TV drama being filmed in Anglesea

PRODUCTION of a new six-part drama series, The Family Next Door, will bring mystery and intrigue to Anglesea and Victoria’s Surf Coast, along with Melbourne’s bayside suburbs.

Beyond Entertainment producer Melinda Wearne said filming in Victoria was an important part of the production.

“It is an honour to be bringing Sally Hepworth’s celebrated novel to the screen, and to be not only filming in the state where it is set but showcasing to the world the spectacular Victorian coastline,” she said.

Produced by Beyond Entertainment and Muse Entertainment for the ABC, the series is based on Hepworth’s New York Times best-selling novel.

It follows a stranger who arrives in a quiet beachside cul-de-sac in search of answers to a mystery, casting suspicion on four neighbouring families.

The series cast includes Teresa Palmer (The Clearing), Bella Heathcote (Pieces of Her), Philippa Northeast (The Newsreader), Bob Morley (The 100), Catherine McClements (Total Control), Jane Harber (Offspring), and Ming-Zhu Hii (Prosper).

Directed by Emma Freeman (The Newsreader), the show is created by Sarah Scheller (The Letdown) and produced by Melinda Wearne with Dean O’Toole (The Great).

The writing team includes Scheller, Pip Karmel (Total Control), Julia Moriarty, and Andrew Anastasios.

The production is expected to generate more than 275 jobs and inject $9.7 million into Victoria’s economy.

It will employ 175 crew members and 130 cast, while providing opportunities for emerging female screen practitioners.

Supported by Screen Australia, the ABC and VicScreen, The Family Next Door will premiere on ABC TV and ABC iview this year.

The Victorian Government’s Victorian Screen Incentive secured the production in the state.

Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks highlighted the adaptation’s local impact.

“The screen adaptation of Sally Hepworth’s international bestseller has been secured in its rightful home – Victoria – taking full advantage of our stunning coastal locations and world-class crews,” he said.

“We are proud to back this Australian story, which is creating jobs for Victorian screen industry workers, providing a multimillion-dollar boost for our economy and is set to delight audiences here and abroad.”