21 August 2026
An Allora farmer who will represent young people as Australia prepares to host COP31 has encouraged Southern Downs Youth Council members to recognise the value of their regional perspective and the role they can play in shaping the future.
Incoming COP31 Presidency Youth Climate Change Champion Sally Higgins recently spoke to the Youth Council at Warwick Town Hall, sharing her journey from regional Queensland to a role that sees her work with governments, international organisations and youth networks to ensure young people are represented in global climate decision-making.
Growing up in Allora and now running a mixed cattle and cropping farm, Ms Higgins said her experiences in agriculture and regional communities had shaped her commitment to practical solutions that support resilient farming, productive food systems and a healthy natural environment.
Drawing on her experiences in regional Queensland and on the international stage, Ms Higgins encouraged Youth Council members to recognise the value of the perspectives they bring to important conversations.
"Your regional perspective is not a disadvantage; it's a strength. Growing up in Allora shaped the way I see the world. It gave me a strong sense of community and showed me how closely our lives, livelihoods and environment are connected," Ms Higgins said.
"There are experiences and insights from communities like Allora and the Southern Downs that are often missing from national and international conversations. Be proud of where you come from and share your story widely.
"You don't have to come from a big city or have a formal title to contribute to important conversations. The experiences you gain growing up in a community like the Southern Downs are valuable and deserve to be heard."
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said Ms Higgins' achievements showed that regional Queenslanders can help shape conversations far beyond their local communities.
"Sally's achievements are a reminder that where you come from does not limit where you can go," Mayor Hamilton said.
"To have someone from Allora playing a key role in preparations for COP31 is a remarkable accomplishment and something our region can be incredibly proud of.
"Her message to our Youth Council members was inspiring. Young people have the ability to influence decisions, contribute ideas and make a difference, whether that's in their local community or on the global stage." 1/2
Ms Higgins also shared insights from her recent Nuffield Farming Scholarship, which took her to 14 countries to research the drivers of land-use change and its implications for agriculture and regional livelihoods. Through discussions with farmers, researchers, industry leaders, community members and government representatives around the world, she gained a deeper understanding of how climate, land use, policy and community outcomes intersect.
Portfolio Councillor for Inspired Communities and Allora local Cr Carla Pidgeon thanked Ms Higgins for sharing her insights and experiences with the region's emerging leaders.
"Sally's message resonated with our Youth Council members because she understands regional communities and the opportunities they can create," Cr Pidgeon said.
"She also understands the opportunities and challenges facing regional communities because she lives them every day through her connection to Allora and the agricultural industry.
"What makes Sally's achievement so inspiring is that she has taken those local experiences and used them to help influence discussions on the world stage.
"She showed our young people that regional voices matter and that communities like ours have an important place in national and international conversations."
Last edited date 21 Aug 2026