A film which doesn't shy away from the dark aspects of Australian history, the creators of Myall Creek Day of Justice have hit a road block in bringing their story to the big screen.
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A retelling of the devastating 1838 Myall Creek massacre in which 28 Aboriginal people lost their lives and the historic trials which followed, leading to the hanging of seven of the perpetrators; the film stalled after post house Silver Sun Pictures left the BIG Movie company project.
The independent feature has attracted several well established actors, including Travis McMahon (Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries, I Love You Too), Marcus Graham (Underbelly, Mullholland Drive) and Roy Billing OAM (The Dish, Underbelly).
Filming wrapped up in Goondiwindi last year and director Brad Diebert has invested many hours in editing, but will need professionals to complete the audio, colour grading, special effects and credits.
Still determined to share the story, filmmakers are taking quotes from small businesses, skilled freelancers and Indigenous post-production specialists as they seek to $80,000 for post production and $30,00 for a national promotional campaign.
"Unfortunately our creative team doesn't qualify for any government grants as yet, so we have been relying on our generous executive producers Michael and Stephen Marschall, Colin Kratzing, Dr Allan Philips and Lorraine Marino," producer Tania Marino said.
"We are so passionate about this project and have a lot of high hopes for it as a film. A film that not only increases awareness about the truth of our shared history with our nation's first people, but also helps raise our consciousness in order to work together toward making change that leans toward future generations living together in harmony, embracing cultural differences with dignity intact."
Day of Justice follows the actions of Edward 'Denny' Day, the police commissioner who pursued and arrested the murderers.
"A compassionate man, and religious man he worked continuously to uphold the law in a society that was showing signs of an irresponsible government which was creating money hungry land owners and settlers," Ms Marino said.
Portrayed by Paul Murphy, Mr Day struggled with post traumatic stress, alcoholism and public outrage as he continued his relentless investigation of the massacre.
"Referred to by many as a forgotten hero, his life both personally and professionally was one of immense courage and bravery," she said.
Ms Marino acknowledges that Day of Justice will highlight some "ugly truths" of Australia's history and says the creative team hopes to raise awareness of the poor treatment of Indigenous people both nationally and internationally.
"We hope that the way we tell the story will move the audiences on an emotional level. It would be great to see a positive change from both the Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures in order to become a more integrated country in the future," she said.
She said the creative team was inspired by the stories they heard from direct descendants of both sides of the massacre.
"An organic development that happened in the creative process after talking with the Elders, we decided to use a universal visual motif throughout the film that represents letting go and transformation," Ms Marino said.
To follow the progress of the film, visit the Myall Creek: Day of Justice Facebook page.