Indigenous Employment Australia Yarns with…

Ever thought about a Career as a Multi media Producer. We yarn with Alden Lyall, a Kuku Yalanji and Kuku Thaypan man about his Career.

Tell us about your and your mob?

My Name is Alden Lyall, family names (Lyall, Meldrum).

I am a proud Aboriginal man who grew up in Mareeba, Brisbane and Rockhampton. I currently live in Mareeba just a short drive west of Cairns and I am Kuku Yalanji and Kuku Thaypan man. 

I am a part-time Advertising & Promotions Officer for Mulungu Health Service and a Part-Time Multi Media Producer that specialise in Video and Photography.

 

Tell us about your career?

I began my career in the media back in 2001, working at Bush TV in Rockhampton and studying Broadcasting in Television helping deliver the Murri Minute which appeared on 9 and Imparja. Along the way I have contributed to many stories on NITV SBS ABC 9 from Documentary’s, Wik vs QLD, Incarceration Nation (which won a Logie for best documentary), Australia Remastered, League Nation and films like Dora the Explorer.

Recently I have been working with Ernie Dingo with Camping on Country and comedy videos with Bush Tucker Bunjie.  I’m looking forward to the rest of this year and what it holds.

What pathway did you take to become a Multi-Media Producer?

My pathway into media started in Radio at 4US 100.7 FM in Rockhampton and then into Bush TV where I learned under Tom Hearn and Nicholas Lachajzak for many years before the internet era, with cameras, editing, producing presenting and all it entails in the creative industry.

Long story short, I have Cert 3 in Broadcasting – Cert 4, but on the job training was the best way to learn for me. There are many options these days with TAFE and UNI you can even learn on Youtube. 

What skills do you need to succeed in your role?

People skills, an eye for vision, creativity, being able to listen and tell peoples stories. To be sharp and quick on the run, passionate and dedicated. 

What is the deadliest thing about your career?

I love seeing different parts of the country, and being inspired by people and telling their story. To me every job is unique from working with Aaron Pederson and Ernie Dingo,  to an everyday person on their country in from outback QLD, all the way to WA. The people you meet and country you see is amazing. 

What career advice would you give your mob?

• Enjoy your journey don’t rush 
• Try new things, be willing to learn
• Do or find something you love that inspires you
• Don’t be shame

Want to know more?

Media Producers plan, administer and review activities concerned with publishing, or the production of films, television or radio programs, theatre, music, festivals or other artistic activities.

Tasks

• Controls the use of media production facilities such as studios and editing equipment, stage and film equipment and rehearsal time.
• Directs the formulation of media production strategies, policies and plans.

What type of education, training and skills are required?

Extensive experience in the entertainment industry and proven ability is usually needed to work as a Media Producer. Some workers have a university degree or Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification in fields like media studies, digital technologies or design and visual communications.

Occupation Snapshot