Hervey Bay, Qld – The launch of a short film festival is part of a new non-profit organisation’s aim to lure filmmakers to the Fraser Coast and foster a collaborative hub for industry professionals.

Screen Fraser Coast co-chair Amy Friesen said the short film festival and other initiatives would create opportunities for people to work together on projects and retain them in the region.

“We’re keen to maintain the momentum created by the recent release of the feature film He Loves Me Not, by local production company Fraser Coast Films, and the launch of the Hervey Bay Film Festival last year,” she said.

“We have a fantastic film community on the Fraser Coast and we need to bring everyone together, keep opportunities in our region and foster growth.

“It’s about attracting production companies to film in our stunning region and providing the cast, crew and support they need.”  

Co-chair Samantha Gould said other regions had similar industry representatives to drive filmmakers to their parts of the country.

“We see an opportunity for the Fraser Coast to be seen as a destination to film movies which also helps to drive tourism,” she said.

“We want to provide opportunities for those within the industry a place to connect, network and create.”

Ms Gould said Screen Fraser Coast’s mission was to foster a collaborative environment where filmmakers, talent, and industry professionals could thrive, to promote local projects, provide valuable resources, and create opportunities for growth and innovation within the entertainment and arts community.

“By connecting passionate individuals and organisations, Screen Fraser Coast can elevate the region’s cinematic presence and support the development of unique, impactful stories and productions,” she said.

Ms Gould said the industry body would host events, training workshops, industry services and community engagement initiatives.

Events: Will include a new short film festival “Fraser Shorts”, pop-up screenings and an awards night in October. Entries open on March 1 through FilmFreeway. Throughout the year Screen Fraser Coast will hold pop-up screenings of local and international films, industry professional Q and A’s and industry networking events.

Training Workshops: Will provide a space for entrance level-participants to grow those skills relevant to the film and creative arts industry and establish and equip existing cast and crew on the Fraser Coast, providing them with options to train further in the region and gain work in the industry.

Membership Hub: Will provide a directory where industry professionals can connect with one another online. Screen Fraser Coast will also assist studios and film production companies coming to the region, giving them access to a directory of talent and provide location and scouting services. Free membership will be offered to the first 100 people who sign up.

Community Engagement Initiatives: Will connect with the local community; schools and education bodies; indigenous and other community groups; and the tourism industry to share information and create programs about the multiple aspects of filmmaking.

For further media information or to arrange an interview please contact:

Sam Gould,

Email: sam@screenfrasercoast.com.au