Film project aims to capture community work

A new campaign launched by a local resident and backed by a group of creative leaders in the region, aims to put the spotlight on the work being done within the community by not-for-profit organisations.

Home Town Campaign is the brainchild of photographer and filmmaker Sean Hsu, who established Ovis Creative Productions in Margaret River in 2020.

Sean said after starting out small, he was “incredibly grateful” for the support he had received from locals.

“After five years of growth, we’re excited to give back to the community and contribute to its continued development, helping our hometown grow together,” he said.

“We are offering a professionally crafted one-minute video to a selected not-for-profit, giving them a powerful tool to amplify their message, increase their impact, and connect with the community.”

Sean said the project aimed to bring awareness to the “invaluable contributions” of these organisations while fostering collaboration and engagement across the region.

“Through this campaign, we hope to empower not-for-profits to reach their goals, whether that means inspiring more volunteers, driving funding, or promoting their mission,” he said.

The project also provides young locals the chance to take part in a student internship program, allowing five students to participate in the full production process, from brainstorming and storyboarding to filming and post-production.

“This hands-on learning opportunity equips students with valuable creative and technical skills, further enhancing the impact of this project,” Sean said.

Submissions can be made via the project website, with a panel of judges overseeing the selection process.

“Not-for-profits are encouraged to apply by sharing why they need this video, how it will make a difference, and their plans for utilising it.”

Joining Sean on the panel is Creative Corner’s Anita Pettit, Margaret River Health Centre’s Simon Lentjes, Kat Lombardo from the Margaret River Community Pantry, Annie McFie from the Margaret River Business Network, and Justine Rosen from Your Success Coaching.

“I am incredibly grateful to have such amazing panel members who volunteered their time to sit down with me and help create the application,” he said. “They will also be involved in judging the applications once the submission period ends.”

Sean said he hoped that by combining community involvement, creative storytelling, and professional production, the concept would create “a ripple effect of positivity and growth” in the region.

“Together, we can shine a spotlight on the incredible work being done in our community and inspire others to contribute. Join us in making a meaningful difference-one frame at a time.”

The submission period is open now until May 30. To find out more, visit sites.google.com/view/home-town-campaign/home