In this final episode of the series, we’ll unpack the highlights and outline key recommendations, which we’ve already shared with Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, our Climate Minister Chris Bowen and our Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek.

Two Bays host Matt Sykes is joined by Vasil Samarjiev, the Chief Youth Representation Officer at UN Youth Australia.

In a (gum)nut shell …

Issue: The #EcoAnxiety2Action Handbook is out now, but getting it on the decision-making agenda is going to be difficult and take time.

Opportunity:  So, we need to build a Community of Support, and you’re already part of it.

Insights: Together, we’re shifting the needle and starting impactful conversations, and Gen Z is building momentum as a force for positive change.

The ‘Transforming Youth #EcoAnxiety2Action’ campaign is a collaboration between Regeneration Projects, UN Youth Australia and RMIT University. Join us on this journey!

Jess Vize is the State Coordinator for Roots & Shoots Victoria, an initiative of the Jane Goodall Institute. She’s currently studying a Bachelor of Environmental Science at Deakin University.

Emily Alexander is the Education Manager for Culture College Arnhem Land Aboriginal Corporation, working alongside Yolngu Elders such as Djapirri Mununggirritj. She has university qualifications in Environmental and Indigenous Education.

Sophia Bagatsing is Founder of Friends of the Forest and also makes a special guest appearance.

In a (gum)nut shell …

Issue: Intergenerational leadership change can be tricky at the best of times.

Opportunity: Pioneering Elders & Mentors are setting inspiring examples for others to follow.

Insights: When we proactively embrace Gen Z’s ecological superpowers, everyone benefits.

The ‘Transforming Youth #EcoAnxiety2Action’ campaign is a collaboration between Regeneration Projects, UN Youth Australia and RMIT University. Join us on this journey!

Aru Narayan is a super passionate and proactive young tourism professional. She was a 2022 graduate of the Launchpad program offered by Youth Tourism Network and Regeneration Projects, and is now a Team Lead at Reeho Study Tours.

 Yee Zhao and Cooper Tealen are a dynamic duo with high hopes for Melbourne’s urban landscapes. They’re recipients of the City of Melbourne’s Youth Climate Action Grant, based around a very cool idea for soilless vertical gardens through their enterprise – Gnositukoi.

In a (gum)nut shell …

Issue: Finding value-aligned leadership programs & entrepreneurial seed funding is tricky.

Opportunity: Fortunately, advocacy and policy change is creating more supportive conditions.

Insights: Now, pilot programs have proven their impact for young people, we’re ready to scale.

The ‘Transforming Youth #EcoAnxiety2Action’ campaign is a collaboration between Regeneration Projects, UN Youth Australia and RMIT University. Join us on this journey!

Janet Connor is the Nursing Laboratory Manager in the Diploma and Bachelor of Nursing at Holmesglen Tafe.

 Craig Hyde-Smith is a Provisional Psychologist at Blokes Psychology having completed his Master of Professional Psychology at the University of Melbourne in 2023.

 Giorgia McLaughlin is currently studying a Master of Communication with RMIT University, and Co-Leading the #EcoAnxiety2Action campaign with Regeneration Projects.

 In a (gum)nut shell …

 Issue: Younger and Older Aussies are having trouble communicating about eco-anxiety.

 Opportunity: Confronting stigmas and overcoming fear around change will bring us closer.

 Insights: Learning from successful case studies shines a light on the pathway forward.

The ‘Transforming Youth #EcoAnxiety2Action’ campaign is a collaboration between Regeneration Projects, UN Youth Australia and RMIT University. Join us on this journey!

- Mark Ashmore is the Principal at Salesian College Chadstone, and his school has become an early adopter of Regeneration Projects’ ecological literacy, leadership and entrepreneurship programs.

- Dr Jana Menssink is a Project Coordinator at the University of Melbourne’s Centre for Youth Mental Health, working closely with Orygen on research and practice to develop innovative programs and resources.

In a (gum)nut shell …

Issue: Youth mental health issues, including climate anxiety, are showing up throughout Australian education.

Opportunity: Industry experts and researchers are gradually building capacity across the sector.

Insights: A combination of strong leadership and values are showing signs of transformation.

