Broome woman Jodie Bell will guide Indigenous film content at CinefestOZ as the film festival’s Indigenous Film Coordinator. Jodie is a First Nations descendant of Butchella and Jagera people of Southeast Queensland and an experienced film producer.
Jodie has been with Goolarri Media and its Production company, Ramu Productions, a community-owned Indigenous media company, since early 2008 and has produced a number projects, with her credits including; short drama films Telling Our Story, In the Air, the WASA-nominated Maap Mordak and Fishing. Jodie has also produced a number of short documentaries including the WASA Award winning Naji, Marrimarrigun, Riiji Carver, Yulleroo and the documentary series’ Characters of Broome.
She is no stranger to CinefestOZ, having co-produced the 2015 CinefestOZ Prize-winning feature documentary Putuparri and the Rainmakers.
“CinefestOZ is an amazing festival that is gaining national and international recognition. I am honoured to be able to be a part of this and to do my bit to bring Indigenous stories, told by Indigenous people, to the CinefestOZ audience.”
Jodie has recently completed a number of projects including another short drama Doug, The Human and a social impact documentary Saving Seagrass. She has a number of projects in development including two feature films, as well as a longer form documentary project Last Frontier
Her appointment will focus on integrity and quality of the CinefestOZ IndigifestOZ program, which showcases quality Indigenous film works and engages film-goers through a combination of feature films, short film sets and free community screenings.
Together with the Cinesnaps Schools Program, IndigifestOZ also offers Busselton and Bunbury school incursions and excursions, including engagement with established and emerging Indigenous filmmakers.
The program promotes Aboriginal film works, develops new audiences and increases awareness and understanding of culture and appreciation of Aboriginal talent.
Each year IndigifestOZ includes an exciting line up of films, events and Indigenous film guests for schools and community members to enjoy. The festival sends warm thanks and appreciation to Jub Clerc, who founded the role, and is enjoying her filmmaking journey.
CinefestOZ is encouraging Indigenous filmmakers to submit their films by 3 June.
Interested South West-based Aboriginal businesses and organisations who would like to host a stall at IndigifestOZ Day, Busselton, are encouraged to register their interest here.