Highway to Hell: Are we stuck in a Climate Action Cul-de-sac?

With ever-increasing frequency of floods, intense storms and bushfires, we know the climate crisis is accelerating. 

We also know that the solutions are with us, the everyday people who hold the power to vote and compel decision-makers to enact the right policies for the health of our planet.  

I’m Chels Hood Whithey, Founder of House You and a local 350 Australia supporter, and I am excited to invite you to a pivotal event that will empower our community to take decisive action on climate change: Highway to Hell: Are we stuck in a Climate Action Cul-de-sac?

Date: Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Venue: Brunswick Picture
Cost: House Tickets $20

This isn’t just another talk about climate change. It’s a call to action, featuring renowned climate scientist Dr Joelle Gergis, lead author of IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report and The Quarterly Essay ‘Highway to Hell’.

Dr Joelle Gergis asks: “How many disasters does it take to wake people up to the fact that Australia’s climate is becoming more extreme, with today’s destruction set to be dwarfed by things to come? Do people realise that adapting to climate change won’t be possible in some parts of the country?”

Joining Dr Joelle Gergis is a panel of local experts and advocates:

  • Isabelle Reinecke, Founder of Grata Fund
  • Michelle Lowe, Strike 4 Climate activist and school teacher
  • Royce Kurmelovs, Journalist and author of “Slick: Australia’s Toxic Relationship with Big Oil”
  • Monet Shortland, Young Leader with Ocean Voices
  • And me, Chels Hood Withey, Founder of House You

With a federal election around the corner, the organisers have also invited the Labor incumbent, Justine Elliot, MP (did not attend) and Greens Candidate Mandy Nolan  to speak. 

Together, the event will tackle crucial discussion points:

  1. Ending new coal and gas projects
  2. Transitioning to 100% renewable energy
  3. Creating sustainable local jobs
  4. Tackling climate, housing, and cost-of-living crises through integrated solutions
  5. Holding governments and corporations accountable
  6. Changing the climate story from despair to possibility

The event is our chance to:

  • Learn from top climate experts and Northern Rivers advocates
  • Connect with local activists and organisations
  • Contribute ideas for community-driven climate initiatives
  • Turn our climate anxiety into meaningful action

The event will culminate in a community forum, empowering attendees to get involved with local climate justice initiatives; ensuring community voices shape the path forward.

Remember: we are the ones we’ve been waiting for. Our community’s voice and actions are more crucial than ever in pushing for bold climate solutions.

Will you join me and others in the community in turning the tide on climate change?

Can’t make it? Consider donating a ticket to enable youth participation in this critical event.

For our shared future,

Chels Hood Withey 

Supporter of 350 Australia and Northern Rivers Community Organiser

Founder of House You

P.S. Spread the word! Share this event with your friends and family. The more of us who show up, the stronger our movement becomes.


We are building a grassroots movement to stand up to the fossil fuel industry, and support a just transition from coal, oil and gas to a renewable-energy future for all.

Keep 350 Australia strong by chipping in right now:

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350 Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to the land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures; and to their Elders past, present and emerging. There can be no climate justice without justice for First Nations people across the globe.

Authorised by Lucy Manne, 552 Victoria St North Melbourne, VIC, 3051. ABN: 46 138 155 192. Correspondence in regard to any authorised material can be sent to lucy@350.org.au.

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