"The Economics of Happiness" film comes to Beechmont

Since its release in January 2011, the film “The Economics of Happiness” by localisation pioneer Helena-Norberg Hodge, has been screened on five continents, won numerous awards and inspired communities and people who want local prosperity, wellbeing and sustainability.

The Beechmont Business & Enterprise Network (BBEN) is thrilled to announce that in partnership with bioregional solar energy company Nickel Energy, we are screening “The Economics of Happiness” on Friday October 28 at 6pm at Binna Burra Lodge Library.

"While some American reviewers have predicted an Oscar for Best Documentary, others have said that this film will do for the localisation/globalisation schism what An Inconvenient Truth did for our understanding of climate change." Roger Hanney, writer for The Alternative Media Group of Australia

"A must-see film for the future of the planet." Zac Goldsmith, Member of UK Parliament.

• Time: 5.30pm for 6pm sharp start
• Venue: Binna Burra Lodge Library (above the dining room)
• “The Economics of Happiness” will screen first followed by a discussion and information about Nickel Energy’s household solar program. Informal networking will round off the evening.
• $12 per person covers finger food from Binna Burra Lodge. Pay at the Lodge reception on arrival.

To read the reviews of the film or see the trailer go to: www.theeconomicsofhappiness.org

Nickel Energy is sponsoring the screening of the film to help cover costs for the not for profit filmmakers. Gold coin donations on the night will also go to the filmmakers.

In 2009, Nickel Energy collaborated with BBEN and the Beechmont community to undertake a bulk buy household solar program. The program was a huge success with some 20-25 local households installing solar panels on their roofs. Nickel Energy had a stall at Zest Fest and loved reconnecting with many of its householders and is pleased to sponsor this important film screening for our community: www.nickelenergy.com.au

Bookings are essential as numbers are limited. Contact Sally MacKinnon: salmackinnon@bigpond.com

Beechmont State School Family Fun Day & Art Show

Beechmont State School is having its major fund raising event on Sunday 23rd October, 2011 - Beechmont Family Fun Day and Art Show. The day will help raise much needed funds for the school and to buy equipment for the new School and Community Hall (Hall on Graceleigh).

There will be a giant jumping castle/slide, laser skirmish and a mechanical surf board for the family to have fun on. Entertainment will be provided, and food and drinks can be purchased along with face painting and pony rides.

The school is also selling tickets for its Giant Raffle to be drawn at the Family Fun Day. There are heaps of prizes including - 2 night’s accommodation for 2 people at Binna Burra Mountain Lodge with breakfast; a 1 hr sunset gondola cruise for 4 adults on the Broadwater; and a Jetscream - jetboat ride for a family of four. Tickets are $2.00 each and can be purchased from the school, Binna Burra Mountain Lodge and from the kids who may knock on your door over the coming weeks!!

The school Art Show/competition will be set up in the Hall on Graceleigh, so come and have a look at the talent we have on the mountain. This year’s theme is family. Contact the school for more information on the Art Show.

Entry to the Family Fun Day is free but the school will be selling arm bands for all-day access to the jumping castle, laser skirmish and mechanical surf board. Arm bands can be purchased prior to the day from the school for $20 and on the day $25. Individual turns will cost $5 each.

Stalls will be set up by each grade at the school and offer games and items for purchase. We think there will be a big line up for the dunking machine featuring Mr Murphy...! and all proceeds will benefit the school.

The school is looking for stall holders for the Family Fun Day. If you are interested in being part of the day, contact Beechmont State School on 55459100 or Michelle Moyce on

5533 1168. The cost per stall is $10.00 for the day.

The school invites all residents to come and help make the day a successful fundraiser and to celebrate the official opening of our new community hall. Spread the word - ask your friends down on the coast. Help us make this day a huge success.

Carols by Candlelight Plan

Beechmont State School is planning another event Saturday 10th December, 2011 - Carols by Candlelight. The school is asking local businesses and groups if they would help out with the cost of putting on this event for the community by sponsoring the event. It doesn't need to be a huge amount but it all adds up. So far the school has donations/sponsorship worth $500 towards the event. The donations will help the school cover the cost of stage, sound and lighting and if it can raise enough funds there will be fireworks too.

The Mudgeeraba Hinterland Concert Band has agreed to provide music for the night and the school choirs will perform. The school hopes to engage other locals to provide entertainment as well.

For more information or to make a donation contact Michelle Moyce on 5533 1168.