ACOFS BULLETIN 

November 2005

NUMBER 9

THE NATIONAL FILM AND VIDEO LENDING SERVICE IS BACK IN BUSINESS.

At a meeting with David Boden and Kate McLoughlin last week it was established that new titles are currently being acquired, with others in the pipeline. Also a long-term strategy is being evolved using, in part, the results of the survey carried out earlier this year. The first batch of new titles has been circulated in a NFVLS Bulletin and the next batch will be available and Catalogued by the end of February. So leave a few spaces in your programme for 2006 if you have not already completed your bookings.
The most encouraging fact to come out of the meeting is that all titles, no matter the format, will be available to Film Societies.
This means that you can screen DVDs or VHS titles with only the restrictions (no door sales) that formerly applied to 16mm. There will be no titles acquired 'FOR EDUCATIONAL USE ONLY'.
Secondly all previous restrictions will be lifted in due course as rights are renewed. We will eventually have access to all the features previously available only to schools and colleges.

WE NEED TO PRODUCE A WISH LIST OF THE TITLES ALREADY IN THE CATALOGUE THAT THE FILM SOCIETY MOVEMENT WISHES TO HAVE RESTRICTIONS LISTED.
TO THIS END WOULD SOCIETIES PLEASE EMAIL ME BEFORE CHRISTMAS WITH A LIST OF TITLES THEY WOULD SCREEN IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF YEARS, IF RESTRICTIONS WERE LIFTED.

I have a more detailed list of titles than the one published in the NFVLS Bulletin, which I can email to anyone interested. It contains titles such as 'Breaking the Waves' and ' Lantana' on DVD. The list of titles that are still being negotiated is not for publication as publicity could affect the price to be paid. But it contains several recently released features and documentaries. Also many new Australian short films are being purchased which should generate a renewed interest in presenting a full programme. The free short with feature continues.
The acquisition policy will still concentrate on 16mm but DVD or VHS copies will be purchased where available. All titles on which the rights had expired have been renewed and this policy will continue.
Damaged and faded prints will be replaced, either in part or in their entirety. However this depends on our screening reports being completed and we must lift our game. Only 50% of screening reports are completed, we should aim to lift this to at least 80%.

If you did not receive a copy of the NFVLS Bulletin please contact John Brady on 1800 012 175, 02 6248 2282 or john.bradvafc.qov.au

If you have any matters you would like me to raise with David Boden, Kate, or Rod please email me at JOHNTURNER10@biqpond.com.au and please don't forget the wish list of film titles before Christmas.

ACOFS AGM AND CONFERENCE 2006
March 31st, April 1st and 2nd. Masonic Hall, 3 Sandy Point Rd., HOBART. TASMANIA.
David Boden and others will attend and give a presentation on developments with the NFVLS.
ACMI will also update developments with the Lending Collection (including French, Chinese Embassy Collections etc).
This is your chance to be heard. If you cannot attend make sure your state representatives know your views, problems, requirements or any other statement you wish to make.
John Turner