CQU Performing Arts student Julia Thornton has won the $1000 first prize at the 2006 Rocky Fringe Short Film Competition and Festival, with Business/Marketing student Jason Gibson highly commended on the night (Aug 25).

Ms Thornton's 'City for Lifestyle' entry was a montage evoking the effects of society on the environment.

Mr Gibson got 9 students and friends together for his black-humour gangster-style shoot-up film, which earned him a certificate. If anyone is interested in acting in one of his future film projects, they can get in touch via www.thegibsonstyle.com .

Brisbane-based filmmaker Luke Mayze was judge for the evening and also delivered a 'Directing for Film' workshop on the weekend.

A total of 15 short films were screened on the festival night, including 7 entries in the competition. Central Highlands entrant Bloss Hickson also received a highly commended certificate.

The event was held at the Walter Reid Cultural Centre in Rockhampton and was part of Rockhampton City Council's Art Services programming.

Photo: Hours at the editing screen have paid off for student filmmakers Jason Gibson and Julia Thornton.