Category: Learning and Exploration

Education, research, learning and growth

Stu Brunsdon – the maths teacher who says to get outside

Stu Brunsdon with Maggie Dent – Photo Credit Stu Brunson

At the Ignite event on 5 September at the Berry School of Arts, every speaker gave us something to think about. Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing highlights from each presentation. You can find the presentations as they are published here.

Stu Brunsdon, a local high school maths teacher, spoke with both humour and conviction about the world his students are growing up in. He sees how teenagers’ lives are increasingly dominated by their phones, leaving them siloed, less connected, and often overwhelmed. Instead of letting the phone define their world, he argues that young people need structure and opportunities that pull them outward.

“Teenagers really want to explore their world, but they also need structure in which to do it.”

“If we do not give them positive structures, they will find their own  and phones fill the gap all too easily.”

One program Stu highlighted is the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. This global youth development framework, running in more than 130 countries, encourages participants aged 14 to 24 to commit to a balanced program of activities over 6 to 18 months. Young people set personal goals across four key areas: community service, skill development, physical recreation, and an adventurous journey. As they progress from Bronze to Silver to Gold, they learn teamwork, resilience, leadership, and the value of giving back.

Stu believes this kind of structured program offers a healthy balance to the fragmented, phone-based life that too many teenagers find themselves caught in. Volunteering, playing sport, learning new skills, and planning outdoor adventures are not just activities, they are scaffolding for growth. They give young people the chance to explore, connect, and thrive in ways that endless scrolling never will.

His key takeaway was simple but powerful: “Get outside.” Not just outdoors into nature, but outside the narrow world of phones, and into experiences that build skills, relationships, and confidence.

“Get outside, not just from your house, but from the siloed world that mobile phones trap you in.”

📸 Images used in this post are for commentary and community storytelling. Credits belong to the original photographers and sources. Please contact me if you would like an image credited differently or removed.

#IgniteBerry #StuBrunsdon #GetOutside #DukeOfEdinburghAward #Teenagers #PositiveStructure #BeyondPhones

Monica Willis Learnt to Reframe the Flips from Lessons from the River

Monica Willis speaking at Ignite Berry 5th September 2025 

At the Ignite event on 5 September at the Berry School of Arts, every speaker gave us something to think about. Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing highlights from each presentation. You can find the other presentations as they are published here 

Today’s spotlight is on Monica Willis, who recently completed an extraordinary adventure: whitewater rafting 110 kilometres down the Franklin River.

Eight set out, eight returned, and every single one with all limbs intact. Monica Willis and her adventurous crew on the Franklin River, proving that teamwork, humour and a little courage can carry you through the wildest rapids.”

Monica described herself as “a four star hotel kind of girl,” but she set off into pure wilderness with no phones, no tents, no bed, just a tarp and the rapids. The experience was breathtaking, relentless, and sometimes frightening, but it also became a powerful teacher. Her talk was also full of humour, with the audience laughing as she described everything from bush toilets to slipping bum up over rocks.

Her key insight was clear: Reframe the flips.

When Monica was flung from the raft into a torrent of rocks and water, panic surged until the guide turned to her and said, “Amazing swim.” That single phrase shifted her whole perspective. What could have been remembered only as a near disaster instead became a moment of courage and learning.

“When I was flicked out of the raft, the guide said, ‘Amazing swim.’ That shift in perspective changed everything.”

She carried that lesson throughout the trip, reframing every setback as a new way of seeing. Nights without sleep became “magical” with glowworms for company. Bush toilets became “loos with a view.” Hauling gear over slippery rocks became a masterclass in teamwork and resilience.

Portage is the process of carrying boats and gear over land to get around obstacles in a river. On the Franklin, this meant scrambling over slippery rocks and massive boulders, hauling supplies piece by piece through tough terrain. There are no tracks or shortcuts in that wilderness, so every step required teamwork, problem solving, and persistence. For Monica, portage became more than a physical challenge. It was a lesson in resilience and adaptability, showing that sometimes the only way forward is to shoulder the load together and keep moving.

“Portage taught me that problem solving, adaptability, and the support of your team are what get you through the obstacles.”

