by FilmInk Staff
Australian short film exploring mental health in youths to premiere at BBFF 2026
A short film created on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula will have its world premiere at the Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF) 2026, marking an important milestone for Salty, an Aussie drama exploring youth mental health, trauma, friendship and resilience.
Set against the rugged coastline of the Mornington Peninsula, Salty follows Lachlan, a young surfing prodigy whose carefree afternoon with friends begins to unravel when buried trauma resurfaces. Blending naturalistic storytelling with dreamlike and visceral sequences, the film explores the often misunderstood experience of PTSD and the importance of connection when young people are struggling.
Written and produced by Australian-Canadian filmmaker Melissa Zhēn Zhū Riemer, Salty began as the foundation for a larger television series, ‘Boys of Summer’, centred on Australian surf culture and youth mental health. Riemer, developed the project alongside producer Danielle Singleton, with the short film ultimately becoming a standalone story and proof of concept for the proposed series.
One of the defining elements of Salty was its commitment to giving young people genuine access to the screen industry. Through the Salty Project, teenagers aged 13–18 from the Mornington Peninsula participated in intensive workshops covering filmmaking departments including screenwriting, producing, directing, cinematography, lighting, wardrobe, makeup, art department and performance.
The students then moved from the classroom onto a professional film set, where they shadowed and assisted experienced department heads during principal photography. Since filming wrapped, several participants have gone on to work on commercial and film productions, while others have begun creating their own films using the skills they developed through the project.
“We wanted to make a film about young people, but we also wanted young people to have a genuine place within the filmmaking process,” says Riemer. “The hope was that Salty could open a door for them, both creatively and professionally.”
The film stars Hyu Motoki as Lachlan, alongside Mayla Dillon, Luca Faraci, Fletcher Humphrys, El Singleton and Keenan Lord. It was directed by Jake Robb and produced by Danielle Singleton and Melissa Zhēn Zhū Riemer.
The film’s original score was composed by Steven D. Griffiths. The soundtrack also features music from Melbourne bands Vasco Era and DJ Centipede & The Earthworms.
Following its world premiere at Byron Bay Film Festival, Salty will continue its journey through the Australian and international film festival circuit.
