Mansfield-born skateboarder shines at film festival

THE Mansfield Armchair Cinema (MAC) wrapped up its Star Film Festival after a gala opening last Thursday night for local premiere of "Queens of Concrete", a documentary featuring skateboarder Hayley Wilson. Opening night attracted a cross section of the Mansfield community, many who have shared in Hayley's journey over several years. The film was well received and highlighted the challenges for three young girls, all with a dream to compete as elite skateboarders. The guest of honour unfortunately missed her hometown premiere because of surgery on a broken wrist. However, following the screening a live cross from Melbourne allowed Hayley to express her gratitude to her family and the Mansfield community by thanking everyone who came along to watch "Queens of Concrete". Hayley thanked her parents and directors of the MAC, James and Catriona Wilson, and her brother Liam for their continued support. "I would not be where I am today without the support from my family and the people of Mansfield who have been with me through the highs and lows," she said. "I am truly grateful and thankful." Filmgoers were also treated to a Q&A session with the film's director Eva Cox and cinematographer Oscar Ascencio, where they shared the challenges of the eight-year project. "The takeaway from this film is success comes in all shapes and forms, and a bit of grace is important to recognise things are outside our control," said Eva. Another highlight of the film festival was the stage performance "Double Feature" by comedian and actor Damian Callinan on Sunday afternoon at the Mansfield Performing Arts Centre. Audience participation was encouraged with plenty of laughs along the way but also a sobering look at grief. The one-man show incorporated his parents' diaries and shared their story from 1946 to more recent years revealing a wonderful love story. Following the performance, Mansfield's Judy Thoburne was able to introduce herself to Damian and tell him her mother Pat Cullen was a close friend of his mother Kathleen Purcell from an early age which was a touching moment.