Andrew Myer is the new chair of not-for-profit organisation Documentary Australia.
Myer, pictured above with CEO and co-founder Mitzi Goldman, is replacing Kevin Farmer, who has chaired the group for almost three years.
As a film producer, Myer was the driving force behind nine Australian feature films including “Look Both Ways”, “Romulus My Father”, “Paper Planes” and “The Dry”.
He was the chair and deputy chair of the Melbourne International Film Festival across 17 years until 2017, and is also the former deputy chair of the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS).
He has already been a director of Documentary Australia for three years, and will now be charged with helping to foster social impact through storytelling.
Documentary Australia has already facilitated over $35 million in philanthropic funding to support filmmakers have their docos produced and viewed.
Myer said he’d always enjoyed backing talent and has been privileged to work with people who share his passion and want to make an impact.
“You realise that your time on Earth is finite and you need to bring as much passion and commitment to a cause as you can,” he said.
“It’s truly exciting and I feel as if I have returned to re-embrace my filmmaking roots that commenced 25 years ago,” he added.
He also outlined his hopes for the organisation, which has been running since 2008.
“My sincere hope for Documentary Australia is to continue on its growth strategy, assisting filmmakers, donors and thought leaders to make compelling films that inspire, educate and influence behaviour towards a better planet and society,” he said.
“I’m inspired and in awe of the creativity and energy that a talented group of people bring to a documentary project, and how a well-crafted outreach campaign can change behaviour and influence policy makers.
“I am enthused with the scope of our projects, which aren’t impeded by bureaucratic or political process. As a digital medium, documentaries can be delivered across so many different platforms and reach millions in a way that live performance or the visual arts simply cannot.”
Goldman, meanwhile, paid tribute to the outgoing Farmer for his long period of service.
“Kevin has been a diligent and guiding presence, always a sounding board and there to roll up his sleeves and help with anything that is required. I thank him for all he has done to support our growth over so many years,” Goldman said.