Political documentary, Time to Draw the Line, which explores the relationship between Australia and East Timor, will be screened at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre on May 29.
The evening will begin with Sister Susan Connelly, a long-time activist and supporter of justice for Timor-Leste, followed by the screening, and then a Q and A session with Sister Connelly and Timor Sea justice activist, Mr Tomas Freitas.
The film follows the abandonment of a multi-billion dollar oil and gas treaty following allegations of spying on Australia’s behalf and tells the story behind this.
Two months before East Timor’s independence, Australia withdrew from the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice and the International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea, for the delimitation of maritime boundaries.
The subsequent 2006 treaty, which is now being scrapped, placed the issue of a permanent maritime boundary in the deep freeze for the next 50 years.
Australia has negotiated permanent maritime boundaries with every country in its region: New Zealand, the Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, but not with East Timor.
East Timor wants a boundary and that it be drawn halfway between the two countries in accordance with international law (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea).
Australia has resisted both.
This film is an emotional study of Australia’s long connection to Timor-Leste revealing a chequered relationship of friendship, courage, mistrust and betrayal.
Through a wealth of interviews and archival footage, the film unravels this contemporary David and Goliath story.
The film engages and motivates Australians about the need to draw a just and permanent border in the Timor Sea.
“The Demand Film screening requires that a minimum of 60 tickets be reserved in the next 30 days in order for the screening to occur”, according to the film’s Associate Producer, Janelle Saffin.
“Any extra proceeds from the event, if we can sell more tickets, will go towards The Timor Sea Justice Campaign.
“So please come along and help spread the word.
“Tell your friends and have them join us for this special one-time screening of Time to Draw the Line on the Central Coast.
“Support Timor-Leste through your attendance at this event,” Ms Janelle Saffin said.
To reserve a ticket, visit the Demand Film Event webpage.
Source:
Media release, May 2
Janelle Saffin, Time to Draw the Line