Slim Dusty

In August, 2013 I had the opportunity to work with John Moore (Sensible Films/ 360 Degrees Films) on a documentary about Slim Dusty. We traveled up to the Gympie Muster to capture some of Slim's old fans and his family singing various tribute gigs. Slim Dusty's grandson, James Arneman is the director/writer. It was a pleasure to work him and also with the really experienced crew - Peter Zacharov on camera and Mark Tarpey on sound, who are always generous with their knowledge, kind, and fun to work with. I also worked with Peter Zac on an SBS Documentary - “The Bipolar Bears” about a Melbourne based rock band who all experienced various mental health challenges. Just watching him taught me alot. Peter gave me some really helpful advice as I jumped on 3rd camera for the final Slim Dusty shoot. He said something my father has also reminded me of time and time again. The KISS method, which stands for “Keep It Simple Stupid”. There’s no point in making things overcomplicated and not getting the shot you need in the end. Keep the camera steady and focus on the action. Choose a frame and stay there while the action moves around within it.

Peter, Mark and John have all been in the industry for over 30 years each. I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to work with them on several occasions and learn the craft of documentary making alongside them. John Moore produced and wrote “HAROLD: A portrait of Harold Blair” in 1995. Directed by: Steve Thomas, who was my Documentary lecturer at the VCA. It’s an important story for Queensland and is often exhibited and referred to in terms of First nation’s history and activism.