Festival president Anna Smith said they had already had some entries which were quite good.
“But we are hoping for lots of local entries,” Ms Smith said.
“Our local encouragement award is open to any film maker within 100km of Benalla.”
Ms Smith said the award was a great stepping stone to taking out the top prize.
“Benalla film maker Charles Williams won the local encouragement award in 2020.
“And he entered again in 2021 and won Best Film for The Devil and I.
“Last year’s local encouragement award was won by Cobram film maker Lachie Allemand for The Sisterhood of Mika and Sophie.
“We hope he enters again this year, as we get a lot of repeat film makers.”
However, having entered before was not a requirement and Ms Smith was looking forward to seeing debut films by new directors.
“People can make a film on an iPhone nowadays,’’ she said.
“All you need is a really good story, and the shorter the better.
“We have a few categories including best film, best student film, the local encouragement award, best documentary, the peoples’ choice award — voted on by the people who come to see the films, and best performance.
“We have also added a new category this year, Best International Film.”
Ms Smith said she was hoping all three judges from last year return.
Those being Krista Vendy (Neighbours), John Orcsik (Cop Shop) and Tony Bonner (Skippy the Bush Kangaroo).
“I have heard from John and Tony and they have confirmed,” she said.
“And I am waiting to find out if Krista is able to return.”
The committee was hoping to host the festival at the Benalla Performing Arts and Convention Centre on Sunday, November 6, from 3pm to coincide with the Benalla Festival.
“That is the idea, which may change as plans are finalised,” Ms Smith said.
The organising committee was also on the lookout for businesses to come on board as sponsors of either the whole festival, or of individual categories.
If you would like to inquire about sponsoring contact Ms Smith via benallashorts@outlook.com
If you would like to find out more visit benallashorts.com
If you would like to enter a film you could do that via filmfreeway.com
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