BRISBANE archdiocese’s Catholic Justice and Peace Commission (CJPC) has hosted a World Environment Day screening of a documentary film depicting the struggle of Central Queensland communities against coal and gas extraction in their region.
The documentary Brimblebox, screened on June 5 at the Aspinall Centre, St Bernard’s Parish, Upper Mt Gravatt.
It featured interviews with leading academics, scientists and former miners, as well as members of the communities affected by mining.
Directed by United States-based filmmaker Michael O’Connell, the film follows the story of Paola Cassoni, a resident of Alpha, Queensland, and co-owner of the Bimblebox Nature Refuge.
Bimblebox Nature Refuge is an 8000ha property north of Alpha and directly in the path of the proposed “China First” coal mine, an operation that, if given approval, will be the world’s largest coal mine.
CJPC executive officer Peter Arndt said the documentary “built a picture of the broader implications of Australia’s mining boom, while focusing on one woman’s fight to protect the land she loves”.
“The commission is keen to promote the broadest possible discussion of the issues surrounding coal mining and gas extraction in Queensland,” Mr Arndt said.
“Brimblebox gives us the chance to hear the views and feelings of people living in the central west of Queensland whose lives and lands will be directly affected by very large mining developments.
“It shows the daily battles and frustrations of ordinary people in dealing with both mining corporations and indifferent governments.”
A panel of speakers discussed the film after its screening and light refreshments were served.
Mr Arndt said the CJPC was considering obtaining a copy of Brimblebox for further screenings.
