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Three feature docs seek outreach funding

The makers of Frackman, Call Me Dad and Gayby Baby will pitch for funding to support their outreach campaigns at an event in Melbourne on April 15.

The documentary filmmakers will present their ambitions for their films to make a positive difference. Richard Todd’s Frackman focuses on the environmental damage called by coal seam gas mining.

Sophie Wiesner’s Call Me Dad follows men who have perpetrated or are at risk of perpetrating family violence as they attempt to change and heal their  relationships.

Maya Newell’s Gayby Baby features four children of gay and lesbian parents as they share their stories.

That trio was among seven feature docs which received more than $2 million in donations at the inaugural Good Pitch Australia in Sydney last October.

The Funding Network, a non-profit organisation, will host the Melbourne event at the Telstra theatrette in Exhibition Street from 5.30pm – 8.30pm.

It will be presented in collaboration with Telstra and Good Pitch² Australia, an initiative hosted by Shark Island Institute and Documentary Australia Foundation.

Part of a global network that hosts live collective-giving events, The Funding Network enables individuals, foundations and corporations to give collectively, in increments starting from $100, while aiming to raise at least $10,000 for every organisation that pitches.

Lisa Cotton, CEO and co-founder of The Funding Network, said, “Our friendly, open environment inspires people to raise more as a group than they could as individuals, and it encourages them to offer more than just money. Our guests hear about new solutions to community issues, ask questions, and then pledge their support to social entrepreneurs with big ideas but few resources.

“A giving movement is underway. A new breed of donor
 is emerging; one that is truly engaged, donating what is meaningful to him or her, encouraging others to do the same and using their unique skills in a way that makes them feel more alive and their society a fairer place for all."

Malinda Wink, executive director of Good Pitch² Australia, said a Funding Network live event is a powerful example of how bridges can be built between business, philanthropy and the social sector to transform compassion into action.

The Telstra theatrette is at Level 1, 242 Exhibition Street, Melbourne.

Find out about the films and book tickets: https://www.thefundingnetwork.com.au/events/upcoming-events-list/melbourne-wednesday-15-april-2015/