The festive season is upon us complete with cracking thunderstorms, monsoon rains and stifling humidity. I write this as the crickets are chirping and the dark clouds are starting to roll in for another of natures powerful displays. As we say farewell to 2021, let’s be grateful for the small things before we wish for the big things. During this time of celebration, I have been catching up with family and friends, and as our conversations cast back on the year that has gone before, I am reminded of how lucky I am to do the job I do, surrounded by the incredible diversity of professionals most of whom I am fortunate to call mates and all with the support of my family who enable me to do what I do. I can only hope for you all that this too is how you feel about being a cinematographer.
Upon reflection of our most recent event, I think we would all agree that an enjoyable night was had at the Queensland branch awards night at Brisbane City Hall. I always enjoy catching up with everyone. An inspiring speech was delivered by Guest of Honour, Jeffery Walker. A big thank you to Jeff and his wife Brooke for making the effort after a long shoot week on ‘Young Rock’. Congratulations to all the winners and everyone who entered and to Mark Broadbent ACS for a well-deserved accreditation. Your persistence is matched by your skill as a cinematographer. Other highlights included life membership awarded to Steve Issac ACS, Tim Jordan in receiving the Edwin Scragg award and a very surprised Andrew Conder ACS for his outstanding support award. I extend a special thank you to the Queensland ACS committee. It is only now in my role as President that I truly come to value their efforts. Without their tireless work, the awards and the running of the state branch would not be possible. A shout out to all our sponsors for their financial and technical support without which our society couldn’t operate. I was pleased to meet some new faces and hope they are future ACS members many of those volunteered on the night. Your contribution is appreciated. Thank you again to Pip Courtney for being such an eloquent MC and to stills photographer, John Elliot for covering the evening. To have people of such outstanding calibre offering their time to celebrate a bunch of camera nerds is going above and beyond. We are already in discussions about courses and events in 2022 so keep and eye out and spread the word to others.
The ACS is excited about the news of film studios being set up in Cairns. We hope this translates to greater opportunities for North Queensland members and crew residing in the north. With more production in the northern part of our State, the breadth and depth of our industry should surely benefit. My intention as President is to expand our membership base in regional Queensland looking beyond Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. This is in line with seeking greater diversity and opportunity for those disadvantaged by distance. There is considerable talent already in these areas but we can do our bit to seek out and support emerging talent. I hope to see you all at the ACS Qld breakup party on Sunday 19th December for one of Luke Nixon’s tasty brews. It will commence at 4 p.m. at the Soapbox Brewery in the Valley. Stay safe this silly season and rest up over the break as 2022 is shaping up to be another busy year.
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