1. Pok Wei-Heng also lives in the Land of the Long White Cloud - Aotearoa New Zealand. He’s the Curator of the WEF Global Shapers Community Auckland Hub and a Sustainability Consultant at Edge Impact.
2. Shruthi Vijayakumar also calls Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland home. As a Coach, Facilitator & Educator, she supports leaders committed to systemic change.
3. Vasil Samarjiev lives in Tarntanya / Adelaide, and is the Chief Youth Representation Officer at UN Youth Australia and Australia’s UN Youth Delegate for 2024.

In a (gum)nut shell …

Issue: Social and Environmental issues like climate change don’t stick to geographic borders.

Opportunity: So, when young leaders share knowledge and experiences, we are stronger.

Insights: There’s a range of international programs that bring young climate actors together!

This week’s sensational  line up includes:

Maureen Pillon is the Co-Chair of the Young Tourism Network and works as a City Economy Coordinator at the City of Melbourne.

Dora Marinova is a Professor at Curtin University of Technology, and like our next guest was originally from Bulgaria.

 Vasil Samarjiev now calls Tarntanya / Adelaide home, he’s the Chief Youth Representation Officer at UN Youth Australia.

 In a (gum)nut shell …

Issue: The Academic and Industry research on youth climate anxiety is alarming.

Opportunity: But elevating research to decision-makers is critical to moving forward. 

Insights: Innovations in policy, investment and capacity building are waiting to be scaled.

The ‘Transforming Youth #EcoAnxiety2Action’ campaign is a collaboration between Regeneration Projects, UN Youth Australia and RMIT University. Join us on this journey!

Our incredible special guests include:

1. Vasil Samarjiev was born in Bulgaria and now calls tarntanya / Adelaide home, he’s the Chief Youth Representation Officer at UN Youth Australia.
2. Charlotte Gallace lives on Wurundjeri land, is a student at Prahran High School in Narrm / Melbourne and an Organiser with Schools Strike 4 Climate.
3. When he’s not at home on Millowl / Phillip Island, Joey Thompson’s voice can be heard stopping traffic in Melbourne’s CBD. He’s also an Organiser with Schools Strike 4 Climate.

In a (gum)nut shell …

Issue: The youth mental health crisis is serious, and climate change is a big trigger.

Opportunity: But surrounding yourself with good people is a starting point for positive action.

Insight: Youth leaders and organisations have a message that decision-makers need to hear. 

The ‘Transforming Youth #EcoAnxiety2Action’ campaign is a collaboration between Regeneration Projects, UN Youth Australia and RMIT University. Join us on this journey!

 The international Swimmable Cities Charter has now launched! Inspired by the example of Paris cleaning up the River Seine for the Olympic Games, civic leaders around the world are starting new conversations about climate resilience with their local communities.

 Our final episode for the ’10 Steps towards a swimmable Birrarung / Yarra River’ series features two inspiring next gen leaders.

 Mayor Edward Crossland and Councillor Sophie Wade are taking swift action on implementing the City of Yarra’s NEW Climate Emergency Plan, helping their municipality to become the FIRST in Australia to sign the Swimmable Cities Charter.

Let’s tune in to hear how they’ve made this breakthrough and its lessons for other communities!

Note: Two Bays Podcast series #2 is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

Episode #9 of this series focuses on the power of education in growing the next generation of civic-minded leaders. We talk about ‘ecological literacy’ and spotlight the example of one school community that works with the Birrarung in innovative ways that other groups can emulate. 

You’re going to meet a young rising star, a wise community Elder and a passionate educator empowering lives, introducing:

Sophie Hart, 2023 Environmental Captain at Melbourne Girls College & Environmental Science student at Deakin University

Don Vogt, Coordinator, Inner Melbourne branch of the Australian Conservation Foundation 

Andrew Vance, Sustainability Coordinator at Melbourne Girls College

We’re realising that the Birrarung is a sensational teacher! Are you ready to embrace lifelong learning?

Note: Two Bays Podcast series #2 is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

As the City of Paris’ leadership in cleaning up the River Seine before the 2024 Olympics shows, restoring urban waterways and building urban swimming culture takes decades.

So, could adopting the practices of endurance athletes give us the resilience we need to achieve a swimmable Birrarung? Listen now!

As far as we know, Karin Traeger, is the only person who has successfully run the entire length of the Yarra River, from its source at Mt Baw Baw to the Bay, a journey of over 280km. She’s a Chilean Ultramarathon runner & the Founder of La Loyka.

