The following candidates have responded to DCAN’s questionnaire:
Josh Fergeus (Rucker)Here are their responses on our climate change and sustainability questions
Jeremy Graham (Latrobe)
Liz Leveridge (Cazaly)
Bo Li (Cazaly)
Rose Ljubicic (Cazaly)
Trent McCarthy (Rucker)
David Redfearn (Rucker)
Susan Rennie (Cazaly)
Oliver Walsh (Rucker)
Adrian Whitehead (Cazaly)
Leon Zembekis (Latrobe)
Andrew Longmire (Rucker)
Check out the responses of candidates to the Darebin Appropriate Development Association’s questionnaire and to Darebin Bicycle Users Group.
Josh Fergeus (Rucker)
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
I've just finished reading Bill McKibben's Eaarth. I was putting it off because I am a regular reader of books and papers on global warming / climate change and I knew it would simply serve to reinforce things I already knew and didn't want to hear. I really enjoyed it, however, because of the way Bill emphasised local solutions as a big part of the overall picture if we are to mitigate the worst effects of climate change. The effectiveness of these local solutions is one of the reasons why I am interested in being a local councillor. It is a massive threat which I do not believe our society or any level of our government takes seriously enough.
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
Yes. However, I believe Council needs to be doing much, much more to achieve this goal. I have included this goal in my 150 word candidate statement.
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
See above.
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
I support this plan, a plan which only came to fruition due to my friend and running mate Cr Trent McCarthy
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action?
I was disgusted to see Cr Morgan move a motion to suspend Council's membership of NAGA, and have commented publicly about how I thought this was a shortsighted and foolish decision. Council has deprived local businesses and residents of the benefits of millions of dollars worth of support in becoming more energy efficient, and thus moving towards Council's own goal of carbon neutrality. If elected I would immediately propose that Council rejoin NAGA at the earliest opportunity.
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
I have run for the Greens in three previous elections - for Monash Council in 2008 as the first-ever Green candidate for that area, in Chisholm at the Federal election in 2010, and in Mount Waverley in the State election in 2010. At each of these elections I was the sole voice raising climate change as an issue in the local area, and championing sustainability measures, local food production, and renewable energy. I have also been occasionally involved with the work of Quit Coal.
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
I would continue the excellent work of Cr Trent McCarthy in these areas, focusing on ensuring the carbol neutral goal of Council was properly implemented, rejoining NAGA (and the VLGA, which has shown some leadership in these areas), and supporting residents and traders to make the change to more sustainable practices. This would include advocating for walking, cycling and public transport, encouraging the take-up of solar power within Darebin, and reducing barriers to residents successfully producing food locally.
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability. What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role?
I am the President of the Darebin Residents and Ratepayers Association, the Secretary of the Foster Care Association of Victoria (the peak body for volunteer foster carers across the state), a Director of the Australian branch of Defence for Children International, and a Director at Care With Me, an organisation working with migrant and refugee communities to better link them in with appropriate local services.
Contact details: Josh Fergeus Phone: 0488 505 752 facebook.com/joshfergeus2012 twitter.com/joshfergeus2012
Jeremy Graham (Latrobe)
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
Global warming and climate disruption is a serious threat to both the natural ecosystem and human civilisation. At its worst, unchecked climate change could lead to unprecedented species loss and the global failure of agriculture.
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
I support Darebin council having a climate change action plan that aims for carbon neutrality by 2020 but preferably sooner than that.
b. I support the Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015. Including the aim of carbon neutrality for the Darebin municipality by 2020.
c. I support the Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009. I believe that Peak Oil should be viewed as an opportunity to change the way we as a community live, for the better.
d. Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action. I support membership of the naga and I think it is a disgrace that the present council voted to cease membership.
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
I have campaigned as both a student environmental activist and later a member of the AGV for 9 years. My first success was campaigning to have Monash University incorporate energy efficiency and emissions into their bottom line which eventually led to Monash adopting a policy to go carbon neutral.
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
If elected I would review the entire range of council activities for greenhouse mitigation opportunitees. I am particularly interested in the advancement of medium scale solar generation on commercial and municipal buildings.
