The ABC, in collaboration with Screen Australia and Screen Queensland, has announced the commencement of production on Fortitude Valley, a gripping new six-part drama series. The series will feature leading performances from Hunter Page-Lochard, known for his roles in Reckless and The Newsreader, alongside Kat Stewart of Offspring and Black Snow fame. Filming is scheduled to begin in Brisbane this April, setting the stage for a suspenseful crime thriller that delves into family secrets, power’s corrupting influence, and the complex truths behind the lies we tell.
Set against the vibrant yet shadowy backdrop of Queensland’s capital city, Fortitude Valley promises to explore themes of legacy and loyalty, as noted by ABC Head of Scripted, Rachel Okine. “We are delighted to be back in Brisbane and partnering with such a stellar creative team to bring Fortitude Valley to the ABC. It’s a masterfully plotted crime thriller where legacy and loyalty are put to the ultimate test. We can’t wait to share every twist and turn with our audiences; they are in for a real treat,” she said.
Creative Vision and Local Talent
The series is a creation of Moving Floor Entertainment, a company co-founded by Leigh McGrath and Stephen M. Irwin, both of whom have a rich history in producing acclaimed series such as Harrow, Tidelands, and Secrets & Lies. The duo expressed their excitement about filming in Brisbane, stating, “We are excited to be filming this new crime thriller we created with Hunter Page-Lochard. To be working again with our national broadcaster and filming in our home town of Brisbane — where the show is set — is a privilege. We are especially proud of the cast and crew we have assembled for the series, spearheaded by the amazing Hunter Page-Lochard and Kat Stewart.”
Screen Australia Director of Narrative Content Louise Gough highlighted the series’ potential to captivate both Australian and international audiences. “Leigh McGrath, Stephen M. Irwin and the team have crafted an ambitious, distinctive story and with Hunter Page-Lochard and Kat Stewart, Fortitude Valley has all the elements to resonate with Australian and global audiences alike. With exceptional creative talent both behind and in front of the camera, production and post in Queensland, this is a story designed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.”
A Testament to Queensland’s Creative Industry
Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney emphasized the significance of the series in showcasing local talent. “This gripping new crime drama from Queensland’s Moving Floor Entertainment showcases the depth of our homegrown talent. Conceived and written for a vibrant Brisbane backdrop, the series will be filmed and post-produced entirely in Queensland — a powerful testament to the scale, skill and creative energy of our industry. We applaud ABC for backing bold, locally made stories that connect with audiences here and around the world.”
Fortitude Valley will air in 2027.
Production Details and Future Prospects
Fortitude Valley is a Moving Floor Entertainment production for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, with major production investment from Screen Australia, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, and Screen Queensland. International sales will be handled by DCD Rights. The series is written by Stephen M Irwin, Leigh McGrath, and Hunter Page-Lochard, directed by Sian Davies, and produced by Andy Walker with Ross Allsop as co-producer. Executive producers include Stephen M Irwin, Leigh McGrath, Greg Sitch, and Hunter Page-Lochard, with ABC Executive Producers Brett Sleigh and Rachel Okine.
The announcement of Fortitude Valley comes at a time when Australian television is increasingly gaining recognition on the global stage, with audiences eager for fresh and compelling narratives. As the series gears up for its 2027 release, it promises to be a significant addition to the landscape of Australian drama, potentially setting new benchmarks for storytelling and production quality.
