Paul Bibby
Hundreds of locals gathered in central Byron today to stand in solidarity with the victims of the country’s devastating bushfires and to demand meaningful action to address the crisis and halt climate change.
Young and old alike met at Railway Park and then marched to Main Beach for speeches and songs, with The Echo estimating that around 400 took part.
The rally was attended by former Opposition Leader John Hewson and a range of local community leaders.
‘Despite our love of the natural beauty of this country we have not always taken our custodianship seriously,’ said Michelle Lowe, one of the organisers of the event and also a local mum.
‘We have not understood the importance of it. That our beloved country with its wild spaces, and mystical animals
‘This past few months I have watched and read obsessively and I have felt deeply sorry that I have betrayed mu country and the animals and plants that I was meant to look after.
‘Despite my understanding, wonder and love, I am also responsible for the climate crisis we are experiencing.
‘But I have had my eyes wrenched open and I am mourning the simple love of nature I had in childhood.
‘These are not normal times, these are deeply grave times. Times that will require us to change our lives, how we consume and how we engage with our leaders.’
Photos Jeff Dawson
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