2026 Film Program
Explore the program of thoughtfully curated short film sessions featured in our 2026 program.
Click on the session title to take you to the program and view the films included.
Student Film Showcase (Sun 13 Sept at 3.30pm) - a free event!
Schools Day program (Fri 18 Sept at 10am)
Go Gold BLOCK PARTY (Thu 17 Sept at 5pm) - a free event!
International Gold (Fri 18 Sept at 2.30pm)
Reel Stories (Sat 19 Sept at 9am)
Sunshine State (Sat 19 Sept at 11am)
Around the World (Sat 19 Sept at 1pm)
Animation, it’s not just for kids (rated M) (Sat 19 Sept at 3pm)
Chucklers (Sat 19 Sept at 5pm)
Solid Gold (Sat 19 Sept at 7pm)
Late Night Gold (Sat 19 Sept at 9pm)
Kool 4 Kids (Sun 20 Sept at 9am)
More Solid Gold (Sun 20 Sept at 10.30am
Quirky, Weird & Wonderful (Sun 20 Sept at 12.30pm)
Screeners Picks (Sun 20 Sept at 2.30pm)
Looking for a specific film? Try our FILM INDEX
Student Film Showcase
Sunday 13 September 2026
3.30pm to 5.30pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Selected secondary student films submitted to Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival, along with a best-of from STUFFit Student Film Festival.
Can you teach me how to drop in? An excerpt from 'Robbers', an improvised feature film about the cost of idolisation. Exploring themes of privilege vs poverty, intergenerational trauma and idolisation, this film focuses on the incipience of two characters, Ash and Jem's relationship. Ash is an outgoing, ambitious 17 year old girl looking for something she can control, and Jem is a hard working, 18 year old mechanic struggling with a drug addiction who longs for connection. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 8.04 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Caleb MacLaren
Denis from Delaware A brief snippet into the astounding life of American-Australian man, Denis Chandler. From his family life and upbringing, to the hardships of the AIDs epidemic in New York, Denis shares the intimate story that is his life.
Duration: 5.01mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Magenta Lily Stafford
Sonder An isolated young man drifts through life believing he’s the only one who truly matters. But when a series of surreal encounters lets him glimpse the hidden struggles and joys of strangers, his world shifts. Through these unexpected windows into other lives, he’s forced to confront his own loneliness and discovers the profound complexity and beauty in everyone around him. SONDER is a visually striking philosophical drama about empathy, awakening, and the extraordinary stories unfolding all around us. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 7.59mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Angus Ischia
Metamorphosis
Duration: 9.58mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Mia Tran Van Vinh
Shadows and Deception When detective Vince Malone is hired by a mysterious girl to find her missing sister, he uncovers a theatre run by a corrupt kingpin who controls half the city. As Vince follows a trail of half-truths and planted clues, he slowly realises the sisters aren’t victims—they’re bait, drawing him into a trap designed to lure out his past.
Duration: 6.54 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Hannah-Jade Keppler
Dear Diary Dear Diary, focuses on the feelings of entrapment, freedom and friendship that children experience as they grow up. In the film I explored the story of two girls in school from the perspective of each of their diary entries. One of them, Jasmine, struggles in her subjects and feels disconnected in class, but after connecting with Jen, they both regain their joy and ambition.
Duration: 5.00 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Gabby Ava Brettschneider
BAD BREATH - a short film A light hearted, mildly active comedy. About the unexpected things that come with having bad breath. And a friendly reminder to brush your teeth. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 4.16 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Silas St Leger Forrest
PLUS a selection of films from STUFFit Student Film Festival
Eggs Benedict created by Johnny White
Ruth created by Sophie Lai
The Stella Show created by Ruby McQuire
Criminal In-tent created by Sam Walk
Pineapple on Pizza created by Laila Salloum
Into The Door created by Niall Law
Go Gold BLOCK PARTY
Thursday 17 September 2026
5pm to 8.30pm
Fern Street Park accessed via Fern, Mcleod and Monkland Streets Gympie Qld 4570
A free community event that features family friendly short films in an outdoor cinema, live music from James Nash High Ensemble Band and The Noggins, artisan stalls, creative activities, food & MORE!
