The Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival will kick off with a vibrant free community event, the GO GOLD BLOCK PARTY, on Thursday 9 October 2025 from 5pm to 8.30pm in the grounds of the Gympie Regional Gallery (via Nash and O’Connell Streets).
This colourful celebration brings together film, art, music and community in the heart of Gympie:
- Open-air cinema screening short films from the Festival program
- Live music from the Pitch In Choir and local bands iRelevant and Silksunn
- A collaborative street chalk art project, weaving a creative storyline between the Gympie Cinema (home of this year’s short films) and Gympie Music Hall (Festival headquarters and host of Opening Night Gala, Comedy Gold, and free music and talks across the weekend)
- Artisan stalls, delicious food, and a lively festival atmosphere
- The Gympie Regional Gallery open after dark, featuring a preview of the Du Rietz Art Awards exhibition
- Free all-ages art activities in the Gallery studio, inspired by the Festival’s spirit of storytelling.
The 2025 Heart of Gold International Short Film Festival runs from 9–12 October, presenting 25 short film sessions alongside a dynamic program of free music, filmmaker interviews, workshops, the Gala Opening Night, stand-up comedy and more.
Festival Director Nicole Harper said the Block Party reflects the Festival’s community spirit:
“GO GOLD is all about bringing people together. It’s a chance to celebrate stories on screen and off, while showcasing the incredible creativity and energy of our region.”
Join us on Thursday 9 October for the GO GOLD BLOCK PARTY – a night of stories, art and connection, all for free.
