Presented by headline sponsor Eastlink, Stellar Short Film Festival returns to the breathtaking setting of McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery on March 2nd for its much-anticipated fifth-anniversary celebration. This boutique event promises a night under the stars, blending culinary delights, local beverages, art, sculptures, entertainment, and a stellar lineup of award-winning Australian short films.

What sets the Stellar Short Film Festival apart is its exclusive, invitation-only experience, curating the crème de la crème of Australian short films. These cinematic gems vie for recognition from esteemed judges, including industry luminaries John Sheedy, Lucy Gaffy, Stef Smith, and Jackson Tozer alongside long-time supporters and ambassadors Michael Caton and MC Scott Major.

For filmmakers and film lovers, this is a festival to remember and one you’ll want to experience for yourself. With Stellar 12 filmmakers flying in from around the country, it’s a chance to see the best quality short films, to network and connect with the country’s most talented and successful filmmakers and esteemed industry judges and a chance to be celebrated. To be selected in the Stellar 12 is to be among the top 12 filmmakers in the country, to become the star of the show, to bask in the limelight, surrounded by fellow filmmakers, film lovers, watching your film on the big screen enjoying the enchanting ambiance of Stellar Short Film Festival.

VIP ticket holders are in for a treat, enjoying an all-inclusive package featuring a cocktail-style dinner by Harry’s Cafe, delightful treats, artisan gourmet popcorn by Popkins, and a selection of quality local beverages from Merricks Wine Store, Kaiju Beer, Mock Red Hill Cider, That Spirited Lot Gin, Chief’s Son Whisky, Three Bays Mineral Water, and ETCH Sparkling. The evening’s atmosphere is complemented by the smooth tunes of Sam O’Connell, providing the perfect backdrop for connections, mingling with Stellar 12 filmmakers, actors, and judges, along with reserved seating, a Stellar VIP Swag Bag, and an exclusive invitation to the Stellar after-party.

For those seeking a laid-back experience, General Admission guests can bring their picnic rugs, beanbags, or low-backed chairs to unwind in the natural amphitheater. The festival grounds offer an exploration of magnificent sculptures, lawn games, and the tunes of DJ Blind Benny before the screenings.

Stellar Short Film Festival is a premium boutique event with capped numbers, ensuring a relaxed and magical evening under the stars amidst gum trees and magnificent sculptures at McClelland. Premium local beverage sponsors offer a range of drinks, while food trucks like Island Home, Bigger than Texas, Greek Masa, and The Flying Calamari Brothers provide delicious treats. For dessert, Johnny Ripe, Paletto, and Eat Sweet have attendees covered.

Whether it’s a romantic date night, a gathering with work buddies, or a long-overdue catch-up, Stellar Short Film Festival promises the perfect event for all. Immerse yourself in 12 creative masterpieces that promise to take you on a rollercoaster of emotions, from tears to laughter, joy to horror, and everything in between. Engage, discuss, and don’t forget to cast your vote for your favorite for the VA Digital Audience Choice Award!

Stay tuned for more announcements on Stellar’s Facebook and Instagram, including best performance nominations sponsored by Frankston Arts Centre.

Let the magic of cinema spark conversations that linger. Purchase your tickets now for an unforgettable night under the stars and make memories to last a lifetime!

Stellar 12 films:

Ashes 
Directed by Georgina Haig

Cold Water
Directed by Jay Perry & Shaun Perry

Eden Alone Surpasses Thee
Directed by Tom Chapman

Hafekasi
Directed by Annalise Hickey

Inspire Me
Directed by Sophie Saville

Jia
Directed by Lee Shi

Mud Crab
Directed by David Robinson-Smith

Myth
Directed by Alies Sluiter

Raising Thunder
Directed by Caleb McKenna
Read our interview with Raising Thunder actor Chloe Brink

Strange Beasts
Directed by Darcy Prendergast

Sushi Noh
Directed by Jayden Rathsam Hua

Teach Me How To Cry
Directed by Finegan Sampson

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, March 2
Gates Open: 5 pm
Venue: McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery, 390 McClelland Drive, Langwarrin
Proudly presented by Eastlink and Frankston City Council.

Tickets available at www.stellarshortfilmfestival.com.au.