Zach's Ceremony
Director — Film
Zach’s Ceremony is an extraordinary feature-length documentary that captures the journey of a young Indigenous Australian, Zach Doomadgee, as he transitions from boyhood to manhood. Filmed over ten years, the documentary delves into the complexities of growing up in both the modern world and an ancient culture, highlighting the pressures Zach faces from his family, the temptations of city life, and the pervasive issue of racism.
It was my first feature length film, and I very quickly became aware of how important it is to tell compelling and emotionally resonant stories from the source. My dedication to capturing Zach’s story over a decade showcases a commitment to authentic storytelling and a deep respect for Indigenous culture. Through Zach’s Ceremony, not only did I document a personal journey but I explored universal themes of family, identity, and cultural heritage - something I struggle with myself.
The film was well received by audiences worldwide and premiered at the Hot Docs Documentary Film Festival in 2016. It garnered multiple awards, including Audience Awards at Sydney and Melbourne International Film Festivals, and nominations for Best Director at the Australian Directors Guild Awards and Best Feature-Length Documentary at the AACTA Awards and the Film Critics Circle of Australia Awards.
