A group of passionate young Australians, including the founder of the Australian Youth Climate Coalition (AYCC) will visit Cairns and surrounding towns today to talk to the community about climate change science, impacts and solutions and their hopes for Australia’s future.

Anna Rose, who co-founded the AYCC in 2006 and recently featured in the ABC Documentary ‘I Can Change Your Mind on Climate Change’ has written an acclaimed book 'Madlands' about her experience travelling the world meeting scientists, experts and climate deniers.

She will speak at a free public forum at the Cairns City Library at 6pm this evening about her extraordinary journey with one of Australia’s most prominent climate sceptics, former Finance Minister in the Howard Government, Nick Minchin.

Anna, who has made two appearances on the ABC’s Q&A program, will be joined at the forum and at local climate action training nights by a delegation of young people, including members of the Brisbane AYCC Action Group, coordinated by Fred Stark, 24, of Maroochydore.

“This event in Cairns is an opportunity for the community to come together and discuss how to protect young Australians’ futures from climate change,” said Anna Rose.

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“The response to the documentary shown on the ABC last month has been overwhelming. This year, decisions are being made in Parliament House and corporate boardrooms are making important decisions that will affect Australians’ health, food security and economic stability into the future,” she said.

“It’s important that these decisions are made with a sound understanding of climate science, impacts and solutions.”

According to Anna Rose, young people are not having their voices heard.

“So far on my book tour I’ve heard a strong message: that young people want our politicians to put the next generation ahead of the next election. I’m looking forward to meeting locals to hear about their views on how Australia can best respond to minimise the risks of climate change to protect young Australians,” she said.