L-R: Sam Neill, Tess Haubrich, George Miller and Brenton Thwaites.
Tropfest is moving to Parramatta, with the 25th event to be held at Parramatta Park on February 11 next year.
Speaking from the U.S. set of Elementary, John Polson said: “After extensive research and soul-searching, as well as looking to international festivals such as Sundance and Cannes for inspiration, we've recognised our desire to have a destination we could fully embrace and call our own. Tropfest needed a fresh base where it can be nurtured, expand, and eventually become a multi event festival. Moving Tropfest to Parramatta also puts us firmly in the geographical heart of Sydney, which is the perfect place for the world’s most exciting and accessible film event."
"The City of Parramatta and Parramatta Park Trust have already demonstrated they are 100 percent behind helping us ensure Tropfest at Parramatta is a success. Having such vested partners on board enables us to continue our core mission – to provide a platform for Australia's incredible filmmaking talent, and to celebrate that talent loudly and for all the world to see. I can't wait to introduce the loyal Tropfest audience to our beautiful new venue at Parramatta Park (just a short train ride away!) as well as connect with ever wider audiences at our new home."
Council’s Administrator Amanda Chadwick said: “Western Sydney has produced some of the leading lights in the Australian film industry and Parramatta has a very strong arts community. City of Parramatta is immensely proud to support this wonderful event and I’m sure it will find a happy home here in Parramatta."
Today's media call was attended by George Miller, Sam Neill, Brenton Thwaites (Gods of Egypt) and Tess Haubrich (Alien: Covenant).
Tropfest Board member Miller said that “this opportunity to bring the dynamic world of filmmaking to a wider audience is extremely positive. Tropfest offers anyone aspiring to make movies the chance to show their work to 100,000 plus people, to go on to international film festivals and open doors to a career, here and around the globe. This festival is now in its 25th year. The first of its kind in the world, it remains a wellspring of talent and, thanks to the inspirational John Polson, has never lost its unique, grassroots, 'give it a go' attitude. A big shout out to Parramatta for recognising this and providing Tropfest a warm new home.”
Executive Director of Western Sydney Parklands and Parramatta Park Trusts Suellen Fitzgerald said, “We are thrilled to become a Strategic Partner for Tropfest. Parramatta Park is a stunning world-class destination and a key part of the cultural life of Parramatta that will deliver a memorable experience for festival-goers.”
Tropfest now operates on a not-for-profit business model, and since going bust has made noises about relaxing its exclusivity rules, though whether that will occur is still unclear.
The chair of the Greater Sydney Commission, Lucy Turnbull, said: “Tropfest will not only bring the crowds from all around Sydney, but on the back of such a successful cultural event, we will see an influx of associated investments and jobs. Parramatta is growing fast, and while there are challenges with growth, more cultural institutions and events show some of the many opportunities that come with growth. Move over Sydney, Parramatta really is the next big thing.”