Puppy love to hit the big screen
Australia’s most paw-some film festival is making its way to Townsville, bringing with it a cinematic celebration dedicated to our beloved four-legged friends.
Townsville
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Australia’s most paw-some film festival is rolling into town, bringing with it a cinematic celebration of our four-legged furry friends.
The Top Dog Film Festival, touring nationally from Cairns to Hobart, promises to bring together dog lovers of all ages for a heartwarming, hilarious and poignant cinematic experience.
Festival director Jemima Robinson is especially looking forward to the Townsville stop.
Having grown up in North Queensland, she has a deep connection to the area and its community of dog enthusiasts.
“Dogs are so much a part of the community in Townsville,” Jemima says.
“Just take a walk down the Strand, and you’ll see a wonderful variety of dogs of all shapes and sizes.
“In Townsville most are lucky to have big backyards for dogs to enjoy. There are also so many great shared outdoor spaces like Jezzine Barracks, the Strand and Pallarenda for you to enjoy with your dogs. It’s truly a dog’s paradise. Not to mention that dogs make such wonderful companions – why wouldn’t you have one!”
Jemima’s childhood on a cattle property near Reid River gave her an early appreciation for the special bond between humans and dogs.
She recalls the skilled work dogs that were an essential part of her family’s life and how that experience fuelled her lifelong fascination with the different roles dogs play.
“We had a team of work dogs who worked the cattle and we always had one or two pet dogs,” she said.
“From a very young age I was fascinated by the work the dogs did on the station and how skilled they were.
“When we moved into Townsville, we could only take a couple of dogs with us, and I really missed them. That experience made me appreciate even more the unique lives that dogs lead.”
The Top Dog Film Festival is more than just a series of films, it’s a celebration of the extraordinary bond between humans and their canine companions.
With a curated selection of feature films and short programs, audiences will be treated to a diverse range of stories, from local independent films to international award-winners making their Australian premieres. These films explore the full spectrum of humanity’s relationship with dogs, showcasing the joy, loyalty and unwavering spirit of these beloved animals.
The festival has become an annual tradition since its inception in 2017 in Sydney, growing in popularity and drawing dog lovers from all over the country.
In Townsville, the event is expected to be particularly well-received.
“We always receive such a warm welcome in Townsville,” Jemima says.
“We have regulars who have assistance dogs, ex-army service people with PTSD dogs and groups of dog lovers who walk their pets together.
“It’s a varied crowd, but what unites us all is our shared love of dogs and the joy they bring to our lives.”
Adding to the excitement, local dog charity Angel Paws will be present at the screening, offering audiences the chance to meet some of their adorable rescue dogs.
A portion of the festival’s proceeds will also go towards supporting Australian dog charities and conservation partners, making this not just an entertaining event but a meaningful one as well.
Whether you’re a lifelong dog enthusiast, a recent adopter, or simply someone who appreciates the unique bond between humans and animals, the Top Dog Film Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience.
The film festival is showing in Townsville on Wednesday, August 14 from 7pm to 9.45pm at the Warrina Cineplex.
>> For more information on tickets, venues and the full tour schedule, visit www.topdogfilmfestival.com.au.
Originally published as Puppy love to hit the big screen
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