The Creative Wollongong Short Film Festival at University of Wollongong’s University Hall attracted 900 people on Friday – a record turnout for an event that also drew a record 35 entries across three categories.
Bogan Bird, co-directed, written and produced by Holly Trenaman and Tyrone McCrystal, placed second in the open category.
Mr McCrystal said the decision to work independently came down to practicality – half of Bogan Bird was animated, a skill set largely absent from the region’s production companies.
“I didn’t really want anyone over my back telling me what to do,” Mr McCrystal said.
“We had the crew and the capability.”
The idea for the film came from watching a bird limp around a Wollongong balcony, picking up cigarette butts.
Trenaman, who now lives in London but flew home to film, said the Illawarra still felt like home.
“Oh my gosh, we are so lucky to live in Wollongong,” Ms Trenaman said.
Screen Illawarra Chair Nick Bolton said the turnout reflected a community that had found its confidence.
“The ship has left the dock,” Mr Bolton said.
“More and more people are jumping on board.”
Image Source: IMDb
