Film screening to support humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza

STAR Court Theatre is hosting a film screening and panel discussion to support humanitarian relief efforts for Gaza refugees.

The film, Where Olive Trees Weep, is a documentary which will be played at the theatre on Thursday, November 13.

The event is a collaboration between the Northern Rivers Friends of Palestine and Jews for Palestine Northern Rivers with funds raised going towards the Ananda Marga Universal Relief Team – Ladies (AMURTEL).

“It’s about making sure people aren’t forgotten and to let them know we’re fighting for them in other parts of the world,” event organiser Susanne Schneider said

“There were local groups who wanted to be involved, and Star Court Theatre have been great in coming on to host the evening.

“It all helps raise awareness and get relief there on the ground.

“AMURTEL are a registered charity in Australia, they run foodbanks in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.

“Locally, they have been active, providing vital flood relief to Lismore and surrounding communities during the 2022 disaster.”

The local groups work with the ladies division of the charity to assist displaced Palestinians in Gaza and Egypt.

Schneider said the group has direct access to contacts in Gaza to make sure the relief goes to the people who need it.

At the theatre, the main film will be followed by a short film highlighting AMURTEL’s relief work with the refugees.

It is a compilation of videos and photos shared by aid workers themselves

A Q&A panel will close the event, featuring representatives from Northern Rivers Friends of Palestine, Jews for Palestine Northern Rivers, and AMURTEL

The speakers will offer reflections on the ongoing crisis, share personal insights, and engage in dialogue with the audience.

Schneider said AMURTEL operates a hot kitchen serving between 500 and 1000 meals daily, costing approximately $2,500 every 10 days.

They also distribute drinking water regularly, with each 5,000-litre truck delivery costing about $390.

Beyond immediate relief, they run educational programs for children in Gaza refugee camps and has established schools for refugee children in Cairo and Al-Arish, Egypt.

Tickets for the screening can be purchased at trybooking.com/events/landing/1483204