Transmission Films will release the epic feature documentary in cinemas across Australia on March 31. The film recently won the BFI London Film Festival Award for Best Documentary and selected to screen at the Sydney, Melbourne, Toronto and Telluride Film Festivals.
Kathmandu’s Brand Manager Tim Loftus said: “The Australian Himalayan Foundation was founded in 2002 with the aim of making a positive contribution to the wellbeing of the people of the Himalayas. Kathmandu became community partners with the AHF in 2011, in recognition and support of the region that inspired the brand. This partnership with the film SHERPA gives Kathmandu the opportunity to further highlight and support education and rebuilding programs in Nepal.”
Intrepid Travel Co-Founder Darrell Wade said: “Tourism is vitally important to Nepal’s recovery – it is the largest employer in Nepal – and it has obviously taken quite a hit since last year’s earthquake. While international fundraising efforts played an important part in helping rebuild the country, we now have to focus on encouraging tourists to return to Nepal for its long-term economic well-being. Nepal wants travellers back – its trails are safe and open, its mountains still beautiful and the people as welcoming as ever. The best way for Australians to help Nepal is to visit and we hope to spread this message through our partnership with SHERPA.
“Funds raised from Intrepid’s screenings of SHERPA will go towards our Namaste Nepal Appeal, which was launched immediately after the earthquake, and supports local and international NGOs in Nepal, including World Wildlife Fund, Plan International, Himalayan Rescue Foundation and Seven Women.”
SHERPA is directed by acclaimed high altitude filmmaker and climber Jen Peedom. Jen is known for her intimate and compassionate portraits, documenting stories from the epic to the everyday, often in extreme situations. Her credits include the internationally renowned documentaries Miracle on Everest and Solo.
At 6.45am on the 18th of April 2014, a 14 million ton block of ice crashed down onto the climbing route through the Khumbu Icefall, killing 16 Sherpas. It was the worst tragedy in the history of Everest. The disaster provoked a drastic reappraisal about the role of the Sherpas in the Everest industry. SHERPA, tells the story of how, in the face of fierce opposition, the Sherpas united in grief and anger to reclaim the mountain they call Chomolungma.
Kathmandu and Intrepid Travel will each host a series of preview screenings on Sunday 21 February and Monday 22 February around Australia to raise funds to go to the Australian Himalayan Foundation (AHF) and Intrepid’s Namaste Nepal Appeal.
Tickets £22 http://www.eventbrite.com/o/intrepid-travel-9750147597