C. Liz Leveridge (Cazaly)
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
Yes a very serious threat particularly for the next generation my grand children and future generations. From an environmental impact global warming and climate change also possess a whole lot of other implications for the people of the affected areas but also a financial and sociological component. When communities are affected by global warming and climate change this also changes peoples lives after floods, bush fires, landslides etc with the trauma and uncertainty of the future and all that brings. We can already determine the impact with the demise of frogs, crops and plantations.
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each:
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action?
I have quickly read through the policies and I would support measures that were proven to be sustainable to benefit all residents as part of the Council initiative to further improve our environmental footprint before it is too late. I would agree to support all of the current policies and review these by relevant experts and to see how things can be improved. I would conduct a Green Audit of Council to reduce costs and waste. Continuous review of policies needs to occur and relevant work by timelines and with changes this needs to be factored in to this important area and serious threat to our future.
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
I have taken action on supporting a number of things via email protest and lobbying politicians on numerous items that are developing and will continue to do so. As per my candidate statement I will lobby state and federal government to fund items that are not solely councils' responsibility.
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
I would suggest measures that were proven to be sustainable and to be of benefit for residents to be adopted at council. I would also have this area under constant review and looking at all the ways in which our community could work together to be sustainable.
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability. What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role?
I am running as an independent candidate again on the issue of rates and to lower these and improve services. I would conduct a Green Audit of Council to reduce costs and waste, to achieve card neutrality and a greener Council. Protect our environment from unnecessary development. Understand the issues of the future Darebin and plan facilities appropriately. I want to represent the community with courage, care and common sense to make Darebin a thriving, diverse sustainable community. I want to achieve reduction in costs and waste, increase quality services, increase State Funding and Federal funding, increase accountability to residents and achieve a greener better Darebin.
Bo Li (Cazaly) www.boli3072.com
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
The threat of climate change is well documented and supported by strong evidence and vast majority of the world’s scientific and social science academies. As stated during the Darebin Planning Forum, I believe the key in tackling climate change is behaviour change in individuals. It IS possible for individuals to make changes to tackle climate change. The council should and must play leadership roles in educating residents about climate change; practical steps for adaption and sustainable living; and infrastructure to support individual actions. That’s why I have released three key policies on
a. Assessing health impact of all council policies, in addition to financial and environmental considerations (please see below re link between climate change and health).
b. Sensible, Sensitive and Sustainable Development.
c. Sustainable Transport, including key infrastructure for bikes, public transport and cars.
Details of these policies can be found on http://www.boli3072.com/election-policies.html
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
I comment these three documents en bloc as I believe they are interrelated. I am supportive of these three above documents. However, it should be noted that the Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 will need to be updated. In addition, the Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil -Adaptation Plan 2009 may need to be reviewed to ensure its currency. If elected, I will support a review of these three documents to identify areas of synergy and, where appropriate, a closer re-alignment of strategies to ensure efficient use of council resources, in terms of both human and financial capital. This may result in the drafting of a comprehensive climate change action plan that combines the three documents, or, a continuation of the documents in their existing formats. Finally, I will ensure the updated document(s) have SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time bound) so that they can be reported to all residents in their first two years of operation, and again before the next council elections (i.e. 2014 and 2016).
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action?
It is very disappointing that Darebin has suspended its membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (NAGA), especially given the commitment demonstrated by 8 other neighbouring councils, not to mention regional and shire councils in other parts of Victoria. I strongly believe that collective efforts with other local governments not only underscore Darebin’s resolve in tackling climate change at a community level (and give meaning to the three abovementioned documents), they also provide best outcomes for residents through economies of scale so the council can pass any savings directly back to its residents through bulk purchases in collaboration with other councils (e.g. renewable energy). Darebin should renew its membership with NAGA as soon as possible after the election. This will be a priority should I be elected on the council.
