As a non-partisan climate advocacy group, we began by meeting dozens of politicians from all levels of government, including a federal and two state shadow ministers for climate change. It was heady stuff, hoping that discussions of science and solutions would lead to evidence-based decision-making.

Ten years on we’re still banging on about credible science but recognise that attitudes to climate change are shaped not only by facts but a person’s values, worldviews and the opinions of those they trust.

We realise MPs are often followers rather than leaders. Following their tribe, the populace and, in upper echelons, the diabolical fossil fuel industry.

So we looked beyond politicians, encouraging eminent locals to become public signatories to our call for stronger action on climate. More than 50 leaders from diverse backgrounds endorsed our statement, including Lauren Jackson, John Brown, Peter Challis, Nancy Rooke and Andrew Saxby. Many of them continue to advocate in their communities.

We also enlisted the support of 100 local citizen scientists who agreed to share their observations during heatwaves. From dying chickens and scorched crops to buckling pavers, we collate and share their stories.

WATCH members have established invaluable spin-offs like the Ecoportal website, Renewable Albury-Wodonga Energy, StopAdani Albury-Wodonga and this Living Lightly series.

We’ve been a voice in the media, with 100 articles in local papers and almost 300 letters to the editor.

A thousand people subscribe to our free monthly newsletter (via watch.id.au).

It’s a slow journey that often feels like one step forward, two steps back, but we’re here for the long haul. WATCH this space.