Premier Mark McGowan and Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman visited the set of Mystery Road Series 2, to announce a $7 million contribution for the Western Australian screen industry.
The $7 million Lotterywest grant will support Screenwest's funding programs for 2019-20, underpinning the growth and success of the State's screen industry.
Screenwest enables innovative screen productions throughout WA, primarily in the areas of drama, documentary, animation, and digital production.
This last year alone saw Screenwest support four feature films, two scripted television series, two children's scripted television series and factual programs including:
- Dirt Music - the Tim Winton adaptation shot in the Kimberley and Esperance regions;
- The Heights - television series shot in East Perth and at ABC studios; and
- H is for Happiness - children's feature shot in the town centre and surrounds of Albany.
Screenwest has been supporting emerging indigenous filmmakers for content dedicated to NAIDOC Week. In collaboration with the City of Perth, Screenwest facilitated 'Celebrating Our Stories' screenings throughout Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week.
Screenwest backing has supported three Aboriginal directors in creating ABC drama series The Heights and Mystery Road Series 2.
Mystery Road Series 2, featuring acclaimed actors Aaron Pedersen and Jada Alberts, is currently being filmed in the Kimberley region at the Dampier Peninsula and in Broome, and is due to wrap up by the end of the month.
The McGowan Government's contribution through Lotterywest grants has supported Screenwest to produce more than 460 Western Australian feature films, television shows, documentaries and websites.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"Screenwest brings WA stories to life, showcasing our unique identity for audiences far and wide, and I am pleased to see this incredible work continue.
"For more than 25 years the State Government, through Lotterywest, has supported the WA film industry through Screenwest with more than $117 million in grants.
"It's popular shows like Mystery Road Series 2 that help promote Western Australia and support local jobs in the regions."
As stated by Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman:
"This grant will enable Screenwest to continue nurturing local talent within the arts as we work towards ensuring all Western Australians share in our State's prosperity.
"I am proud to support Screenwest and, in turn, the long-term future of WA's film industry through development and fostering of screen talent which creates jobs and supports our local economy."
