Householder’s Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. (Australia) invites you to be part of National Sea Week happening 1st to 9th September 2018. We are a marine nation and we own one of the largest water territories in the world. This is a wonderful chance for us to learn about the relevancy of the educational issues involving our marine environment; and to appreciate the sea.
National Sea Week is Australia’s major national public awareness campaign. This year’s theme, as part of Ocean Literacy Principles, is ‘Ocean is a major influence on weather and climate’. We want to encourage everyone to learn more about how we can be equipped with knowledge on how we can protect our maritime legacy, as it generates employment and affects our food and resources, lifestyle and recreational opportunities.
For Australians, the seas and oceans are part of our marine lifestyle. However, we have been over-using and not protecting them enough. Our human activities have altered the ecosystem for the worst. Our unsustainable coastal development and overfishing are taking its toll on the water bodies- which leads to climate change. As a result, the water cycle is also affected as wet areas get wetter (floods) and dry areas get drier (droughts). Ocean acidification is worsening due to our increasing emissions and this in turn affects the productivity of our fisheries, aqua-culture, tourism and coastal protection. Our seas and oceans are not given enough time to recover and weather further environmental stresses. We need to provide a safe haven where ocean wildlife can recover.
Let us harness the collective power of people as we move together beyond fossil fuels- the culprit that’s killing our beloved seas and oceans. Beyond supporting rallies for politicians, commit to building a fossil-free world; this is high time we learn how we can live eco-sustainably and work towards a fossil-free world. Our future generations can then continue to enjoy our marine legacy.
A 23-year-old Dutch inventor and entrepreneur Boyan Slat has developed a Great Pacific Sea Garbage Patch set to be deployed full-scale in 2020, with the first cleanup launch system scheduled for mid-2018. While most of us would not be able to do on such an epic scale, we can start small with each other. We can buy local, support eco-sustainable fisheries, avoid big fishes and eat small fishes instead. To reduce carbon emissions, we can adopt healthy alternatives- minimise driving (for example we can walk, cycle, carpool), adjust our vehicle maintenance habits, use solar panels, buy energy efficient appliances (that also lead to savings in the long run).
Small changes can make a huge difference.
This is also a chance to connect with groups like HOPE Inc. to learn more about how we can reduce negative impact on the seas by adopting better lifestyle habits. Check out HOPE Inc.’s webpage at www.hopeaustralia.org.au. National Sea Week is campaigned by Australian Association for Environmental Education. You can go to www.aaee.org.au/event/seaweek-2018 for more on how you can be part of National Sea Week.
Yours sincerely,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
Media release written by Judy Tan, HOPE volunteer Qld
20/05 2018 | Community Service Announcement
COMMUNITY SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Monday 14 May 2018
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Community Forum: “Improving Soil Health”, 22 May 2018
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. is hosting a community forum on good soil management practices on Tuesday, 22 May 2018 at 7.00 pm – 9.00 pm at the Toowoomba City Library (155 Herries St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350).
Mr Colin Johnson from Earthlife Pty Ltd (earthlife.com.au) will address topics such as the relevance of soil mineral depletion; the adverse effect of survival plant growth on the environment; inefficient fertilisers; and the re-creation of healthy and fertile soils.
Bookings are essential. Please RSVP by 18 May to the HOPE office on 07 4639 2135 or by email to office@hopeaustralia.org.au. Entry by gold coin donation.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
15/05 2018 Media release
HOPE MEDIA RELEASE Thursday, 10 May 2018
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Community Forum: “Restoring soil health – from backyards to farm-yards - can help the environment”, 22 May 2018
“How restoring your soil’s health - from backyards to farm-yards - can help the environment” is the theme of HOPE’s second community forum for the month of May.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. is hosting a community forum on good soil management practices on Tuesday, 22 May 2018 at 7.00 pm – 9.00 pm at the Toowoomba City Library (155 Herries St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350).
Mr Colin Johnson from Earthlife Pty Ltd (earthlife.com.au) will address topics such as the relevance of soil mineral depletion; the adverse effect of survival plant growth on the environment; inefficient fertilisers; and the re-creation of healthy and fertile soils.
Bookings are essential. Please RSVP by 18 May to the HOPE office on 07 4639 2135 or by email to office@hopeaustralia.org.au. Entry by gold coin donation.
Event:
Community Forum: “How restoring the soil can help restore the environment”
Date:
Tuesday, 22 May, 7pm – 9pm
Venue:
Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr Herries and Victoria Sts, Toowoomba).
Cost:
Entry by gold coin donation
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
Media enquiries: Colin Johnson, Earthlife Pty Ltd, mob: 0456 003 625
Bio for Colin Johnson
Colin Johnson is the Sales Representative for Earthlife Pty Ltd. He studied Cert III as well as a Diploma in Horticulture and has been actively working as a Horticultural Professional in the Nursery and Garden Industry in Queensland for the past 16 years. He has spent 12 of those years working in and managing Retail Garden Centres, and the other 4 years representing 2 major allied product suppliers to the horticultural industry. He was given the opportunity to represent Earthlife in August 2016 and took the position with alacrity. He is also a fanatical plant collector and passionate gardener, with 6 acres of Land for Wildlife property in the Gold Coast Hinterland, he has a strong belief that there has always been far too much over-thinking regarding the growing and raising of healthy plants.
01/05 2018 Community Service Announcement
Community Service Announcement Tuesday, 1 May 2018
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
The first National Sorry Day was held on 26 May 1998, which was declared by several community organisations to remember the tens of thousands of children who were forcibly removed from their Aboriginal families from the early 1900s to the 1970s. So, this year marks the 20th anniversary of this event.
However, there was a formal apology, in 2008; the famous Apology Speech to Stolen Generations, by the then Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.
The Stolen Generations are a part of a vast plan and various policies enacted by the different Australian Governments up until the 1970s, which took the collective name of White Australia Policy.
The Aboriginal community was highly affected by these policies which had the aim to erase the Aboriginal culture as well as its traditions.
The National Sorry Day can be seen as one of the results of the 1997’s Bringing Them Home Report. The inquiry was established by the federal Attorney-General, Michael Lavarch, on 11 May 1995, after years of constant pressure by Aboriginal organisations to see a formal recognition of their struggle. The Bringing Them Home Report was a thorough investigation into the forcible removal of Aboriginal children from their families to extricate them from their traditions and culture.
The publication of the report in 1997 raised the public awareness of what the Aboriginal community suffered in the past years, and how a large number of stakeholders, among them religious associations and governmental agencies, where involved at different levels in this awful process.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) invites its members, families and colleagues to learn more about this infamous occurrence known as Stolen Generations. Knowledge is power, and knowledge of the past helps us not to forget and not to repeat the same atrocities in the future: especially in periods like the current one, in which waves of racism seem to be increasing in Australia. There are simple and symbolic things to do to remember this event, for example visit the Queensland Museum to learn more about this aspect of Australia’s history.
The 18th April 2018 marks the 45th anniversary of World Heritage Day. In April 1982, the International Council for Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) conceived the World Heritage Day idea, and it was approved in 1983 by the 22nd United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) General Conference. The theme for 2018 is ‘Heritage for Generations’. This event reminds us of the importance of the preservation of cultural and natural sites all over the world, both for current and future generations.
As of July 2017, there are 1,073 sites in the world in 167 countries, of which 832 sites are cultural, 206 natural, and 35 mixed properties. Italy has the largest number of sites with 53, followed by China (52), Spain (46), France (43), Germany (42), India (36), Mexico (34) and United Kingdom and British Overseas Territories (31).
Australia has nineteen heritage sites, mainly natural sites, of which five are in Queensland:
Gondwana Rainforests of Australia (1986, 1994)
Australian Fossil Mammal Sites (Riversleigh / Naracoorte) (1994)
Fraser Island (1992)
Great Barrier Reef (1981)
Wet Tropics of Queensland (1988)
Householder’s Option to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. (Australia) would like to emphasise the importance of preserving World Heritage sites and to understand their importance especially from the environmental perspective. The preservation of our natural and cultural treasures is paramount to preserve the unique ecosystem that Australia has.
World Heritage Day represents an occasion to think about nature and its connection with culture. It also can be the occasion to visit Queensland’s heritage sites to admire and learn more about them in person.
You can join the growing movement that genuinely cares about the environment!
How do you care for the environment? Do you make a conscious effort to live sustainably? Do you recycle, reuse and repurpose?
If you are one of the growing number of Australians wanting to create a more sustainable future, we invite you to join our national organisation, Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment Inc. (HOPE) to learn more about how you can adopt simple, sustainable living practices.
Joining HOPE is free-of-charge and open to individuals, families, businesses and community organisations
So, what does HOPE do?
HOPE offers practical solutions and simple steps on how you can live more gently on Earth. We empower people to be more thoughtful about their environmental footprint and to make progressive changes at home and in their community. We provide:
Access to information about current environmental issues;
Support for education, including suggestions on how to tackle these issues; and
Practical examples of how easily it can be done.
How can you make a difference?
Take notice of the environmental issues at home and in the wider community;
Use the resources available around you, including technology and community networks; and
Lead by example by reducing your consumption and adopting other sustainable practices.
HOPE offers a range of resources, including ‘helpful hints’ brochures and runs a variety of practical workshops and meetings throughout the year. Through education, HOPE work’s to inspire people to ‘think globally, act locally’.
As the need to live sustainably continues to become more crucial, HOPE is looking to strengthen their network and grow their membership and supporter base.
You can join the growing movement that genuinely cares about the environment!
Community Forum: “Important Honey Flora”, Thursday, 1 March 2018
We know that bees produce honey, right?
Do you know what bees need in order to make the honey?
You can learn more about this at a community forum on “Important Honey Flora” being held on Thursday, 1st March, 7pm – 9pm at the Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr Herries and Victoria Sts, Toowoomba).
(Ironbark flowers)
The forum, hosted by Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc., features Mr. Glen Tucker, President of Southern Beekeepers Association.
The Southern Beekeepers Association services the Toowoomba Region and surrounds for those interested in keeping bees.
Mr Tucker will be giving a presentation on “Honey Flora of southeast Queensland”. Information included in this presentation will be on the basic requirements of bees for honey production, as well as some detail on the most important trees and other flora for honey production, including information about botanical identification of these species.
Glen is an Agricultural Scientist by training, and he has interest and expertise in both bees and the flora from which they harvest nectar to produce honey.
The formal presentation will go for about 40 minutes and there will be time for questions after the presentation.
