Festival Aims To Foster ‘sensible Survival’ (Press, 2 December 1985)

A major national festival, titled "Towards 2000: Personal Renewal and Wider Care," is set to take place in Christchurch from 6 to 9 February 1986. Organised by Robert Hunt, the event aims to foster greater personal awareness, expression, and care among participants. Attracting attendees from across New Zealand, the festival will host numerous workshops covering a range of topics, including peace initiatives, environmental preservation, anti-racism efforts, holistic health practices, and various aspects of wellness such as yoga and acupuncture. Unique spaces will be allocated for women and children, featuring specific activities for both groups. Participants will camp on-site in a picturesque farm setting, with costs of $55 for waged and $45 for unwaged individuals, which includes vegetarian meals. Additionally, the Christchurch office of "Broadsheet," a pivotal magazine in the New Zealand women's movement, is set to open its doors officially. Established initially as a newsletter in 1972 and transitioning into a magazine format, "Broadsheet" provides a platform for discussions on women's issues, including employment, health, and relationships. The new office aims to enhance South Island representation, operating as an information hub staffed by volunteers. Its launch event will include poetry, music, and refreshments, inviting public participation. The article also outlines challenges faced by men in adapting to feminist movements. Sue Kedgley, a notable figure from the early feminist movement, has released a new book titled "The Sexual Wilderness," exploring the impacts of feminism on men's relationships through in-depth interviews. The findings highlighted a struggle among many men to express their feelings and make personal changes, referred to as "the male malaise." Another noteworthy mention is "Lesbian Nuns – Breaking Silence," a compilation of interviews with nuns discussing their sexual lives. The book, which gained attention in the United States, has been launched in Christchurch by co-author Nancy Manahan. The article further introduces screenings of films dealing with women’s roles in the workforce, including "The Life and Times of Rosie the Riveter," which reflects on societal attitudes towards women's employment post-World War Two. It will be screened initially for local government employees, followed by a public showing. Additionally, the Australian documentary "For Love Or Money" will be screened, depicting the history of women in paid work in Australia. Lastly, Barbara Chapman has been elected as the new president of the Canterbury Play Centre Association, promising to continue her family's legacy within the organisation. As the largest association of its kind in New Zealand, she plans to dedicate significant time to her voluntary role, following a long-standing commitment to play centre work.

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