Sophie Nicholls and Kirsty Hughes of Old Bar, Erin Woodward of Taree and Christie Woodward of Wingham organised the local event.

It was one of 130 around Australia for the National Day of Climate Action, coordinated by the non-partisan advocacy organisation GetUp!.

"We asked people why they want climate action" said Kirsty. "Overwhelmingly they want it for their kids and grandkids. This is about family.

"It is about protecting the things most precious to us. It's also about our own lives, and the lives of the other creatures we share the planet with. As deputy mayor Robyn Parker said on the day, climate change is real, and it is happening now."

"Jay Davis did an acknowledgement of country, and Ella Blyth and Lily Minihan in year 10 at Taree High delivered a speech. Donations from the barbecue at the CatchUp raised $161 for UNICEF's typhoon Haiyan relief efforts.

Photos from the event were shared on social media and have been sent to GetUp! to make up a giant visual petition to politicians. Submissions to an online petition are still being accepted at www.getup.org.au/climate.

Sophie, Kirsty, Erin and Christie would like to thank all involved for making the day a huge success.

"We hope to use this to pick up momentum for positive change" said Sophie. "It's time to aim higher on climate action."