Tropfest 2013

 


What is it?
The Tropfest is the world's largest short film festival and has become known as one of Australia's most iconic cultural events.
It will take place at Sydney's Domain in the Royal Botanic Gardens and they expect about 150,000 people to attend.
There will be also live satellites which are linked to outdoor locations in major cities such as Melbourne, Canberra, Perth, Brisbane, Hobart, Adelaide and Surfers Paradise.
Anyone can enter into this competition.
16 Finalists are finally chosen form over 700 annual entries. They compete for more than $100,000 prize money.
The entrants take the competition very seriously as it offers the winner the chance to start a successful career in film or television.
All films are unique and they must include the Tropfest signature item which this year is a "Balloon".
The winner will be selected live on this night by several high profile industry and celebrity judges.


History:
The festival's name descends from the first year 's location, the Tropicana Cafe in Darlinghurst, a suburb of Sydney.
In 1993 John Polson, a well-known Australian-born filmmaker, started the "Tropicana Short Film Festival" as an informal short film screening for cast, crew and friends.
More than 200 people were interested and joined  this first screening.
John was so inspired by the outcome of the festival, that he decided to expand the short film festival.
Finally a fully-fledged short film festival was the next step.



When is it?
It's on Sunday, 17th February, 2013.
The official festival program will start at 7:30pm.


What to expect?
Tropfest is free to attend.
It's an outdoor celebration which includes live music and entertainment, public catering and bars, red carpet arrivals and of course the exciting film screenings followed by an awards ceremony.
As it's an Australian "highlight" event, there will be lots of people.
So get there early to reserve a space.
Hint: take a picnic and rug, and maybe an umbrella.



 


Past winners:
2012: Lemonade Stand by Alethea Jones
          Watch here

2011: Animal Beatbox by Damon Gameau
          Watch here

2010: Shock by Abe Forsythe
          Watch here

2009: Be My Brother by Genevieve Clay
          Watch here