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
What I have come to appreciate in my 12-year experience in policy and community development is that in order for policies to succeed in the short term and be sustainable in the long term, they must be integrated with other policies and not operate in silos isolated from each other. That’s why I strongly believe that climate change policies must be evident and integrated in all other aspects of council policy, such as planning and development and local infrastructure. I have used the Darebin Community Climate Change Action Plan 2009-2015 in my submissions to VCAT opposing an 8 storey development on the old Windsor Smith factory site on High Street. I have also made personal submissions to the Darebin Housing Strategy, Darebin Cycling Strategy as well as to the review of the State Planning Framework (all these submission are accessible via my website). I was proud to have introduced my organisation (the Australian Psychological Society) to the Climate and Health Alliance (http://caha.org.au/ ) in order to bring about closer collaboration between the climate change movement and that of health policy development.
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
In addition to reinstating Darebin Council’s membership with NAGA, I will support the following actions:
a. Community awareness and education programs through local groups. These education programs can be both general (e.g. information on climate change) and specific (e.g. increase recycling to decrease landfill).
b. Upgrade and increase access to community open space, particularly in Preston and Reservoir. This will encourage families to utilise local infrastructure and decrease energy consumption.
c. Improve local transport options (as outlined under my Sustainable Transport policy). This will amplify the effect of point b. above (e.g. families cycling to a local park instead of driving to another park 10 km away). This is also a demonstration of my policy integration approach as outlined in my answer to question 3 above. Data supporting my calls for access to open space and sustainable transport can be found here http://www.boli3072.com/media-releases.html
d. Work with households, businesses and clubs to increase use of renewable energies, which can be bulk purchased through partnerships with other councils via NAGA.
e. Review and implement recommendations from the three documents in question 2, targeting particularly council asset purchases (e.g. low energy streetlights, energy efficient vehicles and other plant and equipment).
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability. What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role?
I am credited as the first candidate with a social determinant of health (housing, transport, local environment, community services etc) election platform [footnote i]. The links between health and climate change is well established. In addition to extreme weather variations and its effect on personal health, the health of communities is also impacted by climate change (e.g. housing security and access to fresh food). By advocating for a “health in all policies” approach [footnote ii], Darebin can examine issues and their policy responses from financial, environmental, social inclusion and health perspectives in order to play a balanced role in supporting the health and wellbeing of residents and local communities. That’s why I have released detailed policies on planning and development as well as sustainable transport, as they can both be integrated with existing health and environmental considerations. All my policies are well researched, with established evidence and can be practically implemented under a SMART goals framework as I outlined in my answer to question 2 c. above.
Footnote i http://blogs.crikey.com.au/croakey/2012/09/05/is-this-australias-first-political-campaign-on-the-back-of-a-social-determinants-of-health-agenda/
Footnote ii http://www.health-inequalities.eu/HEALTHEQUITY/EN/policies/health_in_all_policies/
Andrew Longmire
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
Warming due to human activities is a probable cause of changes already evident in the climate, including increasingly intense storms, heavy rainfall events, heatwaves, droughts and other extremes. These changes disrupt both human and natural systems, and have massive environmental, social and financial costs. Changes to rainfall patterns, desertification and seawater incursion in croplands linked to climate change have the potential to seriously disrupt agricultural systems. This would cause hardship and dislocation on scales not before considered. This is a climate emergency. We must act now, reducing our emissions to zero and beyond in the current decade to prevent catastrophe.
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
I strongly support the climate action plan 2007-2009 but feel the plan should be updated to reflect the rapid development of energy efficiency technologies. Reliance on gas to fire cogeneration in Darebin’s recreation facilities is an improvement on the status quo, but is not as positive a move as it could be because it relies on fossil fuel – alternatives should be sought. Greater emphasis on local energy generation would also improve the plan.
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
Carbon neutrality is an excellent objective that can be supported by local government, and the 2020 timeframe is appropriate to the urgency for action on climate. There are some excellent initiatives in the plan, such as serious, well-planned efficiency measures, but faster implementation would better prepare council, businesses and citizens to make the necessary emissions cuts. Community initiatives that support carbon neutrality in Darebin, such as medium-scale solar, should also be actively supported. Carbon neutrality must include reliable auditing of the carbon sinks used to ‘offset’ residual emissions.
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
According to the International Energy Agency, peak oil production probably happened in 2006. Strong fluctuations and continually rising liquid fuel costs will be a problem for council to manage. The recommendations of the Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan deserve full implementation; indeed, in some places these could be strengthened – for example, annual targets for decreasing fuel consumption could be lifted. Our community deserves to be insulated from fuel costs as far as possible, and this can be done by improving ‘walkability’, cycling infrastructure, influencing public transport improvement and by steering clear of new road construction.
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action?
Darebin’s absence from NAGA is shameful and stains the willing coalition of northern local government areas to take action and advocate on climate. By excluding ourselves from NAGA, Darebin foregoes the opportunity to move forward and collaborate with other councils and to lead state and federal governments by example. Citizens and council should have access to NAGA to amplify their ideas and energy beyond the local area. NAGA is also a key asset to the implementation of the Darebin Community Climate Change Plan 2009-2015.
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
I volunteered for Beyond Zero Emissions for two years before commencing work for them. I participate in community actions with Quit Coal. I regularly present myself in person or otherwise to Martin Ferguson or his staff, to advocate for his acceptance of large-scale zero-emissions energy sources, or to make direct complaints about his allegiance to fossil fuels. I look forward to Mr. Ferguson’s departure from politics, and have let him know I will work toward this. I also communicate with state politicians on climate. I am a founding member of Community Energy Darebin (CED).
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
• Resume Darebin’s membership of NAGA
• Support CED’s push for a financially self-sustaining solar array, sized around 100kW, to be established on a roof in Darebin and later replicated. This scheme would allow all community members, regardless of their income or home ownership, to invest in a scheme that will make a material difference to carbon emissions.
• Work toward climate-safe purchasing council-wide.
• Revise planning procedures to embed favourable treatment of very high standards of energy efficiency and sustainable, climate-safe sourcing of building materials.
• Investigate municipal and other waste streams as energy sources and for nutrient recapture.
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability. What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role?
My family and I take pride in the neighbourhood we live in and are keen contributors to the Merri Community Group. We also get our hands dirty planting trees with the Merri Stationeers. I actively campaign against the duplication of Merri Parade, as I have against the roads lobby generally. I made a comprehensive submission to the City of Melbourne’s City of Melbourne Bicycle Plan 2012-16.
Rose Ljubicic (Cazaly)
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
I believe that all levels of government need to be doing more to address this crisis. At a Federal level, we have a 20% emissions reduction target - only the beginning! Darebin's committment to achieving carbon neutrality is great on paper, but it requires councilors who have the courage of their conviction to see this through.
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
Yes.
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
Yes.
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
Yes. I support Cr McCarthy's visionary contributions to this plan for action. One Green Councillor was able to see this plan take shape, with more on Council, we can reform the attitudes of Council towards climate change and reinforce their responsibility to lead this change now and into the future.
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action?
Yes. I strongly support Council's former membership of NAGA, and as a Councillor I would move to reinstate this immediately.
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
I have worked as a volunteer with Quit Coal to move to more renewable forms of energy production. I am a small business owner, running a low carbon footprint eco guest house as an example of what can be achieved with ease and comfort. I previously ran an organic store promoting the benefits of local food production. I have been involved in Clean Ocean, Point Nepean Conservation Group, and the Indigenous Flora and Fauna Association, and I was a key campaigner fighting against the dredging of Port Phillip Bay.
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
I would continue the excellent work of Cr Trent McCarthy. I would like to focus on ensuring the carbon neutral goal of Council is successfully implemented. I will propose rejoining NAGA and support residents and traders to make the change to more sustainable practices. This would include working towards bulk purchases of solar panels and solar hot water systems to reduce costs for residents, improving bike paths to make commuting by bicycle safer and more accessible for Darebin residents, and encouraging local food production through proactive policies.
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability. What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role? [No need to repeat any already mentioned in question 3.]
Opposing the proposed development in Hutton Street, I am a foster carer, I'm a member of the Darebin Residents and Ratepayers Association.