Bookings for the community forum are essential. To reserve your seat, RSVP by 26 February to HOPE office by phone 4639 2135 or email office@hopeaustralia.org.au.
Event:
Community Forum: “Important Honey Flora”
Date:
Thursday, 1st March, 7pm – 9pm.
Venue:
Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr Herries and Victoria Sts, Toowoomba).
Cost:
Entry by gold coin donation
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
01/02 2018 Media release
HOPE MEDIA RELEASE, 01 February 2018
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Petition: To prohibit circuses featuring wild animals to trade in TRC jurisdiction
Humane Society International (HSI), aided by Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE), are circulating a petition “asking Toowoomba Regional Council to prohibit all future circuses using animals in the Toowoomba Regional Council area.” We ask this based upon the inhumane conditions that the animals are kept in, the conditions under which the animals are transported, and the inappropriate messages conveyed to children by forcing wild animals to perform circus tricks.
Humane Society International spokesperson Ms Virginia Breen said HSI has therefore decided to petition your Council and try to change their policy of allowing such circuses on council land, as part of an Australia-wide campaign. We have found the majority of Councils when approached on this issue do ban these circuses, as most were previously unaware of the exploitation and cruelty involved.
Working in conjunction with other concerned groups and individuals, we have had many successes - thanks to the hard work and support of our members, said Ms Breen.
Persons interested in supporting this petition and collecting signatures are asked to contact the HOPE office by email office@hopeaustralia.org.au to request a petition form.
The completed petition sheets should then be returned to Humane Society International, PO Box 439, Avalon NSW 2107 so that they may be collated and lodged with Toowoomba Regional Council.
Regards,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
HSI Circus Animals Fact Sheet
26/02 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E Thursday 25 January 2018
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
It took just one man to inspire millions of people to pick up rubbish. Every year since 1989 Ian Kiernan has demonstrated that individuals around the world can make their own contribution to cleaning up the planet.
The Clean Up Australia movement, begun by the Sydney builder and yachtsman with a clean-up of Sydney Harbour by 40,000 Sydneysiders, is an annual event around Australia and, since 1993 and the foundation of Clean Up the World, the driving force that brings out 30 million people in 80 countries to clean up their own little bit of the planet.
In the Toowoomba region, community-based organisation Householders' Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) is once again calling for volunteers to play their part in keeping their neighbourhood free of litter and possible contamination.
HOPE's president Frank Ondrus is keen to have individuals, groups, businesses, schools and church congregations sign up for one of the three days planned for this year's clean-up:
According to Mr. Ondrus, Clean Up Australia Day, is not only an opportunity to reduce pollution, but it’s also a chance to encourage community spirit in your local area.
To register your interest in helping to clean up your neighbourhood / school / business precinct, visit Clean Up Australia’s website http://www.cleanup.org.au/au/.
Regards,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
Put yourself into the picture for 2018 by registering your Business Clean Up site - registrations for 2018 Business Clean Up Day are now open. Business Clean Up sites can vary greatly; some businesses use the day to Clean Up a local area, park, beach or creek whereas others use it to Clean Up their own office space or kick start environmental programs.
Since 1992, school communities across Australia have demonstrated their support for caring for the environment through participating in Schools Clean Up Day. Registrations for 2018 are now open.
Clean Up Australia Day is a simple way you can take action to clean up, fix up and conserve the prized Australian environment. The latest CUAD report estimated that 562,697 volunteers (contributing 1,125,394 hours) across 6,795 registered sites, removed some 15,312.28 tonnes of rubbish.
Surely, we can do better in 2018! Get involved by registering your own Clean Up Site or by volunteering at a site near you.
10/01 2018 Media Release
MEDIA RELEASE Tuesday 9 January 2018
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Traditionally, the New Year brings plenty of resolutions to do things differently; however, many of these good intentions don't survive the summer.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) has some good ideas easily turned into sustainable resolutions which make you feel good as well.
HOPE President Frank Ondrus said these tips are simple to implement yet can have lasting benefits for individuals, families and the community.
Mr Ondrus suggests adding the following actions to your resolution “to do” list:-
Aim for a chemical-free household, using natural cleaning products and recipes (www.theshoppe.com.au)
Take part in Friends of the Escarpment Parks working bees to clean the Toowoomba escarpment of weeds and invasive plants (www.fep.org.au/fep-parkcare)
Join a local conservation or environment group, Landcare or animal welfare group e.g. contact the Darling Downs Environment Council (DDEC) – (www.ddec.org.au)
HOPE runs a number of on-going appeals including:
collecting used postage stamps and unwanted stamp albums which are passed on to other groups for their fundraising efforts
collecting glass jars with lids for use by other local community groups
collecting un-wanted or pre-loved but useable items including gardening tools and equipment
Spring-cleaning for the environment might be a good slogan for our appeals,Mr Ondrus said.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. is seeking the community’s support through the provision of old corflute signs that can be reused for their 2018 programs of events, projects and other activities.
So, if you have old promotional, advertising, event or election signs that you no longer need, please consider donating them to HOPE.
Please drop off the unwanted corflute signs to the HOPE office situated at 22 Vacy St, Newtown, Toowoomba.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
09/01 2018 Media Release
MEDIA RELEASE Tuesday 9 January 2018
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) invites residents and businesses to collect stamps from their incoming mail for reuse by local community groups.
Community groups take these stamps and re-sell them to raise funds for local and overseas missions work.
Mr Frank Ondrus, President of HOPE said we also welcome unwanted stamp album collections; and collections of stamps from Esperanto club members.
You can post a pack of used stamps to the HOPE (Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment) office, PO Box 6118 - Clifford Gardens, Toowoomba, QLD 4350; or drop them off at 22 Vacy St, Toowoomba.
Activities like these are in the direct interest of the HOPE organisation, as not only do the funds raised provide aid to those in need, but it also encourages home recycling and re-using.
If any HOPE or other community members are involved in or have ideas of any other projects or activities of the same sort, HOPE would love to know about it and help kick-start or aid similar projects.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
MEDIA RELEASE December 8, 2017 | Queensland Conservation
Majority Palaszczuk Labor government needs to act swiftly to protect Queensland's nature
Peak environment group the Queensland Conservation Council (QCC) has offered its congratulations to Annastacia Palaszczuk on her re-election as Premier of Queensland, and on the return of her Labor government to power in Queensland.
Labor has been formally returned to government, this time with a clear Parliamentary majority and a clear mandate on a number of key conservation issues.
We congratulate Premier Palaszczuk on the re-election of her government, and her own return to the top political office in the state, said Dr Tim Seelig head of the Queensland Conservation Council.
Labor has the strongest suite of environmental policy commitments we have ever seen. And it now has a majority in Parliament to deliver.
We support Labor’s stated intent to build on its record of environmental protection over this term, and its commitment to a Queensland that ‘protects our wildlife habitat, our climate and our beautiful reef’.
QCC very much welcomed Labor’s publicly announced election commitments on issues such as land clearing, and its written commitments provided to us during the 2017 state election.
Land clearing is an issue that requires urgent action, given the risk of so-called ‘panic clearing’ (accelerated bushland destruction) by landholders, ahead of Parliament being convened and the opportunity to re-introduce stronger legislation.
We have urged the Premier to take all available immediate measures to prevent panic clearing across Queensland, and to use this opportunity to remind land holders that Labor has committed to a $500 million program of land restoration to support retention of woodlands.
This program complements the action we expect in the first one hundred days of government to pass stronger land clearing laws and policy measures to reduce clearing rates, protect native wildlife and woodland habitats, and avoid run-off into the Great Barrier Reef.
Labor also identified a series of priorities including addressing Queensland’s land clearing crisis, the need for ongoing expansion of renewable energy and stronger measures to address climate change, support for regional and statewide biodiversity and landscape/rivers protection, and reviewing and enhancing Queensland’s environmental regulation regimes.
QCC has also indicated that it will continue to advocate on matters it believes the government can do much better on, including the future of fossil fuels extraction and use in Queensland, and transformation of the state’s economy to a far more sustainable, far less environmentally harmful one.
For further comment contact: Queensland Conservation Council Coordinator Dr Tim Seelig on 0439 201 183
Volunteers – where would we be without that unsung army of people who regularly give of their time, energy and expertise to help others in so many different ways, many of which go unnoticed? If you’ve ever been a volunteer, you’ll know how good it can make you feel to give back and help others. In fact, altruism and volunteering have been proven to be a major way to increase the happiness of a person’s life – there is something about freely giving to others which gives a deeper sense of purpose and meaning to our lives, thereby increasing our happiness and level of satisfaction. And if you’ve never been a volunteer, than now might be the time to start! International Volunteer Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1985 and is celebrated each year on 5th December as a way to bring focus to the work of volunteers and to encourage everyone to give it a try.
There is a hugely diverse range of ways to volunteer, and you can find an opportunity to volunteer in almost any field or interest area. Householder’s Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) is always seeking people with an interest in environmental issues to help with their mission of educating people in environmental awareness and action, so if you’ve been thinking that you’d like to do more to help the environment then now, with International Volunteer Day just around the corner, is a great time to start.
To connect with HOPE go to www.hopeaustralia.org.au; or to find another opportunity to volunteer your time, go to www.volunteeringaustralia.org, to find a way to improve both your own and someone else’s life. Who wouldn’t want to do that? Happy volunteering!
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
(Written by Lynne Stuart, HOPE member Qld)
13/11 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E - Monday, 13 November 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Expressions of interest sought in FREE Information Forums on “Going Solar – On/Off Grid with Battery Storage”
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc., with the technical expertise provided by ACDC Energy, is offering your organisation the opportunity to host a free information forum on “Going Solar – On/Off Grid with Battery Storage”.
ACDC Energy will outline the benefits of ‘going solar’, and of the options available for the purchase and installation of solar PV and battery storage systems. ACDC Energy will provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions such as “solar power; battery storage; on/off grid … how does it all work?” They will also offer expert advice for those looking for basic energy management, through to people considering going completely off the grid.
Solar systems are not just for domestic premises. Business owners, school representatives and community groups would be encouraged to come along to learn about how solar might benefit their organisations said Mr Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc.
Some advantages of solar include savings on electricity bills. Once a system is installed it costs virtually nothing to operate, saving you money on your power bills. Solar also benefits the environment by providing clean energy - for every 1kw of solar installed a tonne of C02 is saved every year, added Mr Ondrus.
