Founded by acclaimed author and filmmaker Adam Morris, the Co-Op is set to produce one film annually over the next decade, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of the Great Southern region.

Since its inception, the GSFC has thrived with the generous support of Ian Hale, managing director of HALO Films, and is currently bolstered by the expertise of Little Fort Productions for film production and post-production services.

“I’m truly honored and excited to be involved in showcasing this unique and stunning region of the world to local audiences through HALO Films with the assistance of the Great Southern business community,” says Ian Hale.

HALO Films’ managing director Ian Hale.

More than a film initiative, the GSFC is a community-driven project that actively engages with local businesses and arts communities, celebrating the cultural tapestry in and around Albany. The Co-Op operates independently of government funding, relying solely on contributions from its supporters to bring stories to life on the silver screen.

“I am passionate about building a platform that not only produces outstanding films but also nurtures and gives back to the community that supports us,” affirms Adam Morris, founder of GSFC.

The Co-Op’s commitment goes beyond filmmaking, with initiatives that include community screenings, on-screen representation, skill development for local filmmakers, and the promotion of local facilities and talent. It aims to foster a vibrant and sustainable film culture in the Great Southern region.

Already in production of its third feature film, Frederickstown, starring Peter Rowsthorn, Myles Pollard and Travis Jeffery, the Co-Op proudly acknowledges its main sponsors including Bendigo Bank, The Hilton Hotel, and Stirling Ranges Beef.

Businesses, organisations, and individuals are invited to contribute to this cultural endeavor, whether through funding, in-kind support, or one-off donations. Every contribution, big or small, plays a crucial role in building and celebrating the local community on-screen.

For more information and to get involved, please visit Great Southern Film Co-Op website | Facebook

The films so far…

Edward & Isabella

Adam’s first film Edward & Isabella was released by HALO Films to great acclaim. The film follows a young couple who get away to the country and have to decide whether to stay together or end their relationship. The film showcases many iconic locations around Albany the southern regions of WA and won the prestigious “Innovation in Narrative Feature Film Under $1M Budget” award at the 2021 WA Screen Culture Awards.

Cinema Australia’s coverage: Meet the cast and crew of Edward & Isabella

Frank & Frank

Frank & Frank (or the Valley and the Walrus: Ruminations on the Mystery from Soup to Nuts), follows Frank 1 (Myles Pollard), a faith and finance guru who heads to the country to present at a regional conference only to find out his wife (Rebecca Leafe) is thinking of leaving him. As his life unravels, he finds comfort in his new neighbour Frank 2 (Trevor Jamieson), an itinerant artist, bon vivant and serial womaniser who just might save his life or ruin it completely once and for all.

Cinema Australia’s coverage: Interview: Myles Pollard

Frederickstown

In Frederickstown, brothers Jimmy and Harry Burke have a problem. Their lawn rolling business is going under and the business loan they secretly took out using their mother’s home as equity is being called in. If they don’t come up with 90k by the end of the month they’re all out on the street. They only have one option… call Freddy.The third film written and directed by Adam Morris. Starring Peter Rowsthorn, Myles Pollard, Travis Jeffrey and Trevor Jamieson. The film is currently in pre-production with support from HALO Films and Little Fort Productions.

Cinema Australia’s coverage: Adam Morris and Ian Hale assemble all-star cast for their vantablack-comedy crime thriller, Frederickstown