We’d say the 2024 North Bellarine Film Festival was an outstanding success.
Taking place in picturesque Portarlington, the festival delivered three unforgettable days of cinema, storytelling, and community connection. It’s an event that Geelong Waterfront Film is very proud to support.
The festival kicked off on Friday evening with the screening of Daisy, a short film by Friend of Geelong Waterfront Film, Cassidy Krygger. A highlight of the night was the Q&A session with Chris Bryan, where it was revealed that Daisy is set to become a feature film – an exciting development for this talented filmmaker.
The evening continued with Back to Black, a moving feature documentary that explored the life and music of Amy Winehouse, taking viewers on a journey from her adolescence to the creation of one of the best-selling albums of all time.
Saturday afternoon brought the much anticipated Short Film Program, featuring a stellar lineup of works from independent filmmakers.
Local filmmaker Tracie Sullivan’s Entropy also took centre stage, featuring talented Friends of Geelong Waterfront Film, Daniel Sultana and Toto Rosso.
The program’s variety and depth highlighted the festival’s commitment to elevating short films and the filmmakers behind them.
The excitement continued into Saturday evening with the presentation of the Emerging Filmmakers Awards, a cornerstone of the festival that celebrates rising talent in the industry.
This year, Geelong Waterfront Film was thrilled to sponsor the inaugural Emerging Documentary Filmmaker Award. Dedicated to filmmakers aged under 25, this award spotlights fresh voices exploring compelling stories through the documentary format.
Congratulations to the Award Winners!
- Emerging Documentary Filmmaker Award: Jackson Hayat for a thought-provoking documentary Declutter, proudly sponsored by Geelong Waterfront Film. Follow Jackson Hayat on Instagram
- Emerging Filmmaker Award: Sam Sungmin Lee for a gripping short film White Lies. Follow Sam Sungminlee on Instagram
- People’s Choice Award: Brie Bartleet won over audiences with a powerful documentary Sink or Swim, an inspiring exploration of living with MS. Follow Brie Bartleet on Instagram
About the North Bellarine Film Festival
Since its establishment in 2017, the North Bellarine Film Festival has become a key cultural event, known for its diverse programming and commitment to supporting independent filmmakers. From showcasing Australian and international films to fostering the next generation of talent, the festival has grown into a significant celebration of cinema, drawing audiences and filmmakers from across the region.
A Festival That Inspires
With its mix of films, a supportive community, and a stunning coastal setting, NBFF offers an experience that goes beyond the screen. Whether you’re a filmmaker, a film enthusiast, or simply someone who loves the magic of storytelling, this festival is a must attend event.
The 2024 North Bellarine Film Festival was another triumph for filmmaking in the region, and we are proud to have been part of it.
Mark your calendars because 2025 can’t come soon enough – we’re already looking forward to it!
For more information and updates, visit North Bellarine Film Festival.
Images by Ivan Kemp Photographer, used with permission.
WORDS: Belinda Lyle