Connecting to the environment

Glossy Black Cockatoo (Spencer Hitchen)

The Gympie Campus of the Sunshine Coast University is set to host the highly anticipated Eco-Connect Environment Forum on Sunday 8 September promising a day filled with educational and enjoyable activities aimed at fostering environmental awareness and action.

The forum features a diverse line-up of speakers, interactive sessions and an environmental village with displays, sales and information designed to engage and inspire participants of all ages.

Keynote speakers will be author, photographer and former Noosa Mayor Tony Wellington who will share his insights and stunning visuals, showcasing the beauty and fragility of our natural world. Wellington’s work has captivated audiences globally, offering a compelling call to action for environmental conservation.

Dynamic young environmental advocate Spencer Hitchen, celebrated for his campaign to Save Sunrise Glossies, will discuss his inspiring journey and the critical importance of preserving our native species. Spencer’s presentation will offer fresh perspectives on grassroots activism and its impact on environmental policy.

Interactive Experiences include a demonstration by Detection Dogs for Conservation, the SCU’s trained detection dogs will showcase their skills in real-world conservation scenarios and a Cat’s Claw Creeper Weaving Workshop where participants will explore sustainable crafting techniques while addressing the invasive species that threaten local ecosystems.

In addition a session on Technology in the Field will introduce participants to the latest tools and techniques used by professionals in the field.

The Eco-Connect Environment Forum is an opportunity for community members, students, and environmental enthusiasts to come together, share knowledge, and develop practical skills for promoting sustainability. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our environment and the tools to make a positive impact. The forum will be held on Sunday 8 September from 8.30am-4pm at Gympie Campus, Sunshine Coast University, 71 Cartwright Rd, Gympie.

Early risers can take part in a bird walk around the campus with the Gympie Field Naturalists from 7 am onwards.

Registration is essential. Book through Humanitix

Tickets are $30 for adults or $20 for students/concession which includes morning tea and lunch. For those wishing to attend the presentations online, the cost is $10.

Eco-Connect is hosted by GREAT, (Gympie Region Environmental Advocacy Team), a consortium of representatives from community environment and sustainability groups in the Gympie region, formed to collectively promote a cohesive approach to the protection of the environment, and maximise the advocacy of its members with local, state and federal agencies.

For more information, visit great.org.au