Focus Bullied for his colourful, kid-like fidgets, young Kai - who has autism and dyslexia - no longer wanted to live. Left with no other choice, he forged his own from a bike chain. By 18, that single act of defiance has become Kaiko Fidgets, a company purpose-built for the neurodivergent community.
Duration: 4.58 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Zac Stevenson
The Release Based on a true story and set in Western Australia, The Release follows nine cousins who reunite to rehearse an important family task. Each arrives with their own opinions and urgency, turning preparation into organised chaos. Old roles resurface, rivalries spark, and a simple run-through becomes a lively battle of wills with a bunk bed at the centre. Beneath the noise lies something stronger: tradition, shared pride, and the enduring bond of family.
Duration: 4.40 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Katharina Keil
Heaven A gentle reminds us that heaven is not wealth or perfection, but the everyday bonds we so easily overlook.
Duration: 8.00 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Jins M.Jose
Extraordinary Rob Rob can do the impossible, but only when no one is watching. After a lifetime of invisibility, one anonymous act forces him to decide whether being unseen is a curse or a choice. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 6.31 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Adam Szudrich
CHRO On a spring day, an elderly man who faithfully visits his late wife's grave each week to tend her flowers suddenly becomes aware of a middle-aged woman mourning her recently deceased husband nearby in the same cemetery. In the quiet of the graves, fleeting glances and brief greetings ignite a spark of hope for renewal in the old man's heart.
Duration: 3.45 mins
Country of Origin: Iran
Director: Hamed Bahrami
Total Opposites Two beings, Dark and Light, fight to impose control of the world in order to achieve peace- only to realize peace can only come through co-existence.
Duration: 2.28 mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Afek Felix Eyal
Houses in My Heart On a quiet ferry ride through the harbour at night, fragments of a teenage girl’s childhood begin to re-emerge as she reflects on the person she used to be. Memories of laughter, friendship, imagination, and innocence slowly resurface. The film explores nostalgia, growing up, and the bittersweet realisation that parts of yourself can quietly fade over time. Through these memories, she reconnects with forgotten pieces of herself and the child she once was.
Duration: 4.41 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Rose Gallimore, Poppy Gallimore
Finding Joy When a documentary crew starts filming his obsession with hourglasses, a charmingly awkward collector finds himself learning life's biggest lesson. time is precious, do what you what makes you happy.
Duration: 7.01 mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Paul Rye
Date Knight A knight catfishes a dragon on a date in an attempt to slay her.
Duration: 2.54 mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Amber Schmoyer, Kareena Bhatia
Lemonade In the cutthroat business world of lemonade stands, sister/brother dream team of Suzy and Jack descend into bitter rivals as they chase success, sabotage and sweet profits.
Duration: 9.47 mins
Country of Origin: New Zealand
Director: Logan Sutherland
The Go Gold BLOCK PARTY is a free community event, no tickets required!
International Gold
Friday 18 September 2026
2.30pm to 4.00pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Stories from around the world with a Heart of Gold.
Hi Mom, It's Me, Lou Lou Hakkı, a university student earning his keep through Drag Queen performances in Istanbul, is jolted by the news of his mother's passing one night. Despite grappling with guilt over his mother's demise and his father's aloofness, this journey catalyzes his journey towards self-acceptance. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 20.35 mins
Country of Origin: Türkiye
Director: Atakan YILMAZ
Brothers Thrust into a life changing situation, a family's bond and morals are tested. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 9.50mins
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Director: Ross Snyder
Horseback Ali, a 10-year-old non-verbal refugee boy seeking asylum in rural Ireland finds unexpected hope and healing when he forms a life-changing bond with a piebald pony.
