Lismore and Murwillumbah cinemas have been selected as two of five new destinations for Sydney Film Festival’s Travelling Film Festival, which brings Australian and international feature films, short films and documentaries from across the globe to audiences around Australia.

 

Minister for the Arts Don Harwin and Local Nationals Member of the Legislative Council and Parliamentary Secretary for the Arts Ben Franklin made the announcement for the region.

 

Mr Franklin said the film festival was a chance for the community to enjoy a great selection of cutting edge cinema that might otherwise not be screened in the Northern Rivers.  

 

“It is great news that the NSW Government with Sydney Film Festival will bring the Travelling Film Festival, Australia’s longest running film festival to our region.

 

“The Travelling Film Festival’s program will appeal to everyone including regular movie goers, cinema buffs, and anyone who is keen to enjoy movies from Australia and around the world.

 

“I’m proud of the way our region embraces arts and culture and I think it is a testament to the local community that Lismore and Murwillumbah have been selected to host the Travelling Film Festival.

 

“I would encourage everyone to go and see a film and support the arts industry – it’s also a great opportunity to use your Dine and Discover vouchers!”

 

Minster for the Arts, Don Harwin said the Travelling Film Festival would provide a cultural and economic boost to the regions, bringing audiences back to their local theatres following a year of uncertainty.

 

“Local cinemas are the beating heart of our regional communities, and after a tough year where many of us missed our friends, community and culture, people are keen to come back together to enjoy a night out experiencing storytelling at its best,” Mr Harwin said.

“The NSW Government is proud to support the Travelling Film Festival as they provide local communities with the opportunity to experience film in a festival environment that encourages debate, community involvement and interaction.”

 

Sydney Film Festival CEO Leigh Small said “Sydney Film Festival is committed to supporting local cinemas rebuild audience engagement in the wake of the impact of 2020 on the arts and entertainment sectors.”

 

“Expanding the reach of the Travelling Film Festival through NSW will provide opportunities for regional audiences to reconnect with world class cinema in their own city, while also supporting the Australian film industry ecosystem.”

 

Films will screen at the BCC Cinema Lismore and The Regent Cinema Murwillumbah from 4-6 June.

 

The Travelling Film Festival is Australia’s longest running travelling film festival, showcasing Australian and international features across regional Australia.

 

For film details, session times and further information, visit www.sff.org.au/TFF