In a changing world with a changing climate, slowing down and spending time in nature can have positive effects on our wellbeing, for ourselves and our community.
That’s the thinking behind Council’s BE CALM initiative – a project for all ages, to help combat an increase in climate anxiety and provide pathways to community connection.
There are many wonderful beings and doings in the Huon Valley that can help you engage locally, keep active or just take a few deep breaths and restore your equilibrium.
So, what do the letters stand for?
B – balance information
E – engage in action
C – connect with nature
A – advocate and educate
L – lean on your community
M – mindfulness and self-care
Starting with recognition
Council formally recognised the global climate emergency in 2023, reflecting a commitment to act on climate change.
We recognise that climate changes such as escalating extreme weather, rising sea levels and biodiversity loss can cause climate anxiety.
This has proven to be especially so for young people who are concerned about the planet’s future, as well as government actions and decision-making.
The detrimental impacts of a changing climate are widely publicised, adding to personal experiences and feelings of sadness to more severe anxiety and depression about all life forms.
This initiative aims to empower our community to understand and manage climate anxiety by engaging with nature, advocating for change and connecting with like-minded people.
Together, we can build resilience and contribute to a more sustainable and hopeful future.
Breaking it down
B – balance information: find a balance between staying informed and protecting your mental health.
E – engage in action: taking tangible steps can range from reducing your carbon footprint to joining community efforts and supporting sustainability.
C – connect with nature by spending time in the Huon Valley’s beautiful, local natural settings. Appreciate the beauty of where we live and improve your mental wellbeing.
A – advocate, educate and help raise awareness about climate issues and solutions. Find your voice.
L – lean on your community, by finding strength in numbers. There are plenty of support networks and like-minded people. You are not alone.
M – practice mindfulness and self-care routines to manage stress, such as meditation, exercise and hobbies to help restore your emotional equilibrium.
One step at a time
Council held field trips earlier this year for a range of contributors, to the Grove of Giants and the Huon River at Judbury. Among those who attended and marveled first-hand at nature were schoolchildren, young people, artists, local Aboriginal representatives, teachers and practitioners, as well as Council staff, including our first Climate Change Officer Malcolm.
We also held a preview screening of a number of short films made about the experience, in the Huon Valley Hub (images below).
Launching in August 2024
Join us as we launch this exciting project on Sunday 18 August 2024, between 1 and 3pm at the Judbury Community Hall.
There will be kelp basket workshops, coastal bush tucker tasters, native plant give aways and more.
Join the gathering of track and trail enthusiasts to explore our local options. You can cycle in from Huonville with the Coffee Grinders who will be meeting at the Huon Bike Shed, Wilmot Road at 11.15am. If you fancy a shorter ride, meet at 12 noon from Calvert Park for a river meander.
A simple hot lunch will be provided.
For more information about the BE CALM initiative, contact Project Manager Mandi Wheatley on 0427 317 815.
Visit our dedicated webpage to find more information and the tools you need to start building those connections. And remember – BE CALM.
This project was funded through the Healthy Tasmania Fund through the Tasmanian Government.
