Our panel of judges will be comprised from members of the film industry, so you will be safe in the knowledge that your work has been judged by some of your peers (unless we can't get enough then it will be judged by guys down the pub).

We thank them greatly for their time and efforts.



Charles 'Bud' Tingwell

Bud Tingwell is one of the most important actors in Australia. His commitment to Australian arts, through his contributions in writing, directing and acting, have enhanced the reputation of Australian television and film around the world. Born and raised in Coogee, we're extremely proud and fortunate to have Bud appear as one of our judges for this year's festival.



Andrew Mercado

Andrew Mercado is one of Australia's best-loved and busiest media commentators on all things pop culture. He writes a weekly TV column for The Sunday Telegraph, Australia's biggest selling newspaper. On television, he is MORNINGS WITH KERRI-ANNE's movies man. He also is a regular on radio with Triple M and ABC Drive with Richard Glover. He also contributed two chapters to the book 100 GREATEST FILMS OF AUSTRALIAN CINEMA and has co-written a new book about PRISONER for the DVD box set.

Over the years he has interviewed such A-listers as Kylie Minogue, Tom Cruise, Robbie Williams, Britney Spears, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jennifer Aniston, Alanis Morissette, The Rock, Kirsten Dunst, Tobey Maguire, Shania Twain, Village People, Kid Rock, K D Lang, Marianne Faithfull, Charlie Sheen, Cyndi Lauper, Lionel Richie, Delta Goodrem, Heath Ledger, Duran Duran, Fleetwood Mac, Cameron Diaz, Tom Jones, Deborah Harry, Jodie Foster, Joan Rivers and Jennifer Love Hewitt.

PAST JUDGES
Phillip Noyce (Director of Rabbit Proof Fence, The Quiet American and much more) Jack Finsterer (Kokoda)