Martin Clunes explores WA's treasured islands

Some of Western Australia's most fascinating and historic islands and coastlines will be showcased to national and international audiences, in a new television series supported by the State Government through ScreenWest.

  • ScreenWest supports production of Martin Clunes - Islands of Oz

  • Renowned British actor hosts three-part series

  • Shooting at Rottnest, Carnac, the Abrolhos and Ningaloo 

Some of Western Australia's most fascinating and historic islands and coastlines will be showcased to national and international audiences, in a new television series supported by the State Government through ScreenWest.

Culture and the Arts Minister John Day this week toured Rottnest Island with the WA production team and met internationally acclaimed British actor Martin Clunes, who will host the series, titled Martin Clunes - Islands of Oz.

"I am delighted that Perth-based Prospero Productions has been able to secure Martin to explore these places and share the stories of the people who live there," Mr Day said.

"Islands of Oz will see some of our most spectacular natural assets and intriguing history broadcast to audiences around the world.

"While Rottnest is a popular local institution, many West Australians may not have explored Carnac Island and the Abrolhos Islands.  Now all of these will have international exposure."

Martin Clunes' hosting role in the three-show production follows his successful Islands of Britain television series.

Prospero Productions received $800,000 from ScreenWest's SuperDoc scheme in 2015-16.

"Through ScreenWest, the State Government is proud to be promoting our captivating and often extraordinary places in ways which not only entertain audiences but also have tourist appeal," Mr Day said.

"After spending some time with Martin, I am sure his legendary sense of humour and easygoing style will bring out the best in our WA stories and images."

Shooting of Martin Clunes - Islands of Oz is scheduled for completion in May.

Prospero has created popular television productions including Outback Truckers (Channel 7), Railroad Australia (Discovery Channel), Wild Survivor (National Geographic Channel), The Real Jaws (Channel 9) and Australia: Life on the Edge (National Geographic Channel).

Fact File

  • The Islands of Oz series will feature 12 islands from around Australia

  • Martin Clunes' television successes have included Men Behaving Badly, Doc Martin and Islands of Britain

  • The SuperDoc fund supports WA documentary producers with proven high turnover production outcomes in the State

  • For more information, visit http://www.screenwest.wa.gov.au  

Minister's office - 6552 6200