200 members of the Tasmanian public joined scientists, divers, surfers and fishers last night for an oceans film night in Kingston. The films celebrate our unique coastal backyard and shines a spotlight on the threats they currently face, including from seismic blasting and marine heatwaves.
The large crowd gathered at Kingborough Community Hub in Kingston to watch Reviving Giants by Great Southern Reef Foundation about reviving giant kelp forests, and Southern Blast, by Surfrider Foundation about the impacts of seismic blasting. A panel discussion with questions from the audience ensued with Dr. Scott Bennett from Great Southern Reef Foundation and marine scientists Ethan Turner from Surfrider Foundation. Two members of Kingborough Council attended: Deputy Mayor Clare Glade-Wright and councillor Amanda Midgeley.
The attendees cheered to rallying cries to 'Rise up for Tasmania's oceans' in demanding change from our state and federal governments.
“Community engagement is integral to the [Great Southern Reef} Foundation's objectives. Through creating and sharing original visual content, we’re bringing the Great Southern Reef into focus, building public awareness and fostering grassroots involvement with temperate reefs.” says Scott Bennett, IMAS researcher and Great Southern Reef Foundation co-founder.
Healthy oceans means healthy communities. Environment Tasmania and their partners will be using these public events to galvanise the community, and exploring the opportunity we have to protect marine life from seismic blasting by calling for the marine sanctuary zones in the South East Marine Park Network to be expanded. Marine Sanctuaries offer marine life refuge from seismic blasting.
ABOUT THE FILMS:
- Reviving Giants tells the remarkable story of local efforts to restore Tasmania's legendary Giant Kelp Forests at Eaglehawk Neck. Made by Great Southern Reef Foundation in partnership with Sea Forest.
- Southern Blast is a beautiful cinematic celebration of the wild landscapes, abundant marine life, and community that call the Southern Sea home. The film focuses on the imminent threat of seismic blasting on this region, and what we can do to stop it. Directed by award winning director Matty Hannon for Surfrider Foundation.
Reviving Giants Film Teaser link: