Xavier College student Blake Borcich has taken out the coveted Bond University Film and Television Awards (BUFTA) Best Overall Scholarship Filmmaker award, beating hundreds of other entrants to claim the prize of a full scholarship to study a Bachelor of Film and Television at Bond University.
Australia’s up-and-coming filmmakers nervously walked the red carpet at the 17th annual Bond University Film and Television Awards last Friday, November 23, 2012.
The nation’s most significant short film competition for high school students this year attracted more than 220 entries covering six categories, including Animation, Drama, Documentary, Experimental, Comedy and Music Video.
The top 18 finalists travelled to Bond University from around Australia for the exclusive event, which included the announcement of Mr Borcich’s success for his Comedy, The Trouble with Alexander and his Drama, Resistance.
Mr Borcich, aged 18, will kick start his career in film when he commences his studies at Bond University in January 2013.
Prizes were also awarded for the top film in each of the six categories, as well as the announcement of special awards recognising individual technical skills such as screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing and sound design.
The audience was delighted when the screenwriting craft award winner was announced via video by Academy Award winning Director/Producer George Miller from the set of the new Mad Max film Fury Road, which is currently filming in Namibia.
Bond University Director of Film and Television Dr Michael Sergi said the competition plays an important role in allowing high school students to showcase their film work.
“BUFTA provides a tangible goal for students to focus on, it works as a motivator that stimulates production and provides a real pathway for talented young filmmakers to pursue their dreams,” said Associate Professor Sergi.
“Making a film to enter into the competition is also a rewarding experience for students; shoots are stimulating and fun, and students experience a great deal of satisfaction when the films are completed,” he explained.
Associate Professor Sergi said the panel of eight judges, which includes Mr Wayne Newton from VideoPro Australia and Ms Kylie Pascoe from Red Thread Studio, found the high calibre of entries made selecting a winner incredibly challenging.
Dr Sergi congratulated all of the finalists, along with their media teachers and schools, who he praised for their great work, support and for inspiring young filmmakers to pursue their ambitions.
“The winners of all the categories should be celebrated. These are young people with exceptional ability and talent who deserve acknowledgment and we hope in some way the BUFTAs were able to give them the recognition they deserve.
“The film industry celebrates young talent and if these students keep working diligently and are committed and passionate about continuing to educate themselves in the industry, they will go far,” said Associate Professor Sergi.
The public can view the winning films via the BUFTA website at www.bufta.com.au.