The Central Coast Film Festival has announced two major new awards for 2025, celebrating and investing in the next generation of homegrown talent.
Central Coast Filmmaker of the Year will be awarded $1,000 courtesy of Sara Lee and a Screenworks membership including a three-day pass to their acclaimed Regional to Global Screen Forum.
Young Central Coast Filmmaker of the Year will receive $1,000 and ongoing academic mentorship from the University of Newcastle.
Following on from its debut in 2024, the 2025 Central Coast Film Festival promises to be even bigger, offering more than $20,000 in prizes and sponsorships and supported by leading industry partners.
Launched at the iconic Cinema Paradiso Ettalong by founders Shane Emmett, Carley Edmonds and Timothy Wilde, the festival was born from a bold vision: to create a world-class, week-long film event that celebrates cinema in all forms, from sweeping feature films to daring experimental shorts.
The vision reflects the festival’s deeper mission to build a lasting, inclusive and creative screen culture on the Central Coast, and one that nurtures local voices while connecting them with national and international industry opportunities.
The inaugural event was a resounding success, drawing filmmakers and audiences from across the globe and thanks to the support of Galleria Ettalong, Ettalong Beach Tourist Resort, Palm Studios and Bar Toto, the 2024 festival exceeded expectations with sold-out screenings, international submissions, and vibrant industry connections in the heart of the Central Coast.
“For many years, it’s felt like a disadvantage to be a creative living on the Central Coast, outside of the city and its opportunities,” festival founder Shane Emmett said.
“So, it’s exciting that the Central Coast Film Festival can now provide these opportunities by working with organisations who really care about fostering new voices and regional screen talent.”
Entries for the 2025 Central Coast Film Festival close on September 1, with screenings to run from November 1–8 at Cinema Paradiso Ettalong.
Filmmakers, film lovers, sponsors and volunteers are all invited to be part of the growing movement.
Visit www.centralcoastfilmfestival.com to submit your film, get involved, or support the cultural future of the Central Coast.
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