BEST AUSTRALIAN SHORT FILM

If This Conversation Isn’t Over Yet — Rosey Feng

A daughter navigating mental illness and her overbearing Asian immigrant mother try to reconcile the cultural conflict of their relationship through an unconventional family therapy session.

BEST AUSTRALIAN DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM

GOLPES — Kevin Duran Du

An ethereal visual journey through the childhood, achievements, and losses of Ulpiano Duran, a retired musician and music producer.

GARY KEISOGLU AWARD
Fading Colours — Bronte Rose Page

A poignant drama exploring the grief experienced by those transitioning from “significant other” to “primary caregiver” when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia. Based on a true story, Fading Colours captures the emotional journey of Lillian after her husband, George, mistakes her for his own mother.  It explores the resilience of love amidst adversity, and reminds us that joy and connection can be found in the simplest of moments.

BEST INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM

There Once Was – There Is No More – There Is — Karina Paciorkowska & Łukasz Kamil Kamiński

The film deals with the topic of experiencing difficult emotions related to the loss of loved ones and coping with it. Together with the 12-year-old heroine Krysia, we go on a journey through places and times that were, which are not, and which we want to remember. The film, based on a story by Katarzyna Jackowska-Enemuo, supports young viewers in meeting their own emotional “black holes” and brings relief. The film is intended for children aged 10–12, but its profound meaning and contexts allow people over 12 years old to experience a journey within themselves and history.

BEST INTERNATIONAL DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM

Adas Falasteen — Samar Taher Lulu & Hamdi Khalil Elhusseini

"Palestine Lentils” is a documentary film that tells the story of a Palestinian chef and his role in using his hobby as a shield against the famine caused by the war on Gaza, preserving the spirit of resilience and hope within his community.