Katoomba Area Local NewsStrengthening community, healing Country, and restoring the health of our planet.
Taking Action to Prevent Nuclear War
The blast from the 1954 nuclear weapons test on Bikini Atoll (Image: Public Domain; US Dept of Energy)
On the 80th anniversary of the bombing of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, the Planetary Health Initiative and the Blue Mountains Peace Collective hosted a Peace Symposium and Community Picnic to provide pathways for everyone to take steps for a more peaceful future. The event kicked off ICAN’s Week of Action for the Abolition [of Nuclear Weapons] and everyone was asked to send a message to the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister to urge them to sign and ratify the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in this term.You can add your voice to this urgent call here
Key Points:
Nuclear Abolition Campaign: The symposium marked the 80th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima, urging Australia to sign the Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons through ICAN’s Week of Action.
Community-wide Peace Building: Over 130 participants heard diverse speakers emphasising that peace requires whole-of-community engagement, from addressing local social injustice to international diplomacy.
Key presenters included Japanese journalist Harumi Hayakawa, Quaker Rosemary Morrow, Rotarian Jennifer Scott, artist Matilda Emmerich, ICAN Ambassador Robert Tickner, Indonesian Ambassador Dr Siswo Pramono, MP Susan Templeman, and Mayor Mark Greenhill.
The Blue Mountains Peace Collective reflected on the inaugural Blue Mountains Peace Symposium and Community Picnic:
The foundations of sustainable peace must be built through a culture of peace in the minds and actions of people worldwide. As defined by the United Nations, the Culture of Peace is a “set of values, attitudes, modes of behaviour and ways of life that reject violence and prevent conflicts by tackling their root causes to solve problems through dialogue and negotiation among individuals, groups and nations” (UN Resolutions A/RES/52/13).
Real sustainable Peace is: • an end to violent conflict, • an end to injustices, and • a culture of peace.
Peace is not something we achieve, peace must be worked for and practised daily, Dharug man, Chris Tobin, reminded the large audience gathered for the Blue Mountains Peace Symposium and Picnic. That Saturday, August 2nd, truly was one of the coldest, wettest, most miserable days of winter, but Chris Tobin’s warm welcome and opening remarks set the tone for the symposium: peace is a whole of community need, the ‘business’ of all of us, at all times.
Chris Tobin’s opening address
The symposium was a collaboration of the Blue Mountains Planetary Health Initiative and the Blue Mountains Peace Collective, held at the Planetary Health Centre in Katoomba. The August 2nd date was chosen to mark the 80th anniversary of the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. The symposium was thus part of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons’ (ICAN) Week of Action.
Harumi Hayakawa on Peace in Japan.
With the effects of nuclear weapons and the necessity for communities to promote, work on and embrace peace in everyday life both front of mind, it was fitting that the first speaker of the day was Japanese journalist Harumi Hayakawa. Harumi reminded us of the very great human cost of war; of why working for peace is so important.
Later, in the lunch break, she helped children and adults to make the origami cranes that remain a poignant symbol of the desire for life of Sadako Sasaki, a child victim of the Hiroshima bomb.
Harumi teaching participants how to make origami cranes during the Peace Picnic.
Following on from Harumi, Jennifer Scott stated: ‘Peace is not the absence of war, it is the absence of want.’ Jennifer is an active Rotarian for peace. Both internationally and locally, Rotary engages in promoting peace through on-the-ground work (building education, ameliorating poverty), by providing peace studies fellowships and much more.
Jennifer, who works in education in Cambodia, encouraged the audience in hope, in doing what we each can do to develop a world where social justice makes peace possible.
Rotary International Director, Jennifer Scott
Similarly, Rowe Morrow OAM, in a video presentation, spoke of the long and influential work of Quakers toward a fairer and more peaceful world, whether that be through protest (Quakers being early among the protestors at Pine Gap), international activism (Quakers have a UN presence, as does Rotary) or local community support work.
Rowe Morrow speaking on Quakers and Peace
Attendees at the symposium ranged in age (it was great to see some children there) and this, too, was reflected in the morning session presentations. There was history of past peace actions: a screening of the 1946 documentary, ‘Indonesia Calling’, which movingly portrayed Australian Waterside Workers unionists refusing, and convincing others to join them in refusing, to service Dutch ships in Australian ports post-war. These ships were transporting armaments with the aim of the Dutch regaining control of the recently independent Indonesian population: united, local action helped prevent that outcome.
Peace Collective member Bruce Cornwell described past successful protests, and discussed potential future actions. Emerging activists, too, stood up to be counted: Year 11 student, Matilda Emmerich, already an artist and poet, presented her work, Where Hope Sits, giving older activists hope for the future.
ArtistMatilda Emmerich
There was more hope and pertinent comment in the performances of Ecopella and the Bearded Ladies community choirs, and in the lunchtime activities, for children and adults alike, in origami, badgemaking, book learning (local bookshop, RoseyRavelston) and in sharing picnic food from Bibi’s Kitchen.
