THE “SustainaBellingen Showcase”, originally planned as part of the Bellingen Show program, will proceed as a standalone event this Saturday and Sunday, 9-10 August.
Taking place at the CWA Rooms in Church Street, the free event features a lineup of speakers addressing the community’s resilience to environmental, economic and social issues.
“This showcase represents everything our community values,” said Show President Susan Lumsdaine, “practical solutions, expert knowledge, and the collaborative spirit that builds real resilience in uncertain times.”
Speakers include Graham Creed, the former ABC weatherman who swapped the studio for sustainable farming.
He will be a member of the “Sustainable Futures for Our Shire” panel, alongside community psychologist Rob Curnow and local zoologist Gary Fry.
He will also join local weather expert Kev Doye and ecologist Andrew Turbill in examining climate impacts specific to the region.
Speakers Chris Ormond, Brian Hawkins and Shane Ruming from the NSW Department of Environment will share breakthroughs in the recovery of the critically endangered Bellinger River Snapping Turtle, which lost 90 percent of its population to disease in 2015.
The Jaliigirr Biodiversity Alliance will present information on its specially trained koala detection dogs and how they are revolutionising efforts to locate and protect local populations.
The Great Koala National Park session features Paula Flack speaking about the proposed 315,000-hectares of continuous wildlife corridors connecting fragmented forests, and how they will transform the Coffs Coast.
Meaghan Burkett from Ethical Fields, a recognised leader in community wealth building, will explore how local communities can take hold of their economic agency.
The Housing Matters Action Group and Community Land Trust will tackle one of the region’s most pressing challenges, while “The Waste Wizard” Jules Laurent will share insights on waste reduction and circular economy principles.
Amanda Fairbanks will address textile waste in “Fashion: Fix It, Don’t Bin It”, while Andrew the Bird Guy will show audiences how to create backyard havens for native birds, and the “Women Who Farm Network” will celebrate the vital role of women in agriculture and sustainable farming.
Beyond the speaker presentations, the showcase offers hands-on learning opportunities.
Bellingen Shire Council’s Carole Sampson will demonstrate a digital sand table displaying real-time environmental modelling over local terrain and what happens in bushfires and floods.
Jason John will be available to discuss Landcare opportunities across the shire, while the Bellingen Alternatives Bookshop will provide curated sustainability resources.
The Bellingen Singers will highlight how social, mental and physical wellbeing can be strengthened through performance.
“This event… brings together excellent minds, great passion, innovative solutions, and strong collaborative spirit,” Sustainability Convenor Liz Jeremy said.
“Whether we’re talking about turtle conservation, climate adaptation, or economic sustainability, the Road to Resilience will emerge when we work together.”
Registration is required for the free tickets. Visit bellingenshow.com.au/attractions-sustainabellingen-showcase.
By Andrea FERRARI
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