Young film maker’s jab at vaccinations

Winners of Councils 'Vaccinate' short film competition were acknowledged at a council meeting this month. From left, Peter Hynes, Filmtime winner Amar Haque, Justin Parn, Terry Old from Kernow Services and Mayor of the City of Casey Geoff Ablett. 129190_01

A TALENTED young Casey resident has been announced as the winner for the City of Casey’s short film competition.
Amar Haque received $1000 as well as the chance to work with Filmtime Media, a leading local film company, to professionally reshoot his film.
The idea behind the short film competition was to highlight the importance of vaccinations for young people.
City of Casey Mayor Geoff Ablett congratulated the winner and presented him with a certificate at a council meeting on Tuesday 7 October.
He also congratulated Justin Parn and presented him with a certificate for assisting Amar.
“The competition called on young people in Casey to submit a short film which creatively showcased the topic of adolescent vaccination and why it’s important for young people’s health, and the broader health of the community,” he said.
“Council received many high-calibre entries. I thank all those who took the time to exercise their filmmaking skills and help council highlight the importance of vaccinations.
“Amar’s original film was selected as the winner due to its unique, comedic nature and original creative script which focussed on the topic of chickenpox.”
The council also awarded a second prize People’s Choice Award of $500 to the entry which received the most ‘likes’ on the Casey Conversations website from members of the public.
An entry by a group of Fountain Gate Secondary College students was the People’s Choice winner.
The City of Casey has a low level of vaccination which puts young locals at greater risk of contracting vaccine-preventable diseases.
Cr Ablett said this competition demonstrated how the council worked with schools to promote the importance of immunisations.
“The competition is a great example of local young people working with council to develop solutions for the community,” he said.
“I encourage residents to jump on their computer or mobile and watch this entertaining and educational film.”
To view the winning film visit www.casey.vic.gov.au/vaccinateshortfilmcomp.
For more information about the council’s vaccination programs, contact the immunisation staff on 9705 5240 or visit the council’s website at www.casey.vic.gov.au/immunisation.