A brand-new feature film, Language of Birds, has wrapped filming in East Arnhem Land, with a $1.1 million investment by the Finocchiaro CLP Government through Screen Territory.The production has supported 30 local crew, 224 community members, and local businesses - generating $4.2 million in Territory spending. Finocchiaro CLP Government will continue to back Territory stories and Territory talent as we attract visitors and grow our visitor economy.
East Arnhem Land is once again headed for the big screen, as brand-new Australian feature film, Language of Birds, wraps up filming in iconic locations like Yirrkala, Gunyangara and Nhulunbuy. It comes as the region graced the front cover of Harper's BAZAAR with global supermodel, Elle McPherson touting the region as a must-visit luxury destination.
Backed by a $1.1 million investment from the Finocchiaro CLP Government, the five-week production has already generated around $4.2 million in local spending - supporting local jobs and local businesses in a region that continues to take the world by storm.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality and Major Events Marie-Clare Boothby said the production was an example of how the Territory's screen and tourism industries could support local jobs while sharing the local stories with the world.
"East Arnhem Land is one of the most extraordinary places in Australia, with culture, landscapes and stories you simply won't find anywhere else - and films and front pages are showing that to be true," Minister Boothby said.
"We've already seen East Arnhem Land capture national attention: from Australian Traveller listing Nhulunbuy as a top town shaping culture, to Elle Macpherson's stunning cover on the October edition of Harper's Bazaar. And now, Language of Birds will compel more viewers - and ultimately, visitors - to experience our unique Territory lifestyle and luxury for themselves."
"Screen Territory is the brainchild of the CLP. We know that screen has a powerful role to play in converting viewers to visitors, as we share Territory stories, elevate Territory talent, and promote all that makes the NT - and particularly our regions, one-of-a-kind."
Senior Director of Screen Territory, Jennie Hughes, said the production had brought together Territory talent and Yolŋu communities to tell an important story.
"Language of Birds brings together extraordinary First Nations talent, powerful storytelling and the spectacular landscapes of North East Arnhem Land," Ms Hughes said.
"We are proud to support Territory creatives working alongside Yolŋu communities to bring these stories to audiences around the world."
Minister Boothby said the Government's Visitor Economy Strategy 2032 highlighted the importance of Aboriginal culture and authentic experiences in growing the Territory's visitor economy to $3 billion.
"In our year of growth, certainty and security we are absolutely leveraging our unique strengths, and working together to create more opportunities for Territorians - and naturally, more reasons for people to live, work, visit and invest in the NT."
The Language of Birds was written and directed by Erica Glynn, and stars local Yolŋu actor Rärriwuy Hick in her first lead role alongside Merrkiyawuy Ganambarr-Stubbs. The film is based on the novel, Of Ashes and Rivers that Run to the Sea by Marie Munkara, telling the story of an Aboriginal mother and daughter reconnecting after a lifetime apart.
It will make its premiere at the Adelaide Film Festival in October 2027.
