Spanning savannas, gorges and crocodile-filled rivers, the Kimberley is one of the most remote and biodiverse regions in Australia – and now, it’s the focus of a stunning new documentary series from the ABC.
Narrated by actor and Nyikina man Mark Coles Smith, The Kimberley brings together Indigenous knowledge and modern science in a three-part exploration of the land, its seasons, and the creatures that call it home.
The news comes as ABC continues to grow its slate of local natural history programming.
From ABC:
Mark Coles Smith explores the breathtaking wonders of The Kimberley in May
Get ready to embark on an incredible journey with award-winning actor Mark Coles Smith (Mystery Road: Origin) as he explores one of Australia’s most remote and majestic landscapes during The Kimberley.
In the remote North-Western corner of Australia lies a magnificent landscape that defies time. The Kimberley spans over 400,000 square kilometres – three times the size of England – and contains sprawling savannas, towering gorges, rivers, tropical coastlines and desert.
The region’s rugged terrain provides a last refuge for countless rare mammals, reptiles and birds, including the world’s smallest marsupial, and the largest and fiercest reptile.
Guided by Mark, a Nyikina man from the lower Martuwarra (Fitzroy River) area, this three-part series is an adventure into a place like nowhere else on Earth.
Following the six distinct seasons on the Nyikina calendar – Lalin, Jirrbal, Willakarra, Koolawa, Barrakana and Willbooroo – we track the quest of the Traditional Owners and passionate ecologists working to protect the region’s incredible biodiversity.
With daring camerawork and cutting-edge cinematography techniques, this landmark natural history series captures never-before-seen animal sequences as we share a year in the lives of the unique wildlife that calls The Kimberley home.
Production Credits: Commissioned by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. The Kimberley is a Wild Pacific Media production for the ABC. Major production investment from Screen Australia in association with the ABC.
Financed with support from Screen NSW. The series has been produced in association with international broadcasters Love Nature and Arte France. Blue Ant Studios will manage international sales. Post, digital and visual effects supported by Screen NSW.
Directed by Nick Robinson. Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. Written and produced by Nick Robinson, Peta Ayers and Mark Coles Smith. Executive Producers Electra Manikakis and Nick Robinson. Director of Photography Jack Riley. Editors Bobbi Hansel, Caspar Mazzotti and Jack Riley.
ABC Commissioning Editor Stephen Oliver. ABC Head of Documentary and Specialist Susie Jones.
