Content creators called to craft the Riverina's digital media future

Tim Kurylowicz from Eastern Riverina Arts (ERA) says there’s no reason why the Riverina can’t be setting the creative standard when it comes to digital content making.

“We know that there’s something really special about the Riverina region: it’s a creative region and a place where it is working for content creators of all kinds,” he said.

“Fundamentally, we want to know how we grow it.”

A survey was launched last week, calling for content creators from across the Riverina to help design a strategy to grow a local production sector.

Focusing on digital creatives, the survey is aimed at nailing down specific needs in terms of infrastructure, programming and support to empower local creatives.

“Whether you’re a filmmaker, podcaster, animator or designer, or involved in editing and post-production, we want to know what it might take to attract and keep people like you in the region,” Tim said.

“The Riverina punches above its weight when it comes to creativity. We have companies here delivering services such as filmmaking, animation, CGI and hybrid events to clients across Australia and the world.

“If we can get input from local creatives right now, we’ll come up with a strategy that is practical and comprehensive, and that plots a pathway to growth for our region’s economy and its vibrancy.”

The feedback will inform a new Riverina Digital Content Industry Strategy that will outline the next steps forward.

“Whether the need is for practical support or gear or programming or networking, whatever it is, we need to talk to industry experts and talk to the industry itself and find out what those needs are,” Tim explained.

“Then with that knowledge, organisations like ERA can start working very purposefully and deliberatively towards achieving it.”

Just a few months ago, ERA relocated to a new location at Wagga’s old ambulance station in Johnston Street and work is continuing to transform it into a multi-media arts hub.

Along with offices and gallery space, the Ambo Arts Hub will include a studio for audio, podcasting and photography.

Tim explained that the Riverina’s proximity to three major cities, along with the benefits of a regional lifestyle, made it an attractive option.

“We do have these cohorts of animators and people involved in CG post-production and visual effects, and we’ve got to build on that to be able to service Sydney and Melbourne and Canberra all in one place from here,” he said.

“This strategy is the opportunity for established people and also up-and-comers to weigh in and set up a booming industry.

“Let’s make the Riverina the inland location where the film industry and digital media industry really succeeds!”

The survey closes at 5 pm on 3 July and you can find out more here.