Image: NQ Discovering New Online Voices judging panel and participants
Screen Queensland, in partnership with Screenworks and with the support of Screen Australia has announced the winning project to receive $10,000 in funding through their NQ Discovering New Online Voices initiative.
Launched in February, the two-stage program is designed to upskill North and Far North Queensland screen practitioners to develop short form online projects.
Finalists Garth Edwards, Jannah Dryden, Kate Boylan-Ascione, Michelle La and Shawn Drieberg received invaluable 1:1 mentoring with industry experts and pitch training with Abi Tabone of Compton School.
The development program culminated in an in-person pitching opportunity before a judging panel including Screen Australia's Margaret Ross and Screen Queensland's Jesse McCart and Danielle Ah Boo.
Michelle La's winning pitch, Chopsticks & Chippies, a heartwarming dramedy about friendship, cultural differences and romance, was announced at an industry networking event on Tuesday 23 July in Cairns and they will now progress their project with $10,000 in funding.
Margaret Ross, Screen Australia's Investment and Development Manager said it was a privilege to join the judging panel for the NQ Discovering New Online Voices pitching event on beautiful Gimuy Walubara Yidinji, and Yirrganydji country, Cairns.
"As judges we had our work cut out for us, with five unique and distinct pitches that showcased the talent and creativity in this region. After an extremely tough deliberation process the judges selected Michelle La's short form comedy, Chopsticks & Chippies.
"Michelle gave a really strong pitch, well prepared and funny, filled with nostalgia, showcasing personal and cultural resonance of her project. We can't wait to see Michelle take this story from Mareeba to the world!"
Jacqui Feeney, Screen Queensland CEO said that NQ Discovering New Online Voices is an important element of the North Queensland Regional Program, providing Queensland screen practitioners with transformative opportunities to develop their skills and connect with industry leaders.
"Screen Queensland's $4 million, multi-year North Queensland Regional program focuses on growing the creative community's capacity and capability through opportunities for practitioner skills development.
"We are excited by the potential of the genres, voices and formats emerging from North and Far North Queensland and we are committed to championing these online creators to reach global audiences."
