It’s the world’s largest short film festival and it’s taking Sydney by storm this weekend on Saturday February 9. 

Free to attend and with an amazing line-up of 7-minute short films it’s a night out that’s sure to make you feel sophisticated and help you have fun. 

Not to mention it’ll be full of notable judges and even some celeb faces. 

Eric Bana (he starred alongside Rachel McAdams in The Time Traveller’s Wife) was announced as one of the judges last week. 

And now Tropfest Australia, supported by foundation partner CGU Insurance, has announced the names who will be joining him: 

  • Australian actress Marta Dusseldorp (A Place to Call Home)
  • AACTA-nominated Indigenous actor Aaron Pedersen (Mystery Road)
  • Screen star Jessica McNamee (Packed to the Rafters)
  • Award-winning filmmaker David Michôd (Animal Kingdom)
  • Australian producer Michele Bennett (Chopper)

Out of 16 finalists the judges will have to choose just ONE winner. 

 

But it’s not all competitions and judging- there’s panels, installations and attractions to suit all of your moods and interests. 

Are you a film buff? Or a passionate newbie? 

Kick off festivities with Tropfair presented by Western Sydney University (1-3pm), at Western Sydney University’s Parramatta City Campus. Tropfair is basically a mini filmmaking convention with a panel of industry pros to talk answer your burning questions. 

If you’re a techie make sure you check out the latest film tech from exhibitors including Animal Logic Academy, Jason Van Genderen (Tropfest NY 2008 winner) and Camera Hire. 

Feeling quirky? Need to top up your cuteness meter? Head over to watch the Trop Jr festival (from 4.45-6.45pm) which will premiere films from little creative geniuses aged 15 and under.  

Hosted by Kristy Best (Neighbours) and comedian Rob Shehadie you’ll be laughing your socks off while also wondering how a 10-year-old has more talent than your left thumb. 

If you want a break from film then why not plug into your musical side?

Llive performances from DJs, including Luke McAvenna (ex-Pnau) and Rob Somatik (a Falls Festival regular) and more will run throughout the afternoon to keep your spirits high. 

Into the evening there’ll even be fun games, a photo booth and free popcorn (first come, first served). 

Don’t tire yourself out too much though– you need to be ready and excited for the main event at 8pm. 

We repeat, THE MAIN EVENT STARTS AY 8PM. Don’t miss it.  

Join host Rob Shehadie for the rapid-fire showcase of 16 short films, spanning hilarious comedies, captivating true stories and heartfelt dramas.

Food trucks on site will be serving up all of your festival favourites (hello greasy takeaway burgers) and Nova’s chill-out zone (#shamelessplug) will help keep the good vibes strong. 

So bring your picnic rug, your mates and your own wine/beer/BBQ shapes and settle in for an epic day. 

EVENT INFO

Tropfair presented by Western Sydney University

When: Saturday 9 February, 1-3pm

Where: Level 9, Peter Shergold Building, Western Sydney University Parramatta City Campus, 169 Macquarie Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150

Price: $15 General Admission / $10 WSU Students. Tickets available here.

Trop Jr 2019

When: Saturday 9 February, 4.45-7pm

Where: The Crescent – Parramatta Park, Parramatta, NSW 2150

Price: FREE

Tropfest 2019

When: Saturday 9 February, 8 – 11pm

Where: The Crescent, Parramatta Park, Parramatta NSW 2150. 

Price: FREE! Tropfest is BYO and pet friendly.

Run Order:

  • 7.05pm: Craft Awards on stage at The Crescent
  • 7:15pm: DJ performances
  • 8pm: Tropfest finalist’s films screen
  • 9.30pm: Intermission
  • 10:45pm: Announcement of Tropfest winners + awards presentation

Plan your travel on the day with help from Transport NSW

Images: Supplied, Getty / Scott Barbour, Giphy / Giphy.