If your organisation is keen to host such a forum, please forward your ‘expression of interest’ to HOPE at office@hopeaustralia.org.au - noting potential dates, times and venue for the forum.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
MEDIA RELEASE November 5, 2017 | Queensland Conservation
Coming clean on energy, costs and renewable power
Peak environment group the Queensland Conservation Council has expressed concern about LNP Leader Tim Nicholls’ announcement today that he will scrap Queensland’s 50% renewable energy target. Instead, the LNP will continue to back a new coal power station in North Queensland, because they claim it will be cheaper.
Tim Nicholls’ comments on renewable energy and coal fired power make no sense financially or policy-wise, said Queensland Conservation Council head Dr Tim Seelig.
Renewable energy is the cheapest, best energy option for the future. A brand new coal-fired power station would be extraordinarily expensive, and would undoubtedly require huge public subsidies for something destined to become a stranded asset.
Let’s have an honest analysis of energy production costs into the future, and how to manage power pricing along the way.
The best way to reduce power prices long-term is to rapidly transition our energy system to something that runs on freely available resources such as the sun, wind and water, and where energy can be stored and distributed locally.
Queensland is a leader in take up of household level rooftop solar, but we need to support largescale renewables investment, and in largescale battery technology and local network systems.
The best way of doing that is by having ambitious but achievable targets for renewables, set in law, to send a strong signal to industry and the community that Queensland is very serious about a renewables future.
Queensland’s current ‘50% renewable energy by 2030’ target is a great start, and should be endorsed across the political spectrum to provide certainty and stability to investors.
We also need a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and demand reduction through smart technologies, and renewed focus on better household and business energy consumption and management. This will help with costs.
Renewable energy is one critical pathway to cutting carbon emissions. Let’s get away from dirty power generation, and embrace the energy future that does not cost the earth.
National Recycling Week: 13th – 19th November 2017
Recycling – it’s a topic that’s generally at the back of our minds and something we often do without too much thought, but from 13th – 19th November it comes to the forefront of our minds during Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week. This is the 22nd year this week of bringing focus to the environmental benefits of recycling has been held, and it’s never been timelier.
With concern about environmental issues at an all-time high, many people find themselves in a state of uncertainty about what they can actually do about the many pressing environmental problems which we are confronted with daily –it’s easy to be overwhelmed and not know where to start.
National Recycling Week provides us with a practical and achievable way to begin or increase our environmental presence – and we can all feel good about that.
The purpose of the week is to enable people to get further involved with recycling and to increase their knowledge of just how they can do that. There are a number of ways you can participate – at home, school, work or the community. You can register your workplace or school or participate in a huge number of recycling activities right where you are at home. The extent of your participation is up to you – but the important thing is that you do participate in some way, because everyone is able to do something; some small individual action which together with the actions of others will add up to make a big environmental difference.
MEDIA RELEASE 20 Sept 2017 | Queensland Conservation
Adani Coal Port pollution report shows wetlands contamination, begs more questions than it answers
Peak environment body Queensland Conservation Council has expressed alarm at formal evidence of coal pollution in the ecologically significant Caley Valley Wetlands, and has suggested this raises a series of questions about monitoring, enforcement and responsibility.
A report released by the Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection indicates there is coal contamination in the Caley Valley Wetlands, which lie next to the Adani Coal Terminal at Abbot Point. The report shows that at one section near to what’s known as the ‘W1’ release point, sediment in the wetlands contains 10% coal pollutant.
While the report appears to suggest that there has not been any environmental harm from this, Queensland Conservation Council believes it is far too early to make such statements given the toxic hydrocarbon substances in question.
Adani Coal Holdings which manages the Adani Abbot Point facility was recently fined a paltry $12,000 for an unauthorised release of water from the Abbot Point Coal Terminal, which was eight times over the additional limit that was temporarily granted to the company. Adani is now challenging that fine.
This Adani coal port pollution report clearly shows that the Caley Valley wetlands contain coal contamination, said Queensland Conservation Council head Dr Tim Seelig.
We still don’t know exactly why there were such huge water releases from the Adani Abbot facility, how much coal was in the water and where it all went.
But now we do know that sediment in sections of the wetlands contains 10% coal pollutant. That is vastly more than we would expect to occur naturally, and it confirms that there is coal contamination in the Caley Valley Wetlands. Adani should be held responsible and fined.
Whether this contamination is a result of water pollution, airborne pollution, or both is not obvious. The absence of baseline historical and periodic data makes it hard to be certain, but there is now strong if not irrefutable evidence that the coal terminal is responsible.
It is likely that we have a situation of long-term contamination of the wetlands, most likely made worse by water releases containing elevated levels of coal sediment. This raises key questions about the environmental safety and sustainability of this and similar facilities.
Regrettably, we simply don’t know what the long-term effects of coal in these environments may be on local wildlife, Coal is not a clean inert substance, it’s a hazardous hydrocarbon, and we may not fully know what it is doing ecologically for some time.
This case has also highlighted that there is a complete lack of baseline and periodic data collection, independent environmental monitoring, and real-time enforcement of standards.
Until we know what exactly is going on at Abbot Point, the government should seriously consider suspending Adani’s operating licences as well as commissioning further research.
For further comment contact: Queensland Conservation Council Coordinator Dr Tim Seelig on 0439 201 183
NB: compressed photos of the Caley Valley Wetlands and sediment samples from W1 below. These were taken during observation of the pollution testing by Tim Seelig and others in April 2017. Higher resolution versions of the photos are available on request.
Launch of Qld Big Day of Action on 7 Oct, with human signs in Brisbane and beyond
Brisbane, Australia, 10 September. Participants at a sold out Brisbane Summit of over 180 local volunteers, campaigning to stop the Adani coal mine, have called on the Federal and Queensland governments to say no a $1 billion loan of public money to the miner, and launched a National Day of Action on 7 October.
Sea Shepherd joins #StopAdani Alliance
Sea Shepherd is one of 29 organisations to have joined the Stop Adani Alliance since its launch in March 2017, with the Alliance now representing well over 2 million Australians. In just five months, more than 160 Stop Adani groups have sprung into action around the country, organising 662 local actions at MP’s offices, bank branches and community events.
Larissa Baldwin, National Co-director of the Seed Indigenous Youth Climate Network said:Our mob will not stand by and let the Queensland government or Adani determine our future.
We will be fighting hard to protect country from being devastated by Adani’s mine.
Young Indigenous people know that climate change is an enormous threat to our people and land. It’s time to draw a line in the sand and reject any proposal for new coal mines.
Amy Butler from Sea Shepherd Australia said:With Adani declaring that work may begin as soon as October, the stakes of this campaign have never been clearer. Sea Shepherd Australia is proud to join the Stop Adani Alliance.
The movement that is coming together to challenge Adani’s plans is growing by the week - here in Queensland, and right across the country.
Sea Shepherd was motivated to join this fight because of the terrifying havoc global warming is wreaking on our oceans and marine life. We need look no further than the devastation of the bleaching of our Great Barrier Reef. To protect the oceans, we must act on global warming - that means we must stop Adani
We are now gearing up for a big day of community action on October 7. We are going to spell it out to politicians - by forming massive Stop Adani human signs - right here in Brisbane, and from Bondi Beach to the Whitsundays: 'Stop Adani'.
Laura Harland, a volunteer on the campaign and local student from QUT, attending the Summit, said: As a young person, I’m here to make sure we act now to ensure the Great Barrier Reef has a healthy future. A business as usual approach - including building new coal mines - - just isn’t good enough if we’re serious about protecting the Reef.
It’s outrageous that state and federal governments are looking to bankroll this project with our money, via a $1 billion NAIF loan and special royalty deals.
The latest polling shows three quarters of Australians do not want the $1 billion public loan to go ahead, and instead believe that Adani should fund their own infrastructure
We are now gearing up for a big day of community action on October 7. We are going to spell it out to politicians - by forming massive Stop Adani human signs - right here in Brisbane, and from Bondi Beach to the Whitsundays: 'Stop Adani'.
Contact for information and interview: Shannon Hurley, 0433 481 346. High quality images from the day will be uploaded here and vision here.
BACKGROUND
The Stop Adani movement is now a powerful social movement. 160 local Stop Adani groups have formed, organising over 662 community actions including more than 300 screenings of the documentary ‘Guarding the Galilee’. 29 organisations have joined the Stop Adani Alliance since March, representing more than 2 million Australians.
Despite Adani pushing hard and winning unprecedented political support for their project, the Stop Adani movement has so far managed to hold them back. The mine is not yet built and Adani still do not have the consent of the Traditional Owners of the proposed mine site.
Adani is yet to secure the finance they need. 24 financial institutions across the world have ruled out funding the mine. The movement already has two major wins under its belt: both Westpac and CommBank have ruled out funding Adani due to community pressure, meaning that all big four banks have now said no to the mine.
Now the campaign is setting its sights on the Federal and Queensland governments - both back a very unpopular $1B loan from the Northern Australian Infrastructure Facility.
23/08 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E, Tuesday, 22 August 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) needs active volunteers – both local and remote (i.e. online) – to help us maintain our high levels of activity. It’s a win-win situation. Volunteering enhances your wellbeing and HOPE gains from your expertise.
You can assist with
administration tasks
internet research
article writing
media and marketing activities
We are also seeking expert comment from academics and informed people to assist in critiquing government and industry reports.
On-ground helpers are also required to assist with staffing information displays, and helping out at events.
Much of the work would ideally be done by locals (i.e. in the Toowoomba area) because the HOPE office is in Toowoomba. However, quite a bit of the literature review, research, media and publications activity can be done via email. If you have a little bit of time to help us in any way, then contact the HOPE office on email office@hopeaustralia.org.au or phone (07) 4639 2135.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
11/08 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E, Friday, 11th August, 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. would like to invite you to this month’s Community Forum featuring Condamine Alliance - our regional NRM (Natural Resource Management) Body.
The forum is being held at on Saturday 19 August, from 1pm to 4pm at the Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr of Herries and Victoria Streets). Entry is by gold coin donation.
Condamine Alliance was founded in 2002 as a not-for-profit organisation, who work alongside communities, councils, government and organisations like HOPE, to support over 29,000 square kilometres of land. Condamine Alliance work to protect and conserve water, land and wildlife for future generations.
Jayne Thorpe
HOPE would like to invite anyone with an interest in conservation or environmental protection to attend the upcoming forum, in the hope that Condamine Alliance can shed some light on their organisation and hopefully engage some like-minded community members.
Ms Jayne Thorpe (pictured), General Manager - Growth from Condamine Alliance, will provide a more detailed overview of the organisation’s main objectives, current and proposed projects and events, and showcase some achievements awarded to Condamine Alliance for their outstanding work and accomplishments. Jayne will also be discussing the wide range of ways community members can get involved with implementing the new Natural Resource Management Plan, and providing input on how the job should be done.
