[press release from Australia Post]
Australia Post and the Australian Film Institute (AFI) are giving aspiring film-makers the chance to have their
work screened in front of the who’s who of the Australian film industry as part of the 2009 AFI Awards.
The 200 Seconds short film competition is calling on potential filmmakers to make a 200 second long film
featuring a parcel as part of Australia Post’s bicentenary celebrations.
Australia Post Managing Director Graeme John said the competition will give the next generation of
filmmakers exposure and access to the industry through prizes from the AFI, the National Institute of Dramatic
Art (NIDA) and Digital Pictures.
“Australia has a proud history of producing world class directors and actors and it is vital we support new
filmmakers to tell the stories of Australia,” said Mr John.
“We expect the 200 Seconds short film competition will uncover talented new filmmakers whose short films
can entertain, inspire and engage an audience.”
AFI Chief Executive Officer Damian Trewhella said the AFI was delighted to be working with Australia Post at a
time when advancements in technology have made film making accessible to everyone.
“In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, short film competitions are more important than ever
and we are looking forward to discovering the innovation of ideas generated by the 200 Seconds short film
competition,” Mr Trewhella said.
“The vitality of our moving image industry depends on creative opportunities existing at many levels, particularly
for young and emerging storytellers, giving them the best chance to demonstrate their abilities.”
The judging panel features respected members of the Australian film industry including Robert Connolly
(Romulus My Father, Three Dollars and the soon to be released Balibo), Gyton Grantley (Underbelly, Balibo),
Mark Hartley (Not Quite Hollywood), Sarah Watt (Look Both Ways and the soon to be released My Year
Without Sex), Melanie Coombs (Mary and Max) and Tahnee McGuire (Still Life).