Emerging filmmakers from the Torres Strait are being encouraged to produce factual screen stories about their part of northern Australia.
Head of Screen Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit Danielle Ah Boo said three First Nations-led filmmaking teams would be supported to produce 3 to 5-minute microfilms showcasing the unique treasures of the Torres Strait Islands through its people and communities.
Ms Ah Boo said they would receive funding through a new iteration of the Authentic talent development program, delivered by Screenworks in partnership with the ABC and Torres Strait Islanders Media Association (TSIMA).
She said the selected teams would each receive $5000 towards their short-form productions as well as mentoring from established Far North Queensland creatives, Shontell Ketchell of Pandamonium Films (Taste of the Tropics: Troppo Kitchen, Sistas in Mining) and Ben Southwell (Walkabouts, Damari and Guyula, Bondi Rescue).
“Authentic ZK (Zenadth Kes is the traditional name for the Torres Strait Islands) is an important initiative providing a platform to uplift the voices of new screen talent with distinct Torres Strait Islander perspectives.
“Authentic NQ helped propel the careers of First Nations producers like Shontell Ketchell, who now returns as a mentor, and Screen Queensland is looking forward to seeing the unique and fascinating stories from the Torres Strait Islands that will now emerge through Authentic ZK.”
Screenworks CEO Lisa O’Meara said they were thrilled to be part of bringing Authentic ZK to the people of the Torres Strait and encouraged local filmmakers to tell their stories.
“Our first two Authentic seasons allowed us to discover early career filmmakers in North and Far North Queensland. Now, our third iteration will support creatives in the Torres Strait develop lifelong career enhancing skills, and we’re excited to uncover new stories and talent.”
Applications for Authentic ZK are open on the Screen Queensland website until Monday, September 22.