Duration: 12.06mins
Country of Origin: Ireland
Director: Mark McAuley
American Dream A young girl and a boy in love are on a romantic and fantasy date in the style of the movie La La Land. They want to celebrate the girl's birthday, but the young girl reveals the secret of her immigration from Iran.
Duration: 13.00mins
Country of Origin: Iran
Director: Houra Kian
Brown Bread Brown Bread is a modern twist on the Irish emigration story.
Duration: 14.13mins
Country of Origin: Ireland
Director: Shaunagh Connaire
Before the Dawn (Avant l'aurore) Valentin faces decisive moments in which his grandfather’s wisdom silently guides his steps toward maturity, in a story that unfolds as a tender chronicle of daily life. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 11.18 mins
Country of Origin: Brazil, Canada
Director: Tiago Gerbasi
Reel Stories
Saturday 19 September 2026
9am to 10.30am
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Reel Stories are unreal documentaries from around the world.
The Carer Project The Carer Project tells the powerful stories of three Western Australian parent-carers of children with complex medical and disability needs, whose lives are stretched to breaking point by the lack of adequate respite and systemic support. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 17.00mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Cassandra Power
Everybody Loves Gina: The Video Depot Story Video Depot, the first and last video store in Santa Clarita, CA, is still in business because it’s wonderful owner’s Gina & John Lee have an incredible connection with their regular customers, who continue to support the store despite all odds, and hope that it will stay open. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 19.17mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Roy Samuel Ferré
Our Lives with Children Married for 48 years, William and Marie-Jeanne have welcomed over 70 children into their home, giving them love and support. Their commitment conveys a deep conviction: every child deserves a future, and the community plays a vital role in building better lives. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 9.36mins
Country of Origin: Canada
Director: Marie-Jeanne Anichinapeo, William Papatie
Wāhine Waveriders In the tiny, coastal town of Riverton tucked behind sheep filled paddocks and wind blown trees you’ll find a small, but thriving surf community. Wāhine Waveriders is a documentary celebrating 3 generations of the Pou family women and their unique relationship with surf culture on the South Island. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 18.24mins
Country of Origin: New Zealand
Director: Kirsty Marshall, Zyanya Jackson
Bringing His Spirit Home Peter’s great-uncle, an Aboriginal WWI soldier, is buried far away from his family and traditional lands. With a cultural belief that his ancestor’s spirit won’t be at rest until he returns home, Peter travels to France to visit his grave, performing a traditional ceremony to bring his spirit home.
Duration: 13.44mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Dylan Nicholls
Sunshine State
Saturday 19 September 2026
11am to 12.30pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Stories from Queensland filmmakers with a Heart of Gold.
ENMESHED ENMESHED is a drama that follows James, a teenager in his final year of high school, who finds himself stuffed into the boot of a car instead of at school by his mother. When he finally gets a moment alone, he must decide whether to call an ambulance against her will or continue to follow his mother’s plan. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 14.30mins
Country of Origin:
Director: Corban Bruce
Just Pedal When a weekend ride turns into a life-altering crash, one cyclist faces the unthinkable — a broken neck and an uncertain future. Just Pedal is a raw, short-form documentary about resilience, recovery, and one man’s mission to get back in the saddle.
Duration: 9.08mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Glen Bucklar
Hello Reaper Jack accidentally befriends the granddaughter of the Grim Reaper and much to his surprise is taken on a day of mundane human experiences, all the while facing questions about his own mortality
Duration: 7.01mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Kevin Friesen
Big Beautiful World A man working a dull 9-5 gets a mysterious call which changes the course of his life forever. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 9.13mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Caleb Nolan
Corner Piece A woman decides that for her 40th birthday, she's falling in love - and a speed dating/second hand hat store combo seems like a message from the universe.