Ecopella Community Choir
The afternoon session, chaired by Nick Franklin, emphasised the importance of formal, governmental promotion of peace, particularly in working to abolish nuclear weapons. Robert Tickner, Ambassador to ICAN (International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons), pointed to Australia having already supported the banning of land mines, cluster munitions and other weapons of war – and argued, eloquently, that it is time the Australian government took the next steps and signed and ratified the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW). This signing, he suggested would also enable Australia to develop more independent foreign and strategic policies.
ICAN Ambassador, Robert Tickner’s presentation
Blue Mountains Mayor, Mark Greenhill, member of the international Mayors for Peace, a group originally founded in 1982 by the mayor of Hiroshima, recognised the need for community action – campaigns against family violence, for gender equality and diversity, for example – as the essential supports for viable peace.
Mayor Mark Greenhill’s presentation
Our local federal member, Susan Templeman, outlined the federal government’s activities and policies in relation to the promotion of peace, noting that the Labor Party was committed to the signing of the TPNW (but when, the audience asked? When?).
Susan Templeman’s presentation
The three Australian representatives were joined by H.E. Dr Siswo Pramono, Indonesian Ambassador to Australia: the Indonesian government having become, in 2024, one of the 94 signatories to TPNW. Dr Pramono spoke as an advocate for Australia’s signing of the treaty to abolish nuclear weapons ASAP.
Dr Siswo Pramono’s presentation
Well over a hundred people filled the audience seats at the symposium and their questions and comments were an essential part of the ongoing conversation throughout the day. Given current events, many comments concerned the unjustified and unjustifiable imposition of unbearable conflict on the people of Gaza. Actions were discussed – sanctions, pressure on Australian and international politicians and governments, protests, local supports and more.
Australia’s problematic commitment to AUKUS and nuclear submarines received several mentions, as it should. The cost of these submarines could fund so much for so many Australians – reminding us all, yet again, that a world that favours war over peace is a world in which humans suffer terribly in conflicts, and also unnecessarily through lack of service provision, when money is instead spent on weaponry that kills.
Fortunately, early on the day, the news came through that the March for Humanity would proceed across Sydney Harbour Bridge the following day. We expected it then, and know now, that the march was HUGE and the Blue Mountains was brilliantly represented.
In all, the Peace Symposium of August the 2nd was a remarkable event. As Robert Tickner said, ‘today (was) absolutely inspirational’.
With many thanks to all who volunteered and participated,
Thank you to everyone that joined us at the Planetary Health Centre on Saturday for the first of our Skill Share Saturdays program!
The Centre was a hive of activity all day, and we heard from @alchemyfarms_permaculture, the @ediblegardentrailbluemountains team and Andy Mann. Also thanks to Sherlie McMillan from Greater Blue Mountains Rotary for teaching the Fashion Upcycling workshop, and Virginia Field for the Tai Chi and Qigong class.
The next event will be held on Saturday 1st August - you can register your place here: https://events.humanitix.com/skill-share-saturdays-at-the-planetary-health-centre
🖐Get involved!
Do you have a skill, program or interest that promotes planetary health that you`d be willing to share with members of the local community? We are looking for more workshop and session hosts for our future events.
Join us at the Planetary Health Centre in Katoomba on the first Saturday of every month for Skill Share Saturdays!
Our July program includes: - What to grow in a Blue Mountains climate - Eating for Earth - Tai Chi and Qigong - Fashion upcycling and clothing reuse workshop - How to get involved with the Edible Garden Trail
You are also welcome to bring any surplus seeds or produce for our Crop Swap, or wind down in the Planetary Health Cafe (until 2pm).
If you have a skill that you want to share, or any questions or queries, please contact [email protected]
Visit the website to view the full program of events and register your place.
Join Andy Mann, a 23 year old Lawson local, for their Eating for Earth session 🌏
Eating for Earth is a judgement-free plant-based educational workshop that all types of eaters are encouraged to attend. There will be a presentation about the environmental impact of diets, a discussion section, and best of all, food! The food will be fully plant-based.
Andy wants to help inform our passionate community about how we can better reduce dietary environmental impact.
The session will run from 11AM - 12PM on Saturday 4th July.
Other sessions include: - What to grow in a Blue Mountains Climate - Fashion Upcycling - Tai Chi and Qigong - Bushcare on the Planetary Health site - How to get involved with the Edible Garden Trail
To register your place, visit our website: https://events.humanitix.com/skill-share-saturdays-at-the-planetary-health-centre...
We’re excited to announce the second Blue Mountains Food Security Fair, taking place in Katoomba in October 2026.
This annual event will bring together growers, thinkers, makers, and community members to explore one of the most important challenges of our time: how we grow, share, and sustain food in a changing world.
Across the weekend, we’ll be exploring themes including: - Healthy soil and regenerative systems - Food and human health - Plant-based food futures - Home and community food resilience - Water-sensitive and climate-adapted growing - Indigenous food knowledge and systems - School food systems - Australia’s food procurement - Global food security challenges Expect a dynamic program of inspiring speakers, practical workshops, and hands-on experiences designed to leave you informed, empowered, and connected.
