Documentary to screen at Penguin Parade

A youth-led documentary celebrating Indigenous knowledge and connection to Country will be screened at Phillip Island as part of National Reconciliation Week.

Phillip Island Nature Parks will host the community screening of 7Seasons, a First Nations short documentary exploring climate, culture and caring for Country through Indigenous seasonal knowledge, at the Penguin Parade Theatre on Wednesday June 3.

Created in collaboration with First Nations leaders and young people, the film shares the seven Wurundjeri seasons, and the six Boonwurrung seasons that align with weather patterns of different Naarm (Melbourne) regions, inviting the audience to see the natural world through Indigenous eyes.

The documentary features young people dedicated to climate action, including director Clancy Lester and producer Max Shannon, along with collaborators Jaeden Williams-Briggs who is a Yalukit Willam man of the Boonwurrung, Ky-ya Nicholson-Ward a Wurundjeri, Djaara, Ngurai Illum Wurrung woman, and Kai Lane a Yorta Yorta Barapa Barapa man, bringing together voices from Wurundjeri and Boonwurrung Country to share knowledge, wisdom and deep cultural connection.

PINP community impact manager Kate Adams said the screening was an opportunity for the community to engage with First Nations perspectives during National Reconciliation Week.

"Reconciliation starts with listening, learning and creating opportunities for more people to hear the voices and stories of First Nations people," Ms Adams said.

"This documentary is a powerful example of young people leading important conversations about climate, culture and caring for Country, and we're proud to bring that to our community here on Milawul (Phillip Island)."

Melbourne-based environmental educator and science communicator Clancy Lester, widely known as "The Bee Man", has built a strong following through his work connecting people with nature and amplifying youth voices in climate action.

Following the screening, attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from members of the documentary team and First Nations community members from Bass Coast during a panel discussion.

The free event is delivered in partnership with Bees and Blossoms and is open to the wider community.

Details: 7Seasons screening and panel discussion: Wednesday June 3, 2pm to 3.30pm, Penguin Parade. Cost: Free