Film festival stands against violence

By MELISSA CUNNINGHAM, The Courier, 21st July, 2015

A SHORT film festival will shine a spotlight on family violence in Ballarat.

The Zoom Short Film Festival was officially launched on Monday and is seeking input from the city's next generation of budding film directors.

Open to primary and secondary students the festival asks entrants to explore the theme of respectful relationships.

Movie buffs are encouraged to convey a respectful relationship they have with their family, friends or person they admire in the community.

There is also an open category for adults to enter films and all proceeds raised will go directly to assist WRISC Family Violence support service.

The idea is the coinage of  WRISC board member Jodie Kennedy who said she was inspired to replicate renowned world film festival Tropfest in Ballarat.

WRISC Executive Officer Libby Jewson said it was about educating younger generations that respectful relationships are one of the key preventives of family violence.

"Respectful relationships are something that help to influence positive community attitudes towards how people work and relate to each other," Ms Jewson said. "There is no room for any sort of violence whether it be financial, emotional or physical."

Ms Jewson said she hoped the film festival would also hone in on other types of abuse, including bullying in workplaces and schools.
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Films must be between three and five minutes in length.

Cost to enter is $10 for the primary and secondary schools category and $20 for the open category.

All entries must be either filmed on a phone or tablet.

The competition closes on September 11.

The premiere of the finalist films will be held at the Regent Cinema, 49 Lydiard St North Ballarat on October 7.

For details or to enter visit www.facebook.com/zoomshortfilmfestival

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