In 2019 two young men from Gaza came to Australia to train as surf lifesavers at North Steyne Surf Life Saving Club in Manly.  The aim was for them to learn what it takes to run a Nippers program, and to take that knowledge back to Gaza to begin a culture of surf life saving education.

The goal was to bring joy, hope, and safety to children in Gaza.  

The Manly community was keen, and the program was gaining momentum.  On returning to Gaza, Mohammed Saleh and his friends set up a Nippers programme and began to build the first surf lifesaving club in the Middle East. Children there loved the program.  But after one successful season, four of the children were killed in air strikes: they were aged six, seven, nine and 10. Other adults supporting the program were also killed in Israel’s bombardment.  

Gaza Nippers - Hope Amid Devastation is the heartbreaking yet inspiring story of children in Gaza growing up under siege. These young surf lifesavers found a freedom and joy in the waves - even as they've faced unimaginable loss. Through their eyes, we witness a Gaza rarely seen: full of courage, community and the enduring spirit of childhood.   Ultimately this film stands as a powerful testament to resilience.

After the screening filmmakers Shamikh and Majed Badra have kindly agreed to an audience Q&A.  Their own story is also important, and deserves to be told.  

They are planning a second part of the film, and all funds raised from this screening will go towards supporting the continuation of the Gaza Nippers project.

This event is fully wheelchair accessible. The Theatre offers 77 fixed seats plus 3 wheelchair spaces.  There is also a Hearing Loop for hearing impaired.

There are $10, $20 and free tickets available. 1pm for a 1.15pm start.

Bookings for paid events and donations are tax-deductible.

If you are under 18 years of age, please ask your parent or guardian to purchase the ticket in their name. The Greens NSW are prohibited from accepting donations or payments from under 18s. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian will also need to contact the event organiser directly to let them know there will be someone under 18 attending.