At 98 years old, Clarence John, known as 'Clack,' recalls his childhood in Renmark, a region in South Australia, where he spent his summers without modern conveniences such as air conditioning or refrigeration. He reminisces about the days when his family lived simply, adapting to the weather by spending time in the creek after school, a stark contrast to today’s record-breaking temperatures. With historical roots dating back to 1911, when his father arrived by horse and cart, Clack's memories bear witness to the significant changes in both climate and lifestyle in the decades that followed.

This year marked a notable point in Renmark's weather history, as it recorded its hottest day since 1995, prompting Clack to reflect on how summer experiences have altered in his lifetime. He recalls a time before temperature recordings, highlighting how different summers were experienced in the absence of cooling technologies. His narrative not only underscores the warmth of personal and local history but also emphasizes the realities of climate change that have transformed familiar weather patterns into extremes, reminding the community of their past.

As Clarence John recounts his formative years, he serves as a living link to a time when summer was navigated differently, with a focus on adaptability and resourcefulness rather than the comforts many enjoy today. His story illustrates not just the impact of time on personal lives, but also prompts a reflection on how future generations will navigate the climate challenges that come with global warming, urging a consideration of both nostalgia and the realities of today's environmental conditions.