Hilary McAllister, joined Karin as a support crew and runner on the epic Birrarung / Yarra river run in September 2022. She’s also an Ultrarunner and the CEO of For Wild Places.

Sometimes, life feels like a marathon. In this Two Bays episode, our special guests will share how their experience as endurance athletes inspires fearless environmental leadership.

Note: Two Bays Podcast series #2 is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

April Seymore is incredibly passionate about the Planet! She’s a responsible dog walker and the Executive Officer of Port Phillip Eco Centre.

Liam Higgins represents a new generation of environmental leaders! He’s the Co-Founder & COO at VOLI, an app that makes doing good easy.

Anthony Despotellis literally has his finger on the pulse of the Birrarung’s health! He’s the Litter Project Officer at Yarra Riverkeeper Association.

Stormwater runoff (from streets, parklands & industrial areas) pollutes the Yarra River, but if we can prevent litter, slow down runoff and filter stormwater, change is possible. 

Alrighty then, it’s time for another opportunity to transform climate anxiety into action!

Note: Two Bays Podcast series #2 is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

In this episode, our special guests talk about how they and their organisations’ are chipping in and how you can too! 

We will meet a quiet advocate for the Birrarung who draws on her experiences as a former Mayor to inspire others to fall in love with our River. Then there’s the surfboard-making engineer who’s bringing fun back into urban swimming conversations, as well as an internationally recognised researcher with some provocative perspectives on future tourism.

Make that cuppa, find a cosey corner and nestle into this heart-warming conversation!

Note: Two Bays Podcast series #2 is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

Melbourne may sit on a remote island ‘Down Under’ but that doesn’t stop Regeneration Projects from collaborating with international pioneers, people like:

• Ana Mumladze Detering, Convenor of the Pan European Urban Bathing Network, and Co-Founder of the Danube Canal Swimming Association, Vienna
• Chris Romer-Lee, Co-Founder of Studio Octopi (an architecture firm specialising in urban swimming projects), Co-Founder of Thames Baths & Co-Founder Future Lidos, and
• Johann Durand, Blue Flag International Director at Foundation for Environmental Education (fellow actor in the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration)

For the latest on the Paris Olympics build up and some very exciting NEWS for the Swimmable Cities movement, don’t miss this episode.

Note: Two Bays Podcast series #2 is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

In this episode, you’re going to meet three talent professionals who know how to transform urban design visions into clear, deliverable masterplans.

• Skye Haldane is the Principal of Strategic Design at the City of Melbourne and Project Lead for the Greenline Project
• Thomas Flugge is a Senior Landscape Architect at McGregor Coxall
• Dr Chris Speed is a Professor of Design for Regenerative Futures at RMIT University

Together, our guests represent some of the freshest and brightest minds shaping Melbourne’s built environment. No challenge is too great! Don’t miss out on this deep dive into the power of design in making swimmable cities a reality.

Note: Two Bays Podcast series #2 is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

Dr Erin O’Donnell tirelessly works with waterways worldwide, from communities in Aotearoa New Zealand to the United States. This is all part of her role as a Senior Lecturer and ARC Research Fellow at Melbourne Law School.

Protecting urban waterways from stormwater pollution, old sewage systems and vegetation clearing is a hard task, especially when you think about the rising pressures of climate change. But embracing Indigenous and Western knowledge could just give us the edge we need, and the Yarra River Protection / Wilip-gin Birrarung murron Act 2017 has already started this journey.

Are you ready for another step towards a swimmable Birrarung?!

Note: Two Bays Podcast series #2 is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

In this episode, we meet another two amazing ambassadors for Melbourne’s beloved Birrarung / Yarra River, who hold a wealth of community leadership experience.

Amanda Donohoe fearlessly plunges into the Birrarung all year round! She’s a member of the Yarra Yabbies swimming group and also the CEO of Servants Community Housing, Hawthorn.

Andrew Kelly is well known to community stakeholders along the Yarra River! He’s a former Yarra Riverkeeper, and the convenor of The Waterway Network.

Despite the Yarra River being a civic space, its lower reaches (between Dights Falls in Abbotsford and Port Phillip Bay) aren’t truly accessible. But perhaps the community vision of the Yarra Strategic Plan 2023-2032 is already starting to change that.

Listen now to find out more!

