Volunteering Services and Envirohub are running a fundraiser screening of the Rena disaster movie Taking Back Our Beach next month to raise funds for two environmental groups.
The screening will be held on Wednesday 11 October at 6.45pm, at United Cinemas Bayfair, and will raise funds for ARRC Wildlife Trust and the Western Bay of Plenty Wildlife Trust.
Volunteering Services manager Angela Wallace said it would be an opportunity to celebrate the huge volunteer effort from the community to clean up after the disaster, and encourage people to sign up as volunteers.
The Rena disaster on October 5, 2011 – New Zealand’s largest environmental disaster – left oil and debris across the beaches of Tauranga Moana, killing wildlife and creating a toxic mess. The documentary is made up of interviews with 35 local people and features the community’s efforts to clean up their beach.
“This screening will bring together people who were involved in the response and others who are passionate about the environment – an opportunity to remember the tragic events and reflect on the power of community for collective action.”
Envirohub Community Coordinator Cathy Donnelly said through its involvement with the Regional Environment Network and local conservation, it understood the importance of the work undertaken.
“It’s nearly always by volunteers who give their time so willingly. The Rena was a catastrophic environmental disaster, but it was amazing to see the community response and to continue to see the results of protection of the incredible wildlife we are so lucky to share our home with.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to hold this fundraiser to show some manaakitanga for our kaitiaki guardians.”
Representatives from ARRC and Western Bay Wildlife charities will be available for a question and answer session afterwards. People can also sign up for emergency volunteering and a gold coin raffle will also be available.
“We’re raising funds for two great charities, so there are many good reasons to come to our screening.” Tickets to the fundraising evening cost $20 and can be booked through EventPronto at https://www.eventspronto.co.nz/Rena
