Here I was thinking, "I'm the only Australian here."

Yes, you have to start somewhere.

How does this site work? I think it tends to work best if you're in the States, particularly NYC. Especially if you can go to the workshops and stuff advertised. Does it work for me being overseas? Sometimes, I haven't worked with or met anyone from this site though. I do get to hear things that I wouldn't hear in the Australian industry. Kim writes a hello once in a while which is nice (he's the dude who's running this show).

As filmmakers, IMHO, the world should be your industry, not just coz you're living in Oz, that it should be the Australian one. Besides, I've gotten more interest in my shorts from filmmakers (and compliments too!) State-side, than Australia (figure that one out!). Though I think you've got that idea already being here.

I guess my biggest question although not completely urgent is this. Was it hard for you to start out, say straight from film school? I've just recently graduated and have followed advice from my Mentor, lecturers and other guest speakers (networking, you get jobs from work experience, etc), but at the moment, nothing seems to work. I do work hard on set even when I'm not paid and I am respectful to all HOD's, crew and cast. I came really close (Top 5) in fact, for an Associate Video Producer job out of 300 applicants at a big commercials and internet video house in Sydney, and though was creative enough for the job, lost out because of my youth and need of more experience.

How can I get anywhere if no one gives me a chance? I'm trying to open doors, but they just won't budge. What should I be doing that I am not doing? Any advice from anyone more experienced than I would be very much appreciated.