MEDIA RELEASE – 5 February 2008

National Launch of documentary inspires thousands to sing for Breast Cancer Network Australia

WADE IN THE WATER:  The story of one woman’s dream and determination to fight cancer.

At 3pm on Sunday 17 February thousands of voices right across Australia will sing in unison as over 70 community choirs take part in the national launch of Wade in the Water. Choirs from all over the nation will watch Wade in the Water, a grass roots documentary about the value of community participation and the healing power of song, then share with their community the joy of singing to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia.

Wade in the Water tells the story of two journeys. One follows the members of Melbourne’s South of the River Choir as they compete in a national choir competition while the other story is one of determination and hope as Debi Candlish, the choir founder, reflects on her diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

Debi, who will attend the Melbourne launch at ACMI cinemas in Federation Square, is only in her forties. Now in remission she said, “Initially, my cancer was misdiagnosed and it didn’t show up on the normal screening tests”.  Fortunately, she asked for a second opinion which led to life saving treatment.

Throughout the difficult treatment and recovery phase Debi was inspired by the power of singing.  “Singing saved me and I do believe it was 70% of my recovery. The choir was my saving grace, absolute saving grace.”

Lyn Swinburne, founder and CEO of Breast Cancer Network Australia, is thrilled to be associated with the national launch of Wade in the Water. After viewing the film Lyn said; “Wade in the Water is a wonderful demonstration of how your friends and communities are so important in your breast cancer journey.”

The majority of community choirs participating in the national launch are members of the Sing Australia network. Sing Australia’s founder Colin Slater said “I was very moved and inspired by Wade in the Water. It is a testimony to the powerful force to which we all have access. Singing resides in all of us. Wade in the Water has given Australians a beautifully crafted insight into this and the concept for us all to join together in song is brilliant.”

A choir in a community near you will be hosting a national launch event. Check out ‘events’ at www.wadeinthewater.net for a full listing of participating choirs.