Environmental issues broadcaster Dean Williams, AKA ‘Green Dean’ is taking a year out to volunteer in Cambodia – and his leaving party this weekend will raise funds for the trip. The gay broadcaster has had regular segments on Radio New Zealand National and 95Bfm for many years. As a volunteer for the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) in Siem Reap, Cambodia, he'll be working with villages to help them sustainably manage their resources. “Dean has given the subject of the environment an urgency, freshness and humour suited to the young urban Auckland population,” said MP Marion Hobbs in 2001 as Williams was given a ‘Green Ribbon’ award. “His journalistic skills are applied to investigating the issues and asking the hard questions of all participants on his show, in order to present balanced and effective reporting. And he teaches his listeners that there are small and significant things individuals, communities, and businesses can do to sustain our environment.” In order to raise funds for Williams’ board and lodgings, and gain extra funds for the ACCB’s fieldwork, the broadcaster is having a leaving party this weekend in Auckland. DJ’s Cian, Slow Deck, Damon, Andrew Spraggon, Daniel Malone and Billy will play at Bar 4:20 at 373 K’ Road this Saturday from 7pm, with performances by Steve Abel, Caitlin Smith, Dee Za Star and drag star Buckwheat. Tickets will be in the form of a $30 donation, available from either ‘IL Buco’ at 113 Ponsonby Road, or ‘This is not a Love Shop’ at 290 K'Road. Williams plans to share his experiences in Cambodia on his ‘LiveJournal’ webpage – link below. Related links: http://greendean.livejournal.com/ Ref: GayNZ.com (m)