Monica reminded us that life is just like the river, wild, unpredictable, and sometimes overwhelming, but we always have the power to choose how we respond.

“Life is like the river, wild, unpredictable, breathtaking. You cannot control the current, but you can choose how you show up.”

#IgniteBerry, #MonicaWillis, #ReframeTheFlips, #LifeLessons, #CourageAndResilience, #Storytelling

Spotlight on Stephen Lead.  The Spark Behind Ignite Berry

On Friday 5 September the Berry School of Arts came alive with Ignite Berry, a night of fast, funny and thought-provoking lightning talks that left the audience inspired. You can see the presentations as they are loaded here 

I’ll be sharing the highlights of Ignite Berry in a series of blogs, with each one capturing a different part of the night. In this blog, the spotlight is on the organiser, Stephen Lead, whose vision and dedication make the whole event possible.

Spotlight on Stephen Lead.  The Spark Behind Ignite Berry ……

Last night’s Ignite Berry was nothing short of extraordinary. A sold-out crowd filled the Berry School of Arts, eager for a night of short, sharp, and inspiring lightning talks. Over fifteen presenters took to the stage, each with only five minutes to share their passion, their insight, or their big idea. The result was a fast-paced evening that left the audience buzzing.

At the heart of it all is Stephen Lead, a software developer, geospatial expert, and the driving force behind Ignite Berry. By day, Stephen is a specialist in building geo-spatial applications and customising ArcGIS tools, making complex mapping systems more intuitive and accessible for users. With thousands of hours of development and presentation experience, he brings both technical precision and a gift for communication.

In his spare time, Stephen’s love for connecting people and ideas shines brightly. He is the organiser of Ignite Berry, managing everything from booking the venue and curating more than fifteen speakers, to coaching presenters on delivering effective lightning talks. He also takes the stage himself as host, ensuring the night runs seamlessly.

Watch Stephen present on 19 September 2023, at the Oxford Art Factory

Stephen is deeply involved in the tech community, serving on the organising committee for the GeoNext conference, the GeoRabble meetup group, and working as a regular MC for the Web Directions conferences. His knack for bringing people together, combined with his enthusiasm for storytelling and innovation, has made Ignite Berry one of the region’s most anticipated community events.

The 5th of September was another reminder of how important it is to create spaces where ideas can be shared, whether big, small, quirky, or profound. Thanks to Stephen’s vision, Berry continues to ignite curiosity, creativity, and connection.

#IgniteBerry #BerryNSW #CommunityStories #IdeasWorthSharing #LightningTalks #BerrySchoolOfArts #Shoalhaven #Inspiration

Why Can’t Governments Let Go? When the Community Moves On But Power Clings to Conflict

Lately, I’ve found myself on a learning journey. Watching what’s happening in the world, and even in my own backyard, I keep coming back to the same question: How do our governments keep getting us into these messes? Conflicts that last for decades, policies that make enemies out of neighbours, and a constant sense that ordinary people are dragged into fights they didn’t start and don’t want.

So I started digging, and here’s what I’ve found. While everyday people often find ways to move on and connect, their governments often don’t. And that disconnect is costing us all.

The broader community don’t hold onto old grudges. They care about safety, family, work and being able to live in peace. They’re not the ones calling for wars or enforcing sanctions. In fact, across the globe, people are reaching across national and ideological lines to find common ground.

A young Iranian might admire Israeli medical tech. A Cuban musician collaborates with an American on YouTube. Indians and Pakistanis laugh together on social media. North and South Koreans cry when they’re briefly allowed to see long-lost relatives. These aren’t enemies. They’re people who recognise shared humanity.

Governments operate differently. Conflict can serve political goals. It creates a clear enemy. It unites people through fear. And it often justifies repression, spending or staying in power.

Sometimes it’s about ideology. For example, Iran’s government positions itself as morally opposed to Israel. China defines itself partly through its claim over Taiwan. And even in democracies, strong anti-enemy rhetoric can win votes.

Letting go of an old rivalry means rethinking identity, power and control. That’s not something governments do easily.

While politicians trade threats and play long games, it’s everyday people who suffer.

Civilians are the ones displaced, bombed, or cut off by sanctions. Families are split by borders. Passports become tools of isolation. Trade stops. Opportunities dry up. The people who want peace often have the least power to make it happen.

