Happy Higgins: The benefits of local nature for health and wellbeing

In months of lockdown, we have found community and connection in green parks and spaces, freedom in the fresh air on walks, music from calling neighbourhood birds. 

Access to local nature brings a myriad of health benefits. Kids who grow up having more exposure to biodiversity are less likely to develop asthma. People who can see a tree outside their window heal faster in hospital.

But just like nature looks after us, we must also look after nature. We depend on it.

Join local experts for an online panel discussion on the health benefits of local nature – and what each of us can do to care for it. Speakers include:

• Dr Katie Allen MP – Federal Member for Higgins, former medical researcher and professor.
• Dr Grant Blashki – practicing GP, Lead Clinical Advisor for Beyond Blue and former ACF Board member.
• Professor Sarah Bekessy – sustainability and urban planning at RMIT Centre for Urban Research.

Plus Tanya Ha – environmental and science communication specialist – as our MC for the night.

Header photo: Annette Ruzicka