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Deep Dive: Frackman (2015)

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Frackman
Frackman is a 2015 Australian documentary that follows Dayne Pratzky, a former construction worker who becomes an anti-fracking activist in response to the expansion of the coal seam gas industry near Tara, Queensland. The film is directed by Richard Todd and features various characters including Drew Hutton, the president of Lock the Gate, and conservative radio personality Alan Jones. It captures the personal stories of residents affected by the fracking industry and the broader environmental implications of gas extraction in the region. The documentary premiered at the Byron Bay International Film Festival in March 2015, where it won both Best Feature Film and Best Environmental Film. Following its premiere, Frackman embarked on a regional tour in marginal electorates leading up to the New South Wales election. The film was released on DVD and digital platforms on December 9, 2015, and had its USA premiere at DOC NYC on November 14, 2015.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Dayne Pratzky, a passionate anti-fracking activist.
  • •See the impact of coal seam gas expansion in Queensland.
  • •Find out about the controversial Gladstone LNG export approvals.

Did You Know

•Frackman won Best Film and Best Environmental Film at the 2015 Byron Bay International Film Festival.
•The first LNG export shipment from Gladstone departed on January 5, 2015.
•Richard Todd began production on Frackman in early 2011.
•The film features interviews with notable figures like Alan Jones and Bob Irwin.

Perfect For

Environmental activismAustralian politicsFracking controversies