In Memoriam - Charles Bud Tingwell 15.5.09

It is with deep regret that I tell of Charles Bud Tingwell's passing this morning at 8.10am, he was with friends and family, who told me the end was quick. I can only say that it was an Honour and Privelege that I got the chance to work with him, and it speaks of the character of this great man that he would help a no name film maker like myself to create Spitfire Guardians.

I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his friends and family, and I ask all who read this to raise a glass tonight and think of what Bud Tingwell did for the Australian Film Industry, for film makers around the country. I remember talking to Tony Barry last month about Bud, and he said that Bud's motto was to never refuse acting work, no matter the job. I thank him for helping me, and I will never forget recording his voice over for my film, his words will remain with me forever.

Kind Regards,

Simon Van Der Spoel
Director - Spitfire Guardians

Spitfire Guardians at the Heart of Gold Film Festival

I know it's too late to blog the fact that the doco screened at the Gympie Heart of Gold Film Festival, as it is now past tense, but there was a great turn out and a good half an hour of questions about the film and my journey to make it. The doco is available for purchase via paypal from http://www.etherealproductions.com.au/

I'd like to thank Toni Powell and Angela Vogt for all the press about me attending the festival. I'll even include some pictures of the articles too if I can.


Chris Jones, creator of the Gone Fishing short film phenomenon came all the way from England to attend the festival and it was great to catch up as I'm and Associate Producer on his film, more details can be found at http://www.chrisjonesblog.com/ about his amazing film.