The Rural Event Toolbox is just one handy part of this Mega Community Toolbox project that aims to engage the broader community to build a stronger, more resilient and capable social network and resource base.
Why is this important? 2023 is “almost certain to be the warmest year on record” after October smashed record temperature highs, while the mercury will keep rising as the warming El Niño effect continues well into next year (UN World Meteorological Organization). The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has declared two major climate drivers linked to hot, dry conditions are officially underway in Australia, prompting further warnings that extreme heat could hit this spring and summer. When an El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole occur together, that tends to increase the severity of rainfall deficiencies. Those conditions are accompanied by an increase in fire danger and extremely hot days. These predicted drought conditions are expected to result in more uncertain income for those dependent on the farming and tourism industry which is more than 70% of our region (Great Southern Development Commission)- potentially devastating for our community.
Within our catchment, we have several smaller isolated rural communities, that have been shrinking/changing in demographics that have impacted social/ spiritual wellbeing (Men's Regional Health). These communities require developing and maintaining support networks leading into these worsening environmental conditions to make them more resilient.
Using the MCT to provide the ability to have events in isolated locations with the ability to have presentations, and community engagement activities on-place enabling people to participate without driving 30 + minutes to town when they are normally lacking the time and resources. Providing a safe social place to connect where they are comfortable, providing resources/audiovisual presentations in isolated areas, and the ability to have a BBQ and a cupper.
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This network will foster a more resilient, prosperous, sustainable, and vibrant community for present and future generations- encouraging active participation in mitigation activities for natural disasters.
Thanks to FRRR partnering with us to deliver Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative in partnership with the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation which funded this project and Green Skills Inc which generously discounted the trailer.