We’re excited to announce that expressions of interest are now open for 'Stories From Here', a brand new community storytelling program produced by Made in the West Creative and supported by Penrith City Council through the Magnetic Places grant program.
This free workshop series will run in 2026 and is open exclusively to Penrith residents, particularly those in Cranebrook. Over several weeks, a small group of locals will have the opportunity to learn how to shape and share their own video stories — whether it’s about a local hero, a special place, or a moment that matters to them.
The final works will be featured in public spaces, online, or even at a community screening, turning Cranebrook into a map of local voices and hidden gems.
Stories From Here is a hands-on video workshop series where participants will learn how to plan, film, and shape their own short documentary or community story. You’ll be guided by the Made in the West team and mentored by local filmmakers — no prior experience needed.
You might choose to tell the story of your neighbour who runs the local food drive, your aunty who’s been teaching music from her front room for 20 years, or even your own journey as a young artist growing up in Cranebrook. Whether it’s heartfelt, historic, or creative, your story deserves to be told — and we’ll help you do it.
The workshops will be delivered locally in a supportive, small-group environment. You’ll walk away with new skills, new connections, and your very own short video documentary, ready to be shared with your community.
At Made in the West, we know that storytelling is a powerful way to build connection, visibility and pride — especially in the suburbs where creativity often flies under the radar. Stories From Here is all about celebrating where we live and the people who make our communities great.
At Made in the West, we’ve spent over a decade championing emerging creatives from Western Sydney. With Stories From Here, we’re bringing that mission to the streets — one suburb at a time.
By giving Cranebrook residents the tools to tell their own stories, we’re creating a local story map reflects the diversity, resilience and creativity of the people who call it home.
Who can apply?
Anyone who lives in Penrith! No experience needed — just a good story or a willingness to discover one.
Does it cost anything?
Nope — participation is 100% free, thanks to support from Penrith City Council.
What kind of story can I tell?
Anything that celebrates local life — people, places, music, memories, community initiatives, or creative journeys. We’ll help you shape it into something great.
Do I need a fancy camera?
No — a phone is totally fine! We’ll show you how to capture great footage with what you’ve got.
When are the workshops?
Workshops will start in March 2026 and will take place in Cranebrook. Exact dates will be confirmed with selected participants based on their preferences.
If you live in Cranebrook and you’ve got a story to tell — or if you know someone who does — now is the time to step forward.
Apply now to register your interest HERE
Places are limited — EOI is open now until 31 January 2026.
If you’re ready to get creative, learn something new, and put your suburb on the map, we want to hear from you!