Finally, Des Bolton, a Burdekin farmer passionate about sustainable agriculture provided insights into the impacts of climate change in his area and industry. He reflected on the emotional impacts of mass animal deaths, which have taken many livestock along with native birds and kangaroos which call his property home.

Each of our presenters left us with the same final message: speak up for the environment, don't downplay the impacts of climate change, and don't stop having these important conversations with everyone you meet.

Above (left to right): Mark Ogge (the Australia Institute's Principal Advisor); Dr Scott Heron (Senior Physical Scientist with NOAA Coral Reef Watch and Adjunct Principal Research Fellow at JCU); Des Bolton (Managing Director of Revegetation Contractors Pty Ltd); Q and A session with Des, Mark and Tarquin Moon (NQCC's Campaigns Manager).

Thank you to everyone who supported this event.

"Oak Valley Cattle Project Refused"

This week, NQCC joined with Oak Valley residents and numerous local organisations to publicly oppose the development of a cattle holding facility in Oak Valley. An article published in the Townsville Bulletin the same afternoon revealed that the project was refused on the grounds that it was inconsistent with the City Plan.

This was an inspiring display of a community coming together and speaking out against the development. NQCC helped to spread the word about this development last year fielding numerous calls from concerned residents and helping them to understand more about their rights under the local planning scheme.  Together with the community and other organisations like TAIL, we were able to ensure this development would not be granted Council approval.  Thanks to all who spread the message, made submissions and stood up for this precious Black-throated finch habitat.

Various concerns were voiced regarding the proposed Oak Valley cattle project, which was ultimately refused by Council.

Upcoming Events

Big Solar for Townsville - Training Night

There's just been a pledge of $100 million to repower schools around Australia with renewable energy, which is a great first step, but the first of many.

We all want Big Solar for our region (one of the sunniest regions in the country) - so how do we make sure this happens? We need grassroots support, which comes from communicating about the benefits of solar with all kinds of people within our area.

Join us at 114 Boundary St, Railway Estate today (Thursday 28th) from 6pm to learn how to have these conversations and make Big Solar for Townsville a reality!

NQCC is proudly co-hosting this event with AYCC (the Australian Youth Climate Coalition), so it will be fantastic to have participants of all ages come along. This is a free training event, however we do ask that you RSVP here for catering purposes. If you'd like to learn more, see the Facebook event or email Alicia at [email protected]. 

Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA) Workshop

NQCC will be presenting at the CAHA Workshop for Townsville medical professionals on Sunday 31 March from 9am to 5pm at James Cook University. This exciting alliance is for strong climate action and they are looking to grow their presence in our region. We welcome your assistance in promoting the workshop among your networks. For more information, please visit their website or see the Facebook event page.

Media Training for Townsville

Help transform how the media covers climate change by becoming a media spokesperson either as a concerned member of the public or to represent your organisation!  The Climate Media Centre are conducting a full-day media training workshops in regional Queensland on Saturday 6 April from 10am to 3.30pm, location TBC.  To RSVP please email Tarquin at [email protected] ...time is running out to register!

Green Drinks

It was great to get together with like-minded members of our community this month at Grill'd (in the secret garden behind the restaurant), and to hear from some passionate presenters on the topic of marine health and plastics.

Please note that Townsville Green Drinks is now held on the second Friday of every month. The next Green Drinks will be on Friday 12th April, at the same location (Grill'd on Palmer St, in the secret garden).

If you'd like to be kept up-to-date with all things Green Drinks, please join the "Townsville Green Drinks" Facebook group or join the Green Drinks mailing list. If you are interested in making a short presentation about your environmental group or project at the next event, email [email protected]. 

Member Event

Save the date! NQCC will be hosting a member event on Wednesday 1 May at 114 Boundary St, Railway Estate, Townsville. This will be a great chance to catch up on current campaign news, enjoy some free pizza and socialise with fellow members. Not a member? You can easily sign up online between now and then, or come along and sign up on the night! 

How You Can Support NQCC

Just a reminder that you can show your support in a variety of fun ways: 

• Create a postcard-sized masterpiece and donate it to our Postcard Art Exhibition and Fundraising Auction
• Donate your container refund to us using our ID code: C100 283 66 or drop your containers off at our office
• Become a monthly donor for as little as $5 a month
• Buy a box of 48 recycled toilet rolls for $50 (Text Mary on 0432 577 240)
• Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
• Renew your membership for 2019-2020 (or become a member!)
• Volunteer - in the coming weeks we will be looking to fill some specific volunteer roles, so keep an eye on your inbox

Until next month!