Screen Queensland has launched a callout for compelling screen stories from emerging Torres Strait Islander filmmakers to be produced through the agency's Authentic ZK initiative.
This new iteration of the authentic talent development program is delivered by Screenworks in partnership with the ABC and Torres Strait Islanders Media Association (TSIMA) and will support three First Nations-led filmmaking teams to produce 3–5-minute microfilms showcasing the unique treasures of the Torres Strait Islands through its people and communities.
The selected teams will each receive $5,000 towards their short-form productions as well as mentoring from established Far North Queensland creatives, Shontell Ketchell of Pandamonium Films (Taste of the Tropics: Troppo Kitchen, Sistas in Mining) and Ben Southwell (Walkabouts, Damari and Guyula, Bondi Rescue).
Danielle Ah Boo, head of Screen Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit, said that Authentic ZK ('Zenadth Kes' is derived from the traditional names for the Torres Strait Islands) is an important initiative providing a platform to uplift the voices of new screen talent with distinct Torres Strait Islander perspectives.
"We are proud to be working with our Authentic ZK partners to support emerging screen practitioners by developing their skills and producing experience led by a culturally safe approach and connecting their screen stories with audiences through the ABC," she said.
"Authentic NQ helped propel the careers of First Nations producers like Shontell Ketchell, who now returns as a mentor, and Screen Queensland is looking forward to seeing the unique and fascinating stories from the Torres Strait Islands that will now emerge through Authentic ZK."
Torres Strait Islanders Media Association chief executive Diat Alferink said TSIMA is "excited to be continuing to grow and support films by and for our community here in the region".
Head of Indigenous at ABC, Kelrick Martin, said the broadcaster is proud to partner with Screenworks, TSIMA and Screen Queensland on the exciting initiative.
"The unique culture and communities of the Torres Strait are a vital part of our First Nations stories, and we would love to see more incredible screen talent coming from this region. We can't wait to share the Authentic ZK projects with our audience," he said.
Screenworks chief executive Lisa O'Meara said the organisation is thrilled to be part of bringing Authentic ZK to the people of the Torres Strait and encouraging local filmmakers to tell their stories.
"Our first two Authentic seasons allowed us to discover early career filmmakers in North and Far North Queensland. Now, thanks to Screen Queensland and in partnership with the ABC and TSIMA, our third iteration will support creatives in the Torres Strait develop lifelong career enhancing skills, and we're excited to uncover new stories and talent," she said.
Applications for Authentic ZK are open on the Screen Queensland website until Monday the 22nd of September. A free online information session will also be held on Friday the 29th of August to assist people interested in applying.
Authentic ZK is delivered as part of Screen Queensland's North Queensland Regional Program.
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