Because we need to foster a sense of film community (not just competition).

Because we need to foster a sense of film culture (not just industry).

Because we need to encourage open, honest, passionate critical debate and discussion about our film culture, not private ‘bitching’ and frustration behind closed doors.

Because festival programming isn’t just about filling up slots, red carpets or ‘world domination’.

Because Australian filmmakers make great short films.

Because most of the films made in Australia are short films.

Because Australian audiences know Australian filmmakers make hundreds of great short films each year and have no problems watching them.

Because we need to acknowledge the role that short film, film history, micro-cinema, DIY filmmaking, archiving, artists, graphic designers, photographers, musicians, actors, theatre makers, digital filmmaking, dancers, composers, designers, pop culture, fashion and THE ARTS play in filmmaking - and how they all feed each other.

Because DIY digital filmmaking is transforming traditional means of film production, distribution and distribution.

Because there is a new cinema movement evolving right under our noses, one that can’t be ignored (see above).

Because there are lots of people from all over with great things to say about making films in a variety of ways that don’t often get listened to or taken seriously.

Because the ‘death of copyright’ doesn’t mean you can’t make money or make a living.

Because it’s great to be part of a community who love something and want to contribute to it and be a part of its evolution.

Because film festivals can be memorable and give people something to take away with them - not just take their money.

Because when they’re good they’re very very good…

Because… CarriageWorks. It’s such a special place, one that has a real sense of history and what has come before; a ripe sense of preservation and what’s important now, and an endless, inspiring sense of possibility. Wait till you see it (it’s magical).