by FIlmInk Staff
Communities across regional Western Australia will soon enjoy greater access to Australian films and filmmaking experiences through CinefestOZ On the Road, a first-of-its-kind initiative in WA launched today.
On the Road will deliver free film screenings and creative education opportunities, helping bridge the gap in regional access to screen culture and engagement with the creative industries.
CinefestOZ CEO Cassandra Jordan said the program reflects the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity and regional engagement.
“We believe that living in regional WA shouldn’t mean having less access to new Australian stories, cinematic experiences or screen education,” Ms Jordan said.
“On the Road is about connecting communities, inspiring creativity and ensuring regional audiences can share the magic of Australian film.”
The program will deliver high-quality free screenings of Australian feature films and award-winning short films in locations without traditional cinema facilities. The following day, local schools will take part in Cinesnaps, the successful education program that CinefestOZ has run for 14 years, designed to spark creativity and inspire the next generation of storytellers.
The inaugural On the Road 2026 program features a vibrant and family-friendly line-up, including new musical comedy, The Deb, from actress and director Rebel Wilson; family favourite Kangaroo; toe-tapping documentary Live It Up, celebrating the iconic 1980s band Mental As Anything; plus a curated selection of Australia’s best short films, including six shot in WA.
On The Road will visit six regional centres across May and June in 2026 and, with 4000 people expected to participate in the program in its first year, plans are already underway to engage additional regional communities in the future.
Tour info and bookings
Mount Barker: Wednesday 6 May 2026 – The Deb
Katanning: Friday 8 May 2026 – The Deb
Bridgetown: Wednesday,20 May 2026 – Short Film Set
Manjimup : Friday 22 May 2026 – The Deb
Northam : Wednesday 3 June 2026 – The Deb
Narrogin: Friday 5 June 2026 – Live It Up: The Mental As Anything Story
Free tickets for the film sessions can be booked HERE . Schools interested in the student film workshops can contact community@cinefestoz.com
The On The Road initiative is supported by an election commitment made by the Western Australian Government administered by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development through the South West Development Commission.
Short film set – Good Neighbour; Mia (WA), Cordelia Daughter of the Sea; Granny Grommets (WA); Famished; Mr Wonderful; She Kinda Liked the Beach (WA); No Feedback; Mr Kimberley (WA); and Bird Drone (WA).
About CinefestOZ
CinefestOZ is Australia’s biggest celebration of homegrown film and screen stories. Founded in 2008 in WA’s South West, it began as a nod to Busselton’s French connection blending film, food and place. Today, CinefestOZ champions Australian storytellers and strengthens communities through the power of film. CinefestOZ believes storytelling builds identity, pride and belonging, inspiring connection across cultures, regions and generations. Through celebration, collaboration and creativity, CinefestOZ empowers communities to see themselves on screen and share their stories with the nation.
