We are hosting a free Short Film Festival to celebrate local heroes of our Top End coasts, and showcase the beauty and bounty of our coastline.
Where: Darwin Ski Club, Conacher St Fannie Bay
When: Tues 4th August, 6pm for 6.30pm start
Adele Pedder, Director of Keep Top End Coasts Healthy said “We are honoured to bring together the stories of the caretakers of our Top End coast in this special Film Festival here in Darwin. The stories are told from the heart and are lived experiences from this beautiful place we call home.
"There is a common thread - our coasts are at the heart of our Top End lifestyle, but their health is under threat. Across the Territory communities are seeing signs of decline - mangrove dieback, pollution in the Harbour, and in some places the fishing is not as good as it used to be."
"Community support for protecting our coasts is broad and deep in the Territory. In a recent poll, 74% of people in greater Darwin want the next NT Government to do more to protect our coasts," said Pedder.
Dave McMahon, head tour guide with Venture North and Cobourg Fishing Safaris, said “Being a tour guide at Cobourg Marine Park is an incredible job. It also means I can see how healthy the area is, the result of active management and protection. My voice is one of many - we all love our coasts and want all parties to protect our coasts this election.”
Phil O’Brien, filmmaker and former pearl farm worker and crocodile farmer, said “Making films in Arnhem Land has been an incredible way to connect with our coasts and everyone who loves them. I hope everyone who sees these films comes away with a determination to look after these special places we call home.”
More than 200 people have already booked tickets, making this one of the NT’s biggest pre-election events. All four major parties have been invited to present their plans to protect Top End coasts.
More information about the event:
Some of the short film stars include:
- Rhett Walker, owner / operator of Lorella Springs Station, a million acre property on the Gulf of Carpentaria with a 27km coastline.
- Sylvia Nulpinditj, Yolŋu leader, works for the Aboriginal Resource Development Service (ARDS) as a radio presenter, Traditional artist.
- David McMahon, head tour guide Venture North and Cobourg Fishing Safaris.
- Jim Smith, owner / operator of Sea Darwin.
- Charlotte Klose, passionate fisherwoman, staff member at Coolalinga Tackleworld.
- Rosa Norman, an i-Kiribati woman with saltwater in her veins.
- Andrew Mansfield, a construction site manager and outrig canoe paddler.
- as well as filmmakers Phil O'Brien, Nicholas Parry and Caro McDonald.
Some of our stars are available for comment. High-quality imagery from the films for use is available.
Media Contact Adele Pedder, 0422 108 539
RSVP now to secure your ticket
Authorised by Adele Pedder, Australian Marine Conservation Society, 3/98 Woods St Darwin 0800.