From 2015-2016, Condamine Alliance managed to engage with 1,100 landholders and 50 different contractors, delivered and participated in more than 29 community events, and have partnered with 11 different landcare, community and Indigenous groups. Condamine Alliance are very focused on how to prioritise and measure their activities to ensure the funds entrusted to them provide the greatest benefit to the community.
HOPE and Condamine Alliance share similar ideologies and believe that a healthy environment translates into healthy communities, and encourage locals and people of the Condamine River Catchment Area to play an active role in managing their natural resources, now and for the future.
Condamine Alliance’s revised Natural Resource Management Plan encourages all stakeholders and community members across the catchment to work together to achieve a more sustainable future and to set a precedent for future generations to do the same.
The upcoming forum hosted by HOPE gives community members a chance to learn more about Condamine Alliance and how they can get involved.
Bookings are essential, contact HOPE via telephone on 4639 2135 or via email office@hopeaustralia.org.au to reserve your seat. The forum is being held at on Saturday 19 August, from 1pm to 4pm at the Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr of Herries and Victoria Streets). Entry is by gold coin donation.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135 Media officer: Emily Cadogan
Media enquiries:
Ms Jayne Thorpe, Condamine Alliance, t 4620 0137 | m 0427 131 625
Supported by:
12/06 2017 Notice
EVENT NOTICE / DATE CLAIMER, Monday, 12 June 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Community Forum: Going Solar – On/Off Grid with Battery Storage - Saturday, 17 June 2017
Solar power; battery storage; on/off grid … how does it all work?
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. invites anyone who wants to learn more about the benefits of owning a solar PV system and about battery storage options, to attend a community forum on Saturday 17th June from 1-4pm at the Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr Herries and Victoria Streets). Entry to forum is by gold coin donation.
President of HOPE, Mr Ondrus says it’s an opportunity for residents to learn more about renewable energy in the current ecological and economic environment.
Solar systems are not just for domestic premises - business owners, school representatives and community groups are encouraged to come along to learn about how solar might benefit their organisations.
Some advantages of solar include savings on electricity bills. Once a system is installed it costs virtually nothing to operate, saving you money on your power bills. Solar also benefits the environment by providing clean energy - for every 1kw of solar installed a tonne of C02 is saved every year.
ACDC Energy will outline the benefits of ‘going solar’, and of the options available for the purchase and installation of solar PV and battery storage systems. ACDC Energy will provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. They will also offer expert advice for those looking for basic energy management through to people considering going completely off the grid.
Bookings are essential for this Going Solar forum on Saturday 17 June. To reserve your seat, contact HOPE by phone on 4639 2135 or email at office@hopeaustralia.org.au. Entry by gold coin donation.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
02/06 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E, Thursday, 1 June 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Community Forum: Going Solar – On/Off Grid with Battery Storage - Saturday, 17 June 2017
The theme of this month’s community forum hosted by Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. is 'Going Solar – On/Off the Grid with Battery Storage'. The forum will be held on Saturday 17th June from 1-4pm at the Toowoomba City library (Level 3, Cnr Herries and Victoria Streets).
HOPE invites anyone who wants to learn more about the benefits of owning a solar PV system and about battery storage options. Mr Ondrus, President of HOPE Inc. said it's an opportunity for residents to learn more about renewable energy in the current ecological and economic environment.
Solar systems are not just for domestic premises - business owners, school representatives and community groups are encouraged to come along to learn about how solar might benefit their organisations.
Some advantages of solar include savings on electricity bills. Once a system is installed it costs virtually nothing to operate, saving you money on your power bills. Solar also benefits the environment by providing clean energy - for every 1kw of solar installed a tonne of C02 is saved every year.
ACDC Energy will outline the benefits of ‘going solar’, and of the options available for the purchase and installation of solar PV and battery storage systems. ACDC Energy will provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. They will also offer expert advice for those looking for basic energy management through to people considering going completely off the grid.
Bookings are essential. To reserve your seat, please contact HOPE to reserve your seat. Call the HOPE office on 4639 2135 or email at office@hopeaustralia.org.au. Entry by gold coin donation.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
Media Enquiries
Terry Davis, ACDC Energy, mob: 0438 007 764 Paul Lemming, ACDC Energy, mob: 0419 874 614
Speakers
Terry DavisPaul lemming
22/05 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E, Sunday, 21 May 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Householder’s Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. (Australia) would like to invite everyone to join with them to celebrate World Environment Day on 5th June 2017. World Environment Day is the largest annual event promoting positive environmental action.
This year’s theme ‘Connecting People to Nature’ – encourages us to get outdoors and into nature, to appreciate its beauty and importance, and to protect the planet that we all share.
In our fast-paced, highly-connected society many of us have become increasingly disengaged with nature, forgetting that we depend on it for our very existence. Biodiversity provides us with the air that we breathe, water that we drink and the food that we eat. Despite this, our actions are pushing biodiversity and ecosystems to the edge. Current levels of consumption, combined with a predicted increase in global population to 9.7 billion by 2050 (UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs), means we will be making ever increasing demands on our planet’s finite resources.
World Environment Day is about individual actions, combined into the collective power of billions of people, taking positive actions to help protect our planet. By being more thoughtful in our choices, doing more with less, minimising pollution and using renewable products, small changes can make a huge difference.
World Environment Day is an opportunity to connect with groups like HOPE Inc. to learn more about living in a more sustainable way. For more information check out HOPE Inc.’s webpage at (http://www.hopeaustralia.org.au).
World Environment Day is an initiative of the United Nations Environmental Program. Visit World Environment Day (http://worldenvironmentday.global/) for more information.
In Queensland, HOPE Inc., along with many other groups, will be attending the Logan Eco Action Festival (LEAF) at the Griffith University - Logan Campus on 28th May. LEAF is a fun, interactive and educational event that is designed to generate awareness about environmental issues, and through education, empower people to make a positive change. Further information about LEAF can be found here http://www.logan.qld.gov.au/environment-water-and-waste/environmental-programs/logan-eco-action-festival-leaf.
Yours sincerely,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
(Media release prepared by Sharon Polkinghorne)
14/04 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E, Monday, 17 April 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Community Forum: The importance of our Heritage - Saturday, 22 April 2017
Maintaining Regional Heritage Values is the theme of this month’s community forum hosted by Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. The forum is being held on Saturday 22 April, 1pm – 4pm at the Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr Herries and Victoria Sts, Toowoomba).
The program features 4 speakers, each followed by a Q&A session. The speakers are:
Eleanor Cullen, a member of the National Trust of Australia (Qld) and a founding member of Toowoomba Regional Council’s Heritage Advisory Committee. Eleanor will give an overview of the National Trust and the role of the Heritage Advisory Committee.*
Peter Cullen will explain the use of tombstone tours, radio talks and research in identifying and promoting heritage values.*
Hugh Krenske, President of Friends of the Escarpment Parks (FEP) Toowoomba Inc. , will talk about efforts to preserve the 'Eagle’s Nest Swagmen’s Camp' (which was set-up during the Great Depression in the 1930’s).
Paul Herbert, Chairman of the Toowoomba Festival of Rail, explores the value of the railway and its precinct (all heritage listed) to the Darling Downs and Queensland.
*Eleanor and Peter will also speak on their involvement in the Toowoomba Open House project.
Heritage defines us as a community for it reminds us of what has gone before and what has shaped us, but more importantly as Machiavelli said 'who-ever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times'. No-where else is this apparent than in the current development of transport infrastructure in Toowoomba, including the Inland Railway said Mr Herbert.
Bookings for the community forum are essential. To reserve your seat, please RSVP by Friday 21 April to HOPE office by phone 4639 2135 or email office@hopeaustralia.org.au.
Event:
Community Forum: Heritage values and why they are important
Date:
Saturday 22 April, 1pm – 4pm
Venue:
Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr Herries and Victoria Sts, Toowoomba).
Cost:
Entry by gold coin donation
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
Media enquiries:
Eleanor & Peter Cullen , well-known and respected Heritage enthusiasts, ph 4639 1093
Hugh Krenske, Friends of the Escarpment Parks, mob: 0418 748 282
Paul Herbert, Chairman of Toowoomba’s Festival of Rail, mob: 0413 724 846
Speakers
Peter and Eleanor CullenHugh KrenskePeter Herbert
02/04 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E, Monday, 3 April 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Open Day at Redwood Park, Toowoomba - Saturday 8 April 2017
As part of National Youth Week 2017, Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. and Friends of the Escarpment Parks (FEP) Toowoomba are holding an Open Day at Redwood Park, Toowoomba on Saturday, 8 April 2017.
Included in the open day activities, are 2 workshops on Nature Journaling, being led by Dr Paula Peeters, an ecologist, artist and writer based in Brisbane.
What is Nature Journaling?It is the process of drawing, writing, or creating a poem or song in response to nature. You get a chance to slow down, take in your beautiful surroundings and create your very own creative nature journal and art piece.
Places are available for 15-20 secondary students at each of the workshops.
This event is part of 2017 National Youth Week activities; and this project is supported by Condamine Alliance, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.
For enquiries and registration for either of the Nature Journaling workshops, please contact the HOPE office by phoning 4639 2135 or emailing office@hopeaustralia.org.au.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
30/03 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E, Thursday, 30 March 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Keep Australia Beautiful Welcomes Young Reporters for the Environment Australia
In 2017, Keep Australia Beautiful is extremely happy to launch a second Foundation for Environmental Education program, Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE)!
What is YRE?
We’re glad you asked! Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE) aims to empower young people (11-21y.o.) to take a stand on environmental issues they feel strongly about and to give them a platform to articulate these issues through the media of writing, photography or video. We want to prove to young people that they can make a difference in the world and hopefully give them the motivation to continue to do so as adults.
YRE originated in France in 1990 before spreading through Europe and became international in 2007. Now there are 77,000 young reporters in 29 countries.
How does it work?
YRE uses a proven 4-step methodology:
Investigate a local issue following set criteria Research solutions Report a production: article, photograph or short film Disseminate to educate
What’s happening with YRE in Australia?
We’re launching YRE in Australia with the Litter Less Campaign thanks to the Wrigley Company Foundation. The Litter Less Campaign aims to engage and educate young people on the issue of litter and encourage them to make positive choices. To start them off we are offering 10 NSW schools support to implement YRE and a $500 grant to run a Community Action Day to raise awareness of the impacts of litter in their neighbourhood. You can find out more about the grant in the opportunities section below.