Duration: 7.00mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Ash Dighton
Hugo & The Hive A journey into the world of Hugo & The Hive
Duration: 4.20mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Jacob Schiotz
GANIBARRA Ganibarra is an invitation for Australia to reimagine our relationship with dingoes, cutting through the hysteria, headlines and sensationalism to understand who - and what - they really are. Dingo Songlines connect nation to nation, while ongoing colonial killing continues to damage sacred pathways. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 19.13mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Sonya Takau, Alix Livingstone
With Sympathy A grieving woman is bombarded with well-meaning advice she never asked for.
Duration: 6.43mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Kate O'Sullivan
Around the World
Saturday 19 September 2026
1pm to 2.30pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Stories from around the world that give a glimpse into other cultures.
THE PLACE OF WOMEN Elena is mistreated by her husband. In a state of permanent stress, she barely has the energy to cope with her daily life. And yet, she lives at the foot of the Plaza de las Mujeres, the Place of Women, where the inhabitants of the city of Soria gather after each femicide in Spain to give a voice to the women who no longer have one.
Duration: 11.08mins
Country of Origin: Switzerland
Director: Janine Piguet
The Wedding of the Pirs The Gorani Kurds living in the Hawraman region of Iran continue to keep a millennium-old tradition alive today. Every winter, the people gather to commemorate Pir Shaliyar, who lived in the village of Uraman Taht in the foothills of the Zagros Mountains, and ritually re-enact his legendary wedding.
Duration: 20.00mins
Country of Origin: Türkiye
Director: yalçın çiftçi
A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man A 10-year-old schoolboy feels listless in class, his creative potential at odds with what is being taught. The film looks at how he navigates the classroom, home and the larger world in his attempt to find moments of joy and creativity in both the real and imaginary realms. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 8.12mins
Country of Origin: India
Director: Sumeet Kaul
Why can't I just be me?! “Why can’t I just be me”, is an animatic that focuses on my personal experiences of being a "weird black girl." This animatic talks about a topic that not only relates to me but can be shared experiences that others can connect with.
Duration: 2.56mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Jasmine Doctor
Conquering the Six As war rages in his homeland, Ukrainian amputee Roman Kasphur runs across the world to prove that strength is born from struggle—one marathon at a time, leading to his final challenge in Boston. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 24.00mins
Country of Origin: Ukraine, United States
Director: Gabriel
SHOWTIME SHOWTIME explores queer adolescence in rural China, where identity and desire emerge under silence, control, and social repression. In a remote mining village plagued by nightly blackouts, Tia, a teenage girl, expresses herself through Michael Jackson’s dance moves on TikTok—her only outlet in a world defined by restriction. When Wynne, a city woman, becomes her stepmother, their lives begin to intertwine in unexpected and fragile ways.
Duration: 15.00mins
Country of Origin: China, Malaysia, Switzerland
Director: Lam Can-zhao
Animation, it’s not just for kids (rated M)
Saturday 19 September 2026
3pm to 4.30pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Animation is not just for kids, and these short films from around the world prove it!
Praying for Love Female praying mantis struggles with cannibalistic tendencies while looking for love.
Duration: 2.18mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Sofia Tonin
Like Friend, Like Deer Like Friend, Like Deer tells the story of a wildlife ranger in a critical situation who kills an illegal hunter during a confrontation. This short film explores the deep connection and hidden similarities between humans, animals, and the environment they share. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 12.59mins
Country of Origin: Iran
Director: Malek Eghbali
Jeem 1983Jeem is set in 1983 war-torn Beirut and follows a seven-year-old boy as he wanders through his city during the Lebanese Civil Ear. With the help of a superhero from his imagination, Jeem brings a ceasefire to his shattered city, befriends other children and mocks armed militiamen. But as the ceasefire collapses, he must return home and face his deepest fear. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 15.40mins
Country of Origin: Lebanon
Director: Jorj Abou Mhaya
Beautify Beautify follows a young woman’s surreal journey to self-acceptance as she confronts society’s beauty standards and embraces her true identity.
Duration: 2.20mins
Country of Origin: Russian Federation
Director: Elizaveta Makarenko
Dogs of Bishkek Set in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, a young boy named Sasha has to evade a ravenous dog on his way home from the market. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 2.20mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Viktor Niksdorf
The Legend of King Nibbles A hamster king is a victim of his own demise when he refuses to share his excessive wealth with the rest of his kingdom.
