The Northern Territory has announced the details of a new, heart-pumping, adrenaline thumping motocross series for kids.
Set against the spectacular backdrop of Central Australia and showcasing iconic landmarks around Alice Springs the production will inject AU$5 million into the Territory economy and employ nearly 400 people when filming begins next year.
Jennie Hughes, Director, Screen Territory says: “Screen Territory is delighted to work with Brindle Films on MaveriX. This high-adrenaline series will capture the imaginations of young audiences throughout the nation and around the globe. The ongoing economic benefits of this production signify a game-changer for the town of Alice Springs and the broader Territory, and a turning point in positioning the NT as the place to create exceptional, distinctive stories; the likes of which can be seen nowhere else. Australian children’s television remains as important as ever, beloved not only in allowing kids to see themselves reflected on screen, but it is also Australia’s best-selling and most successful content export; sought after internationally and attracting fresh audiences with every new generation.”
The Territory Labor Government is investing AU$1.5 million into MaveriX – the largest locally produced screen project in the Northern Territory’s history. The 10 x 30-minute episode series is set in the world of Motocross, starring a diverse group of teenagers driven to succeed in their chosen sport.
“By investing in the Northern Territory screen industry the Territory Labor Government is supporting a resilient and digitally innovative sector who play a crucial role in shaping perceptions of the Territory to a worldwide audience.”
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss
Alice Springs-based production house, Brindle Films, will shoot the series over three months next year which will provide employment opportunities for nearly 400 Territorians.
“We are so grateful to the Northern Territory Government and Screen Territory for this incredible level of support for MaveriX. It is because of the NT Government’s record investment that we are able to film the series in Alice Springs, and share this story that’s intrinsically connected to place, ” says Rachel Clements from Brindle Films.
“The Government’s contribution of AU$9 million to the NT screen industry has made it possible for us to develop and finance a project of MaveriX’s scale. We want to produce a show that presents our NT kids on screen in an aspirational way, and one that the Alice Springs community can be proud of.”
Brindle Films, Rachel Clements
The AU$5 million production investment will be spent across jobs, goods, and services including accommodation, transport, catering/hospitality and set building materials.
MaveriX is a Brindle Films production for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Major production investment from Screen Australia in association with the ABC and Screen Territory. Financed with support from the Australian Children’s Television Foundation and the South Australian Film Corporation.
“The SAFC is proud to support this new series which will provide great opportunities for crew and talent in both South Australia and the Northern Territory, generate welcome post-production work in SA, and further cement the valuable working relationship between screen creatives in both regions.”
Kate Croser, CEO, South Australian Film Corporation
“This is an original drama that will captivate young audiences with an action-packed story that also showcases the stunning landscapes of the Northern Territory. We are proud to support the experienced Brindle Films along with local creatives to bring this adventurous teen series to life.”
Screen Australia Head of Content, Sally Caplan
The Territory Labor Government has invested AU$9 million into the Northern Territory screen industry over four years, recognising its importance in sharing Territory stories with the world and its economic benefits, including employment for the Territory particularly after the impacts of COVID-19.
“The Government’s AU$9 million strategic investment over four years has seen significant growth of our screen sector and the development of significant local productions, including the SBS series Robbie Hood, Top End Wedding, Jimmy Shu’s Taste of the Territory and the recent feature film High Ground, garnering national and worldwide critical acclaim,” concludes Lauren Moss, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture.