The devastating 2019–20 bushfires in Victoria scorched over 1.5 million hectares, killed an estimated 3 billion animals, and destroyed more than 400 homes.

In the aftermath, a group of friends and I came together over dinner, sharing our fears about the future. From that conversation, our grassroots community group was born - driven by a desire to protect the places we love and preserve resources for generations to come.

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There were few ways for young people in our area to get involved or have a voice. Bayside was a traditionally conservative municipality, with spaces that felt geared towards older, established community members.

We had a lot of energy, but navigating the space for the first time we also didn't have aclear direction forward.

• Bayside City Council declared a climate emergency in 2019
• We contributed to strengthening the council’s first-ever Climate Emergency Action Plan
• Developed constructive relationships with local councillors and the federal MP
• Organised a 500 person outdoor screening of 2040 with a live Q&A with the film’s director, raising $5,000 to sustain the group's actions.
• Fostered strong partnerships with local groups and worked to inform the community on the local impacts of climate change and how to take collective action.

• Collaboration is key to getting sh*t done.
• Engage widely to avoid duplicating efforts.