Despite all this, i think change is possible. In many cases, people-to-people diplomacy and cultural connection can begin to soften political hard lines. Civil society organisations, global communities, and public sentiment can create pressure for peace.

It may be slow, but history shows that citizen voices can grow too loud for governments to ignore.

“Governments start conflicts in suits and end them in silence. But it’s everyday people who pay the cost — and often hold the key to peace.”

Interesting read in the conversation

Do all Iranians hate the regime? Hate America? Life inside the country is more complex than that

#CitizensForPeace, #PeopleNotPolitics, #VoicesOfChange, #EverydayDiplomacy, #PeaceStartsWithUs, #EndTheCycle, #GlobalSolidarity, #CommonGround, #PowerOfThePeople, #HumanFirst, #ReclaimPeace, #ThinkBeyondBorders, #HopeInTheOrdinary

The Lens We Choose And How We Craft Our Worldview

Our biases are often created by who we choose to surround ourselves with and our life experiences.

Scrolling through social media, it’s clear that we humans have a knack for crafting narratives that suit our viewpoints. Take, for instance, two images I stumbled upon recently. The first one boldly declared, “Obesity began to rise as we swapped animal fats for seed oils,” among other swaps. The second image, dripping with rustic charm, claimed, “True medicine comes from the earth, not a lab.” Both are powerful in their simplicity, but they also reveal how we love to champion ideas that align with our personal beliefs.

The Obesity Conundrum

Let’s start with the first image. It paints a vivid picture of a world gone astray, where our dietary sins are laid bare. The message is clear: modern lifestyle choices are the root of our expanding waistlines. But is it really that simple? Sure, ultra-processed junk food and sedentary habits are well-known culprits in the obesity epidemic. However, the story is much more nuanced.

Swapping animal fats for seed oils isn’t necessarily the villainous act it’s portrayed to be. In fact, many seed oils contain polyunsaturated fats, which can be beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation. On the other hand, vilifying plant-based diets overlooks the benefits of consuming more fruits and vegetables, which are linked to lower body weight and improved health outcomes​

The Medicine Debate

Now, onto the second image. With its idyllic display of herbs and tinctures, it romanticises the notion that true healing only comes from nature. It’s a beautiful thought, and there’s certainly wisdom in traditional remedies. But let’s not throw the baby out with the bathwater. Modern medicine, despite its sterility and sometimes impersonal nature, has eradicated diseases, extended lifespans, and saved countless lives. Penicillin, anyone?

We must appreciate the scientific rigor behind modern pharmaceuticals. Many medications are indeed derived from natural compounds, but they undergo extensive testing to ensure they are safe and effective. While it’s great to sip on chamomile tea for a mild headache, I’m reaching for the ibuprofen if I have a migraine. Balance, as they say, is key​

The Power of Perspective

These images underscore a fascinating truth: we often promote what suits our viewpoints. It’s comforting to find validation in simple, clear-cut answers to complex issues. But reality, much like a well-cooked stew, is a blend of many ingredients. By all means, cherish your grandmother’s chicken soup recipe, but don’t shun the flu shot.

We gravitate towards narratives that resonate with our beliefs, sometimes at the expense of a balanced perspective. It’s like choosing to focus only on the vibrant flowers in our garden while ignoring the weeds that also play a role in the ecosystem.

Embrace the Complexity

In the end, it’s vital to celebrate both our ancestral wisdom and the strides made by modern science. Each has its place in our quest for health and well-being. By embracing a more nuanced view, we can appreciate the benefits of a balanced diet and the advancements of modern medicine without falling into the trap of oversimplification.

So, the next time you see an image that neatly aligns with your beliefs, take a moment to adjust your lens. You might just discover a richer, more complex world waiting to be explored. And who knows, you might even find joy in the simple things—like a hydrangea flower caught in a spiderweb, reminding you of the beauty and intricacy of life itself.

