Climate forum fills up, looks to expand

PLACES are full at an event organised by Clifton Springs Curlewis Coastcare and Geelong Sustainability next month about how climate change may affect the Bellarine.

Organisers hope to increase capacity or schedule a second event.

The Climate Risk Forum on February 25 will discuss how everyone can strengthen local resilience together.

There will be a deep dive into climate impacts on the Bellarine based around the draft Bellarine Coastal Adaptation Plan, released by Bellarine Bayside.

The event will also unpack the National Climate Risk Assessment released last year, alongside the latest insights into coastal adaptation planning and emergency preparedness for our region.

Leading experts and local practitioners will talk about what is changing, what is planned, and how the community can be better prepared.

Speakers will include:

• Neil Plummer – climatologist and climate services expert

• Judith Brooks – community activist, educator and writer

• Allison Elsey – coastal planning and programs co-ordinator, Bellarine Bayside, and

• Nicole Shortis – unit controller, Bellarine SES.

There will also be information stalls, practical resources, space to connect with others, and a light supper provided.

“Climate change is already reshaping the Bellarine,” Geelong Sustainability program and climate campaign co-ordinator Karina Donkers said.

“Rising seas, extreme weather, and changing conditions are putting pressure on our coast, our homes, and our communities.

“Now more than ever, this is a crucial conversation for our region.”

The Climate Risk Forum will take place at Springdale Neighbourhood House, Drysdale on February 25 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

For more information or to join the waitlist, head to home.springdale.org.au/climate-risk-forum

For more information on the Bellarine Coastal Adaptation Plan, head to conversations.bellarinebayside.com.au/coastaladaptationplan