  • Kelsey MacDonald and Jemille McKenzie from the Youth Climate Network.

  • Sam Kane, president of the Golden Square Pool.

  • Saf Rowe, Year 12 student from the Maryborough Education Centre, who will share her thoughts on climate change and sustainability.

  • Although the focus is on young people, everyone is invited to attend to listen, learn and ask questions.

    Those attending will also be able to complete a questionnaire about their own experience of the weather.

    “We’re asking people to tell us what they reckon about big weather,” Ms Corr said.

    “Whether you’re a local resident, business owner, or just interested in your towns’ future, this and all the events offer valuable insights and a chance to connect with and learn from others over a free cuppa and cake.”

    Future events will cover the following topics: Livable and Resilient Homes, Living with Water, Creative Recovery, Revitalising our Towns and Women Strengthening Towns.

    Building the Future — Young People Taking the Lead will be held on Tuesday, June 25, at The Station Cafe in Maryborough from 4 to
    5.30 pm.

    Complimentary refreshments will be available and registrations are recommended — visit events.human itix.com/building-the-future to book a spot.

    Tony Macer, Saf Rowe and Vern Hardie are asking residents to attend next Tuesday’s event and share their own weather experiences.
    Big weather demands big thoughts, especially from younger people like Chelcee Whittingslow, Saf Rowe and Jade Marson — and an upcoming event will provide a platform allowing them to do just that.
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