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First look: Barrumbi Kids

Audiences have been given a first look at the upcoming live-action children’s series Barrumbi Kids, which will premiere on National Indigenous Television (NITV) later this year.

The first trailers for the series have been released, while select episodes of the series have premiered to audiences in the Northern Territory, with screenings held at the Darwin International Film Festival and in Katherine and the communities of Beswick (Wugularr) and Barunga (Bamyili).

Produced by Tamarind Tree Pictures and Ambience Entertainment, Barrumbi Kids is the coming-of-age story of Tomias and Dahlia, two 11-year-old best friends growing up in a remote community in the Northern Territory. Through fishing, schooling, and exploring Country, the children learn about themselves, each other, and living in both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal cultures.

Set in the fictional town of Mandjakkorl, it was filmed amid the stunning outback scenery of the lands of the Jawoyn, Dagoman and Wardaman peoples around Katherine, Beswick and Barunga.

The series is based on the popular book series by Leonie Norrington, who penned the novels based on her experience of growing up in a remote Aboriginal community. It has been adapted for contemporary audiences by a talented team, including emerging First Nations writers, and in close consultation with Elders and members of the Beswick community.

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The 10 x 30-minute series stars young breakout talent Nick Bonson (12) and Caitlin Hordern (14) as Tomias and Dahlia in their debut acting roles.

Supporting cast members include Play School’s Justine Clarke, AACTA Award nominee Jacob Junior Nayinggul, Frances Djulibing, Adrienne Pickering, Christopher Sommers, Sophie Emberson-Bain, Finn Treacy, Penelope Thomas, Serene Yunupingu, Stephen Mahy and Scott Hall.

ACTF Head of Content Bernadette O’Mahony said: “Barrumbi Kids is a delightful coming-of-age story, full of fun, action, humour and heart. With the spectacular locations and a delightful young cast, this series captures the essence and joy of friendship and the sense of freedom and adventure that comes with growing up in a remote Top End community.”

Barrumbi Kids producers Danielle MacLean, Monica O’Brien and Julia Morris said: “Barrumbi Kids has been many years in the making with elders past and present, Djilpin Arts and Beswick community members. Creating this series with our First Nations partners, Esther Bulumbara, Frankie Lane, Revonna Lane and Scott Hall has been an incredible experience. Their contribution to story and cultural guidance allowed us to authentically bring to life the stories of the fun and mischief experienced while growing up on Country.”

Acting Head of Commissions NITV Marissa McDowell said: “We are thrilled to be working with talented, up-and-coming actors like Nick and Caitlin, as well as big names like Justine Clarke to bring Barrumbi Kids to life. NITV creates relatable children’s programming that explores diversity and celebrates the stories and culture of our mob to share with all Australians. Just like the ground-breaking animated series Little J & Big Cuz, Barrumbi Kids plays an integral part in creating more representation on screen in Australia and giving Aboriginal kids a national platform to see their own faces and hear their own voices – something that is so important for our mob.”

Barrumbi Kids is a Tamarind Tree Pictures and Ambience Entertainment production for NITV. Major production investment from Screen Australia in association with NITV, Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF), Screen Territory and Screen Queensland.