Network president Ivo Lovric has been making films for 15 years.
Photo: MELISSA ADAMS
It may not be in the big league yet, but the Canberra film industry is set to receive a $1.8 million boost in the forthcoming ACT budget.
Chief Minister Jon Stanhope made the announcement yesterday at the launch of the new offices of the ACT Filmmakers Network at the Belconnen Arts Centre.
He said the fund would boost the capacity of the government-funded body, ScreenACT, to attract and retain business in the creative sector.
The fund was expected to support up to six feature films, as well as smaller documentaries, television and animation projects, over three years.
It will be open to applicants with confirmed financial backing or enough local interest in their production.
The announcement was welcome news for the ACT Filmmakers Network, which has been providing a voice for local filmmakers, as well as advice, support and access to resources for the past 10 years.
Development manager Glen Eaves said the network managed a growing industry that was one of the largest in Australia relative to the size of the city. He said he used his experience to help provide support to other local filmmakers, along with the network's president, Ivo Lovric.
Mr Lovric, who said he had been making films for 15 years, said it was important for local filmmakers to have access to information, training and resources, which was what the network was providing.
''We also provide forums to watch films and talk about them,'' he said.
BY SALLY PRYOR Canberra Times
29 Apr, 2010
