The Coorong, Lower Lakes and Murray Mouth Research Centre (CLLMM RC) will host a community forum to discuss responses and readiness for ongoing climate change and emerging issues like avian flu.

Titled ‘Stronger Together: Navigating Environmental Challenges Ahead’, the forum will be held on Friday 5 September at CLLMM RC, in Goolwa.

It has been organised in response to community eco-anxiety – fear and dread caused by worsening environmental conditions, says CLLMM Engagement Coordinator Sue Ellison.

“To address ongoing community concern about the recent marine algal bloom and blue-green algal outbreaks in the Lower Lakes, we invite the community to explore these key environmental challenges we are living with, and how we can prepare for what are sure to be harmful future events.” 

Australia currently remains the only continent not experiencing the H5N1 strain of avian flu, but Sue Ellison  says there is heightened awareness of the damage to be caused by a local outbreak of this highly contagious and globally spreading disease.

“We are bringing together experts, First Nations and other local voices to share knowledge and help build stronger connections with Country, community and the environment. 

“Together we can identify how we can take action and make interventions that have a positive impact for the environment, the community and individuals.” 

The forum aims to address community anxiety by providing accurate information and space for dialogue, supporting emotional resilience and proactive responses.

Speakers include:

• Senior Ngarrindjeri Man and local business owner Mark Koolmatrie.
• Professor Shauna Murray - University of Technology Sydney.
• Dr Brianna le Busque - Program Director: Environmental Science & Geospatial Science, UniSA
• Karl Hillyard - Principal Ecologist Wildlife Management, Department for Environment & Water.
• Professor Paul Arbon - Director of the Torrens Resilience Initiative, Professor of Nursing, Flinders University.

The community forum will run from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. It is free to attend but registration is essential via Humanitix.