SEA PATROL SAILS AGAIN IN QUEENSLAND

Queensland will again play host to the cast and crew of the popular Australian television drama Sea Patrol, when the program’s second series begins filming later this month.

Premier Anna Bligh welcomed the announcement that cameras would start rolling at Mission Beach on Friday 28 September. Filming will also occur in Cairns and on the Gold Coast.

“The Queensland Government has provided investment and incentives to secure both series of Sea Patrol to the state,” Ms Bligh said.

“By the time series two wraps, Sea Patrol will have created more than 500 jobs, providing valuable career opportunities for Queenslanders.

“All 13 episodes will be shot in Queensland at Mission Beach, Cairns and the Gold Coast.

“This is a welcome boost to our film and television industry and another example of our great locations and talent attracting key productions to Queensland.”

Minister for the Arts, Rod Welford said international star Alan Dale would have a key role in the new series of Sea Patrol, making his first foray back into Australian television in over a decade.

“Alan is an Australian actor of former Neighbours success who has achieved international fame through television roles in the US – including 24, Lost, The OC, The Practice and Ugly Betty,” he said.

“He will make a special guest appearance in the series as a villainous mining entrepreneur, joining Sea Patrol regulars Lisa McCune and Ian Stenlake.”

“Dale joins an impressive list of international stars who have worked on productions in Queensland over the past year.

“Our state has welcomed Kate Hudson, Donald Sutherland and Matthew McConaughey for Fool’s Gold; Ethan Hawke and Willem Dafoe for Daybreakers; Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman for Australia and Debra Messing for The Starter Wife.”

“Also, Jodie Foster will move to Hinchinbrook Island from the Gold Coast next week to continue filming US feature film Nim’s Island.

“Sea Patrol will be one of three productions filming concurrently in Far North Queensland over the next month along with Nim’s Island and US television series The Pacific,” the Minister said

Media contact: Premier’s office – 3224 4500 or Minister’s Office 3237 1000