About this Short Film
The Story of Kate (Emmaus College, Australia, 2018) is a short film presented in the Focus on Ability festival. It explores the realities of school life for teenagers, highlighting themes of bullying, group dynamics and physical disability. The film draws attention to the everyday challenges and strengths that come with mobility impairment and wheelchair use, without claiming to speak for everyone. Gentle and observant in tone, it invites discussion about inclusion, respect and peer relationships in youth settings. A thoughtful addition to the programme, it offers audiences a chance to reflect on how schools and communities can better support young people with diverse abilities.
Film Details
Film Transcript
How long has the bullying been going on for prior to the incident yesterday?
Well, it's been happening for a while now, but it's gotten worse since I've been in high school.
Did you report the bullying?
Yes. It didn't change much, though.
Have you discussed these matters previously with the parent or guardian?
My sister's the only one I can talk to.
Why the only one?
Yeah, every day is busy for her. She always makes time for me, though.
What about your parents? What, you're in a school play? Lost on the song?
Yeah. Actually, that cake looks alright. I made even cooking today. I thought, since it's my dad's birthday, he's getting flowers too.
With your mother having left and your father passing, how did you both cope?
We needed space. My sister let me go out for a stroll every now and then. I died, although any time soon given what's happened.
Well, surprise, surprise. Did you think people like you actually used walking tracks? Nice to see you too. You know, I have to give it to you—well done forgetting out in the Belle difficult a skier.
Sorry, no. Those talks that have with my sister—she'd always told me to speak up, but I didn't know when enough is enough. So it didn't go down very well, not with 3k at least. Whoever's problem with us, my problem is with freaks likes. No wonder you don't have any friend. Maybe I don't. A few more people could actually get past this thing. Do you even have any idea how that feels?
Obviously not, because you're a stone-cold jerk. You've got some balls for a chick. Bigger ones and you'll ever have her. He...
Other news: a wheelchair-bound teenage girl has been located tonight. She was pushed into the local bushland earlier this afternoon. The perpetrators have since been identified, too.
Pretty. Yes, sir, ma'am. What was the motivation behind your actions? Getting on us, and do you think that justifies pushing her into the bush?
I hope you understand the grief you've put Kate and her sister through. You will be charged with assault and have to engage in community service, but as of now I think a sincere apology would be a good idea. Ricky, this is about you. We've already interviewed them all. I ask is you take responsibility and realise the pain you've caused.
I know what I did was wrong. I messed up, but the other two—they didn't do anything. They just stood there as I did it. I take full responsibility, so whatever punishments you're considering giving the others, lay them onto me because they didn't do anything. And Kate, I am sorry.
Filmmaker
Emmaus College is the filmmaker behind this entry. See every Focus on Ability entry from Emmaus College.
