We Have To Live With It

This film resonates beyond its specific time and place. 'We Have To Live With It' offers a powerful case study in community activism and the challenges of balancing industrial development with residential well-being. For contemporary Australian audiences, it provides a valuable historical perspective on urban planning, environmental concerns, and the enduring strength of local communities when faced with significant external pressures. It’s a reminder of the importance of local voices in shaping urban landscapes.

Absolutely. A key element of 'We Have To Live With It' is its documentation of the community's active response to the issues posed by the port terminal. The film captures the residents' protests and their dedicated lobbying efforts. It’s not just a film about problems; it’s a testament to community organising and the collective will to advocate for change and address the impacts of industrial development on their lives and local environment.

The film highlights significant concerns from the Balmain and Rozelle community stemming from the port terminal's presence. Residents and businesses voiced worries about increased noise levels, environmental pollution, and safety issues. The constant flow of large trucks carrying shipping containers down Mort Street was a particular point of contention, impacting daily life and the local environment. The documentary captures the community's direct experiences and their efforts to address these disruptions.

The film is a collaborative effort, a community video project spearheaded by Tom Zubrycki. It was brought to life by the very residents and local business owners of Balmain and Rozelle who were directly affected by the port terminal's operations. This participatory approach means the film is not an outsider's perspective, but a genuine expression of local sentiment and a record of their collective action against the perceived negative impacts on their neighbourhood.

This 1974 community video offers a raw and unfiltered look at the concerns of residents and local businesses in Balmain and Rozelle. It specifically documents their anxieties regarding the impact of an existing port terminal. Through the voices of the community, the film explores pressing issues such as noise pollution, environmental degradation, and safety hazards arising from the constant movement of container-laden trucks through Mort Street. It also captures the community's determined efforts to voice their grievances and seek solutions through protests and organised lobbying.