Being a parent or grandparent in the midst of the climate crisis isn’t easy. The emotional toll can feel overwhelming, especially for those of us in conservative, regional communities. But one thing many parents agree on is that joining forces with others makes all the difference. Connecting with a local Parents for Climate action group helps lighten the emotional, mental, and physical load of taking action—it's more impactful and shows you’re not alone.

That’s exactly what Karl and Chloe Watfern did in June this year. Parents to two young children, aged four and seven, they stepped up to establish the Townsville & Surrounds Parents for Climate group. Recently relocated from Sydney to Yunbenun (Magnetic Island) - a stunning part of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area—they saw both the beauty and vulnerability of their new home. This sparked an urgent need to unite local parents for climate action.

“Being parents to two small kids is such an absorbing part of our lives,” Chloe reflects. “It’s also one of our biggest motivators for climate action. We had many discussions about the pros and cons of bringing children into this precarious world. Ultimately, we decided to, but with that came a deep responsibility to advocate for a safe climate for them—and for all kids who’ll be most impacted by today’s actions.”

Karl, Chloe and their children at the launch of the Townsville & Surrounds group

Karl adds: “We moved to Magnetic Island in late 2023 to make a home in this wild, beautiful place - the largest residential island in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, and one steeped in family history for Chloe, whose grandparents moved here in the 1970s. As relative newcomers to the Townsville region, we have made new friends and built community through the local school, kindy and shared passions for the spectacular outdoor environment surrounding us. We realised that our new community here cares deeply about the natural environment - how can you not, when you’re living in a place like this? We saw an opportunity to mobilise local parents, grandparents and carers around stronger climate policies, and to connect with like-minded parents on the mainland, in a town that is enmeshed in the resources industry, and “proud home” of the Adani Regional Headquarters.”

Building Community and Overcoming Isolation

In regional communities like Townsville, taking action on climate change can feel isolating. But with backgrounds in climate tech and mental health, Karl and Chloe were determined to create a supportive space where parents and carers could overcome isolation and find strength in numbers. They believe that by building community, parents would realize they weren’t alone in their climate concerns.

Through Parents for Climate, they connected with like-minded individuals, both on the mainland and the island. Events like the Townsville Eco Fiesta helped them meet others, share stories, and organize family-friendly activities—such as the “wishes for the planet” on butterfly wings. It was this kind of engagement that brought Naomi Cassiles Southgate into the group. As a mother of two young children, Naomi was eager to join a group where her kids could be part of the climate action too.

“It’s been rewarding to channel my concerns about climate change into something positive and welcoming,” Naomi shares. “The group leaders have created an atmosphere where we can both act and learn, and where our children are actively involved.”

A "wish for the planet" created at the Townsville Eco-Fiesta in June 2024

Mobilizing Ahead of Elections

With the Queensland election on the horizon, Karl, Chloe, Naomi, and their group see an opportunity to take their work to the next level. Elections provide a critical chance to mobilize local parents and push for stronger climate policies from candidates across the political spectrum. But their vision goes beyond election cycles—they’re driven to create long-term cultural change in how the community views climate action.

“In a region like Townsville, with its strong ties to the resources industry, advocating for change can be challenging,” Chloe acknowledges. “But that’s why it’s so important. We want a future where all kids can thrive in a stable climate, and that starts with us taking action right here, right now.”

Naomi agrees. “I want all candidates to take climate change seriously. Strong policies and commitments to reduce emissions are important to me, and this group gives me a voice to share that.”

Naomi and her daughter, representing Parents for Climate on National Threatened Species Day

Not Going It Alone

Throughout their journey, Karl, Chloe, and Naomi have drawn on resources from the Parents for Climate network and their allies. Collaborating with conservation groups, engaging in citizen science, and supporting local renewable energy initiatives, they’re contributing to a powerful community coalition.

Their efforts are now inspiring others, not just in Townsville but in regional communities across Australia. Whether by joining a group, starting important conversations, or advocating for policy change, every parent has a role to play in building a safer climate for their children.

As Karl puts it, “We moved here for the love of this place and to raise our kids in nature. But with that comes the responsibility to ensure that the future we give them is one where they can thrive. It’s not just about our family—it’s about all kids. And we all need to step up.”

This is just the beginning for the Townsville & Surrounds Parents for Climate group. With leaders like Karl, Chloe, and Naomi at the helm, they’re ready to face the challenges ahead with courage and hope, while still finding joy in the journey of parenthood along the way.

“We’re going slow, making sure we have time to scramble over boulders and snorkel the reefs as a family. In the words of Bayo Akomolafe, ‘The times are urgent; let’s slow down.’ " It’s a powerful invitation to take action, without losing sight of what inspires that action.

Want to Connect with Other Parents?

If you’d like to connect with parents and grandparents working toward a safe climate for our kids, you can find a list of local Parents for Climate groups, including the Townsville & Surround group here.

No group in your area? Contact Bianca via [email protected] to discuss the options for starting one in your community.