SUNSHINE Coast documentary and factual filmmakers will have the opportunity to connect with some of the industry’s leading creators, commissioners and decision-makers when Regionality Sunshine Coast returns to Maroochydore on Friday, August 7.
Presented by the Australian International Documentary Conference (AIDC) and Screen Queensland, with support from Sunshine Coast Council and in association with Sunshine Coast Screen Collective, the one-day event will provide Queensland creators with insights into developing, financing and showcasing documentary and factual stories.
A highlight of the 2026 program will be an exclusive online session with Academy Award-winning filmmaker Chai Vasarhelyi, co-director of the acclaimed documentary Free Solo.
In Limitless Filmmaking with Chai Vasarhelyi, she will share insights into her creative process, the challenges of filming in extreme environments and the craft behind creating powerful global stories. Alongside collaborator Jimmy Chin, Vasarhelyi has produced acclaimed documentaries including Meru, The Rescue, Wild Life and Love+War.
The program will also explore the evolving documentary landscape, with sessions covering funding opportunities, series development, distribution and the art of creating compelling character-led stories.
Representatives from Screen Australia, Changer Studios and Regen Studios will examine emerging funding models, while leading documentary practitioners will share their experiences bringing real-life stories to audiences.
The event will also provide opportunities for filmmakers to connect directly with broadcasters, streamers and distributors through roundtables and one-on-one Doc Chat meetings. Screen Queensland Executive Director, Content Julie Eckersley said Regionality would connect Queensland practitioners with the ideas, people and opportunities shaping the documentary sector.
Regionality Sunshine Coast will be held at Maroochy RSL, with tickets available through AIDC.