Trent McCarthy (Rucker)
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
Global warming is the most serious issue facing life on this planet. As a species, we need to rapidly transform our systems and behaviours to reduce our emissions and avoid / mitigate a ‘runaway’ climate scenario (some believe we are already in this phase). I have consistently supported calls for a climate emergency to be declared by State and Federal Governments, and participated in the 2008 Sustainability Convergence where this idea was initially proposed.
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
Yes, in 2008 I ran on a climate change platform which including bringing forward Council’s carbon neutrality target to 2015. While other Councillors were not willing to support this shift, I have been able to champion key projects, eg. street light replacement, cogeneration at Northcote Aquatic Centre and Reservoir Leisure Centre, that enable Council to exceed its yearly targets. If re-elected, I will again propose that Council moves to achieve carbon neutrality by 2015 or sooner.
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
Yes, I was the councillor representative on the steering committee that developed this plan. When the council officers and consultant proposed a 50% emissions reduction target, I lobbied other councillors to support a zero emissions target and succeeded in getting this position adopted. Through my role on the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action Executive, I have worked with other councillors and staff to upscale Darebin projects to achieve regional emissions targets, as part of NAGA’s TZNE Plan. Just like Woking UK and other leading climate action cities, we can make the shift to a zero emissions municipality.
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
Yes, I led Council’s adoption of this plan, including connecting Council with Transition Darebin (of which I was part of the original initiating group) to ensure that Council’s internal activities to adapt to the impacts of climate change and peak oil were integrated with community-based adaptation activities. This led to Council adopting its first Food Security Policy, Sustainable Food Strategy and Heat Wave Action Plan, of which I was also the proponent.
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action?
I’ve served on the NAGA Executive since its establishment. When Council voted earlier this year to suspend NAGA membership, I argued against this and outlined the many reasons for continuing Council’s involvement. I have moved numerous motions for Council to resume its membership, and other motions that demonstrate the value of NAGA membership to the community, eg. Darebin’s share of the $900K grant to assist small businesses and the $10M grant (expected to be received) to support low-income households in the NAGA region. If re-elected, my first item of general business will be to rejoin NAGA.
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
I’ve been continuously involved in climate, environment and sustainability campaigns for 17 years. I helped re-establish the Cross-Campus Environment Network in 1999 and served as de-facto State Environment Officer. In the early 2000’s, I developed the ‘Environment Ambassadors’ project, in partnership with the Australian Conservation Foundation, Environment Victoria and The Wilderness Society. This project up-skilled 100 grassroots environment groups and activists to be more effective in their campaigns. I’ve worked with Merri Creek and Darebin Creek Management Committees, Greenpeace, Sustainability Victoria, EPA, ECO-Buy, waste management organisations and community groups to influence policy and decision-making at every level of government.
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
If re-elected, I will move to bring forward Council’s carbon neutral target to 2015. In collaboration with DCAN, Transition Darebin, Community Solar and other local groups, I will push for Council to support a medium to large-scale solar project. I’ll ensure the new Greenstreets Strategy (currently out for comment) is adopted by Council with an increased target for tree-planting and canopy cover across the municipality. I proposed this new strategy in 2010 and have since supported a complementary Community Forest Strategy. I’ll push for more raingardens, community food production projects, bulk offers for solar PV, hot water and electric bikes.
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability. What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role?
Since 2009, I’ve been a White Ribbon Ambassador for Darebin (the international campaign to prevent violence against women). I volunteer as a mentor / adviser to the Sudanese Lost Boys Association, as well as other community groups. I’m the co-founder/director of the Whitelion Bail Out, an award-winning theatrical fundraising event that has raised over $2M to support young people in detention, poverty and at risk of imprisonment. The Bail Out has engaged over 1,000 business leaders in these issues and last year I was a finalist in the Australian Human Rights Awards. I’ve been active on other issues since 1995.
