CINE SPARKS LIGHTS UP FILM FOR STUDENTS

Cine Sparks, Australia’s film festival for young people, will return to Brisbane this year giving Queensland school students access to an exciting selection of quality Australian and international films.

Arts Minister Rod Welford said the third annual Cine Sparks would run from Thursday 2 August to Sunday 12 August as part of the Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF).

“With films spanning the globe and Masterclasses to challenge thinking, Cine Sparks 2007 promises to thrill, fascinate and inspire young film-goers,” Mr Welford said.

“The program will feature film titles suitable for those aged 3 to 18 years. Screenings will be held at the Australian Cinémathèque in the new Gallery of Modern Art, The Regent and Palace Centro Cinemas.”

Presented by principal sponsor TransLink, a division of the Department of Transport and Main Roads, Cine Sparks is also supported by the Department of Education, Training and the Arts, and the Australian Teachers of Media Queensland.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Paul Lucas said TransLink was delighted to be the principal sponsor of Cine Sparks 2007.

“Cine Sparks was an outstanding success last year with more than 10,000 students participating and many school groups accessing the screenings through south-east Queensland’s extensive public transport network,” Mr Lucas said.

“To encourage greater accessibility, TransLink will offer free public transport for participating school groups between their nearest train station, bus stop, ferry terminal and the Cine Sparks screenings and events this year.

“I urge all young people, teachers and parents to get involved in this groundbreaking film festival and take advantage of TransLink’s free public transport offer.”

Cine Sparks will also include a Film Jury Competition, which challenges students to write a 400 word film review on the 2006 Jury award-winning Iranian film, Offside.

More information about Cine Sparks films can be found at www.pftc.com.au or by calling (07) 3007 3003. A full program including session times, venue and booking information will be distributed to schools in June.

For more information on public transport routes and schedules please phone TransLink on 13 12 30 or go to www.translink.com.au.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000