After viewing short films for the first time many years ago, founder and organiser Anna Smith became enthralled with the quality and wanted to share her passion.
She started the festival to help film-makers share their work and break into the industry.
With help from a Euroa businesswoman, Ms Smith has brought together a star-studded judging panel, which has selected the best six of 30 entries.
This year, the festival will have an international flavour, with a film from Italy being selected for viewing. There were also entries from Brazil and the United States.
The festival also features district talent, with Shepparton resident Tim Brown’s film The Sanctuary in the line-up.
Sydney-based filmmaker Michael Raso will return with his second film, My Gift. His debut entry to the festival, Solitude, screened at Cannes Film Festival and was selected for the National Australia Archives.
Awards will be given for best short film, best international short film, best documentary, best student short film and best performance. There will also be local encouragement awards and a people’s choice award.
Judges include the Australian Film and Television Academy’s John Orcsik, who starred in the police series Cop Shop. He has written for film and television, and directed television commercials, corporate videos, telemovies and episodic television.
Accompanying him is actress Krista Vendy, a former Neighbours star who had roles in Blue Heelers, Shock Jock, Nightmares and Dreamscapes, Pizza, Leverage and Mental. Her film credits include The Writer, Fat Pizza, Horseplay, The Incredible Hulk and Matching Jack.
Rounding out the judging panel is Tony Bonner, most famous for his role in the 1960s series Skippy the Bush Kangaroo. The recipient of many awards, Bonner received an Order of Australia Medal for services to the arts in 2017.
Mr Orsick and Ms Vendy will announce the winners.
The event will be held at 3pm on Sunday, November 6, at the Benalla Performing Arts and Convention Centre.
Ticket prices begin at $8. For tickets, visit https://bpacc.com.au/benalla-cinema/ or call the box office on 5762 5515.
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