David Redfearn (Rucker)
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
Grave, the scientific consensus says a 2 degree warming but we may be facing worse as scientists are conservative in public commentary due to the need for rigour and in response to an often toxic debate. We can’t comprehend the disruption caused by 2 degrees warming let alone 4. We face something diabolical unless something changes; every little bit counts but we need to know that just walking instead of driving is not the total solution. Is this something that can be managed if we act in time or are we looking at a crisis response, a critical question for policy makers at all levels. The laws of thermodynamics cannot change but our human systems need to both for adaptation and mitigation
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
It’s a very valuable document for the community in that it clearly outlines the science, possible futures and the policy context. The council must be commended for setting a target for carbon neutrality in its own operations and needs to continue working to achieve this The key principles are right and there are good and proper practical actions and responses in the document
A sustainability report such as that recently developed by La Trobe University could also be a possibility to help with monitoring progress, ongoing policy responses, actions and advocacy. See: http://www.latrobe.edu.au/sustainability/report/2011
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
I endorse setting a carbon neutrality/zero emissions target for Darebin by 2020. Zero emissions would stabilise the situation but we may have reached a point where we must reduce emissions even further. Investment in both efficiency and renewable energy at all levels is key to this and I support local inititiatives
The ground is shifting rapidly in relation to what we know about the consequences of global warming. Policy has also moved on with the carbon pricing legislation in Australia and the resultant institutional and funding mechanisms. Council must stay abreast of the opportunities provided by these and other measures.
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
This is a good document that correctly identifies the appropriate response areas relating to risk, technical, regulatory, institutional, avoidance, research and educational measures that are needed. It gives an impressive roadmap for direct council action both direct or where council needs to either collaborate or influence to achieve outcomes.
As indicated above, I would like this linked to a public document such as the sustainability report developed by La Trobe University and would like to see a more prominent ongoing role for the community and council decision makers perhaps through an enhancement of DERG
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action?
It is shameful to think that a foundation council could have suspended NAGA membership this year. I am totally committed to Darebin rejoining and being a key player in NAGA
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
• Through the Labor Environment Action Network (LEAN) I spoke to ALP branches on climate change and carbon pricing and set up a forum on carbon pricing for the Northcote ALP with LEAN, the ACF and ACTU. I was recently elected National Co-convenor of LEAN
• Regular posts on the Darebin Sustainability Institute Facebook page
• Membership of the ALP Conservation and Environment Policy Committee helping set climate change policy for Victoria
• Regular attendance at forums e.g. recent Royal Society of Victoria Climate Symposium re mitigation and adaptation
• Developed a Green Jobs document in conjunction with the RMIT for use by schools in the region
• Helped set up the iGreen program to train school students in home energy and water assessments for the Banyule City Council
• Involved in council officer discussions regarding Transition Towns while at Banyule
• Helped develop the Brunswick Northcote Local Conservation Strategy in the 1980s
• Member Merri Creek Management Committee, Friends of Merri Creek and Yarra Riverkeepers Association advocating for river health and biodiversity
• Chair of the Merri Creek Environment Fund
• Former member of DERG
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if elected to council?
• Rejoin NAGA and ensure council plays a highly active role
• Ensure council seriously engages with community proposals for local renewable energy initiatives
• Explore funding opportunities for programs which give access to renewable energy and efficiency programs especially community based ones
• Strengthen community education
• Ensure that council is kept abreast of local/regional initiatives across the globe through networking and information sharing
• Use DERG as a serious clearing house for ideas and for community input to policy making
• Create a live council website with information and links about climate issues and actions
• Ensure council has a voice in regional, state, national or international bodies where appropriate
• Support developing industry policy in the context of skills, jobs and industry development
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability. What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role? [No need to repeat any already mentioned in question 3.]
• Anti F2 freeway campaign via Friends of Merri Creek
• Environmental flows campaign via Yarra Riverkeepers
• Through Friends of Merri Creek currently campaigning on the urban growth boundary extension to protect biodiversity and threatened species in the upper Merri
• As a Northcote councillor, I was involved in the Brunswick Richmond Powerline campaign
• ACF member
• VNPA member
• I have supported various online campaigns through Get Up, change.org.au and others
• I make regular commentary about climate change and other issues on Facebook and Twitter
Susan Rennie (Cazaly)
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
These pose catastrophically serious threats to individuals, communities, species, and ecosystems here and internationally. Inundation of island communities, extreme weather events in Australia and Europe, and melting polar ice all tell us that industrialisation is taking its toll on the planet’s health.