Our school is not in NSW. Can we still be involved?
Yes! We welcome submissions from anywhere in Australia. All valid entries will be entered in the Australian competition and have a chance to be submitted to the international competition.
Find out more about the YRE Australia program on the KAB website http://kab.org.au/yre/ where you’ll find program resources including student and teacher resources and classroom activity sheets.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
13/03 2017 Media release
M E D I A R E L E A S E, Saturday, 11 March 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Registrations now open for Nature Journaling workshops
Want to learn more about our natural environment?
If your answer is yes and you are a secondary school aged youth, then why not register for one of two free Nature Journaling workshops being held on Saturday 8 April 2017.
What is Nature Journaling? It is the process of drawing, writing, or creating a poem or song in response to nature. You get a chance to slow down, take in your beautiful surroundings and create your very own creative nature journal and art piece.
Dr Paula Peters (PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology) will be coming to Redwood Park and running two workshops on Saturday April 8.
The workshops are being hosted by Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. as part of the larger “Open Day at Redwood Park” event being hosted by Friends of the Escarpment Parks (FEP) Toowoomba.
This event is part of 2017 National Youth Week activities; and “this project is supported by Condamine Alliance, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.”
Spaces are available for 15-20 secondary students at each of the workshops.
To be one of the lucky attendees simply answer in 25 words or less, why you love nature, and send through your response along with your contact details to HOPE Inc. via email at office@hopeaustralia.org.au.
For enquiries and registration for either of the Nature Journaling workshops, please contact the HOPE office by phoning 4639 2135 or emailing office@hopeaustralia.org.au.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
Background information
Photo & bio of Dr Paula Peeters
Paula Peeters is an ecologist, artist and writer based in Brisbane. After completing her PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Monash University, Paula worked in Wildlife Conservation for 13 years, mostly for State Government environmental agencies in South Australia and Queensland. In recent years, Paula has become interested in combining art and science to celebrate nature, and promoting Nature Journaling as a way of improving the connection between people and nature. Paula’s illustrations have appeared in the colouring books Bimblebox Wonderland and Riverina Grassland Ramblings, and Ruth magazine, and have been commissioned by the University of Otago, Pollinator Link, the New South Wales Office of Environment and Heritage, Murray Local Land Services, Land for Wildlife South East Queensland and the Ecological Society of Australia. Her writing has appeared in Australian Birdlife, Zoomorphic, Tasmanian Geographic and her blog Paperbark Writer. In 2016 Paula wrote, illustrated and self-published Make a Date with Nature: An introduction to nature journaling, and led nature journaling workshops for the Bulimba Creek Catchment Committee, Downfall Creek Bushland Centre, the Gympie Regional Gallery and the Woodford Folk Festival. Paula is currently working on a range of projects including a children’s picture book, and a work of fantasy fiction for young adults, with an ecological bent. You can see more of her work at www.paperbarkwriter.com.
Introduction to Nature Journaling - 2 hour workshop with Dr Paula Peeters
Nature journaling is the practice of drawing or writing in response to nature. This fun, relaxing practice helps you to connect more closely with nature, and results in the creation of your own unique nature journal. Both the practice and the end product are important.
The practice improves your recognition of different animal and plant species, and your understanding of where and how they live. Nature journaling calms your mind, and increases your attention to detail and appreciation of beauty. With time, it also improves your ability to observe, to draw and to write.
A journal allows you to capture the moment (a sunset, a view, a critter, a flower, a fungus…), and recall observations which would otherwise be forgotten. Nature journaling can be used to compile species sightings and other scientific observations that are of great value to citizen science projects. Your journal can also give you inspiration for other creative projects, such as writing, painting, textiles, music, other crafts… the opportunities are endless.
Nature-based learning is known to have great benefits for learning outcomes and personal wellbeing. Nature journaling has immediate relevance for subjects such as Biology, Geography, Art and English, but can also be used as a springboard to explore many other subjects. Lessons learnt in context, and in the outdoors, tend to be understood more thoroughly by the learners, and this understanding stays with the pupil long after the lesson.
I’m an ecologist, artist and writer who enjoys combining art and science to explore Australian nature. In this workshop, I’ll introduce the practice of nature journaling, and teach you some simple exercises to get you drawing and writing. I’ll introduce you to the ecology of the area, and talk about some of the plants and animals we’re likely to encounter. At the end of the session you will have started your very own nature journal, and have plenty of ideas to keep you inspired.
Planning well under way for Open Day at Redwood Park, Toowoomba - Saturday 8 April 2017
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. and Friends of the Escarpment Parks (FEP) Toowoomba are working together to host an Open Day at Redwood Park, Toowoomba on Saturday, 8 April 2017.
This event is part of 2017 National Youth Week activities; and “this project is supported by Condamine Alliance, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.”
The day includes a program of short walks, information displays, a free lunch-time sausage sizzle and two x 2hour Nature Journaling workshops delivered by Dr Paula Peeters.
The Nature Journaling workshops are free to attend, however expressions of interest in attending the open day; and registrations for the workshops are essential, to assist with logistics and catering arrangements.
We invite the general public and secondary school aged youth to attend the open day; with the hope that they will consider “volunteering for the environment” by joining one of the participating environment/conservation or Landcare groups present on the day or in the near future.
A more detailed program for the Open Day at Redwood Park will be available closer to date.
For any general enquiries about the open day, please contact Friends of the Escarpment Parks on mobile” 0418 748 282.
For enquiries and registration for either of the Nature Journaling workshops, please contact the HOPE office by phoning 4639 2135 or emailing office@hopeaustralia.org.au.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
MEDIA RELEASE, Saturday, 4 February 2017
16/02 2017 Media release
Community Forum: “Gardening – the natural, organic way”, Saturday, 18 February 2017
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Want to learn how to grow healthy, nutritious food?
If your answer is yes, then you are welcome to come along to “Gardening – the natural, organic way” community forum being held on Saturday 18 February, 1pm – 4pm at the Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr Herries and Victoria Sts, Toowoomba).
The forum hosted by Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. features Mike Wells and Peter Macqueen from TAFE QLD South West (Horticulture) and Colin Johnson from Earthlife Pty Ltd.
The program for the afternoon features 3 speakers, each followed by a Q & A session
The program for the afternoon is:< /p>
Mike Wells will provide “an Introduction to Organic Gardening”
Peter Macqueen will talk about “Organic Pest Control - Non-toxic preparations for insect & disease control”
Colin Johnson will talk about “Healthy soils, healthy plants ... it’s that simple!”; and provide an overview of Earthlife ’s products
Bookings for the community forum are essential. To reserve your seat, please RSVP by 16 February to HOPE office by phone 4639 2135 or email office@hopeaustralia.org.au.
Event: Community Forum: “Gardening – the natural, organic way”
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
Media equiries
Mile Wells, TAFE QLD South West, ph: 07 4694 1562
Peter Macqueen, TAFE Qld South West, ph: 07 4694 1561, mob: 0438 863 645
Colin Johnson, Earthlife Pty Ltd, mob: 0456 003 625
Background information
Bio for Mike Wells
Mike Wells has turned a lifelong passion for all things plants into a 17year career as a horticulture teacher in Toowoomba for TAFE QLD Southwest. Since 2013, he has also found time to write the weekly gardening page for the Toowoomba Chronicle. His other horticultural exploits include various gardening segments on local radio, garden judging for the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, and many garden club talks, where meeting with other gardeners is his greatest joy.
Mike is passionate about creating living soils, plant selection and garden design, and has particular interest in turning suburban backyards into productive areas to supplement a family’s food requirements.
In his spare time, Mike gardens at home (what else?) and sings tenor in his A Cappella quartet, “Left Field”.
Bio for Peter Macqueen
Peter is a horticulture teacher at TAFE Queensland South West, teaching in areas of plant protection, plant identification, gardening and nursery production. He has a keen interest in all plants, whether native, exotic or weedy and sharing their identity, cultivation or control. As plant / animal relationships are critical, and sometimes problematic, he has a passion for identifying and sharing invertebrate knowledge. He is involved in a number of environmental projects, and is keen to promote the adoption of a Tree Protection Policy for the Toowoomba Region.
Reaching for a commercial spray can is rarely an option for the organic gardener who finds damaging pests in the garden.The increasing numbers of home gardeners who embrace the use of non-toxic remedies can listen to an expert's advice at the next public meeting of HOPE Australia (Householders' Options to Protect the Environment) on Monday, 14 April.
Organic pest control is usually less expensive than alternative methods, but does need a more pro-active approach. Peter’s talk will include the identification of potential pests as well as the beneficial insects and organisms that can be found in the garden. He will also discuss sustainable methods of pest control and will finish with a Q&A session.
Bio for Colin Johnson
Colin Johnson is the Sales Representative for Earthlife Pty Ltd. He studied Cert III as well as a Diploma in Horticulture and has been actively working as a Horticultural Professional in the Nursery and Garden Industry in Queensland for the past 16 years. He has spent 12 of those years working in and managing Retail Garden Centres, and the other 4 years representing 2 major allied product suppliers to the horticultural industry. He was given the opportunity to represent Earthlife in August 2016 and took the position with alacrity. He is also a fanatical plant collector and passionate gardener, with 6 acres of Land for Wildlife property in the Gold Coast Hinterland, he has a strong belief that there has always been far too much over-thinking regarding the growing and raising of healthy plants.
Healthy Soils, Healthy Plants – It's That Easy!
The challenge we all face as gardeners is to grow what we want, or can, in the lifeless compacted soils that appear to be the norm. Nature has provided a perfect example of what we need with the healthiest and most fertile soils being both volcanic mineral based and humus rich soils. As gardeners, this is not what we are generally advised to achieve with our own soils. We are encouraged to add animal waste and/or chemical fertilisers. Nowhere in nature do plants grow naturally in concentrated manures, nor on the synthetic chemical compounds we commonly label as fertiliser. The challenge is to recreate a healthy volcanic-type, humus-rich soil for ourselves without trucking in loads of imported soils. This can be accomplished with the use of biologically enhanced volcanic-based rock minerals and biologically enhanced composted humates, improving soil structure, drainage, water-holding and creating a pool of nutrients for plants to take what they need to grow strong and healthy.
Humates, which are composed of various forms of carbon, are naturally occurring material that is very rich in humified organic matter and humic substances. Humates are now recognized as the single most productive input in sustainable agriculture.
