Matters Journal

“I love being a tree-hugger.” At the Melbourne Writers Festival 2026, Dr. Bob Brown reclaimed the term while tracing a centuries-long tradition of environmental courage.

From historic acts of sacrifice to modern campaigns protecting Tasmania’s forests, he connects past and present in a compelling call to action.

Read Alexi Freeman's recap of Dr. Brown's fireside chat at the Melbourne Writers Festival and the lessons that continue to shape his activism today, on Matters Journal > https://n9.cl/jv7nt4

🌊 What happens when climate change threatens not only homes and ecosystems, but culture, identity, and ancestral connection to land?

This week on Matters Journal, Daniel Vlaheck explores the growing impact of rising seas and extreme weather on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and why combining Indigenous knowledge with Western science is critical for the future.

Read how First Nations communities are leading the conversation on climate resilience, on Matters Journal > https://n9.cl/w4ydk

Did you know the Earth itself can power our digital future? 🌍⚡
Google just made a major move toward clean energy — partnering with Ormat to tap into 150MW of new geothermal capacity for their Nevada data centers.
That's the power of the planet, working 24/7, rain or shine. Unlike solar or wind, geothermal delivers constant, reliable energy straight from beneath our feet.

It's a reminder that some of the most innovative solutions are literally right under us.

What do you think — is geothermal the unsung hero of renewable energy? Read more > https://n9.cl/mlmj7