A short feature film documenting the iconic Twins of Murrurundi’s Pioneer Cottage will premiere at a community screening on April 13, 2024. Additionally, the unveiling of the new cultural tourism website, Creative Valleys, will take place during the event. Both the film and the website will be launched by David Layzell Member for the Upper Hunter and Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads.
The essence of a community lies in its colourful characters, and Gwen Alchin and Carmel Hughes are quintessential figures shaping the vibrant spirit of Murrurundi. For over two decades, affectionately known as “The Twins,” they have charmed locals and visitors alike with entertaining tours of the historical Pioneer Cottage. Recognising the invaluable treasure trove of their knowledge and stories, Murrurundi Museum, working with Arts Upper Hunter, embarked on a mission to preserve their legacy for future generations.
Securing a grant through Arts Upper Hunter’s Country Arts Support program (CREATE NSW), Murrurundi Museum enlisted the talents of videographer Jonathan Burrows, aka “The Amazing Jono.” Initially envisioned as a brief showcase for the Visitor Centre and the new Creative Valleys: Cultural Trails of the Upper Hunter website, the resulting footage exceeded expectations. “The footage was wonderful,” according to Suzannah Jones, Project Officer on the film. “The Twins are informative and hilarious, a little bit naughty, and meanwhile they’re taking you on a truly vivid guided tour of our history.”
So, with some extra funding support from Upper Hunter Shire Council, Jono crafted a remarkable 55-minute documentary capturing the Twins’ tour of the Cottage, complete with period costumes and their trademark wit and humour. The film took on a life of its own, and the Museum is thrilled to share it with the broader community in an upcoming community screening.
As for the short version, the 1-minute version will become part of a brand-new digital platform spotlighting the region’s rich arts and cultural heritage: Creative Valleys. According to Jones, “Creative Valleys is a website with a difference, it’s a resource showcasing local arts, galleries, public art, heritage sites and more. The Creative Valleys name pays homage to the myriad valleys that collectively form the dynamic tapestry of the Upper Hunter. We want it to be an evolving repository, with real community input.” Arts Upper Hunter plans to keep the website expanding, fostering future initiatives akin to the Carmel and Gwen documentary.
The official launch of the Creative Valleys website will coincide with the community screening of the Carmel and Gwen documentary—a celebration of grassroots endeavours intertwined with the broader Creative Valleys initiative. This marks just the beginning of a series of community-driven initiatives linked with the Creative Valleys project, each contributing to the vibrant cultural fabric of the region.
“We’d be thrilled if the community could come along,” says Murrurundi Museum’s Des Dugan, “give the twins a cheer and watch this great film.”
This project is supported by Arts Upper Hunter Country Arts Support program, Create NSW, Murrurundi Museum and Upper Hunter Shire Council.
Launched by David Layzell, Member for the Upper Hunter. This Community Screening is on the 13th April at 2pm at the CWA Hall 109 Mayne St, Murrurundi. Entry is FREE. Nibbles and drinks will be provided.
For further information please contact:
- Arts Upper Hunter Project Officer Suzannah Jones / 0415 303101 / suzannahj@artsupperhunter.com.au
- Or Murrurundi Museum President Des Dugan / 0418211404 / desdugan@gmail.com