Duration: 3.05mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Alison Chang, Selin Bekiroglu
Profitable Place Some places in the world are better for business than others. And with the right skills, you don’t just meet demand — you create it.
Duration: 5.11mins
Country of Origin: Belarus
Director: Alex Maximov
Finding Mama When Harold Holt returns to land after a 60 year hiatus, the aquatic Prime Minister pursues answers from real experts and performers, questioning why Australian theatres are struggling despite him being nominally responsible for a funding body for the arts.
Duration: 14.59mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Zeta H-D
Harmonia In a magical forest, a reckless young knight discovers a music box but unleashes an ancient wrath upon winding it and must run to safety.
Duration: 3.03mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Alex Rodarte, Victoria Sjostedt
The Dinner Party It seems like the perfect dinner party: good food, great wine and even better company. But one guest is a little salty. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 3.56mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Nick Baker, Tristan Klein
Arguments in Favor of Love A couple’s arguments, taken from life, embodied by ghosts.
Duration: 9.00mins
Country of Origin: Portugal
Director: Gabriel Abrantes
Dobrina Lotte Reiniger meets Sergio Leone in this animated short, where desire burns as bright as the desert sun. A brand-new animated short that premiered in June 2025, successfully touring the festival circuit now.
Duration: 5.00mins
Country of Origin: Germany
Director: Hannes Rall
Butter Chicken Amid the roar of an Australia vs. India cricket match, a young man grapples with heritage and belonging. Surrounded by Aussie gold and Bharat blue, he searches for his seat—both in the stadium and in society.
Duration: 2.24mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Mark Bernard
Chucklers
Saturday 19 September 2026
5pm to 6.30pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Have a laugh on us with these Australian films that have a Heart of Gold and a funny bone.
The Suit A couple engaged in a bizarre legal proceeding confront the source of their problem. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 11.58mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Jesse Vogelaar
No Thank You After the heartbreak of another miscarriage, sculptor Daphne loses the ability to say 'Thank You' and her world begins to crumble. She throws herself into a new work, one that represents her body and her grief. Then, just as the consequences of being a thankless social outcast threaten to completely overwhelm her, her sculpture wins a coveted award. Now Daphne must face a new challenge, one to herself and her art. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 7.00mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Georgina Haig
Surprise! Oddy has all the ingredients for the perfect surprise party for his beloved Penny, but when she comes home early and realises they are not alone, he must hatch a bold new plan to pull off the surprise. What can go wrong?
Duration: 7.01mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Elea Gilmore
She Kinda Liked the Beach Two distant sisters reunite to scatter their mother’s ashes, but can’t agree on what goodbye should look like. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 7.13mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Kaleb McKenna
Extraordinary Rob Rob can do the impossible, but only when no one is watching. After a lifetime of invisibility, one anonymous act forces him to decide whether being unseen is a curse or a choice. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 6.31mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Adam Szudrich
Set Menu Denied the coveted set menu for dining alone at a famously exclusive restaurant, Frances strikes an unexpected deal with a stranger to access both the menu and a night of peace and solitude.
Duration: 12.48mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Lindsay McDonald
Take Granny Out Lawn Bowls becomes the setting of psychological warfare between two young bucks and their deceptive female antagonists.
Duration: 19.01mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Jim Capewell
Million Dollar Joey A mobless joey is convinced that in order to become a ‘fair dinkum roo’, she must first pass the ultimate test – getting hit by a car.
Duration: 8.32mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Angus Malone
Solid Gold
Saturday 19 September 2026
7pm to 8.30pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Stories from Australian filmmakers that have a Heart of Gold.
Tuesday Tuesday A young support worker spends one final shift with her longtime client living with younger-onset dementia and must face the complicated feelings that come with letting go. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 14.59mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Lianne Mackessy
KOKKINO El introduces her boyfriend to her extended family for the first time on Greek Easter.
