Documentaries
How important is the truth?
In a world where reality can be hard to decipher, non-fiction storytelling has the power to shed light on critical issues. As a documentary film-maker, I'm passionate about capturing and sharing stories that inform and inspire.
Documentary - Keeper Of Bees
As a documentary filmmaker, I'm constantly seeking out compelling stories to share with the world. One of my recent projects, part of my ongoing series on the local farming community, proved to be both challenging and rewarding. After a hiatus from filmmaking, I was eager to dive back in and create a documentary that captured the heart and soul of a fascinating subject. The resulting film centered around Mark Cooley, a local beekeeper and family man whose passion for his craft is truly inspiring. I'm honored that the documentary was officially selected for the prestigious Melbourne Documentary Film Festival, and I'm excited to continue sharing meaningful stories with audiences.
Mark's journey from childhood to adulthood and his role as a beekeeper are beautifully intertwined in this documentary. As he recounts his story, we see how he finds peace and purpose in nature, among his family and his beloved bees. Centered around an intimate interviews, this film captures the essence of Mark's life's work and his deep connection to the natural world.
Documentary - The Tatmens
Making this documentary was an exhilarating and ultimately fulfilling experience. While the filming process was a breeze, earning the trust of the farmer and his family proved to be a challenge. Shot as part of a self-produced series titled ‘Splate’, one of the highlights of the project was discovering a compelling subplot with one of the farm's employees, which added depth and nuance to the film. However, the true payoff came when I shared the final cut with David Tatmen and his family. Witnessing their initial apprehension transform into pride was an unforgettable moment. It was an honor to convey to them that their story had been told with the utmost respect and attention to detail.
David is a second-generation organic farmer and a passionate advocate for biodynamic farming. He spends most of his time on the road, transporting his vegetables to markets, or vending at local farmers' markets. But when he's not on the go, you'll find David working tirelessly on the land, from dawn till dusk, seven days a week. He's deeply committed to his craft and takes a holistic approach to farming that's rooted in sustainability and care for the environment. With his years of experience and unwavering dedication to his work, David is an inspiration to all who know him.
Documentary - Landcarer
This documentary was a true labor of love, requiring immense sensitivity and mindfulness due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter. The main subject, Simon Falkner, generously allowed me access to his life's work on soil amelioration, and even welcomed me into his home to interview his family. The learning curve was steep, but I was determined to do justice to this important topic. Through extensive research and collaboration with local experts, I gained a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by Simon and his family. The resulting documentary, "Landcarer," is a tribute to their dedication and hard work.
Simon Falkner is a farmer of many disciplines, but in his later years, he's focused on sharing his knowledge with future generations and the urban community. This documentary is a celebration of generational farming, exploring the ways in which Simon's expertise and passion have been passed down through the years. Through stunning visuals and intimate interviews, we see how Simon's dedication to his craft has shaped his life and the lives of those around him. As a recipient of the Bob Hawke Award for Land Care, Simon's commitment to sustainable and responsible land management is evident throughout the film. This documentary is a testament to the power of generational knowledge and the importance of preserving it for future generations.