The Melbourne Queer Film Festival, Australia’s largest film festival celebrating the stories of LGBTQI+ communities, has announced David Martin Harris as its new Chief Executive Officer.
David Harris brings a depth of understanding of LGBTQI+ communities and experience within the arts sector from organisations including the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Carriageworks, Australian Centre for Contemporary Art and West Australian Ballet.
Co-President Molly Whelan says the board of MQFF were impressed by David’s background and experience in cultural institutions and their passion for the communities that the festival services.
“When you’re looking for a CEO the dream is finding someone with the drive, excitement and skills to do the role – In David we think we’ve found the triple threat!,” said Molly.
Co-President David Micallef says David Harris joins MQFF at an important time for the festival and for the arts sector.
“Our festival has adapted quickly to moving online and in response to lockdowns and capacity restrictions but there is no doubt that after two-years of dealing with COVID-19 we are going to need to be innovative in how we engage our communities, arts audiences and our partners,” said David.
“David’s mix of skills in partnerships, knowledge of the arts sector and connection with our communities are the perfect mix to lead us into the next stage and we are excited to be working with them.”
Incoming CEO David Harris says they are…“deeply humbled by the Board’s decision to appoint me as CEO. I’ve long loved MQFF – the Festival’s role in bringing queer stories to Victorian audiences has a life-affirming impacts for our communities.”
“I’m thrilled to be working with such a dedicated Board, staff and all the wonderful volunteers that make MQFF happen,” said David.
David Harris will officially join MQFF in mid-November as the organisation heads into its 31st festival between 18 and 29 November – making it one of the first festivals coming out of Melbourne’s lockdown.
Tickets for the 31st Melbourne Queer Film Festival will go on sale on 28 October 2021. For more information, visit: www.mqff.com.au for details.
Image: David Martin Harris (supplied)