In the Media

This week local youth including Girton's very own Ildi Clemens and Erin Tinker gathered to speak about their disappointment in Australia's refusal to take strong action on climate change.  

Read more below from the Bendigo Advertiser.

Students band together in Bendigo in hopes of having climate concerns heard

By Alex Gretgrix

13th October

A YOUNG group of central Victorians are set on having their voices heard as they come together on Friday.

The School Strike for Climate group were out in Bendigo on October 15 to express their disappointment and anger at the "nation's refusal to take strong action to lessen damage to our climate."

Bendigo student and organisation spokesperson Lilly Correll expressed her frustration.

"After the 2020 bushfires, it deeply saddens me that the Australian government still isn't taking climate change seriously," she said.

"When our current leaders are in the ground, kids like me will be left to watch the world crumble and burn."

SS4C is calling upon the government to take decisive action.

"In the lead up to the COP26 Glasgow climate conference, it's more important than ever to demand that governments everywhere take immediate action on this crisis," another organising member Ildi Clemens said.

Because of COVID constraints, there will be no large rally, as in the past, but people are invited to drop by at the Library Gardens on Friday between noon and 3.00pm.

"It will be a COVID safe event, with under 10 people at any point in time." Lilly said.

"We ask people to drop by and leave a flower as a sign of support."

Lilly said older people are also welcome to come by and show solidarity with Bendigo's young people; to leave a flower, and write a message to our leaders.

The students will be joined by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards, City of Greater Bendigo mayor Jen Alden and youth mayor Jack Smith from 1pm.

Our young people are worried that the time is rapidly running out if we want to avoid complete climate catastrophe.

"This is why we are striking on October 15th. I'm scared for my future," Lilly said.

"When will the politicians learn that some things are worth more than money?"