MEDIA RELEASE - The Reel Deal: Winners of the 2024 Cut Short Film Competition

The incredible storytelling talents of local filmmakers have been recognised with Sutherland Shire Council proudly announcing winners of the 2024 Cut Short Film Competition this evening at a special screening event in Cronulla.

This competition recognises the outstanding talent of individuals from not just across Sutherland Shire but nationally in their ability to capture a compelling narrative through the medium of film.

The awards night and film screening brought together a vibrant community of filmmakers, their family and friends, and film enthusiasts to celebrate the creative works inspired by the unique people, places, and cultures of Sutherland Shire.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Boyd, congratulated the winners and finalists on their remarkable contributions to this year’s competition, noting the diversity and quality of submissions.

“I would like to thank entrants for sharing their stories with us. The Cut Short Film Competition submissions demonstrate the depth of creative talent in our community and across the country,” Mayor Boyd said.

“These films don’t just tell stories – they reflect the unique experiences, landscapes, and perspectives that make the Sutherland Shire such a beautiful place to live.

“It’s inspiring to see such a high calibre of entries across both the adult and junior categories. I applaud everyone who participated and encourage them to continue pursuing their passion for storytelling through the medium of cinematography.

“Council is proud to host creative competitions which foster community pride and provide a platform for local artists to shine on a wider stage.”

The 2024 competition, now in its second iteration, attracted entries across multiple genres and backgrounds, displaying exceptional artistry from filmmakers of all ages.

Submissions were reviewed by a panel of creative experts, including Robert Sinnerbrink, Professor of Philosophy at Macquarie University specialising in the philosophy of film, Russell Kilbey a filmmaker and musician, and Hazelhurst Art Centre Director Sebastian Goldspink, a respected curator, to ensure a comprehensive assessment of each film’s artistic merit and technical execution.

This year’s Adult Major Prize was awarded to MYTH by Oliver Whitehouse, a film that captivated judges with its originality and technical excellence. In the Junior Category, Jasmine Guy took home the Major Prize for Teddy, a moving piece exploring imagination and resilience.

Local talent was also celebrated, with Matthew WF Wells (Liz) and Millicent Evie Malone (Seven Days) respectively earning the Local Artist prizes in the adult and junior categories. Special commendations were awarded to Andrew and Neve Mula (Missing) and Hayley Austin (The Evil Cupcake) for their exceptional contributions.

2024 Cut Short Film Competition Winners and Finalists

Adult Category:

  • Major Prize: MYTH – Oliver Whitehouse
  • Local Artist Prize: Liz – Matthew WF Wells
  • Honourable Mention: Missing – Andrew Mula, Neve Mula
  • Finalists:
    • The Blow In – Alex Parker
    • Hidden – Harrison Rogers, Jess Lawton
    • The Queens Bird – Damir Prizmic
    • Cronulla Before Construction – Jules Hatton-Ward
    • Fear of a Red House – Georgia Thurston
    • The Ride – Narelle Nash
    • Strong At Heart – Connor Wotherspoon
    • Organised Sound in a Linear Fashion – A Spinning Cupid’s Story – Zachary Owen Geer
    • Undiagnosed – Amelia Tranter

Junior Category:

  • Major Prize: Teddy – Jasmine Guy
  • Local Artist Prize: Seven Days – Millicent Evie Malone
  • Honourable Mentions:
    • The Evil Cupcake – Hayley Austin
    • My Dreams – Vincent Corkery
  • Finalists:
    • I am me, not OCD – Rosalee Buckley
    • Reimaginal – Kieran Cashin
    • The Lost Pages – Sally Cotton
    • The 0011 MagicBrush – Grace Frances Stojanovic
    • Find Yourself – Finn Andrew

For more information, visit www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au/CutShort2024