St Arnaud and district residents are invited to participate in a community-wide conversation about ways to better respond to extreme weather events and shape solutions that make sense for the region.
Make a Change Australia, in partnership with Northern Grampians Shire Council and supporting organisations, will host a 'Let's Talk About BIG Weather' community event on Tuesday, June 24.
The event will be at St Arnaud Town Hall from 11am to 12.30pm.
Make a Change Australia executive director Karen Corr said Let's Talk About BIG Weather was designed to bring together residents, businesses, students and community groups to share experiences, spark ideas and build stronger local responses to the impacts of heatwaves, fires, floods and other extreme weather events.
"This is a community-led initiative, tailored specifically for the Northern Grampians, and focuses on fostering bottom-up, locally relevant solutions," she said.
"It's also a first step in building stronger connections between locals, young people and the organisations working on climate resilience and recovery."
Ms Corr said extreme weather was already having a lasting impact on Northern Grampians Shire residents' homes, livelihoods and wellbeing.
She said following recent fires and ongoing climate pressures, there was a clear need to prepare for what might come next.
"We think young people in particular have a vital role to play in shaping how our communities respond to climate-related challenges," she said.
"They bring fresh ideas, lived experience and are likely to have a strong interest in what the future holds.
"Despite being increasingly aware of these challenges, young people are often left out of the conversation.
"This project aims to change that. It's about giving them a seat at the table and supporting their leadership so we can co-create local solutions that last."
Mayor Karen Hyslop said the community event would provide a welcoming space for intergenerational conversations, practical advice and real connections between people who cared about the future of St Arnaud.
"We're pleased to partner with Make a Change Australia on this project," she said.
"Let's Talk About BIG Weather provides an opportunity for youth to take the lead, so I encourage all young people to consider attending this free local gathering, along with other residents and representatives of businesses and community organisations.
"We will hear from guest speakers, enjoy morning tea and share ideas on how we can prepare, adapt and recover from the challenges of 'big weather' more effectively."
Tickets for the community gathering are free but are required for catering purposes and are available online, here.
Ms Corr said Let's Talk About BIG Weather was part of a broader plan to connect local experience with practical action, and to inspire greater participation from young people and emerging leaders across the region.
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If you can't make it to the event, you can still take part by sharing your views online," she said.
"Community members are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and ideas around extreme weather through a short survey."
People can complete the survey online, here.
Ms Corr said feedback would help shape future programs and contribute to a growing network of residents working together on climate resilience and community wellbeing.
"This project also builds on existing initiatives and recovery efforts, helping to link people, ideas and support – now and into the future," she said.
