Free Community Evening; Film Screening and Panel Discussion

About the event: Join Ballina Shire Council for a special screening of The Plastic Country, a powerful new Australian documentary that uncovers the true scale of our nation's plastic crisis and its impacts on our environment, wildlife, and human health. A panel with the filmmaker, some local ocean advocates and community changemakers will follow the screening. The screening is free, but RSVP is essential. This film is suitable for all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Doors: 6pm

Film Screening: 6:30 - 7:45

Panel Discussion: 7:45 - 8:15

About the film: Following filmmaker and ocean advocate Kal Glanznig, The Plastic Country takes audiences on a remarkable journey across Australia, from the remote shores of East Arnhem Land to bustling urban waterways and the halls of Parliament House. Along the way, Kal meets scientists, Traditional Owners, wildlife carers, campaigners and industry leaders who reveal how deeply plastic pollution has infiltrated our ecosystems and increasingly, our own bodies.

Filmed over two years and featuring music from acclaimed First Nations band King Stingray, the documentary blends breathtaking Australian landscapes with personal storytelling and investigative journalism to explore one of the most pressing environmental and public health challenges of our time.

Australia is one of the highest producers of plastic waste per person in the world, with Australians using around three times the global average amount of plastic. The Plastic Country shines a light on the consequences of this dependence while highlighting practical solutions that are already helping reduce plastic pollution and create a more sustainable future.

More than a documentary, The Plastic Country is a call to action. It aims to shift the conversation around plastic pollution from a distant environmental concern to an urgent human health and policy issue, encouraging stronger action to reduce plastic production, support reusable alternatives, and prevent waste at its source.

Whether you're passionate about protecting our oceans, concerned about human health, or interested in creating positive change in your community, this screening offers an inspiring and eye-opening opportunity to learn, reflect and take action.

Come along, be informed, and discover how together we can help turn the tide on plastic pollution.

About the venue: The film will be screened inside the auditorium at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre at 1 Mackney Lane, Lennox Head. The venue is accessible, but please contact Justine on the email below with specific accessibility requirements. We encourage walking, cycling or carpooling if possible. Parking is available behind the building and on the street. Please note no food is allowed inside the auditorium, so please enjoy a meal or snacks before. Remember your refillable water bottle.

Additional Resources: Ready to take action on plastics? Have a look at these petitions and see if they're right for you: The Plastic Country Film and Plastics - Dr Sophie Scamps.

Consider donating to The Plastic Country project if that's an option for you: The Plastic Country | Documentary Australia.

Get in touch with Justine Rowe, Council's Resource Recovery Education Officer, for any questions about the event or how you can get involved: justine.rowe@ballina.nsw.gov.au.

Contact the host of FREE Film Screening: The Plastic Country