The 7NEWS Community Achievement Awards celebrates people who have contributed to their community, no matter how big or small.
In the case of Benalla Shorts’, there is no doubt its contribution to the local community is big, with the festival heading into its 12th annual event with hundreds of great films screened over the years.
The nomination has been accepted, in no small part thanks to referrals from Benalla Art Gallery director Eric Nash and State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland.
It has been nominated in the category of the ‘Beyond Bank Community Group Award’.
An awards spokesperson said the Benalla National and International Short Film Festival (commonly known as Benalla Shorts) was an annual regional Victorian arts event dedicated to showcasing short films from local, national, and international storytellers.
“It was founded in 2014 following a local filmmaking workshop organised by community members Anna Smith and Bernice Vance,” the spokesperson said.
“The festival was created to encourage budding local directors and storytellers.
“Over the past decade, it has expanded into a global competition receiving scores of entries across multiple genres.
“The event relies on local business sponsorship's, volunteers, and community partnerships.
“Over the years, prominent Australian TV and film figures such as Tom Long, John Orcsik, Tony Bonner, Bruce Hunt-Hughes, and Krista Vendy have served as guest judges.”
Entries for the 2026 Benalla Shorts closed at the end of June.
Judges Krista Vendy and Bruce Hunt-Hughes are in the process of selecting the films that will screen at this year’s festival, as well at the category winners.
The main festival event takes place at the Benalla Cinema on November 8 during the Benalla Festival.
Keep an eye out in the pages of the Benalla Ensign and at www.benallaensign.com.au for more.
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