Key information Date: Weekend of 10th October 2026 Location: Blue Mountains Planetary Health Centre, Katoomba, NSW We’ll be announcing speakers and program details soon.
We are also inviting expressions of interest from individuals and organisations who would like to contribute to the program, host workshops, run a stall or partner with us.
Do you struggle making the most of your veggie garden all year round?
Join Leni from @alchemyfarms_permaculture on Saturday 4th July for her Permaculture Workshop: Learn how to grow WITH the Upper Blue Mountains seasons, rather than battling against them.
During the two-hour session, you`ll cover crop selection for different seasons, what to grow from seeds vs seedlings, frost and wind protection, and nurturing your soil with a seasonal cycle.
Register for this and other sessions as part of our Skill Share Saturdays program via this link: https://events.humanitix.com/skill-share-saturdays-at-the-planetary-health-centre...
From Saturday 4 July, we are opening up the Planetary Health Centre for our monthly Skill Share Saturdays program: https://events.humanitix.com/skill-share-saturdays-at-the-planetary-health-centre
Throughout each day, you can expect to find a variety of sessions focused on restoring the health of the planet, in terms of the environment, community and economy.
Sessions at the first event include:
- What to grow in a Blue Mountains climate - Plant-based eating - Tai Chi and Qigong - Fashion Upcycling and clothing reuse workshop
You are also welcome to bring any surplus seeds or produce for our Crop Swap, or wind down in the Planetary Health Cafe (until 2pm).
Visit the website to view the full program of events and register your place: https://events.humanitix.com/skill-share-saturdays-at-the-planetary-health-centre
Registrations essential.
We are also inviting expressions of interest from individuals and organisations who would like to contribute to the program - please reach out to [email protected] if you are interested!...
🍃Volunteer weekly at the Planetary Health Centre 🍃
From next week, Tuesday 28th April, come and join Leni from @alchemyfarms_permaculture from 10am - 12pm, to help with the management of the Planetary Health veggie gardens, where any surplus produce can be shared!
The gardening session will be followed by a complimentary tea or coffee in the Planetary Health cafe.
📆Day: Every Tuesday 🕙Time: 10AM - 12PM
📍Where: Blue Mountains Planetary Health Centre 33-39 Acacia Street Katoomba (follow the pathways at each side of the building, round to the terrace and gardens).
What shall I bring? All you need to bring is water, gardening gloves and a hat.
Last week we had the pleasure of hosting the first year Medical students from @notredamesyd for their Rural and Indigenous Immersion trip across Katoomba and Lithgow. Across two days, 150 students learnt about the link between human health and a healthy environment, the work of the @bluemountainsplanetaryhealth Initiative and the @bluemountainscitycouncil to create climate resilient communities, and got to explore our site using heat mapping tools....
Join Rotarians for Planetary Health on International Women`s Day, from 2.30-4pm Sun 8 March, for the opening of a portrait display to celebrate local women who have made a meaningful impact on protecting animals and nature. The photographs by Sue Lightfoot and others are part of a long-term initiative to build a living, community-driven database of women working to protect animals and the natural world.
The display will be open until 1 April, Thursday to Saturday, 9.30am–3.30pm at the Junction 142 Village markets (church space). As the project develops, community members will be invited to nominate women whose work deserves recognition.
The launch follows the Uniting Church and Plant Inspired`s monthly community luncheon from 12-2pm, which this month features the Older Women`s Network Blue Mountains. For more information contact 0434 691 496 (Teya)
In a world being threatened by war, greed, cruelty and selfishness, the Planetary Health Wellness Weekend will close with a gathering of people who have faith that kindness, generosity, love, creativity and community, and the healing of our land, are a better way forward. We`re thrilled that harpist Dawn Egan will be performing at this inspiring event in the Planetary Health exhibition space. Afternoon tea will be provided. Register to attend here (link in profile under Wellness Weekend): https://bit.ly/4kUkzfm
Had lunch yet? Head over to the Planetary Health Centre for these delicious offerings from @8thingskatoomba today (Sat 28 Feb): South Indian dosa, Korean bao, NY Cheese burger, Bali nasi, Mullum tofu fries, shoestring fires & red bean mochi!
Don`t miss hearing Andrew Skeoch at 2pm today at the Planetary Health Centre! He`s an acoustic ecologist and author of `Deep Listening to Nature` and uses technology to help identify the different `conversations` happening in the world around us. His presentations are a revelation! Reserve your spot here (link in profile under Planetary Health Wellness Weekend): https://bit.ly/4kUkzfm
In Katoomba, a grassroots litter-picking group tackles rubbish before it reaches our water supply. Their story shows how local environmental action, fueled by community connection, can drive meaningful change for planetary health.
Support the Future of Solutions-Focused Neighbourhood News
