CinefestOZ is expanding to launch a new film festival in Albany this year, after operating in the South West for the last 13 years.
CinefestOZ is expanding to launch a new film festival in Albany this year, after operating in the South West for the last 13 years.
CinefestOZ Albany will be held from April 29 to May 1 and will feature opening and closing night events, free community screenings, a short film set and the Cinesnaps school program.
Albany artist and curator Annette Davis will coordinate the Albany festival.
She said she was delighted CinefestOZ had recognised the potential for a new festival in the Great Southern.
“The Great Southern audience has been a hugely supportive home to many TV series and films over the past five years, including the 2019 CinefestOZ $100,000 Film Prize winner H is For Happiness, so having our own film festival here is thrilling,” Ms Davis said.
“We are excited about the opportunity CinefestOZ Albany will give local practitioners in the region through its industry elements and networking opportunities.
“This Great Southern festival will also act as a platform to attract producers and productions to experience the region alongside the festival and support Western Australian films.”
CinefestOZ has been working with the City of Albany for the last few years to ensure the festival is relevant to the local community.
Albany’s Town Hall will serve as the festival hub and other screenings and events will be held at Orana Cinemas, Film Harvest and Albany Entertainment Centre.
Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington said having CinefestOZ in Albany was something the community could be excited about.
“The magic of cinema is something we all love to experience so having that on a large scale in our own backyard will set Albany buzzing and bring a vibrant atmosphere to the community,” Mr Wellington said.
“Our partnership with CinefestOZ to bring such an exciting and dynamic event to Albany is something we are incredibly proud of and will benefit our residents and visitors over the event period.”
The South West iteration of the CinefestOZ will take place from August 25 to 29.
