A Nambour-produced short film has taken out Best Australian Short Film at the Gold Coast Film Festival, a major win for a grassroots production created entirely without a budget.
Extraordinary Rob, an action-drama about a man who can do impossible things but only when no one is watching, was filmed over two intense days during a Queensland heatwave, with cast and crew donating their time and expertise.
Directed and co-written by Adam Szudrich, the film features Netflix actor Damien Garvey and Leigh Parker of Supernatural, alongside a creative team including Powderfinger’s Jon Coghill as co-writer and producer and Bluey composer Daniel O’Brien on the score.
Szudrich said the project reflected both the resilience and growing capability of the Sunshine Coast screen sector, supported by the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective and local backing from Sunshine Coast Council.
Mr Szudrich said the film reflects the growing momentum of the local screen sector which is led by the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective.
“The project highlights the organisation’s role in funding projects, connecting filmmakers, and helping build the foundations of a sustainable local industry,” he said.
“I’m incredibly grateful to the talented artists who gave their time, energy and skill – a testament to the depth of creative talent here on the Sunshine Coast,” Szudrich said.
He said the win highlights the strength of independent filmmaking in Australia, proving compelling stories can achieve national recognition even without financial support.