The threats posed by the climate emergency offer us opportunities to re-vision our community at local and global levels. We need to significantly limit new emissions of greenhouse gases and increase our preparedness to respond to and manage the effects of global warming. Local government has an important part to play here, especially in terms of climate justice.
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
Council is a consumer of energy and a change agent. I welcomed council’s formal commitment to using both roles to address climate change. The plan mandated a range of good sustainability programs conducted by council staff.
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
This current plan provides a solid framework for action. There is a disconnect between the plan itself and the commitment of some councillors. I strongly support the 2020 aim and would work to improve funding for projects towards that end.
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
I endorse both the plan and the practice of reporting on the status of planned actions.
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action?
I would immediately initiate/support rejoining NAGA.
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
With my neighbours, I started a local sustainability street. We have a range of street-level practices that support sustainable living. I grow organic vegies, “freecycle”, commute on my bike, and buy second-hand wherever possible.
I am a member of CERES and also wrote a successful application for our childcare centre to receive a federal grant for water tanks.
I supported the introduction of a carbon tax by attending demonstrations, signing petitions and writing to politicians. Recognising the limitations of that tax and the need for stronger action to address the climate emergency, I have also attended several Transition Darebin meetings.
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
Council should utilise the powers it has available to take a more proactive role in encouraging sustainable building and development. Accordingly, I will push council to:
• reduce rates on any new or renovated property that achieve 8+ energy ratings
• explore incentives for Green Star certification for new commercial buildings and commercial retrofits
• reduce landfill by amending by-laws relating to hard rubbish collection and introducing community composting facilities
• continue solar purchasing schemes and consider other large scale solar projects.
I will push for at least biannual status reports on council’s climate related plans.
See www.susanrennie4cazaly.com for more details on these policies.
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability. What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role?
I am active around a range of community issues:
• Recognition of the rights of children with same-sex parents (I lobbied the only Liberal politician who crossed the floor to vote for this legislation)
• Gambling (I succeeded in preventing the Stolberg Hotel’s application to introduce pokies)
• Planning (I coordinated several neighbourhood campaigns and made submissions to VCAT ).
I have been a member of the board of Women’s Health in the North for seven years (two as chair).
I am a member of the regional advisory group for the prevention of violence against women.
Oliver Walsh (Rucker)
1 . How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
It is incumbent on all levels of government to preserve the environment; I want a world where my kids and their kids can enjoy the same environment that I did growing up as a child in Northcote. Climate change is real, it is happening now, and it is having a particularly strong impact on Australia, and our region.
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
I broadly support The Darebin climate action plan, including the aspirational target of carbon neutrality by 2020. I support council using practical methods to achieve carbon neutrality by using energy only when necessary and ensuring its use is efficient as possible. I also support council switching to renewable energy.
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
I broardley support Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan, as I encourage Darebin to play an active role tackling climate change, I also support council doing what it can to reduce its greenhouse gas emmisions.
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action? /
I give in principled support of the councils membership of the Northern alliance for Greenhouse action as I believe that measures that Darebin council takes to tackle climate change is best done as part of a bigger picture approach to the issue.
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
I have been a supporter of the of the no BTS66 campaign, and have attended several of the protests against the proposed new development of the power terminals on the site. I am appalled by the lack of leadership and political cowardice shown by the federal minister for energy and resources and our local member Martin Ferguson has shown on this issue. As a member of the Liberal Party I have attended several climate change policy forums within the Party.
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
It is incumbent on all levels of government to preserve the environment; I want a world where future generations can enjoy the same environment that I did growing up as a child near the merri creek. This is why I believe it is very important for Darebin council to continue to protect the amenity of our local parks, waterways and gardens. I believe that local council can show leadership on practical measures such as tree planting projects, as well as promoting environmentally sustainable activities such as cycling as a mode of transport,
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability. What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role.
