Climate on the agenda Bali trip for Geelong MP

A Geelong MP has rubbed shoulders with world science and political leaders at an international climate change conference in Bali.
State Member for South Barwon Michael Crutchfield joined Premier John Brumby as Victoria’s political representatives at the United Nations Climate Change Conference.
Mr Brumby had accepted an invitation to deliver a keynote address at a meeting of state-government-level representatives on Wednesday.
Mr Crutchfield, parliamentary secretary for the environment, said before leaving he was “very proud” to be part of the Austra-lian delegation.
The Australians would talk to leading scientists and international heads of state about combating climate change, he said.
“We are there to listen and learn from world scientific and political leaders as well as to inform them of the significant measure the Brumby Government has taken to tackle the international problem,” he said.
“The UN climate change conference is an opportunity to inform other jurisdictions of the gains Victoria has made in addressing climate change and a chance to establish strong networks with other governments.”
Mr Crutchfield said Geelong and Surf Coast residents had told him they were aware of the dangers of doing nothing about climate change.
“They understand what a negative impact climate change could have on both their livelihoods and living standards if we do nothing,” he said.
“Tackling climate change is crucial to our environmental and economic future.”
The new Rudd Government’s commitment to the Kyoto agreement to cut carbon emissions meant Australia now had a “seat at the table” during international climate change negotiations, he said.