Binge series The Twelve to start filming in Margaret River region

The Margaret River region’s reputation as a key destination for WA’s film industry continues to grow apace, with TV drama The Twelve set to film here and in Perth.

This week’s news confirmed rumours the Binge cold case drama-thriller would include Augusta, plus other natural attractions within the Cape-to-Cape region, for its third season.

Headlined by film legend Sam Neill, the new season will see the New Zealand-born actor’s Brett Colby SC return to screens in the production which has sold internationally.

While the majority of the indoor photography will be shot in Perth’s ABC studios and use locations including Parliament House, the Times understands some iconic outdoor shots will be captured during the next few weeks.

A Binge publicist told the Times the streaming platform would have more news in coming weeks.

However, locations include Redgate Beach, Gracetown and Yallingup, with a relatively short two-week local shoot expected.

The Times understands a call was put out for key extra roles in July, though Binge was unable to confirm any details.

Neill told the media he was eager to return to the production.

“I am very happy at the prospect of being back with Colby and back in Western Australia, and very much looking forward to our first time in the Margaret River region,” he told The West Australian.

The Twelve used Mid-West locations during its second season, and the local shoots followed the success of Stan crime drama Scrublands filming in Augusta during the midwinter lull.

The production was expected to be a welcome cash injection for the shire as well as WA’s economy, with about 150 crew hired for the show.

Arts Minister David Templeton said the returning production would add “depth and experience” to the local industry at a key time.

“The legacy of the production returning to WA for another season enables continuity of work for WA screen practitioners, and more opportunities for people establishing a career in film to pursue opportunities in their home State,” he said.

“WA has a reputation for supporting outstanding screen content that utilises the variety of locations and character of our State found across nine distinct regions and the metropolitan area.”

Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie said ongoing use of the region for productions was another boost for local businesses and industry proponents.

“We have been lucky enough to have a number of productions filmed in our region, including The Surfer and Scrublands: Silver, and each of them have created such a buzz in the local community,” she said.

“The economic boost is fantastic, but the ongoing benefits are even better.

“As people realise how spectacular the region is, they come and visit and spend their money at our local businesses and stay in our accommodation.”

Not much was known about the new season’s storyline except it would likely introduce 12 new jurors and a brand new case.

“The Twelve has captivated audiences with its unique premise of focusing on 12 jurors as they wrestle with their duty to deliver a verdict while navigating their own personal issues,” the official release said.