Talented student Janine Bennet has taken out the top honour of best film at a showcase of Central Queensland University (CQU) Mackay Digital movie making students’ work held last Friday night at CQU Mackay Cook lecture theatre.

The compilation of films resembled a short film festival and was enjoyed by an audience of family, friends, colleagues and lecturers at CQU Mackay.

The winning movie, Heinz 57 depicts student Janine Bennett’s mother’s life mission and dream of building a new family of her own. Not ever knowing her father, the story shows the beginnings of a new family line started by a woman who’s own history is a complete mystery.

Dr Steven Pace, lecturer in Digital Innovation and judge for the event, commended Janine on a very polished film.

“Despite its low budget, the camera work, lighting, music and titles are all artfully done,” said Steve.

Janine, an external student living in NSW, was pleased for the opportunity to tell her mother’s story using this media.

"I chose a subject for my film that was very personal to me - I think that helped me make a connection. It means a lot to me to be able to share my mother's story and it is particularly meaningful that people have responded to it like they have,” said Janine.

“I think digital storytelling has a lot of potential for sharing people's stories in a new way.".

Janine’s film can be viewed at http://mackay.cqu.edu.au/heinz-57.html.

Photo caption: This photo of a little girl along side the torn out image of a mystery man believed to be her Father, featured in the winning film Heinz 57 and created an emotional impact on the audience at the CQU Mackay Digital Movie students showcase.