The curtains have closed on the 10th Capricorn Film Festival, marking a milestone year for Central Queensland’s premiere screen arts event, with packed screenings, visiting filmmakers, community celebrations and an inspiring lineup of award-winning Australian and international cinema.
Held across four days in Yeppoon, Capricorn Film Festival 2026 welcomed audiences to feature films, documentaries, short film competitions, filmmaker talks and networking events — reinforcing the Capricorn Coast’s growing reputation as a vibrant hub for film culture and creative storytelling.
Festival Founder and Director Luke Graham said the 2026 edition showcased the strength of regional audiences and the power of independent cinema.
“This year was incredibly special for us — celebrating a decade of Capricorn Film Festival while sharing such meaningful stories with our community,” said Graham.
“From Opening Night through to our final screenings, the energy from audiences and filmmakers alike was outstanding. We’re proud to see Yeppoon embracing film arts in such a big way, and deeply grateful to everyone who helped bring this festival to life.”
MAJOR AWARD WINNERS
CAPS Feature Award – Pasa Faho – Directed by Kalu Oji
CAPS Documentary Award – YURLU | COUNTRY – Directed by Yaara Bou Melhem
CAPS Best Director – Lorin Clarke – But Also John Clarke
CAPS Best Actor – Cass Cumerford – Flathead
Short Film Awards:
CAPS Short – The Piano – Directed by Avery Kroll
CAPS EXPerimental – Two Ships – Directed by McKinley Benson
Best Short Director – Javier Fesser – Depredador
Best Short Actor – Awa Puna – Charlotte, Homecoming
President of Keppel Coast Arts, Leanne Smith, “It’s incredibly exciting to see film arts flourishing here on the Capricorn Coast. The future of screen storytelling in Central Queensland is bright.”
Capricorn Film Festival 2026 was proudly supported by Keppel Coast Arts, Screen Queensland, Tourism Events Queensland, Livingstone Shire Council and Bishopp.
Luke Graham added, “Our partners make this festival possible. Their commitment to arts and culture in regional Queensland allows us to keep growing.”
Website: https://www.capricornfilmfestival.org/
