Sunday, 20th August 2023, 9am – 4pm
OJW Functions Space, S-Block Level 12, QUT Gardens Point campus (map and getting there)
A Community Symposium hosted by the QUT More-than-Human Futures research group held in conjunction with the Green Institute Conference 2023
This one-day symposium brings together local community members, academics, and politicians to discuss and explore pressing issues affecting Brisbane’s future. The symposium consists of four panel discussions that delve into specific topics of local concern, focusing on the Barrambin / Victoria Park redevelopment, the controversial Lumina light show proposed for Mount Coot-tha, the problem of excessive noise pollution from Brisbane’s flight paths, and the climate-positive approach to the upcoming Brisbane Olympics 2032.
The symposium seeks to engage participants in thoughtful conversations and promote more-than-human responses, considering the wellbeing of both humans and non-humans in shaping Brisbane’s future. Through collaborative dialogue and exchange of ideas, the event aims to foster innovative approaches and actionable solutions for a genuinely sustainable and inclusive Meeanjin (Brisbane).
Agenda:
09.00 – 09.30 Opening Remarks
- Professor Marcus Foth, QUT More-than-Human Futures and School of Design
- Assoc. Prof. Jen Seevinck, QUT More-than-Human Futures and School of Design
- Tim Hollo, Executive Director, The Green Institute
09.30 – 10.30 Panel 1: Barrambin
The first panel discussion centres around the Barrambin / Victoria Park redevelopment, examining the impact of urban development on the local community and the surrounding environment. Experts and community representatives share their perspectives on balancing growth and sustainability, considering both the economic benefits and potential ecological consequences.
Panellists:
- Dr Laurel Johnson, Senior Research Fellow, UQ Institute for Social Science Research
- Dr Neil Peach, Coordinator for Spring Hill Community Group, and Member, SEQ Community Alliance
- Dr Kavita Gonsalves, Sustainable Design Lead APAC, Populous
- Wendy Aghdam, 2024 Greens Candidate for Brisbane City Council Central Ward
- Chair: Assoc. Prof. Jennifer Seevinck, QUT More-than-Human Futures and School of Design
10.30 – 11.00 Morning Tea
11.00 – 12.00 Panel 2: Mount Coot-tha
The second panel delves into the controversial proposal for the Lumina light show at Mount Coot-tha, addressing the concerns raised by environmentalists, cultural custodians, and the broader community. The discussion aims to foster a dialogue on finding a balance between cultural expression, recreation opportunities, and environmental preservation.
Panellists:
- Bron Raftery, Mount Coot-tha Protection Alliance (MCPA)
- Sheena Gillman, Chairperson, Protect the Bush Alliance and Committee Member, Birdlife Southern Queensland
- Elizabeth Handley, Brisbane Residents United and SEQ Community Alliance
- Hira Sheikh, PhD Candidate, QUT More-than-Human Futures and School of Design
- Chair: Professor Marcus Foth, QUT More-than-Human Futures and School of Design
12.00 – 13.00 Lunch
13.00 – 14.00 Panel 3: Flight Path Noise
The third panel focuses on the ongoing issue of excessive noise pollution from Brisbane’s flight paths. Community members affected by aircraft noise will discuss health and environmental impacts and outline potential solutions and strategies for mitigating the impact on local residents’ wellbeing and the surrounding ecosystem.
Panellists:
- Sandra Bell, Committee Member, Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance (BFPCA) and Brisbane Airport Community Airspace Advisory Board (AAB)
- Dr Sean Foley, Environmental Scientist, Committee Member, Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance (BFPCA), and Brisbane Airport Community Aviation Consultation Group (BACACG) member for Griffith
- Adj. Prof. David A. Hood AM, Board Member, Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF)
- Prof. Marcus Foth, QUT More-than-Human Futures and Chairperson, Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance (BFPCA)
- Chair: Assoc. Prof. Caroline Hauxwell, QUT School of Biology & Environmental Science, and Brisbane Airport Community Aviation Consultation Group (BACACG) and Archerfield Airport Community Aviation Consultation Group (AACACG) member for Ryan
14.00 – 14.30 Afternoon Tea
14.30 – 15.30 Panel 4: Brisbane Olympics 2032
The fourth panel explores the topic of the climate-positive Brisbane Olympics 2032, discussing the efforts being made to ensure sustainability, renewable energy use, and the required climate-positive approach throughout the planning and execution of the event. The panel emphasises the importance of leveraging the Olympics as an opportunity to drive positive environmental change and inspire lasting sustainability practices within the city.
Panellists:
- Melissa Occhipinti, Friends of Raymond Park
- Austin Gibbs, East Brisbane State School Parent and Citizens (P&C) Association Olympic Impact Group
- Dr Michelle Newcomb, QUT School of Public Health & Social Work
- Nicholas Kamols, PhD Candidate, QUT School of Design, and Young Planner of the Year 2022, Planning Institute of Australia (PIA)
- Chair: Prof. Dan Angus, Director, QUT Digital Media Research Centre (DMRC)
15.30 – 16.00 Closing Remarks
- Chris Walker, President, South East Queensland Community Alliance (SEQCA)
RSVP: brisbane-transformed.eventbrite.com.au
Details:
| Location: | OJW Functions Space, S-Block Level 12, QUT Gardens Point campus [link to map] |
| Start Date: | 20/08/2023 [add to calendar] |
| Start Time: | 9am |
| End Date: | 20/08/2023 |
| End Time: | 4pm |
| RSVP By: | Friday 18th of August 2023 |
| Cost: | $20 concession; $40 regular; $60 pay-it-forward |
| Organiser: | QUT More-than-Human Futures research group |
| Enquiries: | Professor Marcus Foth, m.foth [AT] qut.edu.au |
| Register: |