Bio for Colin Purnell
Colin Purnell is part owner and General Manager of Earthlife Pty Ltd. He grew up in Chinchilla, where they have poor, depleted soils. As a result of this he became passionate about improving soil health through remineralisation and subsequently improving food quality for people and livestock.
Bio for Earthlife
Earthlife started manufacturing microbial and rock mineral based products in 1996, after doing research into problems with poor quality soils and poor plant growth. The research indicated that Australian soils are very mineral depleted and also biological depleted. (Re: document 264. & Earth summit report 1992) “Rock minerals” is a generic term and in themselves are not water soluble, so it may take quite some time before you see soil or plant responses. Earthlife has developed technology and incorporated it with the combination of rock minerals and rare earths to remineralise soil structure and improve moisture and nutrient cycling systems. Earthlife rock minerals are suitable for all soil types and potting mediums.
11/01 2017 Notice
Wednesday, 11 January 2017
“IN BRIEF” Notice
Wanted: Used Postage Stamps
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) invites residents and businesses to collect stamps from their incoming mail for reuse by local community groups.
Community groups take these stamps and re-sell them to raise funds for local and overseas missions work.
Mr Frank Ondrus, President of HOPE said we also welcome unwanted stamp album collections.
You can post a pack of used stamps to the HOPE (Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment) office, PO Box 6118 - Clifford Gardens, Toowoomba, QLD 4350; or drop them off at 22 Vacy St, Toowoomba.
2017 promises to be a HUGE year for Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. with activities planned at the national, Queensland and Toowoomba level.
Nationally, HOPE will be implementing a new marketing strategy to lift our profile and increase our membership.
With HOPE’s headquarters located in Toowoomba, Queensland, we will be working closely with our many state-wide and local colleagues to support and promote their projects, campaigns and events – as well as heavily promoting our own undertakings.
Certainly, promoting 'Volunteering for the Environment ' – with the sub-theme of 'Youth Engagement in Landcare' is high on our agenda , said Mr. Ondrus.
In Toowoomba, we are busily putting the finishing touches to:
A series of Community Forums (to be held in February, April, June, August and October)
Acknowledging the contribution that Darling Downs Women have made to the Environment (as part of Qld Women’s Week), 11 March 2017
Nature Journaling workshops (as part of National Youth Week), 8 April 2017
We are also investigating funding options to undertake 4 (local) landcare projects; a series of Going Solar information sessions; governance and administration training for community groups management committees and admin support staff; and several workshops.
A new year is beginning and a lot of us like to have “resolutions” to give us a focus or an aim, for the year ahead.
Frank Ondrus, President of Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc., is suggesting that 2017 resolutions include actions to help improve environmental concerns. HOPE’s motto is Think Globally, Act Locally, said Mr Ondrus. In our everyday actions, each of us can contribute to the betterment of the environment.
For example:
Be vigilant with electricity use – turn off unnecessary items including lights and electronic equipment when no one is using them
Make a deliberate choice to walk, ride a bike or take public transport instead of driving your car every day
Establish routines in your household for the preferred disposal of recyclables, green-waste and rubbish.
These simple actions can become good habits and the collective benefit to the environment will be appreciable said Mr Ondrus.
These suggestions are grounded in HOPE’s Charter. Read more about HOPE and its Charter on the website at www.hopeaustralia.org.au .
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
It seems that Santa might have been on to something when he made a list and checked it twice.
With Australians spending over $1,079[i] at Christmas in recent years, some forward planning for meals and presents can lead to big savings.
On average, Australian households throw out 14% of weekly groceries worth about $1,100 each year[ii], and this is most pervasive at Christmas. Collectively that’s more than $10 billion of food every year, representing almost half of all municipal waste that goes to landfill.
Planning meals ahead of time and shopping accordingly, opening food as you need it and resisting the urge to over-cater will reduce this waste and the cost of festive celebrations.
Planet Ark’s The 12 DOs of Christmas awareness campaign includes tips for reducing food waste and excess packaging, more environmentally friendly choices when buying gifts and recycling items like wrapping paper, foil, cartons, drink containers, plastic and cards as well as electronics and batteries.
At Christmas we spend more, eat more and party more than any other time of the year, so it’s no wonder that councils report dramatic waste spikes over the festive season and everyone’s credit card bills skyrocket, explains Ryan Collins, Recycling Programs Manager at Planet Ark. It’s easy to get carried away with the excitement and buy too much. When you throw food in the bin it’s pretty much like throwing money away. It also represents a waste of the water, fuel and resources it took to get the food from the paddock to your plate.
Meal planning, sticking to a list and buying presents in plenty of time avoids those last-minute panic buys, saving you money and lessening the environmental impact of Christmas.
This year we’re tipped to spend an average of $539[iii] on presents, up 28% on last year, many of which are unwanted. Taking someone shopping for their present, giving experiences, gift vouchers or donations are great ways of reducing the likelihood of a present sitting in a cupboard unused.
Electronic waste is also a big theme at Christmas as people receive new electronic items like mobiles, tablets and computers or and toys as gifts, which are often battery-heavy. As electronics include non-renewable and toxic materials, it’s important to make sure that old ones are re-homed or responsibly recycled.
Christmas is a great time of the year but it’s true that getting everyone together can result in an argument or two. Checking RecyclingNearYou or downloading the free recycling app is the best way to avoid arguments over what goes in the recycling! says Collins.
The interactive app draws data from the RecyclingNearYou site for every Australian council and allows users to easily search for information about how to recycle over 170 household items.
The RecycleSmart App and The 12 DOs of Christmas tips are available on recyclingnearyou.com.au, a comprehensive online household recycling directory on which the app is based. For more information call the Recycling Hotline on 1300 733 712.
The recyclingnearyou.com.au website and hotline are supported by sponsors Bingo Bins, MobileMuster, TechCollect, Tetra Pak and ‘Cartridges 4 Planet Ark’.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. is seeking the community’s support through the provision of old corflute signs that can be reused for their 2017 programs of events, projects and other activities..
So, if you have old promotional, advertising, event or election signs that you no longer need, please consider donating them to HOPE.
Please drop off the unwanted corflute signs to the HOPE office situated at 22 Vacy St, Newtown, Toowoomba..
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
07/11 2016 Media release
MEDIA RELEASE 7 November 2016
Appeal for plants to landscape miniature railway precinct at Highfields Pioneer Village
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
The Highfields Pioneer Village Museum and Park Inc. is seeking the community’s support through the donation of plants to landscape their soon-to-be-opened miniature railway precinct.
Plants sought include bromeliads, birds-nest ferns, native outdoor ferns, agapanthus, callistemon, cannas, clivia, gazanias, potted geraniums, lamb’s ears, lavenders, daisies, delphiniums, hydrangeas, catmint and lady’s mantle In fact, any old hardy plants you have in your garden and wish to part with or provide cuttings will be gratefully accepted and appreciated.
The pioneer village is a community based non-profit organization established in April 2000 to support, maintain and give voluntary assistance to a functioning pioneer village at Highfields, on the Eastern Darling Downs.
Mr Frank Ondrus, President of Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) and a long-time supporter of the village encourages the general public to see what plants and/or cuttings they can donate to this worthwhile appeal.
03/10 2016 Media release: Alliance to Save Hinchinbrook Inc (ASH)
Port Hinchinbrook Re-run as Hinchinbrook Harbour
‘Port Hinchinbrook’ re-run as ‘Hinchinbrook Harbour’: How will the GBRWHA fare this time?
The Alliance to Save Hinchinbrook Inc (ASH) was incorporated in 1997 principally to ensure protection of the world heritage listed Hinchinbrook Island and Hinchinbrook Channel from adverse impacts arising from inappropriate development.
The first intention announced by the new owners of ‘Hinchinbrook Harbour’, the twice liquidated canal estate previously known as ‘Resort Village Cardwell’ (1980s -1993) and ‘Port Hinchinbrook’ (1994 -2012), is to prioritise dredging of the silted-up marina.
ASH spokesperson, Ms Moorhouse, said: We trust the new owners are aware of the highly sensitive natural environment of their acquisition; that Hinchinbrook Channel is home to seagrass-dependent dugongs, listed as vulnerable to extinction, which now need every care to survive; and that these dugongs and other marine animals of the Hinchinbrook Channel were important factors in having the Great Barrier Reef inscribed on the world heritage list.
These are also the reasons that dumping of dredge spoil into the Hinchinbrook Channel was formally refused in 2009; the acid marine mud is required to be stored ashore.
Perhaps the new owners are not aware that ‘Hinchinbrook Harbour’ sits on an old mangrove island in a shallow catchment; or that it has a highly mobile seabottom causing severe siltation (Queensland Government coastal engineering report 1977); or that the rapidity of silt infill has defeated past owners.
Documents show that the high cost of land disposal coupled with frequent dredging proved too much for Keith Williams. Ms Moorhouse said After covering around 60 ha south of Stoney Creek with 4-5 metres depth of acid mud, Keith Williams simply ran out of space.
‘Port Hinchinbrook’ residents however were kept guessing: anyone who cares to do the math on the disposal of 130,000 cubic meters at $30 per cm … will quickly realise that the cost is nearly four million dollars … we must ask … (again) why there is so much silt ... (PHC BAMLPAYERS ASSOCIATION Newsletter July 2008).
Ms Moorhouse said ASH is keen to hear from the new owners of ‘Hinchinbrook Harbour’ as to how they intend to prioritise protection of the sensitive biodiversity and remote wilderness values of Hinchinbrook Channel and Island.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) needs active volunteers – both local and remote (i.e. online) – to help us maintain our high levels of activity. It’s a win-win situation. Volunteering enhances your wellbeing and HOPE gains from your expertise.
You can assist with:
administration tasks
internet research
article writing
media and marketing activities
We are also seeking expert comment from academics and informed people to assist in critiquing government and industry reports.
On-ground helpers are also required to assist with staffing information displays, and helping out at events.
Much of the work would ideally be done by locals (i.e. in the Toowoomba area) because the HOPE office is in Toowoomba. However, quite a bit of the literature review, research, media and publications activity can be done via email. If you have a little bit of time to help us in any way, then contact the HOPE office on email office@hopeaustralia.org.au or phone (07) 4639 2135.
Frank Ondrus, President - HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
05/05 2016 Media release
MEDIA RELEASE
Wednesday, 4 May 2016
Community Forum - Laws to Protect the Environment, Friday 20 May 2016
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
Are you interested in learning about the laws that protect our environment?
If your answer is yes, then come along to a community forum on "Exploring Earth Laws, Earth Democracy and the Rights of Nature" on Friday 20th May 2017, 7pm - 8.30pm at the Toowoomba City Library (Level 3, Cnr Herries and Victoria Sts, Toowoomba).