#HealthDebate #ObesityMyths #NaturalMedicine #ModernMedicine #BalanceIsKey #HealthyLiving #PerspectiveMatters #WellnessJourney #DietAndHealth #ScientificAdvancements #TraditionalWisdom #HealthyChoices #MindfulLiving #EmbraceComplexity #SocialMediaNarratives

 

Teaching the Next Generation by Learning from History to Forge a More Understanding Future

Living in a world where we’ve not faced direct persecution gives us the unique responsibility of learning from history to teach younger generations about the complexities of human experiences. Reflecting on the historical suffering of communities like the Jews and the creation of Israel provides vital lessons on the importance of nuanced understanding and empathy in addressing global issues.

Learning to Investigate the World

Encouraging young people to delve into history isn’t just about learning dates and events; it’s about understanding the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind these events. By teaching them to investigate, we equip them with the tools to uncover multiple layers of historical narratives, recognising that history often holds more than one truth. This investigative approach fosters critical thinking—a skill crucial not only in academics but in everyday decision-making.

Appreciating Diverse Perspectives

The history of the Jewish community, especially regarding the Holocaust and the subsequent establishment of Israel, is a stark reminder of the repercussions of intolerance. Educating our youth to appreciate diverse perspectives can help prevent the recurrence of such tragedies. By embracing diversity in thought and culture, young people can learn the value of coexistence over conflict.

Engaging in Nuanced Dialogue

Understanding leads to conversations, and conversations lead to solutions. Teaching young people to engage in nuanced dialogues about difficult topics—such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict—prepares them to handle complex situations with sensitivity and insight. It’s not just about talking; it’s about listening to understand, not to reply. This is how we can encourage constructive rather than divisive discussions.

Taking Informed Action

Finally, moving beyond the traditional narratives that justify conflict with historical pain, it’s crucial to teach the next generation that history should inform, not imprison, our actions. While acknowledging the pain and defensive measures stemming from past atrocities, we must also foster a mindset that looks to peaceful resolutions and innovative solutions. This approach empowers young people to act thoughtfully, considering the long-term impact of their actions on global peace and stability.

By incorporating these principles into education, we are not merely passing on knowledge; we are shaping a future that values depth, diversity, and diplomacy over division and discord. It is through this understanding that we can hope for a world where history teaches us not just about our past but about the potential for our collective future.

#HistoryLessons #FutureGenerations #DiversePerspectives #NuancedDialogue #PeacefulActions

Please visit our Champions for Change blog to see how we have created a lesson plan to support teachers to help young people

 

How to Express Your Opinions Respectfully – A Guide for Assertive Communication

Introduction
Respectful communication is one of the most talked-about challenges in both online spaces and community meetings. Whether it’s a heated Facebook thread or a passionate debate at the local precinct meeting, the way we express our views can either build bridges or burn them. That’s why this article by communications specialist Alex Reed, “How to Express Your Opinions Respectfully – A Guide for Assertive Communication,” continues to resonate. It’s a practical and timely resource for anyone who wants to speak up, without shutting others down.

……………..

“Speaking your mind needn’t be a battle. Let’s explore how to share your opinions in a way that’s heard and respected, not just loud.”

In today’s polarised world, expressing your opinions can sometimes feel like stepping into a minefield. However, articulating your thoughts assertively and respectfully is key to fostering understanding and maintaining healthy relationships, both personally and professionally. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you communicate your views without sparking confrontation.

Understand Your Intent

Before you speak, take a moment to understand why you want to share your opinion. Is it to inform, persuade, or understand a different viewpoint? Knowing your intent can help shape how you present your opinion.

Be Clear and Concise

Clarity and brevity are your allies. Articulate your thoughts clearly without overloading on information. Aim to convey your main points succinctly to avoid misunderstandings that might lead to defensiveness from others.

Use “I” Statements

Start your sentences with “I think”, “I feel”, or “I believe”. These phrases make it clear that you are speaking from your personal perspective, which can reduce the perceived aggressiveness of your statements and prevent the listener from feeling attacked.

Listen Actively

Respectful dialogue is a two-way street. Show the same level of respect you expect in return. Listen actively to others’ points of view without interrupting. This not only shows respect but also gives you insights into how your views might be received.

Agree to Disagree

Remember, it’s perfectly fine not to reach a consensus. Being able to respectfully agree to disagree is a hallmark of mature communication. It demonstrates your willingness to accept differing opinions.

