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The next generation of storytellers

Murdoch film studio 1990

For more than 30 years, Murdoch students have found their life passion with a camera in hand, a microphone at their fingertips and under the excitement of the bright sound stage lights.

The opportunities that came with new and advancing technology led to the opening of Murdoch’s Media Arts Centre (MAC) in 2000 by Kerry Stokes, providing students with the opportunity to hit the airwaves and get a taste of the industry. 

Between the soundstage, radio studios, broadcast TV studio, and the journalism newsroom, students were introduced to the buzz of being part of a media team. 

Before 2000, the MAC had been in operation as part of Murdoch’s Technical Services Unit, supporting the School of Media and Communication's creative production and radio broadcast operations. 

The new MAC inspired an appreciation for hands-on, real-world experience in all roles involved in creative productions. It has been a centre of creativity, expression and collaboration both for Murdoch media and communication students and the wider community over the years.  

With state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, an experienced team of technicians with extensive industry experience was needed to look after the MAC and provide valuable support to deliver the courses on offer. 

Editing booth Media Arts Centre

Image: Students editing in the Media Arts Centre

In 2006, the Interactive Digital Design major transitioned to Graphic Design. With input from industry professionals, students began working with clients for the first time. This approach has made work-integrated learning a hallmark of all courses within the School. Today, Murdoch Graphic Design graduates are well-represented in the WA design industry and internationally. 

The Photography major was introduced in 2007, focusing heavily on digital photography. It quickly became a popular course and remains still today. 

In 2008, the Games Art and Design major was launched, emphasizing industry involvement and engagement. Several art directors from local and international games companies led the curriculum development and ongoing operation of the course. This major has since become one of the most popular at the school. 

From Screen Production, to Journalism, to Strategic Communication, all the courses offered at Murdoch are delivered by knowledgeable and skilled academics and industry professionals, some who also studied at Murdoch themselves. 

Renowned filmmaker and director Dr Glen Stasiuk, Academic Chair of Screen Production, began his studies at Murdoch in the 1990s, completed his honours in 2000 and then his doctorate in 2015. While completing his honours, Stasiuk produced a powerful 40-minute documentary film telling the story of Aboriginal soldiers who fought and died for Australia. He graduated with First Class Honours in Media Studies, delivering the Valedictory address at that year’s graduation. 

As a filmmaker, Stasiuk sees himself as a messenger, a conduit between the hidden, and often tragic, recent history of WA’s Noongar people, and the present day. He has produced, directed and filmed many films during his career to bring a focus to the importance of truth-telling. 

The facilities offered by the MAC have always been a hit when students visit – from 1989 when Willetton Senior High School students visited, to present day - and this looks likely to continue into the future.  

The School of Media and Communication and the MAC are evolving again, keeping up-to-date with industry and technological developments through the introduction of new courses such as podcasting, design thinking and science communication, all on a quest to nurture the next generation of creative storytellers. 

School students 960 x 580

Image: Willetton Senior High School visit to Murdoch University, 1989.

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The next generation of storytellers

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