Guest presenter, Dr Michelle Maloney, National Convenor of Australian Earth Laws Alliance, said Around the world, communities are responding to social, economic and environmental challenges by actively resisting destructive developments and working together to create desired positive change. But often our existing legal and governance systems don't help. So can we change the way our legal system works, to better support community aspirations and protect the environment?
The Australian Earth Laws Alliance (AELA) was formed in 2012 by a group of lawyers who believe our legal and governance systems need systemic change, in order to build a more Earth-friendly future and nurture the Earth Community.
Join us for a fascinating evening of discussions. Dr Maloney will provide an introduction to Earth Laws or “Earth Jurisprudence” and facilitate a discussion about the rights of nature, community-based rights and collective strategies for reducing consumption. The seminar is aimed at deepening understanding and enabling ongoing support of individual and collective activity. For more information about Michelle, please visit her profile webpage - http://www.earthlaws.org.au/about-us/aela-team/michellemaloney/.
Seats are limited and entry is by gold coin donation,
To reserve your seat, please RSVP by 18 May to HOPE office by ph 4639 2135 or email office@hopeaustralia.org.au
.
Frank Ondrus, President - HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
Media enquiries:
Dr Michelle Maloney, National Convenor - Australian Earth Laws Alliance, Mob: 0419 497 596
21/04 2016 Media release
Media Release, 21 April 2016
Successful end to appeal for gardening tools and equipment
Householders' Options to Protect the Environment Inc.
A heartfelt thanks to the community for their generous response to HOPE’s recent appeal for gardening tools and equipment.
A large quantity of spades, shovels, forks, hoes, picks, rakes – as well as a new mower and second-hand whipper snippers and a hedge trimmer – were collected and handed over to Mrs Jackie Doyle of Warwick’s St Vincent de Paul’s Cornerstone low-cost accommodation project.
Mrs Doyle was full of gratitude to HOPE for organising the appeal and thanked the local community for their donations of tools and equipment.
Frank Ondrus, President - HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
Call for end to involvement in the international shark fin trade
Australia could end its involvement in the international shark fin trade with one simple amendment
Wildlife protection organisations have asked the federal Trade Minister to end Australia's involvement in the global shark fin trade. According to legal advice received by the groups, such a regulation could pass easily through the parliament.
The international trade in shark fins is a significant sustainability issue, a prime cause of the global decline in shark populations and a major threat to the long-term survival of shark species. There are also significant animal welfare concerns with this trade. In many countries from which shark fin is exported, shark fisheries are largely unregulated meaning fins are removed at sea and the shark is dumped overboard to die.
Josh Coates, Fisheries and Sustainable Seafood Campaigner at ACMS said, Finning sharks is a significant driver in the global decrease in shark populations. We have an opportunity to show global leadership and set an example that would help other countries struggling to manage conservation and sustainable use of their marine environment. In 2015, Australia exported over 3,000kg of shark fin products and imported comparable weight from countries such as China, Hong Kong, Indonesia and the Philippines. Considering even the largest shark fin may end up weighing just a few kilograms after drying and that fins make up only a very small percentage of the whole sharks weight, these figures indicate the vast numbers of sharks which are being killed for this international trade.
Nicola Beynon, Head of Campaigns at World Animal Protection said, Around the world it is common for sharks to be finned alive and their bodies discarded. There are rules against the cruel practice of finning at sea in Australia, but we should not import fins obtained through such cruelty overseas. Removing Australia from the international shark fin trade is the best way to ensure that we are not contributing to demand for these products.
Alexia Wellbelove, Senior Program Manager at HSI said, It is time for Australia to take a stand against this cruel and unsustainable practice. The Australian Government could act unilaterally to end Australia's international trade in shark fin products by a simple amendment to our Customs regulations. There is already precedent for this action, with the Australian Government having previously taken action to protect the threatened Antarctic and Patagonian Toothfish after concerns that it was being subject to illegal fishing by foreign vessels.
HSI, IFAW, World Animal Protection and AMCS urge the Australian Government to take action to end Australia's involvement in the international shark fin trade which only serves to feed international and domestic demand for shark fins.
Media Contacts
Alexia Wellbelove, Senior Program Manager, Humane Society International: 0415 954 600 Josh Coates, Fisheries and Sustainable Seafood Campaigner, Australian Marine Conservation Society: 0438 805 284 Nicola Beynon, Head of Campaigns, World Animal Protection: 0416 843 131
26/06 2016 - Media Release
MEDIA STATEMENT
Friday 25th March 2016
Introduction
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment Inc. (HOPE) aims to raise awareness of, and encourage active participation in waste minimization and the conservation of energy and resources. HOPE seeks to promote its charter through individuals, families, community groups and businesses who embrace the philosophy of HOPE and spread this philosophy of sustainable living to others.
Whether you live in urban, rural or regional Australia, you too can lessen your impact on the global environment by adopting sustainable living practices at home, at work and at school. HOPE’s head office is located in Toowoomba, Queensland and has members and supporters throughout Australia. We hold face-to-face meetings four times a year, whilst keeping in regular contact by email and through our website.
THE HOPE CHARTER
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment Inc. (HOPE)encourages people to take responsibility for their relationship with the environment in their daily lives.
HOPE members and supporters have the following aims:
To use a little as possible of energy and resources.
To create minimal pollution, both directly and indirectly;
To prefer, in general, renewable to non-renewable, natural to manufactured, and local to imported; and
To support and promote ‘best practice’ natural resource management and landcare activities.
HOPE encourages people:
To view environmental problems in their local, economic and global context.
To use what is already there, making the most of existing resources, technology and community networks; and
to create, communicate and celebrate lifestyles which reduce consumption and improve quality of life.
While HOPE endorses individual action, it also encourages people to act together in their local community, and in society as a whole, to further these aims.
HOPE is a non-profit organization and is not affiliated with any political party.
Additional information
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment Inc. (HOPE) is involved in a variety of areas which promote sustainable living practices through Mutual Alliance / Partnerships program with other groups. This way, we can help other groups achieve their aims, whilst adhering to the philosophy of HOPE.
HOPE continues to work on activities and projects in its own right; as well as supporting pertinent campaigns which fit into HOPE’s charter.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
22/02 2016 - Media Release
Clean Up Australia Day Events
It is time for Australia to clean up its act!
The annual Clean Up Australia Day is on Sunday, March 6, and volunteers have been challenged to pick up a broom and do their part for the environment.
There are several ways people can be involved in the annual project. Volunteers can join an existing site, donate to Clean Up Australia or conduct a clean up at a site and on a date suitable to them.
To volunteer at an existing site, visit Clean Up Australia Day at http://www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/ to search for a location. Volunteers can register as an individual, community group, business or school. Registered volunteers will receive a free clean up kit, which includes bags, gloves, information and promotional material.
If you do not want to pick up your bag and gloves, there are three ways to donate to the cause. Businesses can register to become a supporter. The donation will be used to provide practical resources to help communities’ clean-up activities. Businesses can sponsor a specific clean-up site or donate directly to Clean Up Australia. The organisation does not receive government funding and relies on donations to fund its campaign.
There will be three chances to take part in this year’s event:
Business Clean Up Day is on Tuesday, March 1;
Schools Clean Up Day is on Friday, March 4; and
Clean Up Australia Day is on Sunday, March 6.
Clean Up Australia Day was launched in 1990 when almost 300,000 people turned up at sites around the country. Since its launch, volunteers have contributed more than 27.2 million hours of their time to the cause and collected more than 288,650 tonnes of rubbish. The concept went global in 1993 and about 40 million people from 130 countries take part.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
(Written by Simone Zenoni, HOPE media officer)
01/02 2016 - Media Release
HOPE appeals for gardening tools and equipment
An appeal for unwanted gardening tools and related equipment is being organised by Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE).
Mr Frank Ondrus, President of HOPE said we has offered to help a regional welfare agency collect sufficient garden and lawn-care tools and equipment for up to 10 low-cost accommodation houses which they manage.
Common gardening tools such as spades and digging forks; and hand tools such as weeding folks would be welcome, said Mr Ondrus.
Donations of the above items can be left at 22 Vacy Street, Toowoomba; or contact the HOPE office on 4639 2135 to arrange collection from your premises.
Regards,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
21/01 16 - Media Release
Wanted – Used Postage Stamps
Many people sustain the traditional custom of sending Christmas greetings cards, but few recipients are aware that the used postage stamps can prolong the spirit of giving after the festive season is over.
Throughout the coming year, please be mindful of collecting any stamps from any mail received – at home or at work!
All used stamps, or indeed un-wanted stamp albums, are used by some community groups as fund-raising for overseas missions.
You can post a pack of used stamps to the HOPE (Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment) office, PO Box 6118 - Clifford Gardens, Toowoomba, QLD 4350; or drop them off at 22 Vacy St, Toowoomba … throughout 2016.
Regards,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
21/01 2016
Imagine if we did nothing to secure our Aussie Food?
Host a BBQ this Australia Day and support our Aussie Farmers
Many Aussie farmers have faced real hardship these past few years. They face constant challenges including, extreme weather conditions and ever increasing natural disasters, leading to crop failure and loss of livestock. This impacts every single Australian. It affects food security and food supply, our water quality, and most importantly our health
How will a lack of local produce impact you and other Australians?
The impacts of poor food quality and low supply are many...
This Australia Day, why not celebrate and host an Australia Day BBQ and help raise a few dollars to support our Aussie Farmers. All you have to do is:
Invite your friends, family, neighbours or local group to your BBQ.
Ask each person to donate something on the day, no matter how small.
Take lots of photos and post to FB, Instagram or twitter #AusDayBBQ4Farmers
Donate at www.fromfarmtofork.org.au or sign up your BBQ event on our website and create your own fundraising page.*
All funds raised go to Landcare Australia’s drought resilience fund to help our Aussie farmers be proactive and drought ready. Drought ready farmers ultimately reduce the impact of food quality and supply, which contributes to the health and well-being of every Australian.
This Australia Day, host an Aussie BBQ using local produce and help support Aussie Farmers.
* Sign up prior to the 26 January, and you’ll go in the draw to win a dozen bottles of great Aussie wines valued at $180, proudly provided by our supports the Wine Society.
About Landcare Australia:- Landcare is a national network of thousands of locally-based community groups who care for the natural resources of our country.
19/01 2016
Just how accurate and up-to-date is Queensland’s mapping?