I have been involved in a variety of campaigns both in Northcote and the wider community. In my local community I campaigned against a proposed farmers market on Sumner Park. I have also campaigned against many new High-rise apartment proposals where council and government alike have failed to consult adequately with the local community. At my former football club I served for several seasons as a committee member, working as media and communications officer. During my time at the University of Melbourne I also campaigned for better student services and for more money to go into services that directly help students.
Adrian Whitehead (Cazaly)
1. How serious a threat are global warming and climate disruption?
Climate change will utilmately threaten the survival of human society around the globe and may cause 90% extinction of current species.
2. Do you support the following Darebin Council initiatives? Please comment briefly on each.
a. Climate Change Action Plan 2007-2009 including the aim of carbon neutrality for council operations by 2020?
Great that is it there. Understate the problem and need to go further. I oppose the use of co generation. Needs to have a target of negative emissions. Council should adopt a 100% green energy policy. Tree planting is not really an offset and is simply putting the tree back where they once were, biochar provide a real choice.
b. Darebin Community Climate Action Change Plan 2009-2015 including the aim of carbon neutrality for Darebin municipality by 2020?
Great that is it there. Need to have a target of negative emissions.
c. Darebin Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan 2009?
No comment
d. Membership of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action?
Should rejoin
3. What action have you taken to influence climate change and/or sustainability policies at the local, state or federal level?
Started BZE, worked on climate change since 2003, saved to Otway forests.
4. What action would you take on climate change and/or sustainability policies if [re]elected to council?
Make it a priority. I am running on the issue of climate change. We are now well past the time we can avoid taking serious action. See below for my views on how Darebin Council can respond to climate change and related issues.
Council operations and policy
a. Immediately reverse the previous council decision and support a vote for the City of Darebin to rejoin Northern Alliance For Greenhouse Action.
b. Support and strengthen existing council Climate Action plans.
c. Work with other councillors to develop support for strong action on climate change
d. Ensure council operations are carbon negative.
Emergency preparedness and response to climate events
a. Ensure Council is prepared to provide emergency assistance during extreme weather events, particularly support the most vulnerable during future extreme heat waves, and mop up after severe storms and flooding.
b. Ensure the community is emergency ready.
Helping People Respond to Climate Change
a. Facilitate local food growing, including increasing education and increasing the number of community food gardens, especially for the disadvantaged and those living flats or with limited growing space.
b. Increase public education on climate change, the solutions and treats.
c. Support the most vulnerable to adapt to climate change.
d. Rebuild a sense of community and community support networks where people begin to look after each other and get to know their neighbours
Transport
a. Build and facilitating zero emission transport infrastructure such as bike paths, on road lanes and bike parking,
b. Expanding the creek bike network and linking Darebin Creek Trail directly to the Main Yarra River Trail, a new trail to Edwards Lake, and improve creek crossings such as at Merri Creek and Moreland road with a new bridge at creek level.
c. Safety also needs to be address on the St Georges road bike path.
d. Encourage the expansion of the tram network with Darebin such as extending the 112 to Edwards Lake.
Housing and development
a. Support initiatives to increase minimum efficiency standards for all building.
b. Protect suburban blocks and maintain access to garden space, with the exception of developments that include significant garden space and high environmental standards.
c. Support co-housing projects within Darebin.
5. We are also interested in your community campaigning in areas other than climate change and sustainability.
What other community groups or campaigns have you been active in and what was your role? [No need to repeat any already mentioned in question 3.]
Leon Zembekis (Latrobe)
I’m a genuine independent, not an ALP or ‘Dummy ALP’ candidate. The ALP has made living in Darebin unaffordable for everyone by increasing your Rates well above inflation every year without your consent or authorisation. I will immediately stop this burden and reduce Rates with my three-step plan as detailed below. If the Councillors disagree I will get the State Government to legally dismiss these untrustworthy Councillors and appoint Administrators to fix their financial mess.
Firstly I will concentrate spending your money on Council’s essential services. Secondly I will stop the wasteful Council expenditure on services that are not their responsibility. I will get an independent Accounting firm to perform an efficiency audit on Council spending. Thirdly I will actively campaign to get State and Federal Governments to provide grants that equal half Council’s spending just like they used to. Enough is enough of them wasting your money! You decide.
