Bundaberg students shine on screen and off with TV Masterclass

CQUniversity Digital Media students have taken their big career dreams to the small screen, with a Bundaberg masterclass growing connection to the TV industry.

Twelve students participated in the two-day intensive with Wide Bay ITV, led by experienced filmmaker and producer Phillip Harris.

Organised and coordinated by CQUniversity Digital Media lecturer Regina John Luan, the sessions tapped into considerable talent of the student cohort.

She explained that the practical opportunity was exciting for the students, and for the future of locally-produced media.

“Authentic learning in the field of filmmaking and television production is so important for students wanting to gain practical experience and skills, and this masterclass leveraged huge expertise from Philip Harris, the founder of Wide Bay ITV,” she said.

“Through immersive and interactive instruction, the two days saw the students develop critical thinking, creativity, and communication abilities required for producing high-quality film and TV content, and for tackling real-life production challenges.

“The masterclasses also offer an opportunity for mentorship and networking with industry experts, which can further enhance students' career prospects.”

Creating episodes of the Wide Bay ITV program series titled Filmmaker Journey that will air in the coming weeks, the student team tackled a wide variety of production roles. The first guest on the upcoming ITV show is David Pierson, a graduate of Bachelor of Digital Media now owner and director of David Pierson Films.

Jasmin Minniecon discovered a talent as a director of the program, while Timothy Blackwell and Trinity Darrow presented the program, and Jeni Howard, Dayna Murnane and Amanda Rule were camera operators, Sara Mcdonald as the arts director, and CQU Digital Media graduate Daniel Griffin as sound technician.

Ms Luan commended the enthusiasm of the students, and their determination to learn new skills.

Wide Bay ITV launched in 2022, and is a video on demand and stream service from experienced Australian television identity Philip Harris.

The executive producer of 280 episodes of River to Reef on 7Mate and distributed across 30 international networks, Mr Harris has also produced documentaries, news bulletins, and a broad array of advertising productions.

Wide Bay ITV has a TV studio in West Bundaberg and is determined to put regional content creation back in the hands of regional people.