Dear Welcome to the Conservation Council's Yellow Box Newsletter, our monthly update on the latest news, campaigns and events relating to the environment in the ACT. It feels like we are coming out of our winter hibernation a little here at the Conservation Council, but are still going through a period of transition, with some staff finishing up and new staff beginning. We are excited to welcome Eleanor Lawless back to the Conservation Council in the role of campaigner. Elle commenced this week, so if you see her in the office, please make her feel welcome. Elle comes most recently from the Wilderness Society in Newcastle, and we are looking forward to reaping the benefits of her experience there. We will also be shortly welcoming Sylvia Gunn into the role of Events and Fundraising Manager. Sylvia comes to use with experience engaging with donors and a strong organising background in the ACT's environment movement. It's very exciting to be building our team and settling everyone in after so many changes! We have been busy making submissions to the ACT Government on important plans for creating a more sustainable future for our region. Have a read of two below on single-use plastic and bushfire management. We also recently endorsed the Invasive Species Council's submission on the draft National Environmental Biosecurity Response Agreement (NEBRA) released by Australian national, state and territory governments in May 2019.
While it might be cold in Canberra at the moment (though warmer and drier than usual), heatwaves hitting Europe remind us that the clock is ticking on keeping our climate safe. I wanted to make special mention about the next Global Climate Strike that will be held on Friday 20th September. Students are calling on adults to join the strike this time around, and I would encourage you to promote this event to your groups, networks, friends, and colleagues via social media and in conversations. We will be working to engage community groups and workplaces to get as many people as possible to join this event. If you weren't able to attend the last student strike in March, then I would encourage you to get along to this one and hear what our young people are thinking and feeling about their futures in the face of climate change. Happy reading! Regards Helen Oakey Executive Director Conservation Council ACT Region |