Navigating change in changing climate

Wimmera people are weather watchers.

It’s our bread and butter. There’s money in mud.

Big rains and flooding late last year impacted people and properties across the region – and the devastation in other areas of the state was a sobering reminder of the sheer force and power of Mother Nature.

In the end, despite the soaking and frequently bogged vehicles, the region’s farmers recorded a bumper season and grain storages filled to the brim. And in this region, we all well know that when the farmers make money, everyone makes money.

We could be on the cusp of a change, however, as the La Niña period comes to an end.

The wet and cool weather could make way for a weather cycle of a different kind.

The Bureau of Meteorology is on El Niño watch – a wait-and-see forecast for the potential of hotter, drier weather ahead.

While the big wet of 2022 is fresh in our minds, so, too, is the devastating Millennium Drought of the 2000s.

That’s not to suggest that the El Niño will bring about another drought period in the Wimmera and southern Mallee. But it is timely to reflect that the lessons of those harsh times shaped our region to what it is today.

Infrastructure developments and innovation,

Editorial

By Jessica Grimble

practical solutions, and health and wellbeing initiatives – big and small – came out of necessity and the chance to support ourselves and each other.

There were many habits formed during this time that changed the way we lived and worked both during the drought and to this day – some of which we may not even be consciously aware. From short showers to hardy low-water gardens, diversifying businesses, and cherishing and maintaining connections.

A unique Wimmera-led publication, ‘Climate Eyes’, released last year, sought to capture the stories and learnings of the drought years to support people to adapt in an ever-changing climate. Through its tips and reflections, it records challenges and celebrates resilience – and it demonstrates that the region and its people have what it takes to navigate change in an everchanging environment.

Adapting and working together. Come what may.

tor communities and place, Kevin O’Brien, said the council was ‘committed’ to safety on shared paths and worked with partner organisations to enhance people’s understanding of rules and laws.

“The council works closely with local agencies including Wimmera’s Grampians Health and schools to promote active transport and better understand the needs of the local