Our unique selection process involves submitted films being viewed by multiple community screener groups across Queensland, whose feedback informs selection for the Festival program. This inclusive process catches niche gems and represents a broader spectrum of film taste.

‘Heart of Gold is a rare festival, in that its remit is focused but also their quality of content that they screen is stellar.’ (Festival Formula)

Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival strongly encourages submissions from filmmakers who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, female, LGBTQIA+, living with a disability, regionally based and culturally and linguistically diverse.

Awards & Prizes

Films selected for the 2025 program are eligible for a number of awards, which this year includes:
Best Short Film sponsored by Noosa Film Society $2,000
Best Australian Film sponsored by Noosa Film Society $1,000
Best Documentary Film sponsored by Bamboo Textiles $1,000
Best Female Director sponsored by Screaming Birds $1,000
Best First Nations Film Director $1,000
Emerging Director Award (not having been a finalist or winner in any other film competition) sponsored by Tom Grady Real Estate and Rural Merchandise $1,000
Audience Choice Award $500

In addition, we also award prizes to the best young filmmakers from Secondary Schools, with the following categories on offer with no entry fee:
Best National Student Film sponsored by Maxwell Walker $500
Best Local Student Film (Gympie Regional Council local government area) sponsored by Maxwell Walker $500

Join us on Saturday 11 October 2025 at 4.30pm as we celebrate the art of filmmaking, the cornerstone of our four day festival of art and creativity.