A team of Mornington Peninsula creatives took out one of the top prizes at Tropfest with their short film No Thank You. The film was awarded the Chery Creative Acceleration Award with Director Georgina Haig winning a brand new car.
No Thank You is a black comedy about a grieving sculptor and her inability to say “thank you.” It explores the personal and artistic consequences of becoming a social outcast.
Written and directed by Georgina Haig, best known for her international roles in film and television, including Late Night with the Devil and Once Upon a Time, the film was shot entirely on the Mornington Peninsula.
Haig collaborated with Peninsula Films, a Mornington Peninsula–based creative and video production agency. The filmmakers have a slate of work behind them, including two previous Tropfest finalists, The Ranch documentary, and a feature film – shot entirely on the Peninsula — due for release this year.
Created for Tropfest’s signature short-form format, No Thank You delves into themes of grief, social contracts, expression and the art world.
The film stars artist and actor Holly Austin (Deadloch, Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears), alongside Mornington Peninsula local Nathaniel Dean (Alien: Covenant, High Country, Boy Swallows Universe).
Haig drew inspiration from her childhood amongst the Red Hill art community, “I grew up surrounded by art and artists. My mother is a fine artist and ran a gallery in Red Hill for years. Expressing whatever you’re feeling through making stuff was just what you did.”
Key moments were filmed against the striking backdrop of McClelland Sculpture Park, while local artist Jean Sheridan’s studio provided an authentic and textured setting that elevates the film’s aesthetic.
A team of local businesses, individuals and artists helped bring the project to life – including artist Gabbie Laing, who created an enormous sculpture that steals the show.
Tropfest relaunched in 2026 after a six-year hiatus. More than 700 films were submitted this year, competing for just 16 finalist positions – making selection highly competitive.
Festival director John Polson described No Thank You as a “beautifully shot, beautifully performed” execution of an original idea.
Tropfest has long been a vital platform for emerging filmmakers, offering meaningful national and international exposure.
