First announced in the September edition of The Valley Voice, this eagerly awaited competition invites filmmakers to explore any genre—comedy, drama, horror, news, bio pic or something entirely unique. With Show Day fast approaching, it’s time to really start thinking about your story and submission.
In today’s smartphone era, we’re all creators and consumers of short-form content. Valley Shorts builds on this skill, encouraging participants to transform simple ideas into something extraordinary. You don’t need fancy equipment—just a great concept and the desire to give it a crack.
The competition highlights the Valley’s thriving creative community, and has gained the support of Shark Island Kangaroo Valley, producers of the currently screening and acclaimed documentary film The Pool. Locals may also remember Shark Island’s team filming around town last year for their upcoming project, The Valley, now in post-production.
“The medium of film and the power of storytelling can change lives and minds, and the smallest stories can have universal meaning,” says Sarah Butler , Executive Director of Shark Island Kangaroo Valley. “We can’t wait to see what the aspiring filmmakers of Kangaroo Valley produce.”
Joining the judging panel are Tony Williams of Four Donkey Films, known for his internationally acclaimed work, and Howard Sacre, long-time journalist and former foreign editor for Nine Network’s 60 Minutes . “This competition is all about telling a complete story,” says Sacre. “From a strong beginning to an impactful end, Valley Shorts will showcase not only creativity but also the Valley’s hidden talents in this new area.”
Open to filmmakers of all ages and abilities, entries can range from solo efforts to collaborative projects. “One way to take part is to form a group—perhaps a circle of school friends where one person develops the idea, another writes, and someone else films and edits,” adds Sacre. “It could also be a family project, a school assignment, or a solo endeavour.”
There’s no limit to originality—your film could be a drama, a biography, a documentary, or even animation. However, there is one requirement: each entry must include a visual image of a heart in some form.
With the festive season and summer holidays only weeks away, what better way to spend time together than by creating a collaborative entry for our February Show.
Depending on the number of submissions, films will be screened at our open air cinema on Friday, February 14, at 8:30 PM, with additional screenings continuing on Saturday, February 15 .
Prizes include:
– $400 – Best Film
– $150 – Young Filmmaker Award (age 16–25)
– $100 – Junior Filmmaker Award (under 16)
– $100 – Family Filmmaker Award
– $100 – Best Lead Character/Actor
– $75 – Best Use of a Heart
– $75 – Best Inclusion of a Kangaroo Valley Landmark
Valley Shorts is your chance to share your story, showcase your talent, and celebrate the creative spirit of Kangaroo Valley. Get ready to capture hearts—and maybe even a prize!
If you would like a guide on shooting and editing on smartphones and also some idea starters for family themes, send an email to comms@kangaroovalleyshow.org.au
Julie Ward
