‘It is about imagining the future on our own terms; a future where there is hope for us, for our children, and for all living things.’
Regenerating Australia, by Damon Gameau, is a short film that looks back at the next ten years from the eve of 2029 and recounts all of the actions we have taken on climate change and ecological degradation.
Its final screening of an Australia-wide tour will take place at Macadamia Castle, on May 20, with three bands, food trucks, an Indigenous performance, and a post-film discussion.
The film is based on four months of interviews with Australians from all walks of life including coal workers, teenagers and tradies who talked about what changes they would like to see in Australia post-COVID.
Featuring Kerry O’Brien, Sandra Sully, Gorgi Coghlan, Tim Flannery, Larissa Behrendt, David Pocock and other well-known voices, the film uses a news format to look back at how Australia has transitioned to a fairer, cleaner and more regenerative country.
‘As part of the panel discussions we look at different pathways and projects that people can get involved with to create this change,’ Damon told The Echo.
Grants on offer
‘We are working in collaboration with WWF, who are providing grants from $10,000 to $250,000 for regenerative projects here in Australia’.
‘Some of the project applications so far include First Nations cultural learning centres, community batteries, and even a program called Farm My School that looks at connecting regenerative farmers with school kids to grow food and provide it to parents at the school gate.
‘We are looking at a whole range of projects that have multiple benefits for community.’
Damon told The Echo that some of the film’s best screenings and discussions were in Gladstone, Tamworth and the Hunter Valley.
Coal workers as political pawns
‘As part of the research, we spoke to coal workers in Gladstone, and many of them can see that they have been used as political pawns,’ he said.
‘They told us that they need real projects and alternatives to coal mining. They understand the need for change but also want to keep their high-paying job and thriving communities.’
This may be the 72nd and final screening for Damon, but they are offering the opportunity to schools, community groups and others who would like to put on a screening for their local groups and communities.
‘One of the offerings is for anyone to host their own free screening,’ explains Damon.
‘There have already been over 650 screening requests at libraries, schools, councils and in the community.
‘There are free curriculum resources to go with the screening that encourage discussion and encourage people’s willingness to get involved and take action.’
The May 20 screening is on at the Macadamia Castle from 5.30pm. It is free to anyone under 18.
You can book a ticket or find out more about the projects at: www.regeneratingaustralia.com.
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