Geelong Sustainability hosted First Nations Voices on Climate Action at the latest Climate Connect event.
The incredible guest speakers included Corrina Eccles, proud Wadawurrung woman, and Julie Saylor Briggs, proud Torres Strait Island Irish Australian woman, who shared their emotional stories and inspiring solutions on climate action.
The night started with a Welcome To Country by Corrina and a heartfelt Didgeridoo performance by Michael Cussens. Geelong Sustainability Chairperson, David Spear, introduced the guest speakers, and Campaign and Events Coordinator, Karina Donkers, facilitated the evening.
Corrina spoke of the local impacts of climate change and the amazing work Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Corporation are doing, which includes hiring a Climate Change and Renewable Energy Project Officer, adapting to renewable energy technologies, and participating in community advocacy such as the Save the Southern Sea campaign. Corrina also addressed the realities of how the corporation’s capacity and effectiveness to take action on climate are impacted by a lack of funding, consultation, and their already demanding workload.
Julie shared her perspective as a Torres Strait Island Irish Australian woman, and highlighted the struggles and spirit of her people who are facing sea level rise due to climate change. Julie also spoke of her role in working for the Wathaurong Aboriginal Cooperative and her passion in supporting the Wadawurrung community by advocating for the people and rights of their Country.
The panel was opened up to the deeply engaged audience for questions which brought up topics such as advocacy and social action, and the issues of wind farms and the relationship with First Nations. During the discussion, Corrina and Julie also shared their personal stories and reflections about the grief they experienced on 14 October 2023, during the Voice to Parliament referendum, and the ultimate No vote nationally.
Opportunities to hear First Nations Voices on Climate Action are incredibly powerful in the climate movement and essential to reaching net-zero. Reconciliation cannot be achieved if we are not considering their voices and stories in all matters.