A Note from Our Project Officer: February
Where did 2025 go?? As we approach February, I’m delighted to share the first note of the year with a little twist 😅. Normally, this note comes from Jen, our director, so this is a little different-I hope you enjoy this first attempt! I’m writing to you from Batu Gajah, Malaysia-my hometown, where I’ve been spending some time.
Looking back at 2025, it was a year of learning and connection at the CEC. From supporting local sustainability initiatives to seeing communities come together to care for their environment, I have been inspired by many of you and the team at CEC as I witness the small, everyday actions that add up to real change. 🌱
For me, the past few weeks have been of reconnecting with my hometown. Much of everyday life happens at a local scale, food from nearby markets 🥬, shared meals with family and neighbours 🍲, and strong social ties that shape how people care for one another. These simple acts are powerful reminders that sustainability could show up quietly in daily life, through care, connection, and community. 💚
beautiful mountains seen at Batu Gajah
Apart from scenic mountains, one thing that has stood out here is the number of stray dogs 🐕 in the area. Many are looked after informally. Being involved with feeding and caring of stray dogs first hand has reminded me how environmental care, animal wellbeing, and community capacity are interconnected, and how collective kindness can make a real difference. 💛
Being in my hometown has given me space to reflect on the work we do at the CEC and how much we can achieve when we centre people, place, and long-term wellbeing. These reflections will stay with me as I return to supporting Canberra communities to live more sustainably. 🌟
Gentle reminders for you: Our drop-in Community Garden Sessions every Thursday morning resumes on the 8th of February after the break over the Christmas period. This session will be followed up by a community picnic too!
In late January we’ll be hosting a community clothes swap 👚, and a visible mending workshop which as of writing this now, has only 3 spots left! Fret not, we have another visible mending workshop in June due to popular demand- how good!
If you’re new to composting or want a refresher, we are hosting a free online session-🪱 introduction to composting + worm farming where you can learn composting basics and ask questions to help reduce food waste and nurture soil at home.
Otherwise, as we move further into 2026, I invite you to reflect on how you can show up in your own neighbourhood- whether that’s supporting local environmental initiatives like the mentioned workshops, exploring strategies to reduce waste, or simply checking in on one another. 💌
Thank you for being part of the CEC community and for all the ways you care for our local environment. I’m looking forward to what we’ll be working on together this year, and hopefully, I’ll see you around! 😄
Till next time
Tina Gopalan, Project Officer, Canberra Environment Centre