Event description
Join Eco Network for a FREE screening of OCEAN with David Attenborough at Nelson Bay Cinema.
After seven decades filming every aspect of the natural world, David Attenborough delivers his greatest message of hope in this powerful documentary. It takes viewers on a breath-taking journey showing there is nowhere more vital for our survival, more full of life, wonder, or surprise, than the ocean.
In the film, the celebrated broadcaster and filmmaker reveals how his lifetime has coincided with the great age of ocean discovery. Through spectacular sequences featuring coral reefs, kelp forests and the open ocean, Attenborough shares why ocean recovery is vital for stabilising our climate and securing a healthier future for us all. He explains how marine protection - if immediately implemented - can help to turn the tide.
Q&A with marine expert panel
After the film you'll hear from a panel of marine scientists, hosted by Iain Watt (President, Eco Network). We'll share insights on Port Stephens' unique marine life, and importantly, on what the community can do to help ensure our oceans are protected.
We have an outstanding panel for our Q&A session after the Ocean film, introducing:
Bob Creese, retired Chief Scientist for NSW DPI Fisheries, with a sound knowledge of NSW marine ecology and fisheries
Associate Professor Alan Jordan, marine ecologist and current Director of the Marine Biodiversity Hub based at the University of Tasmania. Alan has made significant contributions to the mapping of seabed habitats around Australia.
Emeritus Professor Rob Harcourt, University of Macquarie Current leader of the Animal Tracking Programme for the Australian Integrated Observing System. Rob is an internationally renowned marine mammal researcher with significant contributions to our understanding of the ecology of Australian whales, dolphins and seals.
Louise Williams – current president of the Hunter Bird Observers Club and has recently submitted her PhD thesis in shorebird foraging ecology and predation risk and is a Senior Land Services Officer with NSW Land Services where her role is to coordinate the Hunter Regions Ramsar Heritage Trust Project with a focus on improving habitat for shorebirds.
James McLeod is the manager of our local Marine Park the largest in NSW, Port Stephens great Lakes Marine Paek, which he manages almost single handedly!!
Susanne Callagan Ranger for NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for 23 years with the last 18 years in Port Stephens focussing on management of local coastal reserves and the offshore islands, including rabbit and rodent eradication on Broughton Island and the recovery programme for the Gould’s Petrel, Australia’s rarest endemic seabird.
Iain Watt, President EcoNetwork and MC, Semi retired International marine environmental consultant and trainer in marine conservation and habitat restoration
Doors open 1.30pm
Book your free ticket today as we are expecting a full house. Donations welcome on the evening.
*This free event is co-hosted by Eco Network and the NSW Marine Sanctuary Alliance.
