2025 Judges

Krista Vendy and Bruce Hunt-Hughes are returning to judge the Benalla Shorts films in 2025.

​KRISTA VENDY

Krista Vendy has balanced her acting and modelling with a lifelong interest in charity, which is evident by her commitment as judge, now returning for her 6th gig.  Krista is an Australian actress known for her roles on TV shows including Neighbours, where she played teacher Teresa “Tess" Bell.

Since Neighbours, Krista has guest starred in television roles in Australia and the USA including Blue Heelers, Shock Jock, Nightmares and Dreamscapes, Leverage and Mental.  

Her film credits include The Writer, Fat Pizza, Horse Play and The Incredible Hulk and Matching Jack.

---

​BRUCE HUNT HUGHES
​
Bruce holds a Bachelor Arts from the University of Western Australia and is also a graduate of the National Institute of the Dramatic Arts.(NIDA).  He is a highly-regarded facilitator and coach, who bases his work on more than 20 years of experience as a professional actor.

His extensive experience working in theatre and on screen, includes a season with “The Streetcar named Desire” in London.

Bruce is a mainstay of Australian television and is known for his roles in “A Country Practice”, “Halifax F.P”, “HOWZAT Kerry Packer War” , “ The Portable Door” and many more.
Film credits include “The Man From Snowy River”, Ghost Rider”, ”Darkness Falls”, “The Visitors” and “Rush”.