Note: This Two Bays Podcast series is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

Meg Elkins started swimming in the Yarra River during Lockdown! She’s a member of the Yarra Yabbies swimming group, she’s also a Behavioural and Cultural Economist at RMIT University. 

James Mugavin built a sauna in his parent’s backyard as a Lockdown project! He’s a sauna enthusiast and Founder & CEO of Loyly architecture studio.

Listen in to discover some hidden silver linings to COVID-19 and how the Birrarung / Yarra River is becoming the heart of urban bathing culture in Melbourne.

Oh, and hear our guests' perspectives on the vision of a ‘swimmable’ Birrarung between Dights Falls (Abbotsford) and Port Phillip Bay!

Note: This Two Bays Podcast series is brought to you by Regeneration Projects, the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University.

Are you ready to discover how a growing social movement aims to renegotiate and reconcile our relationship with the Birrarung, by drawing inspiration from Indigenous wisdom – Burndap Birrarung, burndap markoo (What's good for the Birrarung, is good for All)?

As a small local business committed to the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, Regeneration Projects invites you to join us and our series partners – the Yarra Riverkeeper Association and RMIT University - in supporting the peace-making process between people and Nature.

Tune in and learn how you can turn over a new leaf in your relationship with the Birrarung and your local waterways!

Cam emphasizes the importance of creativity and tenacity in business and encourages fellow entrepreneurs to trust their instincts and take the first step. Tune in now if you’re ready to be inspired!

In this immersive conversation, Matt and Claire learn why raising awareness of the Landcare movement and encouraging more people to get involved is crucial to the Peninsula achieving a climate safe future. We delve into the essential role of landholders and farmers in taking climate action, emphasizing the need for adaptive land management and lifestyle changes. We also learn about concepts like becoming ‘carbon negative’ and the significance of bio-links (large-scale habitat corridors) in preserving biodiversity. 

Let’s jump into the grassroots and listen to some passionate locals talk about what they do best! Tune in now!

The episode concludes with a reflection on the legacy we leave for future generations, tune in now for a dose of climate hope!

In this episode, we chat about the Shire's bold Climate Emergency Plan (think zero carbon emissions by 2040!) and how electric vehicles (EVs) are changing how locals and visitors move around. 

Matt joins Anthony Broese van Groenou (co-CEO at Good Car Company) and Mornington Peninsula Shire climate team members Lucy Allison (Team Leader), Jesse Caufield (Project Officer), and Jacqui Salter (Community Environmental Education Coordinator) in a dynamic conversation bridging business and government.

Let's celebrate our wins and work together to protect this paradise. It's time to turn the tide, Peninsula style … tune in now!

They share insights into promoting sustainability within schools and empowering students to take meaningful action. From exploring local environments like mangroves to implementing innovative sustainability programs, they highlight the importance of hands-on learning and community collaboration.

Tune in now and discover how schools are making a difference in the fight against climate change!

In this episode, they dive into the importance of preserving our local bushland, wetland and coastal habitats and how Trust for Nature is leading the charge. From conservation to collaboration, they uncover the ways we can all pitch in to protect our environment. 

She explains examples of businesses transitioning to the circular economy, such as through Boomerang Alliance’s Plastic Free Places program. The conversation also touches on generational dynamics and the challenges and opportunities of implementing circular practices in daily life and work. Tune in to hear Birte’s reflections and advice for your climate action journey!

Join us as they reveal how thinking about future generations shapes their businesses today and offer advice to those just starting their climate action journey.

Who knew how much work could get done with a glass of wine in your hand and a barbeque in the background?!

Learn about their journey, the challenges of recycling, and how saving the Earth can also save money and create better working environments.

Whether you're a business or concerned citizen, discover how you can make a big difference in small ways. 

Through their journeys in sustainable and regenerative food systems (think local, seasonal ‘paddock to plate’), they offer valuable insights for farmers and landholders who are passionate about diversifying their business models, supporting the next generation of farmers, and weaving climate action into a new normal.

Whether you're a food lover or a local business leader thinking about how food shapes our future, this episode provides practical tips and inspiring examples to help you move forward.

*Language Warning: Please note that this particular episode includes some coarse language

Hosts Matt and Claire are joined by local champions Mel Barker (Western Port Biosphere) & Tom Hiney (Sunbutter Skincare). Whether you’re a founder or consumer, these insights will motivate you to start or take bolder steps in your journey.