Port Shorts

02/06/2026

The Douglas Shire lost a true icon of the community yesterday with the sudden passing of much-loved former Port FM owner, publican and freedom fighter Michael Gabour, one of Port Shorts' most passionate supporters for more than two decades.

There was no greater champion of musicians and artists in our community and his infectious smile and dulcet tones will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

On behalf of the Port Shorts crew, we send our love to Helen and Shane and everyone impacted by Michael's passing.

There will always be a seat reserved for you at Port Shorts buddy, thanks for the memories.... 💚

20/05/2026

09/05/2026

🌴 SUBMISSIONS ARE OPEN — Port Shorts Film Festival 2026
October 24 | Port Douglas, QLD

This is your shot. Port Shorts is one of Australia's most unique film festivals — short films, under the stars, where the rainforest meets the Coral Sea.

Whether you're a first-time filmmaker or a seasoned pro, we want to see your work.
💰 Best Film – $5,000 AUD
💰 Best Music Video – $1,000 AUD
💰 Best Local Film – $500 AUD
💰 Jury Award – $750 | Audience Choice – $500
💰 Best Queensland Film – $250 + AACTA package

Submit now at filmfreeway.com/PortShortsFilmFestival

29/04/2026

Early Bird Deadline for Port Shorts coming up on 8 May 🎥😍

🎬 PORT SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL 2026 The Coolest Short Film Festival in the Tropics – and now an AACTA Awards Qualifier 📅 OCTOBER 24, 2026 | 🌴 PORT DOUGLAS, ...

29/04/2026

Awesome 😍

10/03/2026

🎬 Big opportunity for Queensland filmmakers.

PROOF — a new initiative from Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) and the Gold Coast Film Festival, supported by Screen Queensland - is offering $65K, mentorship and marketing support for three teams to create a 10-minute proof of concept short.

Applications are now open!

https://www.aacta.org/aacta-development-initiatives/proof/

22/02/2026

Tropfest 2026 is LIVE!

A little love from Port Shorts to Tropfest 💛

Right now the buzz is building on the Brazilian Fields at Centennial Park, and you can watch it all unfold from wherever you are.

Jump online, grab your virtual front row seat, and soak up the atmosphere.

Tune in on the link below 🎥

Tropfest is where bold stories meet big audiences, where emerging filmmakers have the chance to become established voices and even household names, and where...

13/02/2026

In the Frame 🎥

Screen Queensland's signature screen practitioners forum returns to Cairns in 2026 bringing national commissioners, decision-makers and local creatives together for this one-day event.

Put your career in the frame and discover how to leverage the latest industry insights and trends shaping Australia’s screen landscape and creator economy.

In the Frame Far North Queensland offers a full day of practical panels, opportunities for one-on-one meetings with panellists and a dedicated networking opportunity for attendees.

Date: Tuesday 17 March Time: 9am – 4pm, with networking to follow Tickets: Tickets are subsidised at $35 (plus booking fee), including lunch and networking refreshments Screen Queensland Studios…

09/02/2026

🎬 Entries are OPEN for Port Shorts 2026! 🎬

Got a story to tell? A film sitting on your hard drive? A wild idea that needs a screen? This is your sign.

Entries are now officially open for the Port Shorts Film Festival 2026 — and our Earlybird deadline is May 8.

That means discounted entry fees if you get in early 🙌

Don’t wait until the last minute — lock it in, save a few dollars, and give your film the best chance to shine.

🎥 Earlybird closes 8 May
🎟 Discounted entry before the deadline
🔥 Festival date - Saturday 24 October

Tag a filmmaker who needs to see this 👇

https://filmfreeway.com/PortShortsFilmFestival

06/02/2026

Yes!!

October 24th - Port Shorts 2026

Lock it in!

Rex Smeal Park destined for permanent green glory Douglas Shire Council STAFF WRITERS Email Last updated: 06/02/2026 - 08:00 (AEST) A new irrigation system means Rex Smeal Park will be green all year round. Picture: Douglas Shire Council A green and fresh Rex Smeal Park will greet tourists and local...