Brace yourselves – this year’s Made in the West prize pool is bigger and better than ever! With a staggering $35,000 in prizes up for grabs, we owe it all to SIXTEEN incredible businesses and supporters who’ve joined us to celebrate #WesternSydneyFilm in true red-carpet style.
Our community never ceases to amaze us with its generosity and commitment to local filmmaking. The support we’ve received this year is a testament to the power of collaboration, and we couldn’t be prouder to see so many people rallying to lift up the creative voices of Western Sydney.
By now, you’ve probably heard about our fantastic 2024 SCREEN Sponsors – their contributions keep our show running smoothly and our talented crew paid. But today, it’s time to shine the spotlight on another group of heroes: our Festival PRIZE Sponsors!
These businesses are doing so much more than offering amazing prizes – they’re helping us forge the vital connections between artists and industry, creating networks that sustain and inspire our creative community.
This year’s prize pool is an absolute dream for filmmakers, packed with opportunities to fuel your creativity well into 2025. We’re talking studio hire, set building, DOP and sound mastering packages, rehearsal rooms, recording sessions, foley shoots, photo sessions, workshops, mentorships, equipment hire, and wait for it…
For the first time ever, we’re awarding a CASH prize! Thanks to In The Park Events in association with Sydney Olympic Park Authority, the People’s Choice Award winner will receive a whopping $2,000 reward when our festival season wraps up on 31 January.
Hitting this $35,000 milestone is a huge moment for Made in the West, and we’re beyond thrilled to see the impact it will have on Western Sydney filmmakers.
A heartfelt THANK YOU goes out to all our 2024 prize sponsors. Your generosity doesn’t just help us celebrate – it fuels our mission to build a thriving, inclusive film industry in Western Sydney.
When local businesses stand with us, recognising the creative potential of this region, it reignites our passion to push forward. It’s not just about prizes, it’s about creating a lasting legacy for filmmakers and artists here in the West.
Over the past decade, our journey has been one of collaboration and community spirit, but we know that this moment in history is a turning point for Western Sydney. Building a truly connected, flourishing creative industry here in the West over the next decade will take all of us working together with a shared vision.
So here’s to our supporters, collaborators, and every dreamer who dares to make waves in the creative world. Together, we’re crafting something extraordinary.
And now, a massive shout-out to these amazing organisations for their contributions to the festival and their generous support for Western Sydney filmmakers:
In The Park Events
If you’ve been to a concert or event at Sydney Olympic Park, chances are you’ve already enjoyed the atmosphere of In The Park Events. This powerhouse team creates unforgettable outdoor experiences, featuring live music, roving performers, and delicious food trucks.
Made in the West has been working with them throughout 2024 – from the Taylor Swift to Coldplay, our short film festival favourites have been there at Fig Grove keeping crowds entertained as they arrive to major events, alongside some kickass Western Sydney bands and MCs
This year, we’re thrilled to have In The Park Events sign on as one of our newest prize sponsors, stepping up to support Made in the West with $1,000 Sony equipment packs for all six genre award winners, announced at the end of January and decided by popular vote, PLUS a $2,000 cash prize for the People’s Choice Award!! This is a game-changing opportunity for filmmakers to invest in their creative journeys and we’re super excited to see who wins. Big thanks to Damian and In The Park Events for helping us champion the creative energy of Western Sydney!
Set Fusion
For over 30 years, Set Fusion has been transforming creative visions into stunning reality. Specialising in everything from steel fabrication to foam sculpting, scenic artwork, and plastering, this Western Sydney-based powerhouse has earned its reputation as one of the country’s most innovative set design and construction companies.
Their work breathes life into some of the most extraordinary TV and film productions, and their dedication to the craft is second to none.
This year, Set Fusion is making waves at Made in the West by contributing a $10,000 set design and construction prize to the winner of the Best in the West Award. This incredible gesture not only showcases their commitment to nurturing local talent but also opens the door for new and exciting collaborations between industry and Western Sydney creatives. Thank you, Set Fusion, for your generosity and for investing in the future of filmmaking in our region.
Luke Walker Productions
When it comes to breathtaking cinematography and collaborative productions, Luke Walker Productions leads the way.
With an impressive portfolio that includes a growing number of music videos, working on blockbuster hits like Pacific Rim and Peter Rabbit, as well as major campaigns for brands like Sony and ANZ Bank, Luke Walker has carved out a niche as a go-to DOP (Director of Photography) and aerial cinematographer.
