Environmental Film Series 2026 October 9th: Animal Advocacy

Ellis Park | SCEG Environmental Film Series

Art, empathy, and wildlife protection: A journey into local and global animal advocacy.

About This Event

How do compassion and action come together to protect the animals sharing our world?

Join the Surf Coast Environment Group (SCEG) for Session 2 of our 2026 Environmental Film Series as we turn the spotlight toward Animal Advocacy.

We are proud to feature the acclaimed documentary Ellis Park (2024), directed by Justin Kurzel, alongside a special presentation by our local partners, Surfcoast Wildlife Rescue (SWR).

From wildlife sanctuaries overseas to the native animals recovering in our own backyard, this evening offers an inspiring look at the dedicated individuals fighting for animals in need. Come along to enjoy a thought-provoking film, learn directly from our local wildlife responders, and connect over a light supper.

What’s Included in Your Ticket

• Feature Documentary Screening: A special presentation of Ellis Park (2024).

• Local Partner Presentation: Hear directly from Surfcoast Wildlife Rescue about their rescue and rehabilitation operations on the Surf Coast.

• Light Supper: Enjoy a selection of local food during intermissions and networking.

• Community Connection: Meet neighbors, animal lovers, and local volunteers making a difference.

The Feature Film

Ellis Park (2024)

Directed by Justin Kurzel, Ellis Park follows legendary Australian musician Warren Ellis (Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, The Dirty Three) as he takes viewers on a journey to the Sumatran wildlife sanctuary he co-founded. Dedicated to rescuing trafficked and mistreated animals, the sanctuary nurses vulnerable species back to health. The film is a moving exploration of music, healing, and the transformative power of compassionate care.

Special Guest: Surfcoast Wildlife Rescue

Following the film, representatives from Surfcoast Wildlife Rescue will take the stage to share their crucial work right here in our region.

They will offer a behind-the-scenes look at their day-to-day operations—from emergency wildlife rescues and rehabilitation to habitat protection. Learn how global themes of animal welfare tie into local action, and find out how you can support or get involved with wildlife rescue in our community.

Event Schedule

• 6:30 PM: Doors Open & Welcome

• 7:00 PM: Feature Film Screening: Ellis Park

• 8:30 PM: Light Supper Served

• 8:50 PM: Presentation & Q&A: Surfcoast Wildlife Rescue

• 9:30 PM: Evening Concludes

Venue & Date Information

• Date: Thursday, October 29, 2026

• Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM (Event runs 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM)

• Venue: Torquay Improvement Association (TIA) Main Hall

• Address: Price Street, Torquay VIC

Tickets & Pricing

• SCEG Members: Free Priority Access (RSVP required)

• General Community: Free / Suggested Donation

Note: Seating is limited! Please book your free ticket in advance to secure your spot and help us estimate catering for the light supper.

Thank you for supporting SCEG! If you would like to join us, become a member or donate to help us continue our vital work, please visit us at: www.sceg.org.au

We are a 100% volunteer community organisation, so it would be a huge help to follow, like, comment and share our work on socials, Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin ...Thank you!

*Please note some details of the event may change at our discretion.

*Please note photography and filming will conducted on the night for SCEG marketing purposes and help share awareness of our vital environmental work, but let us know if you don't want to be photographed or filmed.