The world’s first and foremost LGBT documentary film festival, queerDOC, opens in Newtown 3 September. Produced by Queer Screen, the annual festival presents the best films on real queer lives, and this year’s theme “Satisfy your Qriosity” explores the relationship between documentaries and voyeurism.

Featuring as part of this year's festival is local production Holding Hands by Sydneysiders Tonette Stanford and Katherine Wilkinson. The film is presented in partnership with ACON to raise awareness and funs for ACON's Lesbian and Gay Anti-Violence Project.

Holding Hands chronicles the experience of Craig and Shane, a gay couple who fell victim to a brutal hate crime off Oxford Street in 2007. The image of Craig’s shattered face on the cover of the Sydney Star Observer called Sydney’s queer community to action, and as the couple lead the 2008 Mardi Gras Parade, the community was reminded of our continued struggle for safety and acceptance. Craig and Shane's story is interwoven with discussions on homophobic violence from Sydney’s queer community, police officers, and Lord Mayor.

ACON will be participating in a forum after the screening with Craig Gee, the filmmakers and members of Sydney's queer community, discussing homophobic violence in Sydney and our efforts to reduce these ugly attacks, and improve services to their victims.

What, when, where?

What: Holding Hand screening

When: Saturday 5 September @ 7pm

Where: Dendy Cinema, King St Newtown

More info: www.queerscreen.com.au