Past Educational
Seminars
Mr Hamish Butler and Mr Brian Latham– January 2024
Moreton Water Plan Consultation
Attendees were informed that the Water Act 2000 and Water Regulation 2016 currently serve as the guiding water legislations for public servants. The existing Moreton water plan, last updated in 2007, is now due for revision, with the public consultation process unfolding in two phases: the current phase and another in approximately 12 months when the draft plan will be open for review again. Please see our January newsletter for more information.
Dr Gilad Bino– October 2023
Creek condition and native fish in Enoggera Creek
Gilad shared with us the five-step plan that was followed to reintroduce Platypus successfully into Royal National Park in NSW. Partnerships, community engagement, and scientific knowledge were all critical to make
sure the habitat was suitable and the Platypus would thrive.
Mr Leo Lee– August 2023
Creek condition and native fish in Enoggera Creek
Mr. Lee highlighted the gradual decline in Enoggera Creek’s well-being during the past decade. While the planting along the creek’s edges has improved shelter for wildlife, the waterway itself and its inhabitants face significant challenges—excessive runoff of fertilizers, chemicals, and microplastics. The discussion revolved around identifying and implementing measures to restore the creek’s health.
Mr Sam Mullen – June 2023
Brisbane Sustainability Agency
Mr. Mullen detailed the initiatives carried out by participants in the Brisbane Carbon Challenge pilot program to diminish their carbon footprint.
Ms Clare Silcock – April 2023
QLD Conservation Council Energy Strategy
Ms. Silcock discussed the Queensland Conservation Council’s commitment to support the green energy transition, aligning their efforts with the recommendations outlined in the IPCC report for the decade ahead.
Dr Tamielle Brunt – 21 February 2023
The Platypus Project
Dr Brunt presented her extensive research about the distribution of Platypus across Southeast Queensland. Unfortunately, environmental DNA testing indicates that there are no Platypus left in Enoggera Creek. She elaborated on the necessary conditions to reintroduce Platypus to The Gap.
Prof Leonie Barner – 8 November 2022
Waste Reduction and Management
Leading the Centre for a Waste Free World, Prof. Barner guided us through the lifecycle of the waste we regularly dispose of in our wheelie bins. She encouraged The Gap community to embrace recycling and green waste composting, emphasizing their significant contribution to greenhouse gas reduction.
Mr James Fox – 16 August 2022
Marist College Sustainbilty Actions
Leading the Centre for a Waste Free World, Prof. Barner guided us through the lifecycle of the waste we regularly dispose of in our wheelie bins. She encouraged The Gap community to embrace recycling and green waste composting, emphasizing their significant contribution to greenhouse gas reduction.
https://www.marash.qld.edu.au/about/college-campus/sustainability-and-environment/
QLD Parks and Wildlife Rangers – 21 June 2022
Platypus
The Walkabout Creek Rangers provided insights into the historical presence of Platypus in The Gap, shedding light on their ecology, especially their foraging and mating behaviours.
https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/walkabout-creek-discovery-centre/
Queensland’s Chief Scientist Prof Hugh Possingham – 26 April 2022
Using Mathematics for Sustainable Action
Professor Possingham shared crucial insights regarding the remaining carbon budget before a potential tipping point is crossed globally. He conducted a comprehensive review of our three projects, demonstrating how we can evaluate them by considering key factors such as costs, feasibility, impact, and value.
Dr Mary Debrett – 22 February 2022
Ballarat Renewable Energy and Zero Emissions (BREAZE)
Dr Debrett explained the community energy model that Breaze has developed and shared various resources if such an approach was to be implemented in The Gap.
Mr David Kingdon – 13 October 2021
Backburning: Friend or Foe?
Mr. Kingdon showcased bush examples in The Gap that had undergone or had not undergone backburning. He explained the benefits of strategic backburning for weed control, emphasizing the importance of timing and methodology.
Mr Trevor Evans, MP – 8 September 2021
2020 Recycling and Waste Reduction Bill
Mr. Evans outlined the government’s waste reduction strategy, focusing on the reduction of non-recyclable plastics and Styrofoam. He detailed the intricate negotiations and the extensive stakeholder engagement required for policy changes in the waste sector.
Prof Lidia Morawska – 14 July 2021
Indoor and Outdoor Air Pollution
Professor Morawska talked about the diverse sources of air pollution, encompassing car emissions, industrial facilities, coal dust, and more. She conducted a carbon dioxide measurement within the room and elucidated the health ramifications of indoor air pollution originating from electronic devices and printers.
https://www.qut.edu.au/about/our-people/academic-profiles/l.morawska
Councillor Steve Toomey – 9 June 2021
BCC Sustainbility Offerings
Cr Toomey highlighted the health and environmental benefits of active transport. Transitioning to these modes of transport will help reduce traffic congestion and pollution in The Gap and surrounding suburbs.
Mr Luke Reade – 12 May 2021
Community Energy Models
Mr. Reade presented a synopsis of how a warehouse and market in South Brisbane harnessed solar power to curtail energy expenses, ultimately benefiting all occupants within the warehouse.
Mr Alexander Stathakis – 14 April 2021
Carbon Footprint
Mr. Stathakis explained the concept of a carbon footprint, outlined the process for calculating one’s personal carbon footprint, provided strategies for its reduction, and assessed the effectiveness of carbon offsets.
Mr Stuart Richards – 10 March 2021
Energy Conservation
Mr. Richards delivered valuable insights on conserving household energy through the adoption of energy-efficient appliances, including options for hot water production, and employing smart practices when utilizing solar power.