Avoid Emotional Language

Keep your language neutral. Avoid charged or emotional words that might provoke a defensive response. Focus on factual information and rational arguments rather than letting emotions steer the conversation.

Practice Empathy

Try to see the issue from the other person’s perspective. This doesn’t mean you have to agree with them, but understanding where they’re coming from can help you frame your opinion in a way that respects their feelings and perspectives.

Stay Calm

Maintain your composure, even if the discussion gets heated. Keeping your cool helps keep the conversation productive and prevents it from turning into a conflict.

Expressing your opinions respectfully is not about diluting your message but about communicating it in a way that encourages dialogue and understanding. By being clear, using “I” statements, listening actively, and practicing empathy, you can make sure your voice is heard without stepping on toes. So the next time you have an opinion to share, remember these tips, and turn every conversation into an opportunity for growth and connection.

These practices not only enhance your ability to communicate effectively but also help create an environment where all voices can be heard and respected.

#RespectfulDialogue #AssertiveCommunication #HealthyConversations #ExpressYourself #ActiveListening #EmpathyMatters #CommunicationSkills

 

How to Shift from Personal Attacks to Issue-Focused Discussions

“Transform your conversations: Learn how to move from personal attacks to productive, issue-focused discussions for more constructive and meaningful interactions.”

In our fast-paced digital world, conversations can quickly escalate into personal attacks, especially on social media where anonymity and physical distance make it easy to forget there’s a real person behind the screen. However, focusing on the issue rather than the person not only leads to more productive discussions but also helps maintain healthy relationships. Here’s how we can cultivate a more respectful and constructive dialogue.

Understanding Active Listening

Active listening is a key skill in transforming our conversations. It involves giving full attention to the speaker, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully. By practicing active listening, we can foster a more respectful atmosphere where each person feels heard and valued, thereby reducing the likelihood of personal attacks.

The Importance of Constructive Communication

Educating ourselves and others on constructive communication is crucial. This includes using “I” statements that focus on our own experiences rather than making accusatory or generalized statements about others. For example, saying “I feel overlooked when my points are not considered” instead of “You never listen to me!” can shift the tone of the conversation.

Fostering Empathy

Empathy can dramatically change the way we interact with others. Trying to see the situation from another person’s perspective can reduce defensive reactions and help us focus on the real issues at hand. Empathy leads to understanding, and understanding opens the door to resolving conflicts.

Setting Clear Rules

In any environment, especially online, clear communication guidelines can help steer conversations towards issue-based discussions. Platforms that enforce these rules consistently create safer spaces for everyone involved, allowing for more meaningful exchanges.

The Role of Moderators

Online forums and discussion groups benefit greatly from moderators who can keep conversations on track. These individuals play a crucial role in guiding discussions back to the main issues and stepping in when personal attacks occur.

Encouraging Fact-based Discussions

Promoting discussions based on facts rather than opinions helps keep conversations objective. Encouraging participants to provide evidence for their claims can lead to more grounded and less emotionally charged discussions.

Focusing on the issue rather than the person is crucial for productive dialogue and maintaining positive relationships. By practicing active listening, fostering empathy, and following clear communication rules, we can transform our interactions into constructive and respectful exchanges. Implementing these strategies not only enhances our personal conversations but also improves the overall quality of discourse in any setting.

#ConstructiveDialogue #ActiveListening #EmpathyInConversations #HealthyDiscussions #CommunicationSkills #ResolveConflicts #FocusOnTheIssue

By adopting these strategies, we can all contribute to creating more respectful and productive environments, both online and in person, enhancing our interactions and understanding across various platforms and situations.

You can find all our posts on Digital Literacy here 

Understanding Our Local Rainfall. A Deep Dive into Decades of Data

In our community, conversations about the weather are more than just small talk. They reflect a lived experience deeply rooted in a landscape known for its lush greenery and, notably, its abundant rainfall which provides our dairy industry with rainfed pastures that have the capacity to run 6 cows to the hectare compared to NSW average stocking rate of 1.5 cows/hectare ( see footnote)

For years, we’ve shared stories about the skies above our village, often remarking on the persistent rain that seems to set our area apart. But how much of this is perception, and how much is based on actual data?

