By Jay Carstens

By Fiona Breen

ABC Western Qld

Topic: Movies

Monday, 29 Jun 2026, at 1:22 pm

The Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival started in Winton with a big event.

In short:

Winton's film festival began with a celebration of the 40th anniversary of Crocodile Dundee.

Actors and directors walked on the red carpet, including Delvene Delaney and Kriv Stenders.

What's next?

Kriv Stenders plans to film a new thriller in Winton next year.

For 10 days, Winton's population doubles as people come for the film festival.

Delvene Delaney rode in the old safari truck from the first Crocodile Dundee movie.

The original safari truck from Crocodile Dundee was recently fixed and is working again.

The truck took Delaney to Winton's old Royal Theatre.

Delaney said being in the truck meant a lot to her, and it was great to see it fixed.

'A chance to see many Australian films'

All the hotels in Winton were booked during the festival's first weekend.

Jenney Stephenson comes to the festival every year from the Sunshine Coast.

Jenny Stephenson likes the festival's atmosphere.

Stephenson said she loves the uniqueness of the festival and gets dressed up for it.

She thinks the country is beautiful and full of life, with friendly locals and visitors.

Gregory Dolgopolov said the sold-out screening of Crocodile Dundee shows people want Australian films.

The festival is a chance to see many Australian films, which is rare in some areas.

Dolgopolov said people prefer Australian stories to imported ones.

Greg Dolgopolov thinks the film industry should invest in Australian productions.

It's better to support Australian films and writers than overseas productions.

Winton has been in several successful films and TV shows, like Total Control and Mystery Road.

New outback film coming soon

Kriv Stenders plans to make another film in the outback.

Kriv Stenders gave a hint about his next film, saying it's a thriller.

Stenders said the outback is great for filming because it's dramatic and cinematic.

The outback environment is simple, which makes it perfect for storytelling.

Film crews will return to Winton next year for Stenders' new thriller.

Stenders loves the festival and Winton's Royal Theatre, saying it's a special place for cinema.

A big crowd gathered outside Winton's old Royal Theatre.

Stenders said festivals like this are special because they bring people together to enjoy films.

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