In 2015 Simon Rose was the recipient of an Indigenous Factual Researcher Internship at Blackfella Films, Australia’s leading Aboriginal owned film and television production company.
How do you feel about the opportunity to work at Blackfella Films?
When I first saw the position advertised I was so excited at the many possibilities the role presented, Simon said. I would have the chance to work with Blackfella Films - a team who are so experienced in Indigenous content and who have produced award-winning work.
Now that I’ve started my internship, I’m thrilled to be working with producers, directors, writers, cast and crew who are passionate and committed to exploring factual Indigenous content in this country. I’m really looking forward to be able to see and experience the entire production process and develop my skills as a researcher. I’m also really looking forward to bouncing my own ideas off the team.
What strengths have you gained so far that you think will assist you?
I am a pretty patient person and believe that I’m a good listener. My work so far has helped develop persistence, resilience and attention to detail. And my teaching work has certainly helped me with my research skills.
In terms of my freelance filmmaking, I've been a jack-of-all-trades. I do the camera, editing, writing, the whole thing. So I hope this hands-on experience will help me with this internship.
Why do you think the Blackfella Films internship is so important for emerging Indigenous filmmakers?
The internship is an amazing opportunity. It's a great chance to work with other Indigenous media professionals. I’m really grateful that Film Victoria and SBS have provided funding to enable Blackfella Films to offer this opportunity.
There is so much factual television being made now, so for this internship to exist in that space is really important. It's also vital to me to be able to engage in my chosen career of filmmaking and television while at the same time having the chance to focus on issues that are important to my community.
There are a lot of Indigenous filmmakers out there who need more professional development opportunities. The community has many talented writers, directors, actors and producers. Development schemes such as this one are a fantastic way to invest in these people.
The length of the internship was something that was very enticing to me. A year is a good amount of time to be able focus on skills development, career opportunities and also to give some work security. If the internship was any shorter, I would not have been able to do it. I imagine that would be true for many people in a similar position to me.
Any words of advice for those just starting out in the industry?
Be proud of your mob, don't give up, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. And practice practice practice. In the end you have to love what you do!
The Indigenous Factual Researcher Internship was supported through Film Victoria’s Screen Skills initiatives and the SBS Traineeship Program.