Green Flicks was recently launched by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH). Students from Wollongong High School of the Performing Arts and Holy Spirit College have formed a committee that has sought advise from filmmakers such as Sandra Pires, of WHY Documentaries.

The students have not only been developing the short film competition for 12 to 24 year olds but an environment expo at the Regent Theatre that will coincide with the announcement of the winners. The theme for the competition is Big Trouble, Little World and the young film makers are invited to interpret that creatively. It is hoped the competition will help the community become more aware of environmental issues.

OEH regional manager Gabrielle Pietrini said the competition was deliberately designed by young people for young people. She said it was new territory for a government agency and if it worked well in the Illawarra the concept created here could be adopted elsewhere. Ms Pietrini said the students involved and those from others schools who had been consulted before it was launched saw short films as a great way to exchange ideas. As a result Green Flicks is expected to shed light on conservation and protecting and celebrating the environment.

Year 11 student Selina Brophy, 16, of Dapto, said it was great to be on a steering group of something she was so interested in. “I want to help promote..the right treatment of our environment. I think the format of presentation through film and media is an excellent way to do that. This is a good way for people to consumer information,” she said.

Year 9 student Jye Doepel, 15, said he got involved because he thought running such a competition with prizes for the winners was a great idea.

“I have been interested in films for a long time and I like making films,’’ he said.

Entries close on May 16 at www.environment.nsw.gov.au/green-flicks. Winners will be announced at Regent Theatre on June 3 at a community expo showcasing the films. 15 local youth and environment groups who will share information and talk about opportunities to get involved in environment activities. The University of Wollongong and TAFE Illawarra will talk about environmental study options. Running from 12 to 3pm the community is invited to come and help celebrate World Environment Day. Speakers include Intrepid Landcare’s Megan Rowlatt and Climate Girl Parrys Raines. The initiative is supported by NSW Environmental Trust.