Mini doc opportunity with SA Museum closes 27/5

As part of the Inspiring Australia initiative, people in the Digital Salon network are invited to apply for a grant to film and produce a 5-10 minute film about a South Australian Museum research trip to Whyalla on June 18th.

Emerging documentary makers with an interest in marine science are encouraged to apply.

The successful candidate must be available on the morning of Saturday 18 June 2011 at Black Point, Whyalla, to capture the work of marine scientists as they dive to collect specimens and data on marine life in the area, particularly the Giant Australian Cuttlefish (Sepia apama).

Every year between May and August thousands of Giant Australian Cuttlefish descend on the rocky coastline between Fitzgerald Bay and False Bay near Whyalla. The migration by these majestic creatures to these waters is for the sole purpose of spawning. Underwater footage of the cuttlefish filmed by SA Museum scientists may be used in the grant recipient’s production, as well as their own footage shot on the day.

The resulting film will need to be completed for submission to Scinema in 2012 (for which entries will close June 2012). Earlier screenings linked to science events may be negotiated.

The grant is for $1500, plus travel and associated expenses. To apply, send your CV with contact details to Cobi Smith: csmith@riaus.org.au – include in your email a link to a 2-5 minute sample of your video work online, confirmation of your availability on the 18th of June and a paragraph about your interest in the project. Applications close Friday 27 May 2011.