Griffith film alumnus Tim McGahan has been recognised as Business Person of the Year at the 2018 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards.
Tim took out thetop award, which acknowledged his business acumen and contribution to the local film industry.
Tim’s company, Blacklab Group, has produced two international blockbusters – Predestination and Winchester – written and directedby fellow Griffith Film School alumni Peter and Michael Spierig.
“I’m a pretty humble bloke and I usually stay behind the camera, but it’s nice to be recognised,” he said.
“I’m proud to call Brisbane home and even more proud that we have been able to create a successful creative business based here that creates world class film and television watched by people all over the globe.”
Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said Tim had made an outstanding contribution to the film industry.
“He was the youngest-ever cinematographer accredited by the Australian Cinematographers Society, and is passionate about mentoring new talent,” he said.
“He has carved out a multifaceted career producing high-end film and television content, andexemplifies the dedication, excellence and leadership that we look for in a Business Person of the Year.”
Tim’sexpertise spans several areas, from creative development to financing and production. He admits he’s always had a good head for business – sharpening his entrepreneurial skills at high school.
“I was always keen on making films, and in those days it was an expensive proposition,” he said.
“I would offset my costs by shooting everything and anything – teacher’s weddings, school sports events… I even filmed my school formal and sold copies back to the students!
“But it was always creatively driven, it was a way of financing my passion projects.”
Tim said his time at Griffith taught him the technical skills he needed to forge a career in the industry, and gave him access to a network of film professionals.
“It was a very practical, hands on course,” he said.
“It was fantastic to be around a bunch of people with a shared interest in film, gear in the storeroom and teachers who encouraged us to experiment and practice our craft.”