Duration: 10.49mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Eleni Atzemis
The Great Divide The Great Divide follows Anna, a 12-year old girl on the cusp of starting high school trying to find her way in the world and her mother, Liz, who is terrified of what will happen if she lets her go. The Great Divide is a lyrical coming-of-age film that explores the emotional distance, yearning for independence and inexorable push-and-pull between parents and children. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 15.46mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Nadia Townsend
Goodbye, Fishies Haunted by the regret of missing her grandmother’s last moments, Lookpla — a young Thai mother — longs for one final goodbye before those memories slip away. Developed from the director’s and actors’ personal recollections.
Duration: 11.22mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Jonathan Zhang
The Australian Dream: From Those Who Crossed Oceans Ten voices. Ten lives shaped elsewhere. One conversation about the Australia they found – and the one they are helping to remake. From Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Chile, Nepal, France and beyond, migrants and refugees speak directly to the camera, unfiltered and on their own terms.
Duration: 24.18mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Emma Clara Bellamy-Dodd
Late Night Gold
Saturday 19 September 2026
9pm to 10.30pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Stories from Australian filmmakers that aren’t for the kids, though still have a Heart of Gold.
Real King Sh!t Step into Magandjin’s (Brisbane) Drag King scene and meet the people, personalities, and packers driving the explosive growth in kinging here in Queensland. From the award-winning team behind "Welcome to Queens' Land", Real King Sh!t offers an intimate look at Lord Sev, Zelphia Mann, and Stephan Lee Knott as they discuss drag, gender, and the first 'Key to the Kingdom' competition at Come to Daddy. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 15.00mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Hugh Whitehouse
The Ale Heartbroken and nursing a pint in a Melbourne bar, Sam just wants to be left alone. Then his three mates show up and throw the place into chaos. It’s a mess… and exactly what he needs. A surrealist outing, inspired by the absurdity of Monty Python and the emotional honesty of beer with your mates.
Duration: 2.00mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Adrian Eppel
Misery and Other Choices The world sizzles with climate change. A politician lets it burn. A young couple finds out they’re pregnant. What should they do if they find that politician alone and barely breathing? ‘Misery and Other Choices’ is a darkly comic drama short that asks what will you do when the world’s on fire?
Duration: 9.55mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Samuel Lucas Allen
Baby Talk Leo and Amy drive the final leg of a road trip home. The best friends have stolen a precious day to find a wedding dress to fit Leo’s pregnant belly, as the wedding to the father of the unborn child looms. From a distance it’s platonic; but up close, electricity buzzes between them. Trapped in an era when it’s impossible to be themselves, the spectre of a husband-to-be haunts their get away — because when they return home, they’ll return to the closet. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 12.12mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Lizzie Cater
The Agreement Meg lives alone with her beloved cat Nigel. Her evening is turning out as planned – dinner, a glass of wine, and some trashy true crime TV before bed – until two unexpected intruders turn her peaceful evening into every woman’s worst nightmare. The encounter spirals into a darkly comedic commentary on the frustrations experienced by renters amidst Australia’s ongoing housing crisis. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 6.25mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Jemma Cotter
True North As Ally and Ref connect over a date, an unexpected call forces them to expose more about their lives than they ever intended.
Duration: 15.25mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Nicholas William Ryan
Kung Fu Western: Journey to the West In the midst of the Australian gold rush, a parched Chinese Traveller enters an isolated bar but is refused service by a familiar face that sets him on a path of vengeance.
Duration: 8.32mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Kailani D'Amour, Tin Huyen Pham
R.I.P. People Pleaser A quirky people pleaser bottles up her honest inner voice on a day from hell. What explosively absurd conclusion occurs after she repeatedly fails to declare what her inner gremlin truly desires?
Duration: 14.58mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Madeleine Wighton
Kool 4 Kids
Sunday 20 September 2026
9am to 10am
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
All tickets are $10 for this session curated just for the kids (and kids at heart)!
