Charles Sturt University (CSU) will be well represented at the film premiere of Backyard Ashes in Wagga Wagga tonight, Wednesday 6 November. 

 

Written by Mark Grentell and Peter Cox, the feature length comedy film was shot in Wagga Wagga. Backyard Ashes tells the story of how two neighbours attempt to solve their differences in the ultimate backyard cricketing challenge.

 

Lecturer in Design for Theatre and Television in the School of Communication and Creative Industries at CSU in Wagga Wagga Ms Sophie Kurylowicz was the film’s Production Manager.

 

She was joined by CSU students who were part of the cast and crew during four weeks of filming in 2012.  They worked as actors, in the art department, production and behind the camera.

 

Ms Kurylowicz said, “I wanted to be a part of Backyard Ashes because I was keen for the experience of working on a film, as well as supporting Mark Grentell and Peter Cox - Wagga theatre legends who I have known for several years.

 

“Working on a feature film in a regional centre was a beautiful experience.

 

“The community rallied together to make this film happen, not only financially, but generously with their time, resources and enthusiasm.

 

“I put the call out for a lawn mower on Facebook and 20 minutes later I had three mowers. We knocked on doors and asked to use their backyards and they welcomed us.

 

“For our students, the experience of working on a feature film was a wonderful learning environment. They also made professional industry contacts.

 

One of those was CSU student Miss Samantha Timbs, who was Production Assistant on Backyard Ashes.

“The experience of Backyard Ashes led me to change my career path. As I fell in love with working in film, I decided to change into the television production program at Charles Sturt University,” said Miss Timbs from Grenfell.

“I am very excited and nervous for the premiere. I know I'll love the film as I laughed and smiled all the way through the production. I just hope the Australian public will also get behind such a great independent film.”

Another television production student at CSU, Mr Jack Walsh, who is due to graduate in December, was Second Camera Assistant on Backyard Ashes.

 

“Working on a real film has given me a greater understanding of what is required in each role behind the scenes,” Mr Walsh said. “I’ve been able to use what I learnt about cameras and lenses in my own productions.”

 

Mr Walsh has just secured a job as a Production Assistant with Network Ten.