A new filmmaking group in Moree is set to allow people with disabilities the opportunity to express themselves and let their imaginations run wild.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
I Ability Films, a disAbility filmmaking group in Moree, is set to be launched later this month.
The group is the brainchild of Moree man Byron Phillips, who has combined his two passions – film and disability support – to establish an inclusive filmmaking group to expand the opportunities available for people with a disability throughout the region.
“It’s been a dream of mine since I arrived here to start a group like this, with a focus on disability and inclusive storytelling,” Mr Phillips said.
“Having the crew behind the camera and in front of it with disabilities.
“It’s all about learning a craft that they wouldn’t normally have access to.”
READ ALSO:
It’s the not the first time Mr Phillips has established a disAbility filmmaking group – when he was working at the St George and Sutherland Community College he started Empowerment Films, a day program for drama and filmmaking.
Empowerment Films won a number of festivals and awards, including the most online votes during the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival for three years running.
“I had a good insight to see what could be done but I think that would be good to build on,” Mr Phillips said.
“Having seen the success of inclusive filmmaking in Sutherland, the greatest part is the confidence it builds in the person.
“They know they were a part of that film being made and see themselves on screen. It’s something they can keep and watch and show their families.”
The greatest part is the confidence it builds in the person.
- Byron Phillips, I Ability Films founder
Mr Phillips, who has worked in the disability sector for around seven years, has a background in film and theatre.
The self-confessed film geek studied a make-up effects course on the Gold Coast under Oscar-winning make-up artist Peter Frampton who worked on Braveheart.
He’s also been involved with theatre productions, both on stage and behind the scenes as a director, as well as appearing as an extra for various television shows and movies.
“I’ve always been interested in filmmaking,” he said.
“There are so many parts to it you can look at and learn about.”
I Ability Films will meet once a week, during which time Mr Phillips will teach the members about all aspects of film – from using the equipment and the roles of the crew, to storyboarding and scouting locations, as well as film history and the significance of music film.
Mr Phillips will also try to bring in guest speakers from the industry to share their knowledge with the group.
Once they learn the basics, the group will focus on doing short films and documentaries, including promotion for local businesses, to start with.
“I’d like the group itself to tell stories in the community - do ads for local businesses, as well as a weekly what’s on in Moree on a YouTube channel,” Mr Phillips said.
“An inclusive feature would be the ultimate but we’ll start with short films. It’s a great intro into the process.
“Eventually I’d like to open it up for kids’ filmmaking and Aboriginal inclusive storytelling as well. There can be lots of facets to the group.”
I Ability Film’s first project will be to create a production by October, as part of a funding agreement with FundAbility – a grant program developed by Northcott and Family and Community Services which aims to make communities more inclusive for people with disability by providing grants to families, communities, organisations, services and businesses.
FundAbility has helped I Ability Films get off the ground with their first grant of $6,000 for the purchase of equipment.
Mr Phillips will use that money to buy cameras, tripods, sound equipment and assisted technology to help clients who might need extra support handling the equipment.
The second hurdle to getting the group started was a meeting room, which has been generously offered by Moree Community Library.
Imagination includes everyone. If you can dream it, you can make it happen.
- Byron Phillips, I Ability Films founder
I Ability Films will meet in the library’s meeting room upstairs every Friday. The first official meeting is set for Friday, June 29.
“The library’s got wheelchair access and lifts,” Mr Phillips said.
“I’m sourcing transport for when we go and look at locations.”
There are currently four people from Moree and Narrabri interested in being a part of the group – which is for anyone with a disability over the age of 18.
“Inclusive imagination is our catch-cry,” Mr Phillips said.
“Imagination includes everyone. If you can dream it, you can make it happen. Even if you have mobility issues or need support, it can be done. You just need the right support.”
The next hurdle will be keeping the group going, which requires funding support. Mr Phillips is currently applying for as many grants as he can to go towards the general running costs of the group, which will be not-for-profit.
He has taken on the running of the group voluntarily but would love for other locals to get involved and help out. Mr Phillips would also love to get the support of the community, whether it be businesses letting the group film at their shopfront, or getting I Ability Films to promote their business.
“It’s new horizon stuff, it’s a bit daunting, but you’ve got to follow your dreams,” Mr Phillips said.
“If it takes off I think it can be a centrepiece for the area. It will also help the community integrate with people with disabilities.”
If you would like to get involved, get in contact through the I Ability Films Facebook page.