Recently, I had the opportunity to explore this question through an analysis of local rainfall data spanning several decades, from 1977 to the present. This data, covering areas like Clover Hill, 47 Nuninuna, 288 Nuninuna, East Saddleback, and 89 Fountaindale Rd, has provided a fascinating glimpse into the climatic heartbeat of our region.

What the Data Tells Us

The analysis reveals a complex portrait of our local climate, confirming some long-held beliefs while challenging others. Yes, our area does receive a significant amount of rainfall compared to surrounding regions—a fact now supported by data rather than just anecdote. But the story doesn’t end there. The data also shows variability in rainfall patterns across different locations, highlighting the microclimates within our larger ecosystem.

Our recent deep dive into the data added another layer of insight, particularly concerning the frequency of extreme rainfall years. By analysing the mean yearly rainfall across all locations, we were able to identify trends and variances that speak to the heart of our community’s experiences with weather. Our findings suggest that while there are indeed years of significantly high rainfall, the frequency of these extreme events has not shown a clear increasing trend over the period covered by our data. Please note anecdotally it would appear there is an increase in daily extreme weather events

Implications for Our Community

The importance of understanding these rainfall patterns extends far beyond mere curiosity. Agriculture, water management, flood planning, and biodiversity conservation are all deeply impacted by the nuances of our weather. By quantifying the ebb and flow of our rainfall, we can make more informed decisions that affect everything from crop planting schedules to infrastructure development.

Looking Ahead

As we face the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change, the need for ongoing monitoring and analysis becomes increasingly clear. The data we have today lays a foundation for future research, enabling us to track trends, anticipate changes, and adapt our practices accordingly.

The Power of Collaboration

This journey into our local climate data underscores the value of collaborative effort. By bringing together community members, policymakers, environmental researchers, and local media, we can harness the power of this information to foster sustainability and resilience in the face of a changing climate.

A Call to Action

I invite you to join in this conversation. Whether you’re a farmer, a policy maker, an environmental enthusiast, or simply a resident who loves this region, your perspective is valuable. Together, we can turn data into action, ensuring that our community remains a vibrant, thriving place for generations to come.

This exploration of local rainfall data is more than just an academic exercise; it’s a reflection of our commitment to understanding and preserving the unique environmental character of our home. As we continue to gather and analyse data, we also weave a richer narrative of our community—a narrative grounded in science, yet alive with the stories of those who call this place home.

#LocalRainfall #ClimateData #SustainableLiving #EnvironmentalAwareness #CommunityResilience #RainfallAnalysis #ClimateChange #WeatherPatterns #Agriculture #WaterManagement #FloodPrevention #Biodiversity #EcoFriendly #ClimateAction #OurCommunity

Footnote.  Average stocking rate in NSW of dairy cattle has increased since 2000. Over the period 2001 to 2004-05 the average NSW dairy farm carried 1.24 cattle per hectare compared to 1.54 cattle per hectare averaged for 2013-14 to 2017-18.  Source  

Alignment of analysis of local rainfall data with the UN  Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

  1. SDG 13: Climate Action: The research contributes to understanding local climate patterns, which is essential for climate resilience and adaptation. By analysing rainfall data, the findings are indirectly addressing SDG 13 by promoting climate awareness and informed decision-making.
  2. SDG 15: Life on Land: The variability in rainfall patterns and microclimates observed directly relates to land ecosystems. Understanding these variations can help manage natural resources sustainably, supporting SDG 15’s goal of protecting terrestrial ecosystems.
  3. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation: Rainfall patterns impact water availability. By studying local rainfall, the analysis is indirectly contributing to SDG 6 by enhancing our understanding of water resources and their distribution.
  4. SDG 2: Zero Hunger: Rainfed pastures and their capacity for dairy farming highlights the importance of sustainable agriculture. Ensuring reliable water sources through rainfall patterns is crucial for food security (SDG 2).
  5. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities: Understanding local climate helps communities plan for extreme weather events, infrastructure resilience, and disaster preparedness—key aspects of SDG 11.

In summary, the research aligns with several SDGs, emphasizing the interconnectedness of climate, land, water, and community well-being.  🌧️🌍🌱