The talented young Scone film-maker walked away with the ultimate prize at the 2016 Blue Heeler Film Festival with his superb animated offering, Blue.

“Yes, I’m really surprised,” he said.

“But, it’s a great feeling.

“I’ve never been in a film festival before.

“I might give a few more a shot now.”

The People’s Choice Award, which was voted on at the event’s opening night at Highbrook Park on Friday, went to Lleyton Hails with Madness.

For the second consecutive year, Joseph Brown claimed a victory in the junior category.

In 2015, he prevailed with The Secret Service and, at the weekend, he tasted success with Toxic Zone – from Blew It (4M St James’ Primary School) and Blue Barrier (Isaac Hill).

“I think it’s a fantastic event,” Joseph said.

“Well done to everyone involved for making it possible.

“The Blue Heeler Film Festival provides us with a terrific opportunity to showcase our creative talents in a rural community.

“I’d like to thank the actors, sponsors and organisers.”

Down at River Blue allowed Hugo Morgan to take out the senior category from Are You Feeling Blue Today? (Indya Howden), Blue Daydream (Jessica Vanderdonk), Blue Night Out (Hector Macintyre), Madness (Lleyton Hails) and Something Borrowed, Something Blue (Merriwa Central School).

Alexandra Moon captured the open crown with The Dress, ahead of Anxious (Monica Brown), Blue (Braydon Walmsley), Monkey on Your Back (Andrew Thomas) and The Last Banana (Dominic Fitzgerald).

Blue Heeler Film Festival organiser Casey Gilbey said she was happy with the event.

“The response, from participants and locals, has been excellent,” she said.

“I’d like to thank sponsors Bengalla, Regional Australia Bank, Harvey Norman, Screen Hunter, Muswellbrook Shire Council and Two Rivers, as well as media partners Muswellbrook Chronicle, Power-FM and 2NM.”