VicScreen and Fremantle announce major training scheme for Neighbours
“Neighbours has been the cornerstone of industry training in Victoria for many years, setting a standard we’re incredibly proud of."
VicScreen and Fremantle have announced the Neighbours Training Program, a major on-the-ground training initiative embracing emerging creatives made possible with production resuming today following Amazon Freevee resurrecting the series and Network 10 continuing its long-time partnership.
The program continues the Neighbours decades-long commitment to new talent behind the camera. Backed entirely by VicScreen, the collaboration provides opportunities across a spectrum of above and below-the-line production specialities including directing, writing, production, postproduction, art department, accounting, sound, lighting, and grips, to gain experience.
Previous participants of VicScreen and Neighbours’ training programs are now actively working in the industry with some joining the production team on the new chapter of the Neighbours including Tenika Smith, Iain Pirret and Guy Strachan directing. More recent graduates of the program, Harry Lloyd will return to direct a block of Neighbours in 2023, along with Bridget Bourke who undertook a sound department attachment.
Additionally, the scheme will see the return of previous directors’ placements Grace Feng Fang Juan and Lara Kose to further their training as directors. The long-running series was given a lifeline late last year by Amazon Freevee and Prime Video, with original Australian broadcaster Network 10 continuing its support, ensuring positions for approximately 450 permanent full-time and part-time cast and crew, freelancers and associated businesses.
Caroline Pitcher, VicScreen CEO, said: “For over three decades, Neighbours built a rich legacy as a vital training ground for emerging filmmakers. We are proud to support the return of the series through this development initiative, which will continue the production’s history of fostering local talent and growing an expertly skilled screen workforce.”
Greg Woods, Fremantle CEO, Australia, said: “Neighbours has been the cornerstone of industry training in Victoria for many years, setting a standard we’re incredibly proud of. We’re thrilled to join with VicScreen again to continue this tradition with full support of our partners Amazon Freevee, Prime Video and Network 10.
Applicants for Writer and Director opportunities can apply via VicScreen’s dedicated application portal.
