Geelong & The Bellarine

Spread across four weekends from May to August, the Bellarine Lighthouse Films program combines the best of what Queenscliff, Point Lonsdale and the wider Bellarine Peninsula has to offer. Even if it won’t pose any immediate threat to Cannes, the spectacular seaside backdrop, village atmosphere and extensive film list will create their own kind of magic.

This not for profit event offers visitors a choice of attending a single weekend, or any combination of the four standalone weekend programs. It draws on a strong Bellarine Peninsula arts tradition including the Queenscliff Music Festival, the Blues Train and a number of smaller community film society programs.

Venues range from intimate historic locations around Queenscliff to the state of the art Point Lonsdale School Performing Arts Centre. Ticket numbers will be restricted to match each venue for optimal viewing and a relaxed social atmosphere. For some sessions, patrons will be encouraged to bring their own bean bag-style seating as an alternative to what is provided. The Point Lonsdale and Salt Contemporary Art venues will feature the latest high-definition digital projectors with noise ducted outside the venue provided by TwilightCinemas.com.au

The festival is a joint venture between local arts identities and service providers with support from the Borough of Queenscliffe to extend the region’s cultural reach.

It is made up of four very different events:

Opening Night Saturday May 26

Held at the Salt Contemporary Art Gallery in the centre of Queenscliff, this exclusive late afternoon event will cater for 80 patrons who will enjoy “The five obstructions” a foreign film with supper and drinks for just $25. A former furniture and drapery store, this historic venue has a wonderful winter ambience enhanced by prominent art displays and a beautiful log fire.

Children's Program Friday June 15

Based at the Uniting Church Hall in Queenscliff, this free and exciting film event for families will present short films produced by local and overseas children including the 'Little Big Shots' package that showcases excellence in film-making by kids around the world.

Two Days of Fine Art Films July 28-29

At the Point Lonsdale School Performing Arts Centre, this event is open to 250 visitors only and starts at 2.00pm Saturday afternoon, allowing patrons to arrive after Saturday morning commitments. The two day pass, covers entry to five films for just $60. Visitors can bring their own choice of low level seating for lounging at the front of the theatre. The Saturday program features an early evening break of two hours at completion of the afternoon films and before the evening film to encourage patrons to sample the Bellarine cuisine and surrounds. The Sunday program starts at 11 am, leaving plenty of time for a relaxed breakfast and other activities. The afternoon session commences at 2.00pm after a lunch break for a relaxed early evening return home.

Warrambeen Film Festival at Queenscliff August 17-19

As the grand finale to Bellarine Lighthouse films -winter program, the Warrambeen Film Festival on Tour brings an amazing program of the best short and iconic feature films from the past two Warrambeen festivals to Queenscliff commencing Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday.. Held at the Community Centre that is part of the traditional Uniting Church site in the middle of Queenscliff. Cosy and warm in winter, it is one of Queenscliff’s most popular venues and is surrounded by shops and restaurants.

For bookings or further details about Bellarine Lighthouse Films – Winter Program please call The bookshop at Queenscliff or Email: thebookshopatqueenscliff@gmail.com
Ticket sales for Bellarine Lighthouse Films available from the 1st May 2012.

Enquiries 1300 734 014