Lights, Camera… Local Action! Maryborough Celebrates Youth Week with Exclusive Test Screening of Uncanny Valley
In celebration of Youth Week, Maryborough is set to roll out the red carpet to inspire the region’s next generation of filmmakers and actors. Uncanny Valley, a locally shot short film showcasing the Fraser Coast’s stunning landscapes and homegrown talent, will host a free exclusive test screening at 6:30 PM in the Federation Room at The Brolga Theatre.
Crucially for local youth interested in the screen industry, the screening will be followed by a live Q&A session with the film’s director and cast. This interactive session is designed to show young people the tangible opportunities and skills they can develop right here on the Fraser Coast, offering aspiring actors, directors, and crew a chance to ask questions and learn directly from working professionals.
Produced by Maryborough resident Sam Donsky and written and directed by Adam Millar, Uncanny Valley tells the story of six friends at a crossroads in their lives who embark on a camping trip, only to discover that things aren’t what they seem. As the group fractures, a sinister presence lurks in the darkness, creating a gripping and suspenseful narrative.
Meet the Guest Speakers: Local Pathways to the Screen The post-screening Q&A will feature the creative minds and emerging talents behind the film, providing youth with a firsthand look at different pathways into the industry:
- Adam Millar (Writer & Director): Adam began his filmmaking journey in 2023 at JMC Academy in Brisbane and uses his work to demonstrate the accessibility of filmmaking and the importance of finding purpose through creativity.
- Jorja Lockwood (Actor – Veronica): An emerging actor who recently completed a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Acting) in 2025 and has trained with physical theatre company Zen Zen Zo.
- Jacob Clark (Actor – John) A seasoned stage performer since 2019, Uncanny Valley marks Jacob’s official short-film debut as he transitions from stage to screen and expands his portfolio into film and television.
- Lexi Grieg (Actor – Georgina): A Queensland University of Technology (QUT) graduate with a rich background in theatre and musicals, Lexi is bringing her live performance discipline to the screen to pursue her long-held ambition in film.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Regional Filmmakers For the film’s leadership team, this Youth Week event is about proving what is possible in regional areas.
Director Adam Millar emphasised the importance of accessible filmmaking for Fraser Coast youth. “Coming from a small city, not unlike Maryborough, I want to showcase to the youth in this region that being a filmmaker is an attainable goal, and you don’t have to leave home,” said Millar. “By utilising your creativity, you can create stories and find your unique voice as a filmmaker; this test screening is a first step into that creative process, where audience feedback will directly shape the final version of the project”. He added, “I found great purpose in embracing my creativity and, thanks to this community, the cast and crew were able to be filmmakers”.
Producer Sam Donsky echoed this sentiment, noting that the event is an opportunity for local youth to actively join the filmmaking process. “As a producer, my primary work on the film is complete, but my connection to this project remains deeply personal,” Donsky shared. “Opportunities like this prove you don’t need to leave the region to make movie magic, and I’m now excited to join the local audience for this test screening. Audience feedback is the final, vital ingredient in shaping the film’s final cut and ultimately, its future”.
A Celebration of Local Talent The event is proudly presented by Screen Fraser Coast and supported by the Fraser Coast Regional Council. Amy Friesen and Samantha Gould, co-chairs of Screen Fraser Coast, expressed their excitement about the event’s potential to inspire young creatives.
“This screening is a testament to the incredible talent and creativity we have here on the Fraser Coast,” said Amy Friesen. “It’s thrilling to see our region not only as a backdrop but as a key player in the storytelling process”.
Samantha Gould added, “Uncanny Valley is a shining example of what can be achieved when local talent and resources come together. We’re proud to support this project and can’t wait for the community to experience it”.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday 15th April 2026
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Federation Room, The Brolga Theatre, Maryborough
Tickets: Free, but booking is essential. Reserve your seat at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/uncanny-valley-free-movie-screening-tickets-1985017427561
Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Youth Week, support local talent, and discover the exciting cinematic pathways available on the Fraser Coast.