THREDBO VALLEY HORSE RIDING

CLIENT - TOURISM AUSTRALIA/JACK NIMBLE

DIRECTOR, DOP AND EDITOR - ANDREW ROBINSON

PRODUCER - HIROMI MATSUOKA

Two winters ago, I had the opportunity to collaborate on a tourism campaign with the agency Jack Nimble on behalf of Tourism Australia. I was selected by producer Hiromi Matsuoka, who had previously worked with me on several creative film projects. Given my experience as a regional filmmaker and my familiarity with the area of the campaign, I was chosen as the Director of Photography/Operator.

During the campaign, I was able to reconnect with some of my local tourism operators, explore stunning landscapes, and capture the unique experiences offered. One standout moment was when an early snowfall allowed me to travel to the Snowy Mountains to film the region's alpine tourism operators. Spending a day at Thredbo Valley Horse Riding, amidst the pristine, snow-covered landscape, was one of the most memorable days of filming. The conditions were perfect, and the scenery was breathtaking.

Two years later, while reviewing my footage, I decided to create a highlight film from that trip. Currently, there's a contentious issue in the area regarding wild Brumbies and their culling to protect the environment. As an introduced species, Brumbies have become a pest for some, but TVHR, a horse riding business, stands out for its commitment to these animals. They maintain several Brumbies in their herd and are dedicated to preserving and celebrating their history in the region. TVHR's approach reflects a deep respect for both the horses and the land, honoring their pre- and post-colonial history with compassion and care. This film is a testament to their dedication and the beauty of their work.