To The Rt. Hon. Lord Mayor Nuatali,

My name is Koreti Tiumalu and I am the Pacific Region Coordinator for 350.org. On behalf of 350 Pacific and the Pacific Climate Warriors, we wish to extend to you our heartfelt congratulations and appreciation for Newcastle City Council’s decision to divest from Fossil Fuel.

On the 17th of October last year, 30 young Pacific Islanders representing the Pacific Islands blockaded the port of Newcastle with traditionally built canoes to show Australia that their continued investment in the coal industry is directly exporting destruction to the Pacific Islands.

The decision by Newcastle to Divest is a great sign that Australia still can and should, play a larger role in moving away from the destructive fossil fuel industry and transition towards a just sustainable future based on renewable energy.

We urge the Newcastle City Council to stand strong in your decision to do what is right. This is not only for Newcastle – your leadership speaks volumes for your care and concern for our planet, and as your Pacific neighbours, your concern for us. Again, we commend you and stand with you in solidarity.

With gratitude and appreciation,

Koreti Mavaega Tiumalu
Pacific Coordinator, 350.org