The potential for Far North Queensland to develop as a screen hub is the focus of a new Screen Queensland initiative, with an aim to grow the state’s capacity.

“Screen Queensland is working with Cairns Regional Council to develop opportunities and networks for the Cairns region to develop talent and projects,” said Screen Queensland CEO, Tracey Vieira.

Screen Queensland has engaged Screenworks, an organisation with national expertise in promoting local screen culture, to undertake a range of work for Far North Queensland (FNQ).

Consultation with the FNQ screen industry will include a local industry forum, one on one consultations and an online survey to be undertaken later this year.

A Screen Queensland staff member will also be based in Cairns for two days each month, beginning in September.

“This additional engagement will build on Screen Queensland’s work in the region to deliver a roadmap for Far North Queensland,” Ms Vieira said.

Screen Queensland has supported a number of recent productions shot in Far North Queensland including the documentaries Great Barrier Reef 3D and Wik vs Queensland and television series Blue Water Empire and The Code.

The initiative ‘Straight out of the Straits’, an Australian-first partnership between Screen Queensland, Screen Australia and ABC iView, is funding two new factual web series from the Torres Strait Islands.

Ms Vieira said Far North Queensland was home to many experienced local practitioners across television, feature films and underwater series.

“Screen Queensland will continue to engage with Cairns City Council in its capacity as a film-friendly council to attract production to the region,” Ms Vieira said.