SIPFEST short film festival

Short films under the stars at HOTA

Friends gathered, brought a picnic rug and immersed themselves in a magical night under the stars at the HOTA Outdoor Stage. Attendees enjoyed the much-loved SIPFEST as part of the Gold Coast Film Festival. Hosted by the charismatic Gold Coast Film Festival Ambassador, Lincoln Lewis, the evening was unforgettable, filled with live music, exceptional short films, food trucks and bars – all set against the stunning backdrop of HOTA. Best of all, the incredible event was completely free!

Many enhanced their night with a Gourmet or Indulgence Hamper, which had been available for purchase through the ticketing page.

SIPFEST showcased the Gold Coast’s premier short film competition, featuring 15 outstanding finalists selected from Australia and around the globe. The evening concluded with announcement of the award winners, along with the opportunity for the audience to vote for their favorite film. It was the ultimate outdoor film experience.

SipFest 2024 Films:

ACT ONE

1. HELL YEAH – Dir. Martha Goddard
   A gripping tale of defiance and empowerment as a young woman fights back against societal expectations.
2. TOO MANY ETHNICS – Dir. Vonne Patiag
   A bold and humorous exploration of identity, diversity, and stereotypes in modern Australian society.
3. WAKING UP 30 – Dir. Kristina Moschella
   A bittersweet comedy about facing adulthood's unexpected twists and embracing life’s milestones.
4. FAVOURITES – Dir. Nick Russell
   A heartfelt story about love, connection, and the precious moments that shape our lives.
5. CHOMP – Dir. Ben Nixon
   A quirky horror-comedy about a peculiar creature with an insatiable appetite for trouble.
6. CUPPA CHAI – Dir. Amit Kaur
   A charming tale of family, culture, and connection told over a cup of chai.
7. US AS I REMEMBER – Dir. Kiana Scrase
   A poignant exploration of memory, love, and the ties that bind us through time.

ACT TWO

1. ERZI – Dir. Kailani D’Amour & Tin Huyen Pham
   A visually stunning journey through tradition, generational bonds, and cultural identity.
2. BIRD DRONE – Dir. Radheya Jegatheva
   A thought-provoking animated film blending technology and nature in a gripping narrative.
3. ROOM FOR ONE MORE – Dir. Jesse Vogelaar
   A suspenseful tale of chance encounters and the weight of life-altering decisions.
4. THE REALTOR – Dir. Adrian Eppel
   A dark comedy about the cutthroat world of real estate and the secrets lurking behind closed doors.
5. THE STRIPPER TRADE-OFF – Dir. Janneke Williamson (Adult Content Warning)
   A provocative and humorous look at the unexpected consequences of an unusual trade-off.
6. CREEK GEEKS – Dir. Andrew Robb & Jessica Gerger
   A whimsical adventure following a group of quirky scientists on a mission to save their local creek.
7. ZOMBIES vs MEN’S SHED – Dir. Travis Bain
   A hilarious and action-packed showdown between the undead and a band of crafty retirees.
8. SMOKO – Dir. Adam Gunn & Steve Cooper
   A nostalgic and comical reflection on Australian workplace culture and the beloved smoko break.

An evening filled with short, sharp surprises.

2025

Check official website for details