Summit hike to highlight plight of the planet

Posted July 5, 2017

A group of Young Mayo members are hiking to the summit of Mt Barker next month to shine a light on the lack of “real” action from the Federal Government to tackle climate change.

Young Mayo spokesman Jacob Kemp said he and fellow members wanted to draw attention to the “political gridlock in Canberra” and send a message that Australians wanted “courageous leadership”.

“Young people are sick of inaction in Canberra,” Jacob said.

“This is an issue that will disproportionately affect young people and the electorate of Mayo with its vast coastline.

“Australia’s climate has warmed over one degree Celsius in modern times and the temperature continues to rise, as reported by the Bureau of Meteorology in its State of the Climate report (2016).

“This poses unique challenges for our region which is already subject to high bush fire risk conditions.

“We wanted to do something to bring attention to the issue, something we could invite the wider community to join us in solidarity and show our community leaders that all generations want action.”

Hike for Climate Change is being held on Wednesday, July 12, from 2-5.30pm.

A shuttle bus will be leaving from outside the Gawler Street office of Rebekha Sharkie, the Federal Member for Mayo and sponsor of Young Mayo, at 2pm.

Community members who wish to take their dogs along for the hike are invited to meet the bus near the Ukaria Cultural Centre on Williams Road at 2.15pm.

“As well as raising attention about climate change, it’s going to be a great afternoon – a chance to hang out with some mates and meet some new people, and all for a good cause,” Jacob said.

Ms Sharkie will be joining Young Mayo members on the hike.

“I might need a stretcher by the end of it, but I’ll be there showing my support,” she joked.

“Seriously, everywhere I meet young people in Mayo I get the message that they are perplexed and frustrated by the reluctance by the Federal Government to acknowledge the impact of climate change and to act in a meaningful way.

“It is inspiring that Young Mayo members wanted to act in their own way and make a difference.”

To register your involvement in the hike go to Rebekha Sharkie MP’s website http://www.rebekhasharkie.com.au/hikeforclimatechange

Young Mayo started late last year and is a great way for youth in the electorate to get together and share ideas for the area.

The group has already started a campaign to bring the youth mental health service Headspace to the district.

Members started a petition several months ago which can be signed on Rebekha Sharkie MP’s website http://www.rebekhasharkie.com.au/hillsheadspace.

For more information about Young Mayo or to get involved visit the website at http://www.rebekhasharkie.com.au/young_mayo