Free short history film workshops for students
STUDENTS on the Fraser Coast will have the chance to develop filmmaking skills while preserving local history when free Short History Documentary Film Workshops arrive in the region later this month.
From 29 September to 3 October 2025, up to 15 students will join a
week long program run by Yesterday Stories, working with professional filmmakers to create five community history documentaries.
The workshops will cover key industry skills such as interviewing, directing, camera work, lighting, sound recording, editing and animation.
Participants will also collaborate with local community members to bring real stories to the screen.
Organisers say the experience will not only provide valuable training but also help preserve important parts of Fraser Coast’s history.
“This is an incredible opportunity for students to explore the creative industries while contributing to a project that will have a lasting impact on our community,” said Samantha Gould, Co-Chair of Screen Fraser Coast.
Students interested in taking part can register by emailing sam@screenfrasercoast.com.au.
Places are limited, and the program is free to attend thanks to support from the 2025 Gambling Community Benefit Fund.
Alongside the student workshops, acclaimed filmmaker Sandra Pires, founder of Yesterday Stories, will host a special evening session for the wider community. The event will be held on Wednesday 1 October 2025 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre.
Tickets are $15 for Screen Fraser Coast members and $20 for non-members, with bookings available at https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1467086
Pires, whose credits include feature length documentaries Beneath Black Skies and The Dalfram Dispute 1938: Pig Iron Bob, has produced more than 200 short history films, with another 100 scheduled for release in 2026.
Her work has been recognised with multiple awards, including the Australian Multicultural Marketing Award for Best Small Business and the IMB Community Hero Award.
“Having Sandra here to share her expertise is a huge win for the Fraser Coast,” said Amy Friesen, Co-Chair of Screen Fraser Coast.
“Her passion for uncovering and sharing history through film is inspiring.”
For more details, visit https://www.screenfrasercoast.com.au/
