Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef to showcase local filmmakers work
Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef to showcase local filmmakers work
Published Wednesday 13 April 2016
PORT Douglas is fast becoming a centre of excellence for documentary filmmaking and research with Sir David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef series to showcase the region this weekend.
Local filmmaker and animal researcher Dr Dean Miller was commissioned to film dwarf minke whales migrating to the reef near Port Douglas for the BBC series, and more than two years of total dedication will be beamed to the world in episode two.
Dr Miller and is crew have been researching minke whales for the last 15 years, and spent up to 12 hours a day for two eight-week migration seasons in the water with the curious mammals for the Great Barrier Reef documentaries.
“No one else in the world could have filmed these whales like we have,” Dr Miller said.
“It’s why the BBC decided not to send out their own people and crew and went with us, because we know the animals better than anyone.
“We’ve spent the last 15 years with them and you need to be in the water every hour for the whole whale season to be able to truly showcase what they’re looking for.
“Living here in Port Douglas we obviously know a lot about these animals but the rest of the world doesn’t.”
That’s all about to change this Sunday night when the gentle tone of Attenborough’s voice takes the viewer on a journey using Dr Miller’s footage and research. These minke whales are drawn to human interaction and migrate to the coast off Port Douglas every year.
“We really don’t know why they enjoy being with us, maybe it’s a mutual trust, we’re both inquisitive animals,” Dr Miller said.
“We are not offering food or anything like that and we’re able to spend literally between 8-12 hours a day with them all on their terms.
“These whales have become the friendliest animals on the planet.”
Filming for the Great Barrier Reef episode, which is Attenborough’s final on-location series, took place about 100km north east of Port Douglas near Lizard Island.
“To have Sir David Attenborough narrate my footage is an absolute honour,” he said.
“Given this is his last documentary series out in the field, and the fact he chose to do it on the Great Barrier Reef just lets us know what we have here is special and worth protecting.”
Dr Miller’s Eye To Eye Marine Encounters, in conjunction with Newsport Daily, are hosting a special viewing of the episode this Sunday night at the Central Hotel’s outdoor cinema.
John Rumney - who first initiated the research and tourism of dwarf minke whales to the region 20 years ago - will present the free-to-air television event with the public welcome to attend between 6-9pm.
Great Barrier Reef with David Attenborough
When: Sunday 17th April
Where: Central Hotel, Port Douglas
Time: From 6pm with the screening beginning at 7.30pm (Nibbles will be provided and drinks available at the bar)
