In the run-up to our ten year celebration, we caught up with a number of key people who have helped build the Sustainability Festival over the last decade into what it has become today. We also got their views on what makes #SustFest so special, the impact on the local community and how it can help the future generations.
Reflecting on Impact
What sustainability achievement are you most proud of during your time with the group?
It’s brilliant that, over the years, SustFest has put our District on the map as a leader in community sustainability. I also think that it’s helped local politicians feel that they should be putting sustainability on their agendas too.
What project or initiative had the most lasting impact, in your view?
I remember when Plastic Ocean was shown at the Odyssey. It was a sell out and I remember sitting in the audience listening to peoples’ gasps of horror at the devastation they saw on the screen. I got the feeling that most of the audience were Odyssey goers rather than members of local eco groups and the film gave many people a reason to take their first steps in environmental action.
Celebrating Collaboration
What did you enjoy most about working with other members?
The whole committee that I worked with during my 5 years of involvement were ambitious, hard working and tenacious. It was so rewarding seeing how each SustFest eventually came together and resulted in fun, inspiring and thought provoking events that the community enjoyed.
Were there any unexpected partnerships or collaborations that turned out to be especially fruitful?
The Speed Networking events that were a feature of pre COVID SustFest were brilliant at bringing together all sorts of groups that we would never have thought would have such good synergy. Finding someone else who shares your ideas or passion is really empowering
Learning and Growth
What’s one thing you learned from being part of the group that you still carry with you?
Helping the environment is a long game. There’s always more to do and you find successes when you least expect them
Did your involvement change how you think about sustainability or community action?
Yes. It opened my eyes to the amount of support there is for environmental action amongst local groups and businesses
Looking Forward
What opportunities do you see for future sustainability efforts in our community?
There’s so much more potential so long as new people get involved with new ideas making new collaborations
What message would you give to the future generations, like those at Oaklands, about the sustainability challenges ahead?
Lead by example and remember that humankind has made bigger changes before and is capable of doing so again
Moments of Joy
What was the most fun or memorable event you participated in?
The first SustFest Speed Networking event – people had so much fun and just wanted to keep on talking, making connections and exchanging stories.
What made being part of the group meaningful or enjoyable for you
There is nothing more hopeful and empowering than being part of a group of people who share your values and with whom you feel you’re making a real difference, and that’s how it felt with the brilliant SustFest team