Katoomba will host a family friendly rally and hoedown on Sunday, December 10 to raise awareness about local bushfire risks exacerbated by climate change.
The rally will commence at 2pm at the Carrington Hotel gardens in Katoomba with guest speakers as well as performances by Andie Isaile and Snain.
An after-party hoedown will occur on the same day at 5.30pm at Junction 142 (142 Katoomba Street). The hoedown will feature a square dance caller, as well as fantastic live music by Whoa Mule! and The Narrownecks. Chai and snacks will be available.
Leura resident Celia Vagg said: “We hope to inspire people in our area to get involved in protecting our natural environment. While many people are aware of the impacts of climate change on the great barrier reef, we sometimes forget that our own backyard has, and will have increased numbers of bushfires of a greater intensity as a result of climate change.”
According to NSW Office of Environment and Heritage: “Average and severe fire weather is projected to increase in NSW in the future” with their 2015 report noting “it is commonly projected that climate change could lead to a doubling or more in the occurrence of extreme fire weather conditions”.
“We hope that this family friendly event will not only be a lot of fun, but may also inspire people to help to make sure climate change issues are seen as an imperative to address as a nation and in NSW,” said event organiser Jennifer Roberts from the Stop Adani Blue Mountains Group.
More information about the event can be made by calling Jennifer on 0404 938 297 by emailing stopadanibluemountains@gmail.com or through www.facebook.com/stopadanibluemountains.