As well as addressing serious issues in NSW a Humane Society International (HSI) media release NSW Mapping Putting Battered Habitats at Risk. Begs the question 'Just how accurate and up-to-date is Queensland’s mapping?'
HUMANE SOCIETY INTERNATIONAL
Media Release January 18, 2016
NSW Mapping Putting Battered Habitats at Risk
Humane Society International (HSI) is highly concerned about the implications for threatened wildlife habitats following the reported scale of inaccuracy of the mapping system set to underpin the new generation biodiversity law in New South Wales (Losing the Plot, Sydney Morning Herald, 16/01/16). With an independent study finding that the system was only 17% accurate at identifying plant communities and picked up just one of 13 occurrences of Weeping Myall shrubland – an endangered ecological community listed following an HSI nomination in 2003 - there is a near certain risk that remnants of already battered ecosystems will fail to be identified and therefore no longer receive their required consideration.
As the nominator of 25 ecological communities currently listed as threatened under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, one of the four pieces of legislation set to be replaced by the broader biodiversity law, HSI is particularly concerned that further degradation will push ecosystems across the state that are already recognised as being on the brink due to land clearing even closer to complete destruction.
Land clearing, be it for urban development or agricultural or mining purposes, is the primary reason these ecosystems have been assessed as requiring legislative protection in the first place. Cementing a mapping system shown to be hugely inaccurate into the legislation charged with their safeguarding is unacceptable and will do nothing but hasten their demise, said HSI Senior Program Manager Evan Quartermain.
Missing the chance to move to an improved mapping system is even more concerning given the Federal Government's ongoing efforts to devolve environmental powers to states and territories through a 'one-stop-shop'. If the state can't be trusted with protecting ecosystems listed on the schedules of its own legislation, it should not be handed responsibility for nationally and internationally significant environments protected under Commonwealth law.
Mr Quartermain concluded, We urge the New South Wales Government to walk away from the proposed mapping system. Having already invested heavily is not good enough reason to hold on to it, and it's time to cut losses before any new law is compromised by having such an inaccurate methodology entrenched.”
HSI continues to argue the position outlined in our submission to the NSW Biodiversity Legislation Review: that high quality remnants of Threatened Ecological Communities listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 should be designated 'red flag' areas off limits to all development. Strong action is required to reverse worrying levels of biodiversity loss in New South Wales.
About Us
HSI concentrates on the preservation of endangered animals and ecosystems and works to ensure quality of life for all animals, both domestic and wild. HSI is the largest animal protection not-for-profit organisation in the world, with over 12 million supporters globally and has been established in Australia since 1994.
05/06 15 - Media Release
Helping our backyard habitats
Most of us take a comfortable home for granted - yet some of the really helpful creatures that share our habitat are often made to feel very uncomfortable and unwelcome through unsustainable gardening practices. There are however some quite simple things all homeowners can do, to provide a welcoming environment for native animals, insects and birds that share our space.
Environmental organisations such as Householders' Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) and the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife (http://fnpw.org.au/) are encouraging every household in 2016 to look for ways they can offer suitable accommodation for our native wildlife. Look to make this your goal for 2016!!
Things like frog ponds and nest boxes can be simple projects that can engage young family members in good environmental practices as well as providing comfortable accommodation for creatures that provide some benefits to our gardens.
Ladybirds and native birds help keep garden pests at bay; while butterflies and bees help pollination. So, keep these friendly characters on side by using only natural pesticides when absolutely necessary.
Marigold, parsley, coriander, dill, fennel, alfalfa, zucchini, melons and cucumbers are favoured attractions for ladybirds and are very useful culinary items as well.
HOPE President Frank Ondrus said these are just some of the many simple ways every householder can share their homes with friendly native wildlife.
Visit backyardbuddies.net.au for more information on creating friendly habitats for native animals.
Regards,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
(Written by Stewart Mulligan, HOPE media officer)
30/12 15 - Media Release
New Year’s Green Resolutions
Traditionally, the New Year brings plenty of resolutions to do things differently; however, many of these good intentions don't survive the summer.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) has some good ideas easily turned into sustainable resolutions which make you feel good as well.
HOPE President Frank Ondrus said these tips are simple to implement yet can have lasting benefits for individuals, families and the community.
Mr Ondrus suggests adding the following actions to your resolution “to do” list:-
Aim for a chemical-free household, using natural cleaning products and recipes (www.theshoppe.com.au)
Take part in Friends of the Escarpment Parks working bees to clean the Toowoomba escarpment of weeds and invasive plants (www.fep.org.au/fep-parkcare.php)
Join a local conservation or environment group, Landcare or animal welfare group – e.g. contact the Darling Downs Environment Council (DDEC) – www.ddec.org.au.
HOPE runs a number of on-going appeals including:
collecting used postage stamps and unwanted stamp albums which are passed on to other groups for their fundraising efforts
collects un-wanted or pre-loved but useable items including gardening tools and equipment
Spring-cleaning for the environment might be a good slogan for our appeals, Mr Ondrus said.
Regards,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
(Written by Stewart Mulligan, HOPE media officer)
30/10 2015
Rally for action on climate change
Supporters of a serious approach to climate change will take to the streets of Australia's capital cities at the end of November to make a statement prior to the Paris Climate Summit.
The Brisbane People’s Climate March will be held at Queens Park, corner of Elizabeth and George streets in the CBD from 9:30am on Saturday 28th November with the goal of showing the strength, diversity and unity of those wanting a safe climate to protect Australia’s future.
The events are organised by an alliance of national Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and state and territory Conservation Councils, and will be held in all capital cities over the weekend of November 27-29.
The action is supported by Householders' Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE). The organisation's national president Mr Frank Ondrus encouraged residents throughout Australia to support this global initiative in some way.
If they can't make it to a capital city march, then I encourage them to do something in their local community,・he said.
On November 14, two weeks out from the marches, there will be a door knock by event supporters to talk with their neighbours about the impacts of climate change and why action is needed now to preserve Australia's future.
Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. calls on Minister for Planning, Deputy Premier Jackie Trad to extend the consultation period for the government’s draft planning bills, saying the community has not had time to properly consider the proposed new laws.
The Deputy Premier released a package of three planning bills and five supporting documents on the 10 September for six-weeks consultation ending 23 October.
Frank Ondrus, President of HOPE said the consultation process run by the Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning (DILGP) has been inadequate and community awareness is extremely low about the proposed new planning laws.
Mr Ondrus said his organisation was keen for DILGP to hold a public consultation session in Toowoomba to give local and regional residents a chance to better understand the governments proposed planning changes.
'Our members are concerned with many aspects of the proposed planning laws and, like other community groups, we have not had enough time or information to properly respond to these proposed planning laws. The new framework stretches to over 1000 pages of complex planning law. If this government wants meaningful input from the community, then we need more time to review and consider the implications of the proposed changes or state planning laws'
HOPE Inc. calls on the Deputy Premier to extend consultation on the draft bills by at least four more weeks and to instruct DILGP to hold more consultation sessions around the state.
Regards,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
As a national NGO with a broad environmental agenda, Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment (HOPE) Inc. believes in the value of partnering with other agencies to share expertise and resources, and in supporting one and others’ projects, campaigns and events.
HOPE is a member group, signatory or supporter of 13 State, national and international organizations concerned with a wide range of environmental issues. These include the promotion of sustainable development, plant and animal conservation, the reduction of pollution and waste, as well as fighting against poverty, toxic chemical use and much more.
HOPE participates in numerous outreach activities involving the local community and beyond, such as setting up information displays at expos and festivals in Toowoomba and at University of Southern Queensland (USQ). HOPE also develops educational materials, ranging from information sheets, to booklets and guides.
In addition to supporting its partnerships and alliances, HOPE both endorses and actively participates in local and national campaigns, including Clean Up Australia Day, World Environment Day and Biodiversity Month.
We invite HOPE members, supporters and the wider community to support these alliances and events where possible. With more involvement, together, we can work towards keeping the earth a beautiful place!
Further information about HOPE’s partnerships, alliances and outreach activities can be found on the HOPE website. We seek to forge alliances with businesses and NGOs.
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 4639 2135
(Written by Marie-Jo Brion, HOPE volunteer)
07/09 15 - Media Release
Meeting of HOPE
Environmental group Householders’ Options to Protect the Environment Inc. (HOPE) will meet this Saturday, September 12, in the organisation's office at 22 Vacy Street Toowoomba starting at 10am. All members and people interested in helping the environment by “thinking globally and acting locally” are invited to attend. Morning tea will be provided. Please RSVP by phone 4639 2135, or email office@hopeaustralia.org.au by Friday to confirm attendance..
Regards,
Frank Ondrus, President – HOPE Inc., ph 07 4639 2135
(Written by Stewart Mulligan, HOPE volunteer (Qld))
Can't find what your looking for (more downloads to come) - inquire by calling calling the HOPE office on ph 07 4639 2135, email office@hopeaustralia.org.au or use the contact form
“How restoring your soil’s health - from backyards to farm-yards - can help the environment” is the theme of HOPE’s second community forum for the month of May.
International Volunteer Day:
Mike Wells has turned a lifelong passion for all things plants into a 17year career as a horticulture teacher in Toowoomba for TAFE QLD Southwest. Since 2013, he has also found time to write the weekly gardening page for the Toowoomba Chronicle. His other horticultural exploits include various gardening segments on local radio, garden judging for the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, and many garden club talks, where meeting with other gardeners is his greatest joy.
Peter is a horticulture teacher at TAFE Queensland South West, teaching in areas of plant protection, plant identification, gardening and nursery production. He has a keen interest in all plants, whether native, exotic or weedy and sharing their identity, cultivation or control. As plant / animal relationships are critical, and sometimes problematic, he has a passion for identifying and sharing invertebrate knowledge. He is involved in a number of environmental projects, and is keen to promote the adoption of a Tree Protection Policy for the Toowoomba Region.
Colin Johnson is the Sales Representative for Earthlife Pty Ltd. He studied Cert III as well as a Diploma in Horticulture and has been actively working as a Horticultural Professional in the Nursery and Garden Industry in Queensland for the past 16 years. He has spent 12 of those years working in and managing Retail Garden Centres, and the other 4 years representing 2 major allied product suppliers to the horticultural industry. He was given the opportunity to represent Earthlife in August 2016 and took the position with alacrity. He is also a fanatical plant collector and passionate gardener, with 6 acres of Land for Wildlife property in the Gold Coast Hinterland, he has a strong belief that there has always been far too much over-thinking regarding the growing and raising of healthy plants.