DECAYING Puppets stitch together a plan to survive the zombie apocalypse in this handmade horror created by 35 neurodiverse young filmmakers. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 5.16mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Drew Heriot
The Connection Of Ants A heartwarming and educational documentary short following the importance of ants through three chapters.
Duration: 4.59mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Billy Ferguson
Loud & Proud A young volleyball player tells her story of how it’s not the tough conditions that make volleyball hard… “It's her mom”, embarrassed by her overbearing mother putting strain on their relationship and her relationship with volleyball.
Duration: 2.20mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Eliana Anselmo
Beetle Summer A young girl, Rika, who lives in the countryside of Japan, is raising a rhino beetle for beetle fights in order to gain friends. But before then, she needs to train and nurture it. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 3.22mins
Country of Origin: United States
Director: Jian Yuan, Anyue Chen
Opportunity When Marlo forgets to buy his Nana a housewarming gift, a visit to the local op shop offers a last-minute solution.
Duration: 3.55mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Ivy Tucker
Hugo When a young girl struggles with the death of her dog, her younger sister builds a "time machine" to help her say goodbye. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 5.06mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Shane Keeffe
Corals On Your Doorstep Dive into the coral wonderland of Hervey Bay’s 6,500 year old reefs, which stretch along the foreshore. Follow the inspirational story of Jasper, a passionate young citizen whose connection with the coral reefs extends much deeper and strengthens his bond with his late father.
Duration: 8.42mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Breannah Mitchell
Grow Up When 12-year-old Kai is forced to recognise that his older brother has outgrown their childhood fantasy games, he decides it’s time to grow up - but is he ready? AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 8.21mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Dari Justin
Bear in Mind Sometimes, the bravest thing isn't venturing outside the cave - it’s letting someone else in. Beau has always had trouble socialising at work and loves his cosy personal space, but when an act of kindness brings someone close, will he be able to make the brave decision to open up?
Duration: 4.20mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Peta Kishawi
Chasing The Sun When DJ, a young man with Down syndrome, travels solo through regional WA in search for the best udon shop, he doesn’t just find noodles — he finds connection. A gentle, cross-cultural story about friendship, identity, and the quiet joy of making food together. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 12.43mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Tak Nakano
More Solid Gold
Sunday 20 September 2026
10.30am to 12pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
More stories from Australian filmmakers with a Heart of Gold.
First Drop Set in Alice Springs, Ted, a reclusive and bitter retiree is tasked with minding his neighbour’s 8-year-old daughter, Saleha. After attempts to limit his engagement with Saleha, Ted’s defences are broken down as he realises the two share a mutual love of cricket. Thus begins the blossoming of an unlikely friendship.
Duration: 14.11mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Damon van der Schuit
Interview With A Hero A Cambodian-Australian shadow puppeteer is given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform on national television, but is interrupted by memories of his past in the Khmer Rouge. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 15.17mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Andy 'Celeste' Diep
Big Johnny After an unexpected encounter with Melbourne’s vibrant drag scene, a lonely warehouse worker must find the courage to embrace his true self when traditional male expectations threaten to hold him back. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 13.33mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Jeanie Kane
Lotus A breast cancer survivor is being manipulated by male doctors into undergoing breast implant surgery. Confused by these manipulations, she decides to have breast surgery. In the waiting room of the plastic surgeon's office, she visits with her husband, and the universe will send her a message. Lotus tells about a woman's "My Body, My Choice.
Duration: 11.24mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Nurgul Odabas Nash
Brewing Blind After countless rejections from breweries, a passionate legally blind beer brewer created his own brewery brand and business, defying other's expectations of what they think someone with a disability can achieve. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 12.38mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Matt Williams
Anna & Alfonso Anna & Alfonso is a heartfelt documentary short about a young woman who leaves her small hometown of Newcastle to begin a new life in New York City. Amid the excitement of this new chapter, she starts to feel homesick until she meets Alfonso, a spirited dachshund who becomes her loyal companion. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 10.01mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Anna Lesley Outridge
Quirky, Weird & Wonderful
Sunday 20 September 2026
12.30pm to 2pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
Out of the box and unique stories with a Heart of Gold from Australian filmmakers.
