Old Tailem Town gets back on the big screen as film shoot returns

A crew from The Sundowner have shot a key sequence at a pioneer village near Tailem Bend, with locals featuring as extras.

Cast and crew members congregate in an historic hall at Old Tailem Town on Sunday. Photo: Glenn Power.

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Movie makers have again turned to Old Tailem Town as a filming location for a new production.

The latest scenes from The Sundowner were shot on Sunday inside the 1883 Southern Lilmur Hall, a beautifully preserved town hall-style building transformed into a lively two-up gambling scene packed with extras, lighting rigs and swirling theatrical smoke.

Cast and crew included a strong contingent of local participants from Murray Bridge, Jervois and Meningie, highlighting the region’s growing connection with the South Australian film industry.

Producers chose Old Tailem Town for its authentic streetscapes and remarkable period detail, with the attraction continuing to build a reputation as a magnet for movie makers searching for realistic Australian heritage locations.

Filming inside the hall created a demanding atmosphere, with heat building quickly from the crowded room.

Movie lights and smoke machines were used to recreate the intensity of an old-style social gathering.

Despite the conditions, performers and extras delivered energetic and convincing scenes throughout the day and night, with organisers praising the enthusiasm and professionalism of everyone involved.

Locals embraced the opportunity to take part in a major production while showcasing the Murraylands region to a wider audience.

Old Tailem Town once again proved why it remains one of South Australia’s most unique tourism icons, a living time capsule offering filmmakers a rare glimpse into Australia’s past and an ideal backdrop for storytelling on the big screen.