Resilient Environments, Resilient Communities
We were delighted to be part of the recent ACT Environmental Volunteers Conference as a keynote speaker. Brought to you by the ACT government and community Landcare, the conference drew together over 200 environmental volunteers, community organisations, experts and policy makers to exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from each other.
With the theme "Resilient Environments, Resilient Communities" the ACT Environmental Volunteers Conference explored innovative approaches, local experiences, and the latest research in environmental conservation, addressing the challenges of climate change, and fostering a sense of connection with nature.
As part of her keynote presentation, Waminda provided an update on the latest research on the collective benefits of nature connection across both human health and planetary wellbeing. With the talk highlighting the amplified benefits that can be achieved when moving above and beyond contact with nature. Waminda’s presentation was followed by engaging panel discussion between Professor Bruce Pascoe, Sally Holliday, and Dr Kathy Eyles - exploring What, Why and How Nature Connection can be incorporated into Landcare and Environmental practices.
“On behalf of Karissa Preuss and myself as co-chairs of the conference organising committee – thank you all so much for your time on Saturday. Your expertise and experience made for a rich and engaging discussion about the importance of community and connection to nature. It was clear this discussion resonated with the audience, and your insights emphasised just how important it is to keep that connection alive.
We are receiving wonderful feedback from conference attendees – Waminda and Bruce’s keynote speeches and this panel discussion really made a significant impact on the success of the event.
Thank you again and for your commitment to driving positive change.”
Kate Jennings, Coordinator – Connecting Nature, Connecting People, ACT NRM Environment, Planning & Sustainable Development Directorate
A keynote presentation from Professor Mark Howden provided yet another reminder of the wicked climate challenge we face, calling for an urgent need to incorporate nature-positive solutions as part of combating carbon emissions and biodiversity losses. Mark’s presentation was followed by lively panel discussions from Mark, Dr Jamie Pittock and Elizabeth Goodfellow.
Other breakout themes on the day included Citizen Science, Attracting and keeping volunteers, how to convert Concrete Jungle in the ACT Bush Capital and Conservation and Urban Ecology Adapting for Tomorrow.
Professor Bruce Pascoe provided a captive closing address drawing on his own personal experience of Connection with Country and healing the land through traditional cultural practices including bushfoods.
NatureFix was grateful for the opportunity to explore the wide-ranging benefits that nature connection can offer to the Landcare movement. Working in partnership, Landcare is now offering a 30-day nature connection program to their volunteers and constituents that seeks to dive more deeply into the research on nature connection. Starting in October, the program will include a series of nature connection activities with weekly check-ins with discissions. To learn more about the program or express your interest in joining please email miles@theconnective.co or waminda@theconnective.co
Photo credit: Dave Jenkins, of Ghetto Media
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