We’re incredibly excited to announce that the winner of the Audience Choice Award will receive a 4-day DOP package, valued at $6,000, including access to top-tier equipment, lighting, and Luke’s expert guidance on set. We love working with Luke and we know this prize is a golden opportunity for a local filmmaker to elevate their next short film or music video to a new level. A huge thank you to Luke Walker Productions for your unwavering support of Western Sydney talent and for continuing to inspire filmmakers to dream big.
Sydney Prop Specialists
Calling all filmmakers! If you haven’t visited Sydney Prop Specialists yet, you’re missing out on one of the most extensive collections of props, backdrops, and staging equipment in the country. From vintage furniture to custom-built props, their inventory can transform any set into a visual masterpiece.
Based right here in Sydney, they’re the ultimate go-to for filmmakers seeking high-quality production assets.
This year, Sydney Props is once again supporting Made in the West by offering one full day of studio hire in TV Studio #4 – a soundproof, air-conditioned 9m x 12m stage, perfect for filming interior sets, in-car driving scenes, or music videos. Valued at $1,100, this prize is an amazing resource for the Best in the West Award winner to bring their next creative vision to life. Thank you to Sydney Prop Specialists for helping filmmakers make movie magic!
Opening Act Studios
Founded by Western Sydney local and past Made in the West award winner Pete Ireland, Opening Act Films specialises in creating heartfelt, impactful indie films and episodic projects.
Their award-winning stories have graced Oscar-accredited festivals and screens across Australia and Europe, showcasing a commitment to excellence and a love for storytelling.
This year, Opening Act Studios is contributing a brand-new 4K 5.5-inch FEELWORLD on-camera field monitor to the Best Student Film winner. This essential piece of equipment will empower an emerging filmmaker to shoot with precision and confidence on their next project. Huge thanks to Pete and Opening Act Films for investing in the next generation of filmmakers!
Million Masters Studio
For filmmakers and musicians alike, Million Masters Studio is a creative haven. Led by the talented producer and mastering engineer Karna K, the studio has worked with big names like the Buena Vista Social Club and Skarlett, earning its reputation as a leader in high-quality audio production. Their expertise extends to film sound, ensuring projects resonate with professional polish.
This year, Million Masters is offering a music mastering and mixing package (valued at $1,300) to the winner of Best Music Video, and a film mastering package (valued at $1,000) to the Best Student Film winner. These prizes are invaluable tools for perfecting soundtracks and creating a polished cinematic experience. Thank you, Karna, for sharing your expertise and supporting Western Sydney’s creative scene!
Irierootsini Photography
Blacktown-based Irierootsini Photography specialises in capturing the essence of artists and products through stunning portraits and professional shoots. Their creative talent and dedication to excellence have made them a standout name in Western Sydney’s photography community.
This year, Irierootsini Photography is offering Professional Actor Headshot Packages to the winners of Best Actor in a Lead Role and Best Actor in a Supporting Role. These prizes, valued at $550 each, include a professional photoshoot with up to 15 retouched images, giving actors an edge in promoting themselves to casting directors. A huge thanks to Emil at Irierootsini Photography for helping our acting award winners shine!
Arts & Cultural Exchange (ACE), Parramatta
For over 30 years, ACE Parramatta has been a cornerstone of Western Sydney’s creative ecosystem. By fostering emerging talent and providing resources for cultural entrepreneurs, ACE has built a legacy of support for local artists.
This year, ACE is contributing multiple prizes: room hire for a table read or rehearsal session for the Best Screenplay and Best Director winners, as well as a week in the audio recording studio for the runner-up in Best Music Video. These resources are invaluable for filmmakers to take their projects to the next level. Thank you, ACE, for your continued dedication to building Western Sydney’s creative future!
Creative Plus Business
When it comes to blending creativity with entrepreneurship, Creative Plus Business is an invaluable resource. Led by the brilliant Monica Davidson, this organisation provides training, coaching, and resources tailored to creative professionals. Their workshops and mentoring programs help artists (including us!) navigate the complexities of running a creative business, offering practical guidance on everything from marketing and management to finance and strategy.
This year, Creative Plus Business is supporting Made in the West by donating $99 vouchers for their popular online workshops to all individual award winners and $49 vouchers to all runners-up. With access to a wide array of courses and a year to complete them, winners can gain the skills and confidence to take their creative practice to new heights. A heartfelt thank you to Monica and the team at Creative Plus Business for empowering Western Sydney artists with your knowledge and expertise!
