Wagga’s proximity between rugby league and AFL territories, its rural sporting fields and community spirit has pegged it as the ideal filming location for Damian Callinan’s new movie.
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The Backyard Ashes actor will return next year to film his new project, The Merger.
The film tells the tale of Troy, a former AFL player who returns to help out ill-fated country team the Bodgy Creek Roosters.
“We’ve known for a while we would probably shoot it here,” Callinan said.
“Wagga seems to keep putting a hand up to help you along.
“You know you’re going to be embraced here.”
The film is a comedic look at the revival of a team that has lost its club house, players and money but tackles bigger issues such assimilation and acceptance.
Callinan toured the live show and said viewers often saw parts of their own football clubs reflected on stage.
The Merger was launched on Wednesday night at the Rules Club and local businesses jumped at the chance to sponsor the film.
Callinan, John Howard and Kate Mulvany will star in the film.
Locations in Wagga, Coolamon, Gumly Gumly, Lockhart and Mangoplah have been scouted for filming.
