Short Aussie films to star in fest

PRODUCED by passionate cinephiles for fellow movie-lovers, Ballarat’s newest arts festival is coming soon to a theatre near you.

The inaugural Poco Film Fest will champion the work of up-and-coming Australian filmmakers on Saturday, 30 July.

Up to 20 short films, the Fest finalists, will be screened in the Regent’s Cinema One to a public audience and panel of judges, with actor Rob Carlton as MC.

Local design studio Mass Motion is leading the festival, with Luke Keys as Film Fest director.

“Throughout COVID, we gained an acute awareness of some of the filmmakers in our town and region. Not everyone is so metro-based, and there are so many creatives on our doorstep,” he said.

“We thought it would be good to connect everyone, and try to foster hubs of creativity like you get in the city.

“Our idea steamrolled from a movie night, into putting on a film festival.”

Although Ballarat has the International Foto Biennale, and the presence of arts and cultural events is growing, Mr Keys said his team realised there was a gap in the market for film fans.

“Our aim is for the Poco Film Fest to be a biennial event that helps to make Ballarat a place that’s known for putting on varying cultural events in winter.

“In its first year, it will culminate in a one-night event, showcasing many of the entries we’ve been receiving in the last six months from all over Australia, including amazing entries from our region, award-winners, and student films,” he said.

“We’re really hoping the community get behind it and take ownership. In two years’ time, it could grow into something even bigger, maybe held over a week or two, and in more venues.”

Visit pocofilmfest.com.au for tickets, which will be on sale until the event.