It may not be the land of ice and snow, but Lake Macquarie faces a battle to combat climate change of a different kind in its western suburbs.
Councillors recommended the draft Teralba to Toronto Climate Resilience Plan for public exhibition at tonight's Ordinary Council meeting at Windale Hub, bilyabayi.
The plan aims to minimise the impacts of climate-related hazards and to build resilience in the nine lakeside suburbs between Teralba and Toronto.
Climate risk studies identify the suburbs of Teralba, Booragul, Marmong Point, Woodrising, Bolton Point, Fennell Bay, Fassifern, Blackalls Park and Toronto as at-risk locations for bush fire, flooding and lake level rise resulting from climate change.
Lake Macquarie Deputy Mayor Jack Antcliff said it was important to proactively plan to build climate resilience in vulnerable areas.
"The north-western side of Lake Macquarie offers a great lifestyle where residents can enjoy living close to the lake and bushland," he said.
"However, this area is also exposed to increasing risks as our climate changes.
"This plan aims to prepare residents, the environment and infrastructure for the changing climate and impacts of natural hazards into the future."
Council also recommended the draft Child and Family Strategy 2025-2029 for public exhibition.
The strategy provides a four-year strategic direction for the delivery of contemporary programs, activities and events to support the diverse needs of children and families across the city.
Three projects were recommended for approval under the Community Environment Grants program, for a total of $10,253.
St Luke's Uniting Church Belmont Community Garden, Hunter Bird Observers Club and The Groundswell Collective were all recommended for funding.
The full agenda and reports are available at meeting agendas and minutes.
The stream of tonight's meeting will be available online at lakemac.com.au within 48 hours.
