The festival focused on constructive ways to mitigate the impacts of climate change, including strategies for individuals experiencing climate anxiety.
Local librarian Ramey Hengen was a popular choice as emcee for the event.
Landcare Victoria CEO Claire Hetzell was the first speaker, discussing the impact Landcare has had in local communities for 40 years.
She spoke about the significance of the strength communities build through involvement with Landcare, and the importance of these connections as the regularity of natural disasters increases.
The film Floodland was a sobering reminder of the impact of the Lismore floods.
It told the story of a young man’s journey through buying his first home, then experiencing unprecedented flooding twice.
The main character decides he has to leave his beloved town.
His friend, however, chooses to remain and work to bring change to Lismore.
The film Rehydrate Australia told the story of Australian farmers successfully carrying out landscape restoration through natural sequence farming.
Two practitioners spoke of the significant impact seen when properties use this technique.
The third film, Turning The Ship, told the story of the 2024 blockade of the port of Newcastle, the world’s largest coal port.
Benalla’s Rhona Rose spoke of her involvement in that, and described her positive experience of the event.
Horticulturist and regenerative edible gardener Craig Castree spoke passionately about his simple strategies to improve soil health, garden growth and personal wellbeing.
The short film, Degrowth in the Suburbs, told the story of a real family in Brunswick living sustainably on their small suburban block.
They spoke of their many successful strategies and the sense of pleasure each brings.
Thanks to sponsorship from Landcare, Benalla Sustainable Future Group and Benalla Rural City Council, the ticket price for the event was only $40.
That included a delicious lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
The results of the audience survey indicated that people enjoyed the social nature of the day, the diversity of films, the speakers and the great food.
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