Parenthood is a powerful motivator, and for three remarkable dads—Simon, Oli, and Karl—it's the driving force behind their commitment to climate action. Each of these fathers has found a unique way to make a difference, standing up for a safer, more sustainable world for their children. Their stories are a testament to the diverse ways we can all contribute to the fight against climate change, no matter our background or skills.

Simon: The Astrophysicist Turned Climate Advocate

Growing up in Melbourne, Simon Campbell was on a camping trip along The Great Ocean Road when he looked up at the amazing array of stars at night and wondered what they were. This was the beginning of his fascination with understanding the universe, leading him to study physics and astronomy. Now an astrophysicist at Monash University, Simon’s love for the night sky has only deepened over the years. 

At the same time, he had been aware of the growing threat of climate change. As a university student he convinced his family to install solar panels on their house back in 2005, to reduce their carbon footprint. More recently, as a father, he has become increasingly concerned about the world his 11-year-old daughter, a Minecraft and soccer enthusiast, is inheriting.

“As a scientist, I deeply understand the urgency and seriousness of the climate crisis, and I have realised that governments have not been acting fast enough to address it. As a father, I want to protect my daughter,” Simon shares. His concern led him to volunteer with Parents for Climate, where he found a way to merge his scientific expertise with his passion for advocacy. Simon now plays a vital role in the Parents for Climate Submissions team, a group of volunteers with scientific or policy backgrounds who write submissions to government inquiries. Last year alone, they produced 39 submissions, contributing significantly to the development of policies and campaigns aimed at addressing climate change.

For Simon, being a parent is a central part of his identity, and he’s determined to use his skills to influence the kind of world his daughter will grow up in.

Simon meeting with MP Josh Burns to discuss the Solar Our Learning campaign.

Oli: Running Towards a Sustainable Future

Oli Courtney, a Sydney-based father, finds balance and purpose through running and climate action. Since moving to Australia, these two passions have become integral to his well-being, helping him stay healthy in mind, body, and spirit. Now, at what he jokingly calls “at least 20 years too late,” Oli is preparing to run his first marathon on September 15th.

“Like all parents, I want to tell my kids a happy story about their future,” Oli says. “Love and hope for the next generation is proven to be our biggest shared motivation, whatever our political stripes.” This belief is what drives him to not only train for a marathon but also raise funds for Parents for Climate. Oli sees the organization as a beacon of hope, delivering significant impact with limited resources and making the fight against climate change feel possible and joyful.

Oli’s story is an inspiring reminder that it’s never too late to take action and that every step—literal or metaphorical—can make a difference. By running his marathon, Oli is not just challenging himself physically but also contributing to a larger cause that will impact his children’s future.

Oli is ready to run!

Karl: Innovating for the Ocean and the Next Generation

Karl Watfern is a man of many talents—an entrepreneur, electrical engineer, and environmentalist with a deep love for the ocean. Based on Yunbenun - Magnetic Island, Karl’s passion for the sea and technology found its perfect blend during his time at CSIRO’s Oceans and Atmospheres division. This experience inspired him to co-found Hullbot, a robotics ClimateTech startup directly reducing emissions from the maritime sector, all in the name of healthier oceans.

But Karl’s dedication to the environment doesn’t stop at technology. As a father of two young children, aged 7 and 4, he’s also deeply committed to climate action on land. After relocating to Magnetic Island with his partner Chloe, Karl realised there was a gap in parent-focused climate activism in their regional community. Motivated by the success of friends in Sydney, they decided to start a Parents for Climate group in the Townsville area, providing a platform for parents to engage in climate action and advocate for their children’s future.

“It’s not always easy living in a regional community when it comes to climate action,” Karl admits. “But we’ve connected with amazing people and organisations, and it’s been a rewarding journey.” Through their efforts, Karl and Chloe are building a supportive, solution-focused community that empowers parents to stand up for a safe climate for their kids.

Karl with his partner Chloe and their fabulous kids at the launch of the Parents for Climate Townsville & Surrounds group

A Shared Commitment to a Brighter Future

Simon, Oli, and Karl each bring something unique to the table, but they are united by a common goal: securing a safe, sustainable future for their kids, for all our kids. Their stories show that no matter your profession, interests, or location, there’s a role for everyone in our parent-powered movement. Whether it’s through scientific advocacy, fundraising efforts, or grassroots organizing, these Climate Dads are proving that when it comes to protecting our kids and our planet, every action counts.