FAQ's Purple background film camera film comp

When and where does the comp take place - key dates and deadlines for the 2024 comp

2024 Comp dates:

  • Film submissions open: Fri 9 Aug, 5pm Online
  • Film submissions close: Sunday 11 August, 11:59pm Online
  • Finals and Awards Night: Thu 29 Aug, 7pm Hoyts Warringah Mall

How do I enter and what is the cost?

  1. Read and note the Competition rules and guidelines 

  2. One team member to Register your team

  3. One team member to pay the Team entry fee of $50 + booking fee 

  4. Each team member to complete the Participant Consent and Indemnity form (parent/guardian to complete for anyone U18)

  5. Include the secret keyword, items and phrases that will be released on the Competition rules and guidelines page  page Fri 9 August, 5pm and start filming!

  6. Submit your film by  Sun 11 Aug, 11:59pm

What equipment do I need?

Camera, phone or tablet for filming. There’s the option of hiring equipment, but many teams have used their phones in the past.

Computer, phone or tablet for editing and transferring of film.

These are just the basics. Don’t forget actors, extras, props, transport and a winning attitude of course! 

How do I submit my film?

Before you film, make sure you have the correct settings on your camera or phone. Refer to the Filmmaking techniques page for more information and/or search online for tips. 

When you are ready to submit, send your film via a Dropbox, Google Drive, WeTransfer or a private YouTube or Vimeo link to youth@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au.  Please include the following information – Team name, Film name, main contact, phone number, email address, as well as which secret items and phrases you included. 

Competition rules and guidelines

Read the Competition rules and guidelines. It's important stuff

What is the secret keyword and items and phrases that must be included in the film?

Secret rules revealed on the Competition rules and guidelines page Fri 9 Aug, 5pm

Can I submit more than one film?

Yes. You are welcome to submit as many films as you’d like. 
Please note: each film requires a separate team entry fee. You will have to fill out all required forms as you would a new team.

Can I use music in my film?

Yes, however to do this, you must

  • Have permission from bands/individuals for the use of their material 
  • Own the copyright for the music if it is an original piece
  • Use a legitimate Copyright free source (this is NOT iTunes, Spotify etc. which place commercial, copyright tracks on the web – it is illegal to use these)
  • You can search for Royalty Free music on a number of websites

How are the finalist films selected and who watches them?

Each film is marked against a criteria that may include storytelling, acting, cinematography, editing, audio, originality, use of secret rules, set design/costumes/props, and general audience appeal. A team of judges made up of industry professionals, sponsors, Council staff and other identified stakeholders watch all submissions. 

Why do you ask for rights to distribute my film?

There are opportunities to be featured at future Film Festivals and Council Outdoor Cinemas, providing ongoing exposure for local young aspiring film makers and showcase young people on the Northern Beaches.

If I submit a film, should I attend the Finals and Awards night?

Definitely. With limited seats available for the final, it’s first in best dressed to bring your friends and family and see the finalists films screened at Hoyts, followed by the awards presentation.  With the top films being shown, it's an exciting event to be at

Do you give out any awards?

Yes! A prize pool of $3500 plus industry prizes is up for grabs at an awards ceremony after the finalist films are screened at Hoyts on Thu 29 Aug, 7pm