On Sunday the 20th October, Tasmanians young and old will climb to the pinnacle of Mount Wellington, as part of an event organised by the young Tasmanians of the Australian Youth Climate Coalition (AYCC). The walkers will send a clear message to politicians – to ‘aim higher on climate’, encouraging more decisive action on climate change and warning against new coal developments proposed in Australia.

Walkers can elect to start their climb at one of three places – an 8am start from the Waterworks, a 9:30am start from Fern Tree Tavern or an 11am start from The Springs. The Tasmanian AYCC encourages Tasmanians of all ages and fitness groups to join the group climb to the summit on Sunday. There will also be an opportunity for interested people to meet the group at the top. At the summit walkers will be welcomed with a celebratory lunch and photo shoot, along with a short presentation and the opportunity to be involved in activities.

There are currently around 50 people committed to the climb and the event promises to be a success, sending a strong message to politicians about the direction that young people want to see their leadership take. Local AYCC member Lauren Burke said ‘We live in one of the sunniest and windiest countries in the world, there is no reason why we can’t be leaders in using and exporting 100% renewable energy instead of coal’. With the Federal Government’s recent decision to repeal the carbon price, the AYCC states that it is irresponsible to remove current climate policy without having a credible replacement plan to reduce emissions.

Feel free to join in. Registration is essential. For information about how to register and all other enquiries, please contact Jessie Westbury ([email protected]).

The Australian Youth Climate Coalition is a coalition of Australia’s largest youth organisations and more than 80,000 young people from across Australia. Our mission is to build a generation wide movement to solve climate change before it’s too late, through bringing about short term political impact and long term cultural change.
Louisa Stredwick