Two young Melbourne content creators have been named winners of the Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) annual Split Second Competition, which encourages emerging talent to raise awareness about road safety.
Rhys Delios Callanan and Olivia Hartanto were recognised for their standout concepts tackling the dangers of driving while tired and the importance of seatbelt use. Each winner will receive a $5,000 cash prize and $35,000 in production funding to bring their ideas to the screen.
Now in its sixth year, the Split Second Competition invites young filmmakers, animators and content creators to craft stories that resonate with Victorian audiences. This year marks the first time two winners have been selected.
Callanan’s concept, Fashionably Late, creatively explores how taking a short nap could help prevent fatigue-related accidents. The story draws on the horse-and-carriage era and turns the idea of being “fashionably late” into a positive safety message.
Hartanto’s entry, Captain Buckle, uses humour to highlight the life-saving importance of wearing seatbelts. Her win also reflects the competition’s new multicultural category, which aims to bring diverse voices into road safety storytelling.
Both projects were produced in partnership with leading creative agencies The Taboo Group and Truce Films, and will premiere at a special screening in February 2025.
TAC Head of Community Jacqui Sampson praised the winning concepts for their creativity and potential impact.
“Rhys and Olivia have used innovative storytelling to highlight important road safety issues. Their work has the power to influence behaviour and improve safety on Victorian roads,” she said.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
