Australia's National Local Government Newspaper Online

Television series to promote Central Australia

Alice Springs Town Council, together with the Northern Territory Department of Asian Relations Trade and Industry and the Department of Arts and Museums, is about to enter the film industry.

Their joint funding for the first two pilot episodes of a high quality television drama series set in the Centre is expected to promote economic growth, support employment and local skills development and encourage appreciation and use of the unique natural and cultural assets. The series will be produced by local company CAAMA Productions.

"The aim of the funding support is to assist in the development of credible projects which have the potential to bring long term benefits to the region," said Alice Springs Mayor, Andy McNeill. "If CAAMA Productions is successful in bringing this project to fruition beyond the first two pilot episodes, it will mean approximately $8 million a year being poured into the Alice Springs community and surrounding districts.

"The long term benefits of this would of course have a reflex effect across the Northern Territory."

CAAMA Productions Executive Producer, Matthew Flanagan, said he is confident the proposed series will raise the profile of Alice Springs, further promoting the town and its surrounds as tourist destinations.

The series is to be called 'Glen Helen' and will depict the unique world of Central Australia and its great beauty. By being made by a local company, Council is confident the material will be a faithful interpretation of the local community.

Matthew Flanagan said the production will create significant employment opportunities. Cast and crew will be using local accommodation, transport, catering and other local facilities. Andy McNeill said the series will highlight an important perspective on Central Australia's Indigenous and non Indigenous community, promoting entertainment, education and tolerance.

"As Australia deals with reconciliation, struggles to embrace difference and moves towards such milestones as the celebration of Federation and the millennium, a drama series such as 'Glen Helen' is timely," he said.

For further information contact Andy McNeill, telephone (08) 8950 0525.

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