STRAIGHT TO THE POOLROOM. Tropfest 2026, the world’s largest short film festival, has this week shone a spotlight on the power of creative collaboration within JMC Academy’s creative community!
Silent Night, written and directed by JMC Lecturer Nicky Tyndale-Biscoe, was awarded Third Place at this year’s festival (which includes a $20k cash prize plus a Sony Camera Package valued at around $10k!). In addition, Nicky received the Pandora Women’s Brilliance Award, which celebrates women in film who are shaping the stories of tomorrow.
While these accolades are a significant recognition of Nicky’s skill and contribution to the screen industry, what makes this moment particularly meaningful to JMC are the lecturers, alumni and current students involved across the production (although being awarded the Tropfest trophy by THE Margot Robbie is also pretty epic!).
A Community Effort On Screen
Silent Night is a drama short that follows GP Sam, unexpectedly stranded at a lonely bus exchange on Christmas Eve, as her fading festive spirit is put to the test.
Behind the scenes, the project brought together JMC lecturers, alumni and current students in key creative and technical roles in a genuine example of industry collaboration emerging from within the JMC’s extensive network.
Key JMC crew members included:
- Nicky Tyndale-Biscoe – Writer & Director
- Peter George & Matt Kaylor – Executive Producers
- David Lees – Grading & Post Production Sound
- Maddie Rolls, Aaron Cilmi, Antonius Kleijn, Vicky Taleska, Smash Anderson, Giovanna Moura Casella – Current Students, Crew
- Lorencius Stefanus & Cassten Roberts – Alumni, Crew
This cross-section of experience from established practitioners to emerging creatives reflects the way JMC’s learning environment extends beyond the classroom. Students gain practical, credit-bearing experience alongside working professionals, while alumni remain connected through ongoing creative partnerships.
Leadership On and Off Screen
While Silent Night was very much a collaborative production, Nicky’s leadership as Writer and Director, with support from Executive Producers Peter and Matt, anchored the project. Working alongside the entire cast and crew inclusive of JMC alumni and current students, she guided the creative vision from script through to festival premiere.
The recognition at Tropfest underscores the value of having practicing industry leaders within the JMC faculty. Real, working professionals who are contributing to contemporary screen culture while mentoring the next generation of storytellers.
Support the Team
With Third Place secured, Silent Night is also in contention for the People’s Choice Award, with voting open until March 6 via the Tropfest website.
We congratulate Nicky and the entire Silent Night team and celebrate this achievement as a reflection of the strength, talent and collaborative spirit of the JMC community!
