Good Stuff film show celebrates volunteers

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Gisborne Volunteer Centre is excited to be bringing a little star power to the Two Minutes of Good Stuff film festival with Hilary Barry, from TVNZ’s Seven Sharp, presenting this year’s awards.

The Two Minutes of Good Stuff film festival was created by Gisborne Volunteer Centre to celebrate “what’s good out East” in short two-minute films with a focus on volunteering.

“We are dreaming big this year and were so excited when Hilary accepted our invitation to present the awards at this year’s event,” says Gisborne Volunteer Centre manager Jenny Greaves.

The theme is “Volunteers Build Communities” and will showcase 11 films, made by local film-makers who have volunteered their time to share their skills and knowledge.

The films are judged by three independent judges to decide the best overall. The Gisborne Volunteer Centre Board will also pick their favourite and there is a People’s Choice award, decided on the night by the audience.

“The organisations being showcased in this year’s film festival all offer opportunities to come together,” says Ms Greaves.

“They strengthen the community by creating spaces where people feel a sense of belonging and ownership in the community.”

The films featuring this year include Tairāwhiti Adventure Trust, Gisborne Wainui Lions, Hear4U, Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council, MV Takitimu, Gisborne City Vintage Railway, Surely Skate, Evolution Theatre, Smash Palace Pub Choir, Taiki e! Next Gen and Jammies 4 June.

“These organisations have each built communities that are benefiting our region,” Ms Greaves says.

“They enable people to participate and gain a sense of purpose and happiness in being connected to the community.”

The festival screening occurs during National Volunteer Week, a week when the spotlight shines on volunteering and celebrates the volunteers who enrich our community.

The theme of National Volunteer Week 2023 is “The Big Shout Out” and fits nicely into the film festival kaupapa.

The Big Shout-out is a national campaign for June, encouraging people to give a shout-out to volunteers.

“New Zealand is a nation of volunteers. More than a million of us volunteer, giving our time and energy to make a difference in our communities,” says Ms Greaves.

“Volunteering needs to be valued and celebrated as a vital part of society.”

The Two Minutes of Good Stuff Film Festival is at Bushmere Arms on June 23 with tickets available at the Gisborne Volunteer Centre office.