Brace yourselves, Queensland! The historic city of Cloncurry is about to welcome the world to its main street this Thursday for the grand premiere of ‘The Bank Manager.’ The much-anticipated short film, starring popular actors Gyton Grantley and Jason Wilder, draws inspiration from the legendary 1932 bank heist that remains unsolved to date.
A Page from Cloncurry’s Legendary History
Daring thieves absconding with £14,000 from the National Bank in Cloncurry on an election night back in 1932 is an Outback Queensland legend that has intrigued generations. The audacious culprits never faced justice, and the case remains unsolved, adding to the allure of the tale.
Hometown Talents Revisit Their Legacy
Sibling filmmakers Madeleine Chaplain and Luke Chaplain, co-creators of the film, have a unique connection to the story and the location. Raised on a cattle station outside Cloncurry, they heard tales of this daring heist throughout their childhood. Intriguingly, one account suggests their great-grandfather might have been one of the elusive criminals. “Apparently the loot is buried on our property. But I’ve checked and no luck yet,” shares Luke.
The film is a comedic heist saga, brimming with colourful characters. As Madeleine, the writer-director of ‘The Bank Manager,’ puts it, “we’re just here to tell the bold and exciting folklore that we grew up hearing at the dinner table.”
Encouraging Filmmaking in the Stunning Outback
The Cloncurry Shire Council and the Mount Isa to Townsville Economic Zone’s Film Incentive Program made the filming in Cloncurry possible. Following its premiere, ‘The Bank Manager’ will be screened at The Vision Splendid Film Festival in Winton, and then on the domestic and international film festival circuit.
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Mayor Greg Campbell of Cloncurry Shire Council, known for his commitment to promoting filming in the region, voiced his enthusiasm about the film. He emphasised the unique outback landscape of Cloncurry as an ideal backdrop for film productions and encouraged filmmakers to utilise the council’s support. For filmmakers interested in Cloncurry’s Film Incentive Program, contact the local Council at 07 4742 4100 or council@cloncurry.qld.gov.au.
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