Screening spreads green message

A NEW documentary capturing the plight of climate activists in Tasmania’s northwest will have its local premiere later this month.

Takayna – The Heart of Lutruwita will reach local audiences with a one-off screening at Regent Cinemas early next week.

Composer Raul Sanchez who moved to the region two years ago, spent last winter composing a piece for the film.

He said the documentary’s subject matter is close to his heart.

“This is an important cause and project I strongly believe in so I wanted to help tell the story as best I could,” he said.

“My scene was actually about the activists and their role in stopping the logging down in that region so it had to be uplifting and positive.

“When I got to see it at one of the Melbourne premieres, it was a real joy to hear my music on the big screen.”

Produced through the Bob Brown Foundation and directed by Matthew Newton, the film follows the ongoing efforts to preserve the natural landscape of Tasmania’s Takayna/Tarkine from mining and logging.

Alongside Sanchez’s original work, the film also features music from other Australian artists like Midnight Oil, Shane Howard, Nigel Westlake, DENNI and Tasha Zappala.

Sanchez said he hopes the local screening will help encourage more people to explore what can be done to help the environment.

“I think people will walk away inspired and motivated,” he said.

“Sometimes, we can all feel a bit overwhelmed and discouraged with climate change and all the issues humanity’s facing.

“I think this film kind of inspires you to get up and do something about it. I’m looking forward to seeing local people in Ballarat that are passionate about nature, film, and music, and sharing this time.”

The Ballarat screening of Takayna – The Heart of Lutruwita will take place from 6.30pm on 21 January, coinciding with showings in Melbourne, Sydney and Cobargo the same evening.

It will feature a live presentation and Q&A with Sanchez, together with his Magic Dirt bandmate Adalita. For tickets, which are $25 general admission, visit bit.ly/409KPsg.