Southern Tasmania Energy Descent Action Planning Workshop with Transition Tasmania

Saturday, 18 September 10-4pm @ Phillip Smith Centre, Glebe
WHEN members will be attending this important workshop. Join us and others from similar groups in Southern Tasmania to start tackling some of the bigger issues around Transition. Its all about stepping up the impetus that is already driving us - the need to rapidly develop community and personal resilience in the face of a very uncertain future. Many are concerned that energy prices are due to rocket within 5 years and that this will place immense hardships on not only the Tasmnaian economy, but also on communities and individuals. Simply put: We are not Ready! With this in mind, Sustainable Living Tasmania in concert with Transition Tasmania invites you to a one day stimulating workshop to explore this theme.

Many people throughout the State are doing inspirational things, but at the same time we also need to challenge our own comfort zones. We need to find smart ways to accelerate our activities and draw in the broader community at a much faster reate. Tasmania needs to have an Energy Defence strategy in place. Please do join us. See the attached flyer for the program and further info.

Please RSVP by email to lissa@sustainablelivingtasmania.org.au or call 6234 5566.

Walking West Hobart map project

WHEN's Sustainable Transport working group plans to create a walking map of West Hobart, to help people to explore and enjoy our lovely suburb on foot

A high proportion of West Hobart residents already walk down the hills to work in the city, which means we have a well-established walking culture on which to build. Also, statistics show that walking and using public transport in West Hobart is quite safe. International town planners such as Jan Gehl argue that liveable and cohesive cities are walkable cities. This project would help to increase social cohesion and connectivity, and promote re-localisation as a response to the impact of peak oil. 

The "Walking West Hobart" map would offer more options for people without cars (or who choose to use their cars less often) to walk to local shops and services. The map will show little-known shortcuts through the middle of blocks, and people's favourite routes will be highlighted. Bikeable routes and bus routes will also be shown. Links and information about other low carbon transport options will be included, such as bus timetables, Park and Ride options, walking bus, cycling clubs. Through using the map, people will learn about quicker ways to get to the shops and the cinema, and will save time and money, also improving their health and fitness. There will be wins all round!

Work on the map will commence early in 2010, and will be discussed at the first meeting of WHEN for 2010, which is scheduled to be held in February. If you would like to assist with the preparation of the map, please contact Di Elliffe on 0411 671652.

Low Carbon Transport - sticker

I recently upgraded to a new car, choosing the Hyundai i30 diesel, which has a very low fuel consumption - tested at average 4.7L per 100 km. Wow!

I have had the idea of producing a car sticker which people (like me!) choosing low carbon options can use to celebrate their choice. It could be used on fuel efficient cars, on bicycles, motorbikes, even backpacks of walkers.

The wording I have thought of so far is: "Loving my low carbon transport". With a second line of small print containing a qualification for using the sticker, such as "Fuel efficiency rated at less than 5 L per 100km".

Let me know if you would like to assist with production, or a supply. Di Elliffe 0411 671652.