Virtual Reality (VR) is redefining the approach of contemporary filmmaking. Learn about the cutting-edge technology, immersive storytelling and the challenges of virtual reality with Australian VR filmmakers Oscar Raby (The Turning Forest/Easter Rising), Penelope Thomas (VR Noir), Martin Taylor (VR Noir), Michael Beets (Jafri) and Tracey Taylor (executive producer, The Pulse VR). Moderated by George Hedon (Pausefest).

Martin Taylor is Head of Content at Sydney-based studio Start VR, where he oversees production and forges new storytelling techniques. Martin's background is 20 years in filmmaking and creative direction but he also studied viewer psychology and semiotics. This all helps to craft Virtual World narratives that mirror and bend the rules of reality. Recently, Martin has co-written and produced Start VR's immersive detective thriller VR Noir: A Day Before The Night.

Michael Beets is a director for immersive content and digital experiences. He strives on keeping up to date with new technologies, and seeing how traditional storytelling can be converged with new media. His interest in merging medias to create a new narrative delivery have shaped his recent projects including Jafri. In 2013, Michael was approached by Sundance to pitch for their invite only New Frontier Story Labs for his transmedia project Champions Eat Eggplant. Michael enjoys collaborative environments, brainstorming ideas and creating stories.

Tracey Taylor has been working as the Executive Producer and General Manager at The Pulse, a creative studio in Sydney, for three years. Originally working in large screen, interactive experiential projects at Spinifex Group. Taylor is an expert in VR and experiential production.

George Hedon has come a long way from his days studying Design at Swinburne University. He has taken his love and passion for creativity to become the leading founder of Pause Fest. A creative tech conference that aspires to bring together a new generation of thinkers, creators and technological minds to encourage collaboration, innovation and a sense of community.