Aspiring local filmmakers set to shine with return of Cut Short Film Competition

MEDIA RELEASE - Aspiring local filmmakers set to shine with return of ‘Cut Short’ Film Competition

Lights, camera, action! The Cut Short Film Competition is set to return for 2024, with budding local filmmakers encouraged to explore the unique experiences of people, places and cultures with a special link to the Sutherland Shire through the art of cinema.

Proudly presented by Sutherland Shire Council, Cut Short 2024 offers a stage for emerging talent and established filmmakers from Sydney and beyond to share their diverse stories through film.

With entries set to open from Monday 19 August, Cut Short 2024 encourages filmmakers of all ages and experience levels to tell their unique stories, filmed within Sutherland Shire on Dharawal Country – from the pristine beaches of Cronulla to the dramatic cliffs of Cape Solander to culturally significant places rich in history.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce welcomed the return of the competition and the opportunity to celebrate the creativity that exists within the Sutherland Shire.

“This is an exciting opportunity for storytellers of all ages and experience levels to showcase their creativity and have their work celebrated by our community,” Mayor Pesce said.

“Our shared spaces—beautiful beaches, parks, and nature reserves—are more than just scenic backdrops; they reflect the diversity and unity of our community.

“In recent years we’ve attracted top Hollywood talent who were keen to showcase the beautiful natural surrounds of the Sutherland Shire in their films, with blockbuster productions like ‘Furiousa: A Mad Max Saga’ and ‘The Fall Guy’ having been filmed here.

“But now it’s the turn of our local filmmaking talent to show off their skills, and capture the best parts of the Sutherland Shire while crafting some amazing films.

“Through film, we connect with each other and embrace our differences. We can't wait to see the unique perspectives and powerful stories you'll bring to the screen.

“Whether you’re a documentary filmmaker or create more conceptual films, filmmakers from all genres and backgrounds are welcome to tell their stories.”

Competition entries can be submitted between Monday 19 August and Friday 1 November 2024. With a festive film screening and awards night in late November to celebrate the entries and award the winning films.

Categories include Adult Major Prize ($2000), Junior Major Prize ($2000), Adult Local Resident ($1000), and Junior Local Resident ($1,000).

For more information on the competition terms and conditions, visit: sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au/CutShort2024