Council to host free community screening and filmmaker talk

Strathbogie Shire Council invites the community to a free screening of the acclaimed documentary “Journey Beyond Fear” (PG) followed by an insightful talk with the filmmaker Robyn Hughan to celebrate Cultural Diversity Week and Harmony Day.

Administrator Peter Stephenson encouraged the community to book their spot for this event at the Euroa Community Cinema on Thursday March 21 from 6-8pm.

“Cultural Diversity Week and Harmony Day provide us with a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate the richness of our diverse backgrounds,” he said.

“We are excited to host a free community screening of Journey Beyond Fear and engage in a meaningful conversation with the filmmaker to foster understanding, promote dialogue, and celebrate diverse cultures.”

Journey Beyond Fear is an inspiring documentary told through the eyes of an Afghan teenage girl and her refugee family in pursuit of resettlement in Australia. Filmed over seven years, it features three magnetic daughters experiencing how even the system for seeking asylum the “right way” is incredibly challenging, but that those who make it are hugely thankful.

Following the screening, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session with the filmmaker, Robyn Hughan, gaining deeper insights into the creative process and the impactful stories shared in the documentary.

“I began working on this project in 2011 after a screening of my documentary, A Nun’s New Habit, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Afterwards, I was approached by a NGO asking if I would like to visit the Afghan refugees on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. During this visit I was deeply touched by the community, their plight and desperation for re-settlement to another country,” Hughan said.

“This event is open to all members of the community, and Council encourages residents to come together for an evening of cultural celebration, unity and inspiration,” Mr Stephenson said.

“Council looks forward to welcoming the community to this special event and fostering a sense of connection and appreciation for the diverse backgrounds that make our community unique.”

Cultural Diversity Week runs from the 18-24 March 2024.

This year’s theme is “Our Shared Stories – Celebrating Together.” This theme encourages us to appreciate and celebrate the wonderful connections between different cultures in our state.

Similarly, Harmony Day is dedicated to celebrating Australia’s cultural diversity, and is timed to coincide with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March 2024.

To secure your free tickets for the screening and for more information, visit https://events.humanitix.com/ssc-journey-beyond-fear or call customer service on (03) 5795 0000 or 1800 065 993 (free call).