Australia has lost one of its most influential and quietly revolutionary storytellers. The acclaimed director behind some of our nation’s most beloved films and television series has passed away at the age of 82.
His legacy, however, will continue to shape Australian screens and inspire generations of filmmakers to come.
Born in Brisbane in 1942, Donald Crombie’s journey into the world of film began in the 1960s at the Commonwealth Film Unit, now known as Screen Australia.
At a time when the Australian film industry was still finding its feet, Crombie was at the forefront, helping to lay the foundations for what would become a golden era of local storytelling.
His early work with the South Australian Film Corporation (SAFC) was pivotal. As one of the first drama directors for the SAFC, Crombie played a crucial role in defining the cultural identity of the South Australian screen industry.
His projects, such as the 1973 TV mini-series Stacey’s Gym and 1974’s Who Killed Jenny Langby, set the stage for a new wave of Australian drama that was both authentic and deeply resonant.
What set Crombie apart most was his commitment to telling stories centred on strong, independent women, at a time when such narratives were rare.
Director Justin Kurzel recently reflected on Crombie’s impact, saying, ‘Crombie made many films about tough, powerful, independent women at a time when there were very few directors with female lead protagonists. ‘
‘While I believe Gillian Armstrong’s My Brilliant Career is an Australian masterpiece, I would place Caddie and Cathy’s Child alongside it. These films were groundbreaking in cinematically presenting a female perspective and portraying women navigating their own paths and asserting their voices.’
Crombie’s influence extended well beyond the big screen. His television credits read like a who’s who of Australian drama: Cyclone Tracy, The Heroes, Heroes II, The Feds, Time Trax, Fire, Flipper, and the much-loved McLeod’s Daughters.
He also contributed to the industry off-screen, serving on the boards of the Australian Writers’ Guild and the Australian Screen Directors’ Association (now the Australian Director’s Guild), helping to nurture and advocate for the next generation of storytellers.
The South Australian Film Corporation paid tribute to Crombie, stating, ‘On behalf of everyone at the SAFC, we send our deepest condolences to Donald’s wife and former SAFC CEO Judith Crombie, his family, friends and past colleagues. Vale.’
Did you watch Caddie, Cathy’s Child, or McLeod’s Daughters? Do you have a favourite Donald Crombie film or TV moment? We’d love to hear your memories and reflections. Please share your thoughts in the comments below and join us in celebrating the life and legacy of a true Australian original.
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Why is it that you do not say who it is until the 3rd paragraph ???