Screen Australia has announced a significant investment of over $1.7 million in funding, set to benefit seven new documentary projects.
This funding allocation is split between the Commissioned Program, which will support three documentaries, and the Producer Program, under which four projects will receive funding.
Deeper takes us on an intriguing journey with Thai Cave Rescue divers, Dr. Richard “Harry” Harris and Dr. Craig Challen, as they explore the world’s deepest freshwater cave. The project promises to delve deep into the challenges and relationships formed in the depths of the Pearse Resurgence in New Zealand.
In contrast, Skin in the Game spotlights the dynamics of rugby league and women’s sport in Australia, through the perspective of Marlee Silva, a proud Gamilaroi and Dunghutti woman. Silva, a rising star in sports commentary, explores the future direction of this sport in the nation.
Floodland documents the devastating impact of the 2022 floods on Lismore, Australia’s most flood-prone postcode. It goes beyond the catastrophe to question the survival and future of the region.
The SBS documentary, Osher Günsberg: My Journey Beyond Pain, follows the presenter’s personal exploration into the realm of chronic pain and the extremes of human experience regarding pain. This documentary serves as a sequel to the acclaimed Osher Günsberg: A Matter of Life and Death.
Alex West, Screen Australia’s Head of Documentary, commented on the diverse nature of these projects.
“From exploring the natural phenomena and the power of Mother Nature to the complexity of our minds and bodies, this diverse collection of documentaries is not to be missed.
We are proud to be supporting such talented creatives in our shared mission to bring voices from all walks of life to the screen and are excited that viewers will have the opportunity to be immersed in these deeply personal stories.”
In addition to these, the Commissioned Program also includes Unofficial History, a three-part series for SBS. This documentary cracks open Australia’s history, focusing on the 1970s – a period of significant transformation and challenge for underrepresented groups in the country.
The Producer Program is also funding The Musical Mind a portrait in process, a feature-length documentary inspired by the 25th anniversary of the movie Shine. It explores the creative processes of four elite international musicians, and Welcome to Yiddishland, an observational documentary about the revival of the Yiddish language by a global movement of artists.
These documentaries not only cover a wide range of topics but also highlight the diverse storytelling talent present in Australia. The latest funding from Screen Australia is a testament to the country’s commitment to nurturing and showcasing diverse voices and stories through the powerful medium of documentaries.
