To celebrate Refugee Week and raise funds for the Afghan families, South Gippsland Rural Australians for Refugees (SGRAR) have secured the award-winning film ‘For Sama’.

The film will screen at the Wonthaggi Community Arts Centre on Sunday, June 25. Doors open at 2.30pm for a 3pm start.

A love letter from a young mother to her daughter, the film tells the story of Waad al-Kateab’s life through five years of the uprising in Aleppo, Syria as she falls in love, gets married and gives birth to Sama, all while cataclysmic conflict rises around her.

Her camera captures incredible stories of loss, laughter and survival as Waad wrestles with an impossible choice.

Refugee Week (June 18-24) is a time to celebrate the contribution to the Australian economy and culture made by people who have come to this country as refugees seeking safety and security.

It is also a time to highlight the difficulties for those who wait years for resolution of their status and often struggle to survive during that time.

The theme for 2023 is Finding Freedom. Freedom from persecution, threat of death, conflict and displacement, and freedom to live in a country with safety, acceptance and opportunity.

Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Michael Whelan said he was proud the community was so welcoming.

“Bass Coast Shire Council welcomes refugees and encourages the enhancement of cultural and religious diversity they bring to our community,” he said.

“We are fortunate to have groups in our community like SGRAR which is made up of passionate locals, all working together to raise funds to support refugee and asylum seeker families, resettle them and advocate for their needs. 

“From two families and a monk from Burma, to over 30 Karen people, SGRAR provide a safe home within Wonthaggi families for these refugees.

“Many go on to become citizens, have their own home and work in aged care, hospitality, nursing or are studying.”

The Phillip Island Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) provides financial and material support to organisations such as the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and Friends of Refugees in Springvale in their activities to support families and individuals to live in hope in difficult times. 

During Refugee Week RAR members and friends will meet for lunch and share stories.

RAR members and friends can be seen and heard each Friday morning on the Cultural Centre corner, ringing bells and reminding passersby that people who are refugees still need support and advocacy.  New members are welcome.

‘For Sama’, screens on Sunday June 25, presented by the South Gippsland Rural Australians for Refugees. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 concession.

All welcome, please book at the Wonthaggi Community Arts Centre website: www.wonthaggiartscentre.com.au/cinema