David Stratton honoured with new Byron Bay Film Festival award

THE Byron Bay International Film Festival will rename its Best Documentary Award in honour of the late film critic David Stratton.

Festival director J’aimee Skippon-Volke said the change recognised Stratton’s lifelong support for documentary makers and his contribution to Australian cinema.

“David Stratton’s name is synonymous with integrity, insight, and a deep love of cinema,” she said.

“By naming this award in his honour, we’re recognising his remarkable contribution to film culture and his unwavering support for documentary filmmakers worldwide.”

Stratton, who died in 2024, was best known for co-hosting At the Movies with Margaret Pomeranz.

He also served as director of the Sydney Film Festival and made the SBS documentary series Stories of Australian Cinema.

His voice became a trusted guide for Australian audiences, often shaping public conversations about film and culture.

Pomeranz will join the judging panel for the inaugural David Stratton Best Documentary Award, alongside actor Jack Thompson and Skippon-Volke.

“I’m very touched to be invited by the Byron Bay Film Festival to be part of the judging panel,” Pomeranz said. “It’s a celebration of both David and the medium he loved.”

The award will be presented during the festival, which runs from October 17 – 26 across venues in Byron Bay, Ballina, Brunswick Heads, Mullumbimby, Coorabell and Lismore.