LOCAL moviegoers have raced to Swan Hill’s Showbiz Cinema to support Swan Hill District Health’s fundraising for an MRI machine, while enjoying a local director’s new film.
Inner Wheel Swan Hill’s annual movie nights have become a key part of the group’s local fundraising efforts, having raised more than $45,000 for SHDH.
This year, the group brought the Victorian premiere of A Horse Named Winx to town, the latest documentary film from former Swan Hill Guardian journalist Janine Hosking.
The two-night event raised a grand total of $7541.50 for the MRI machine, through the tickets sold and the many raffle tickets bought on the night.
Inner Wheel Swan Hill member and movie organiser Maureen Smith said the community had rallied around the fundraising and the film.
“It was an absolutely amazing couple of nights, it was amazing to see the film and the community’s support,” she said.
“There were just people from everywhere who came along from all walks of life.
“We had quite a few people from Kerang’s Rotary who came over to support us, and a large number of people from the Swan Hill Jockey Club.”
Ms Smith said she had been overwhelmed by the support she had seen in what was her 18th movie night for Inner Wheel Swan Hill.
“It’s a fantastic thing that the community has done to help us get an MRI machine,” she said.
“I hope people keep giving what they can towards this great cause.
“We desperately need to bring the MRI machine to Swan Hill, it’s something that would help a lot of people and stop a lot of us from having to travel.
Ms Smith said the film had brought the audience to fits of laughter and tears as they witnessed the extraordinary career of champion racehorse Winx on the big screen.
“I think if you came into the movie not loving horses, there’s no chance you didn’t leave the theatre loving them,” she said.
“It had such a range of feelings, there were sad moments and funny moments, but the entire film was just beautiful.
“I heard multiple audience members saying it was the best movie they had seen in a long time.”
The film’s director was present, and had the opportunity to catch up with Lawrie French, who was the Swan Hill Guardian’s editor when she began as a cadet.
Ms Hosking said it was a special moment to see Mr French had come along to support the film and the great cause.
“Lawrie was exactly as I’d remembered him from my time at the Guardian,” she said.
“He told me he loved the film, which really meant a lot to me and gave some great feedback.
“He was a very detail focused boss, and I may have felt as though he was my boss again when we were chatting.
“Of all the old friends and familiar faces I saw in attendance, it was particularly special to see Lawrie again.”
Ms Hosking said she was proud to have been a part of the fundraising effort.
“It was a really fabulous event, and it felt great to see so many appreciating Winx’s story,” she said.
“What I’m noticing from these screenings is that when we focus on Winx and her personality, the audiences love it.
“It was really special to see the work that the Inner Wheel women put into this event, and that really needs to be recognised.
“Swan Hill really needs to have this MRI machine, so to even contribute in my own little way is great.”
Swan Hill District Health are almost halfway to the amount needed for the new MRI machine, as they hope to raise the $3.2 million needed.
