Last Saturday afternoon, August 2, the Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club came alive with laughter, friendly competition and a healthy dose of ecological awareness as over 80 locals gathered for Waves of Wisdom, a community trivia event hosted by the Wilderness Society Sydney East.
But this wasn’t just about fun and games.
Between rounds of questions on Australian wildlife, local geography and Sydney culture, participants were reminded of a sobering fact: Australia leads the world in mammal extinctions. The event’s theme, Extinction is not an option, urged attendees to think deeply about the threats facing the country’s coastal and marine environments – and what we can do to protect them.
The Wilderness Society Sydney East group, a team of passionate local volunteers, works to empower the community in responding to issues like ocean pollution, habitat degradation, beach erosion and the impacts of climate change on our coastlines.
Guests included Member for Kingsford Smith Matt Thistlethwaite and Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker, both of whom helped lead trivia questions and took part in a lively Q&A with attendees.
With prizes, nibbles, kids’ activities and a stellar beachside view, Waves of Wisdom struck a rare balance between light-hearted community fun and serious environmental advocacy.
“Turning up is where change starts and where momentum builds.”
For more information on the Wilderness Society’s local efforts, click here.