Fracture When a man faking a leg injury meets a woman pretending to be pregnant, they strike an unusual connection based on shared dysfunction and a reluctance to face their past.
Duration: 17.00mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Robin Kalus
VITAE A middle-aged man is interviewed by the CEO of a leading tech company for a junior position, but as the conversation unfolds, a deeper motive emerges. The routine interview spirals into a tense reckoning when the applicant begins asking questions his interviewer isn’t prepared to answer.
Duration: 7.00mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Kyle Keuris
Hatch Day Hatch Day follows Bill (played by Blade Gleeson) as he faces an unexpected discovery that reshapes the way he sees the world, where hope and reality begin to blur.
Duration: 9.00mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Rhylie Pereira
It's All About Alice Trapped in the seemingly perfect world of a sitcom, Alice begins to question her reality – forcing her to escape or risk losing herself to a comfortable yet hopeless fantasy.
Duration: 6.42mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Nik Long
Rising Tide Unique teen Theodore Plum sets out on an adventure, seeking refuge from his house and searching for meaning. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 4.53mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Magenta Lily Stafford
ADRIFT After the death of his wife, a veteran astronaut accepts a high-risk solo mission to save humanity's future - only to realize the true cost may be losing his son forever. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 12.41mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Nathan Burnby
Ocker Couture A Fashion Designer and his Photographer embark on a trek into the vast Australian Outback to shoot their latest high-brow clothing campaign.
Duration: 11.34mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: William Genat, Dante Griffith
Made By Us An Australian artist living in France clashes with her model while working on her latest portrait.
Duration: 9.53mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Hannah Dougherty
Screeners Picks
Sunday 20 September 2026
2.30pm to 4pm
Gympie Senior Citizens Centre, Monkland Street Gympie Qld 4570
The favourites from our Community Screeners. Over 40 volunteers watch and rate every film submitted to our Festival which informs our annual film program. This is a unique process that no other festival undertakes however it ensures that our films resonate with you, the audience.
DECAYING: Behind the Seams 35 neurodiverse kids. 23 Saturdays. 10 zombies. 1 short film. Drag your rotting corpse behind the seams of this handmade horror and discover a love letter to creativity, neurodiversity, and organized chaos. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 21.47mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Drew Heriot
The Funeral Rehearsal When Herman’s granddaughter forces him to rehearse his funeral, the man who’s been dodging death has no choice but to confront it — in front of the whole family. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 20.00mins
Country of Origin: Netherlands
Director: Ronald Zuidinga
Constructing Change Constructing Change is a powerful short documentary spotlighting women and gender-diverse individuals breaking barriers in the world of construction. As they learn hands-on skills and reshape their futures, their personal journeys reveal grit, resilience, and a bold defiance of outdated gender norms. Inspiring and eye-opening, the film challenges the status quo—one hammer swing at a time.
Duration: 5.56mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Alex Riches
Hope A newly married couple's dream of starting a family is tested by heartbreak and fertility struggles, challenging their resilience and hope as they navigate their journey together. AWARD SHORTLIST
Duration: 8.53mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Cameron Zayec
Joe's Finale A dying pianist struggles to play just one more piece. A visit from an unorthodox Grim Reaper brings him a glimmer of hope.
Duration: 14.00mins
Country of Origin: Ireland
Director: Michael Creagh
Nothing And The Sun Eleven-year-old Mallee has recently lost his mum, now struggling to navigate a world broken open. Across a day spent with his friend, Alby, and Alby’s Mum, Julia, he searches to find a reflection of his experience, attempting to understand his new reality and reconcile his grief.
Duration: 10.47mins
Country of Origin: Australia
Director: Layla Philippou, Ruby Reardon