Peter Millynn
With over 30 years of experience in the screen industry, Peter Millynn is a mentor like no other. Having worked across roles such as actor, producer, writer, and musician, Peter has mentored the production of over 950 short films, including several Academy Award nominees. His deep industry knowledge and commitment to nurturing emerging talent make him an invaluable asset to the Western Sydney film scene. He also happens to be one of our esteemed festival judges!
This year, Peter is offering a screen mentorship prize to the runner-up in the Best Student Film category. This incredible prize includes an initial online script consultation, followed by 2 – 3 mentoring sessions to guide the winner through concept development and production planning. A massive thank you to Peter for generously sharing your time and expertise with the next generation of filmmakers – your support means the world!
Australian Production Design Guild
As the leading representative organisation for designers across screen, live performance, events, and digital production, the Australian Production Design Guild (APDG) is a champion for creative professionals. Through its resources, mentorship programs, and annual awards, APDG plays a critical role in advancing the careers of emerging designers in Australia.
For the Best Production Design winner, APDG is offering a two-year Emerging Producer membership, which includes access to exclusive networking opportunities, mentorship programs, member-only resources, and eligibility for the Emerging Designer category in the APDG Awards. Thank you, APDG, for supporting Western Sydney’s production designers and helping them build connections within the broader creative industry!
Australian Writers’ Guild
For 60 years, the Australian Writers’ Guild (AWG) has championed the rights and careers of writers across screen, stage, and digital platforms. By providing industrial advice, professional development opportunities, and a platform for showcasing talent, AWG has become an essential resource for writers across the country.
This year, AWG is offering a one-year Associate Membership to the winner of the Best Screenplay award. This membership includes access to writing initiatives, competitions, and networking opportunities designed to help writers grow their careers and connect with industry leaders. Thank you, AWG, for recognising and supporting the storytellers of Western Sydney and beyond!
Australian Guild of Screen Composers
The Australian Guild of Screen Composers (AGSC) is the backbone of Australia’s screen music industry, advocating for the rights and careers of composers in film, television, and gaming. With a focus on professional development and community building, AGSC fosters connections between filmmakers and composers to create unforgettable screen experiences.
This year, AGSC is supporting the Best Original Score winner with a one-year membership (Full, Student, or Associate). Membership benefits include access to professional resources, networking events, and eligibility for AGSC’s annual awards. Huge thanks to AGSC for continuing to support Western Sydney’s filmmaking community and fostering collaboration between storytellers and composers!
Still Searchin’ Productions
The heart and soul behind Made in the West, Still Searchin’ Productions (SSP) has been advocating for Western Sydney filmmakers since the festival’s inception. From creating engaging film and music projects to hosting the popular Pagey Train Podcast, SSP continues to provide platforms for local creatives to share their stories and elevate their work.
In 2024, SSP is offering major award winners a featured guest spot on the Pagey Train Podcast, where they’ll discuss their projects and gain exposure to a wider audience. Additionally, the runner-up for Best in the West will receive a Foley and ADR package, complete with sound effects, atmosphere enhancements, and ADR guidance for their next film. Thank you to the team at SSP for your relentless passion and for continuing to champion Western Sydney talent – you’re the best!
A Huge Thank You to Our Incredible Sponsors!
We’re so grateful to the amazing organisations who are driving the growth of Western Sydney’s film community. Your contributions make all the difference, and together, we’re building a brighter, more connected future for filmmakers in the West.
Want to see the full list of awards and prizes? Check them out here! With this year’s record-breaking $35,000 prize pool, we can’t wait to celebrate and share these incredible opportunities with our 2024 award winners.
This year’s festival is shaping up to be unforgettable, with 14 Official Selection films vying for these fantastic prizes at the live event on Saturday, 30 November. And let’s not forget, all 24 Marathon Selection films are still in the running to take home the $2,000 cash prize for the People’s Choice Award – an exciting first for Made in the West!
Our sponsors and partners are at the heart of our mission to create more opportunities for Western Sydney creatives. Together, we’re championing more locally made films, more job opportunities for talented filmmakers in the region, more thriving arts venues and studios, and a growing audience excited to support and celebrate homegrown talent.
If you’re a local or small business owner inspired by our vision, we’d love to hear from you! Supporting Made in the West is a chance to be part of something truly special.
Stay tuned for more exciting festival updates - we’ve got so much more to share as we approach festival week. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest news and event details.
See you on the red carpet.