ShowFest Sunshine Coast: Film, games, AI and pacific storytelling collide

The program brings together industry professionals, emerging creators, students and audiences for eight events, including a free outdoor screening, a Pacific Islands Film Festival night and the Sunshine Coast Screen Awards.

The six days of ShowFest 2026 will span five venues across Maroochydore, Coolum Beach, Nambour, Mooloolaba and Kawana and is presented by the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective, sponsored by Sunshine Coast Council, Screen Queensland and CameraHouse Maroochydore.

David Edgar, President, Sunshine Coast Screen Collective said ShowFest was about celebrating the incredible practitioners already working across film, games and digital storytelling here on the Sunshine Coast, while opening the door to new audiences and the next generation of filmmakers, storytellers and creators.

“This year’s expanded program reflects the breadth of talent and ambition in our region,” Mr Edgar said.

The opening-night Showdown Showcase is free and open to everyone, with All-access passes $190 for Sunshine Coast Screen Collective members and $265 for non-members, plus booking fees. Tickets to individual events are also available.

Partner support

ShowFest 2026 is made possible with the support of valued partners who share the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective’s commitment to growing the region’s screen, games and creative industries.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said Council was proud to support a festival that brought together industry leaders, creators, students, aspiring filmmakers and audiences, helping to build skills, foster collaboration and create pathways for local talent to succeed.

“ShowFest offers something for everyone, from professional development and networking opportunities for our screen, games and digital technology sectors, to valuable platforms for emerging creatives, Mayor Natoli said.

“Plus, the really engaging experiences on offer allow the community to celebrate and enjoy local stories.

“Events like ShowFest strengthen our creative economy, support job creation and reinforce the Sunshine Coast’s growing reputation as a destination for creativity, innovation and growth in the screen industry.”

Screen Queensland is a valued sponsor of the Screen Summit, helping connect Sunshine Coast practitioners with industry expertise, practical professional development and stronger regional pathways.

Ken Crouch, Executive Director, Industry & Audience Engagement, Screen Queensland said Screen Queensland was proud to partner with ShowFest’s Screen Summit through our Screen Culture Fund, connecting regional practitioners with industry leaders across film, games and digital storytelling.

“Events like this strengthen Queensland’s diverse and growing screen sector by providing valuable access to industry experts, practical professional development and stronger pathways for regional talent,” Mr Crouch said.

The ShowFest Program

Showdown Showcase – Under the Stars

Tuesday 20 October, 6.00pm doors, 6.30 pm start | The MET, Maroochydore
Join us for a free outdoor screening, presented by Walker Corporation, celebrating standout local short films from Sunny Coast Showdown and Showdown Shorts.

Island Vibes featuring Pacific Islands Film Festival

Wednesday 21 October, 6.30pm to 9pm | Blackflag Brewing, Coolum Beach
An evening of Pacific short films, live music and community.

GAMES Summit

Thursday 22 October, 1pm to 4pm | Altitude Nine, Maroochydore
Explore the future of game development. Hear from experienced developers and industry specialists working across production, design, branding and AI, and discover how Sunshine Coast game developers and creative businesses can connect with global markets and opportunities.

AI in Screen

Thursday 22 October, 4pm to 7pm | Altitude Nine, Maroochydore
Hear from industry speakers, see demonstrations and join practical discussions on how artificial intelligence is reshaping screen production.

Screen Summit

Friday 23 October, 9am to 5pm | Maroochy RSL
Dive into a full day of panels, workshops and keynotes designed for both emerging and established screen practitioners.

LevelUp GAMES Workshops

Saturday 24 October, 10am to 3pm | ScreenHub Nambour
Build your skills and connect with the local games development community through hands-on workshops.

Sunshine Coast Screen Awards

Saturday 24 October, 6pm to 10pm | Wharf Events, The Wharf Mooloolaba
Celebrate excellence in film, television, games and digital media at a three-course awards evening.

Showdown Shorts

Sunday 25 October, Noon to 3pm | Event Cinemas Kawana
A big-screen showcase of emerging filmmakers, independent storytelling and regional creative voices, supported by Camera House Maroochydore.