Leah Purcell joins the Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival line-up in Gympie
A beloved Aussie actor and filmmaker has joined the cast of this year’s festival, which is set to be bigger than ever. Here’s why she’s stepping onto the scene.
Gympie
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When internationally-renowned actor and filmmaker Leah Purcell was asked to return home as patron of the Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival, she did not hesitate.
The Murgon-born and raised star said she is looking forward to coming back to the Wide Bay Burnett region.
“When I was asked to be patron … I didn’t think twice,” Ms Purcell said.
“I’m a girl from Murgon in the South Burnett and I know how important festivals like this are in the bush.”
“I’d rather support a festival back home, than walk the red carpets of Venice.”
Ms Purcell will be the festival’s newest patron, as it celebrates the largest year yet.
Best known for her work on iconic Australian films and television including The Drover’s Wife and The Secret Daughter, Ms Purcell will be discussing her expertise in a talk at the festival.
She will also be presenting the award for Best Australian Film.
The festival will be held across four days, with more entertainment than ever.
Festival director Jackson Lapsley Scott said it would have something for everybody.
“We want everyone to be able to come along and find something fun to do or watch or listen to – not just film lovers,” he said.
“There’s something interesting going on from 9am to 11pm every day for four days – and heaps of it is just free.”
Activities include community singalongs, podcasting classes, virtual reality painting lessons and free talks.
The event will also feature 170 short films in two pop-up cinemas, including several world premieres.
Gympie Regional Council Mayor Glen Hartwig said he loved the opportunities and community spirit the festival brought to Gympie.
“After 16 years, the Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival has grown into one of the region’s major events,” Mr Hartwig said.
“To see it expand to a four-day festival that showcases some of the best Australian and international short films is an outstanding achievement.”
“ … this iconic film festival is now renowned as one of the best short film festivals in Australia.”
The festival will be held from October 27-30 at the Gympie Pavilion.
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Originally published as Leah Purcell joins the Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival line-up in Gympie
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