The Hawkesbury region is set to take centre stage as Wisemans Ferry becomes the primary filming location for an upcoming Australian drama titled Fireworks.
Filming is expected to start in October this year and take four weeks.
Sydney-based producer Yolandi Franken (Streets of Colour, Carmen and Bolude) said: “We’re genuinely excited to bring this story to life in Wisemans Ferry. The location adds realism and depth, and we’re committed to engaging local suppliers and talent throughout the shoot.”
Set over a single day, Fireworks follows two Iranian-born friends, Saman and Babak, who now live in Australia. Their reunion to celebrate their 20 years of friendship takes a dark and unexpected turn when a figure from their traumatic past reappears and long-buried memories resurface, forcing the pair into a tense moral reckoning.
The tightly woven, character-driven drama explores justice, loyalty and the lingering impact of trauma.
The cast of Fireworks includes Shayan Askari and Rina Mousavi, both of whom starred in the Sundance-winning film Shayda (2023), along with Baha Jamali and Maddie Jamali.
The creative team includes Iranian- Australian director Ali Vaziri, and writer-director Nick Bleszynski. Vaziri, a former political refugee, brings a deeply personal perspective to the project. The film draws inspiration from his experiences of escaping detention and resettling in Australia.
“Fireworks is not just a film for me — it’s part of my story,” he said. “It’s about what it means to seek justice, rebuild a life, and reconcile with your past.”
Yolandi says they have 75% of the finance needed for the film and will delay filming until they secure the rest.
She said post production will take several months once filming is finished. Fireworks will be doing festival circuit for a year and will then be in theatres and then on streaming platforms.
“We plan to do a special screening/premiere in your local area to thank and involve the community in what we all created together, “ she said.
The production is expected to contribute to the local economy through accommodation, catering, crew wages, and location hire. It also offers an opportunity to spotlight the Hawkesbury as a film-friendly region with potential for future screen projects.
Community involvement is encouraged, with opportunities for residents, businesses and organisations to contribute through sponsorships, services, or tax-deductible donations via the Australian Cultural Fund. Locations still being sought are a pub and an apartment plus two boats, a black government looking car, a 20 kva Generator (quiet – suitable to film set), diesel and petrol.
Support is also being sought for accommodation for non-Hawkesbury local cast and crew and also support with meals and groceries. To express interest or find out more: Email: [email protected]
