Congratulations to everyone who made this successful Community Forum possible – and to those who participated!

For those that couldn’t make it, around 60 people heard Climate Change expert from Deakin University, Associate Professor John Sherwood outline some of the specific impacts of Climate Change on the Otways: property values, the environment and the economy of the region. Sherwood explained in clear, measured terms that, due to storm surges, a rise of 50 cm in sea level would mean a 50 metre inland shoreline movement. The minimum expected rises are between 50cm – 100cm leading to the likelihood of a 100 metre shoreline movement. The northern regions of Victoria are expected to dry out. There will be considerable pressure on the Otways through population influx, pest plant and animal migration and the need to secure local sources of food and water.

Associate Professor John Sherwood

But will we have the will, or the resources, to create north-south wildlife corridors to allow for the migration of native animals and birds? What will happen to local businesses when sections of the Great Ocean Road are closed? Where will the town of Apollo Bay be relocated? Sherwood asked if we, as a community, would be prepared to defend the infrastructure of our towns or retreat inland?

The 2 other speakers, David Shapero, Managing Director, Future Energy Limited, and Scott Kinnear, Hepburn Renewable Energy Association, spoke about their experiences in working with the Hepburn community. This community had not only been able to imagine a different future
but to act on it. Hepburn is now well on its way to raising $10 million for 2 community owned wind turbines that will power the majority of houses in the district. They pointed out that climate
change is not just a cause for hopeless concern or alarm but can also offer economic opportunities that demonstrate how communities can prosper when they take action.

Sherryl Smith chaired the community forum. She explained that the purpose of the forum was to gauge the level and range of interests within the Otway community. The audience indicated that their primary interests were Community Power, Local Food Production and Sustainable Housing.

The future of the Otways does not have to be bound to economic and infrastructure collapse. As a community, we are capable of imagining and creating a more prosperous and sustainable future. Members of ORCA believe that only community owned actions are truly sustainable and that local actions have a global impact.

It is never to late to participate. You can make a positive contribution. Why not make a difference? ORCA will be having its inaugural AGM on Monday at 6:30pm on the 17th November in the Community House (6 Pengilly Ave, Apollo Bay). All positions are vacant and nominations for Chair, Treasurer and Secretary are called for and will close at 5:00pm November 17th. Please contact either Matt Armstrong 03 5237 1007 or Simon Pockley 0418575525.

More photos from the Forum will be uploaded soon…

Previous Steering Meeting Minutes 20th October 2008.

Calendar of coming events:

Please add any further items using the comments box below.