A Place for Authentic Stories
My name is Tom Hearn, and in 2003, I founded BushTV with a vision that would transcend boundaries and ignite change. As an Australian documentary filmmaker and podcaster with Celtic heritage, I embarked on a remarkable journey driven by a deep sense of allyship with First Nations people, and have worked not only in Australia but with other Indigenous peoples around the world.
I love working with people who make the world a better place. BushTV has become a beacon of hope, a platform that amplifies authentic stories and champions the voices of those marginalised for far too long.
I have forged profound connections with remote Indigenous People and Organisations, collaborating with them to bring their stories to life. They have entrusted me not only as a skilled storyteller but as someone who genuinely understands and respects their culture. Together, we have built bridges of understanding and empathy, striving for a world where every story is valued and every culture is celebrated.
People often question whether a non-Indigenous individual can be a part of this sacred space, weaving Indigenous stories with integrity and authenticity. To those sceptics, I invite you to witness the transformative power of allyship by viewing my portfolio. My success in the story space results from a unique collaborative approach and a deep commitment to learning, listening, and supporting the people I work with..
I recognise the importance of uplifting voices by using my platform. I endeavour to create stories that resonate with truth, inspire understanding, and foster unity. Often working as a volunteer on stories that matter, allows me to work with whoever, whenever. My online community supports me, and I support them.
Let my journey prove that story knows no boundaries. Together, we can challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and build a future where everyone’s stories are cherished, celebrated, and given the prominence they deserve.
In this shared pursuit of justice, equality, and cultural appreciation, let us unite, embracing the power of storytelling to create a world where diversity thrives, voices are heard, and every individual can find their rightful place in the tapestry of humanity.
How I Work
I rely on my online supporters, who love what I do. I have worked with change makers from the earliest stages of campaign development. I utilise cultural leadership teams across Australia. Our video teams are multilingual and offer community-based messaging in specific remote languages. Community-based people are the experts of their community and, as such are an integral part of all campaign development.
Why I Work
Culturally aligned localised storytelling is the key to successful communication strategies. A national campaign is a series of localised remote stories in various languages representing the diversity of people across Australia. As a volunteer video producer, my mission is to deliver essential messages appropriately and ensure the right audience sees, hears, and enjoys the stories.
Who I Work With
Our stories include people from Australia and increasingly all over the world. If there’s an incredible social impact driver with a story to tell, we do our best to support them with a free video and campaign assistance. As volunteers, we rely on our online supporters to pay for travel and food, but we do everything for free. Money has no place in our model for change. Giving is the key to our success.
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STORIES
149
REMOTE COMMUNITIES
82
SATISIFIED CLIENTS
7
AWARDS WON
WHAT WE DO
MY PORTFOLIO
I specialise in cultivating enduring relationships with social impact legends all over the world, maintaining long-term partnerships rather than engaging in sporadic projects. My expertise lies in crafting compelling narratives and orchestrating impactful campaigns at no cost to our clients. I possess a diverse skill set encompassing fundraising, video production, editing, design and print, radio, web, and social media, allowing me to execute multi-channel campaigns seamlessly.
The fruits of my labour are prominently displayed on various platforms, including television, social media, radio, web, extensive email networks, community video and radio hubs. Occasionally, I create content for esteemed national film festivals and conferences, although I seldom rely on funding grants. Being a volunteer and just doing what I love is what drives me.
Most of my clientele comprises Indigenous-controlled organisations or individuals who entrust me with their projects. Additionally, I often venture into documentary production for television, collaborating with individuals with a unique message and a visionary outlook. Furthermore, I devote my time to volunteering in the prison and hospice space, aiding individuals to find their own story, especially those nearing the end of their life.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, please be aware this website and its social media platforms contains images of deceased persons.
I acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the nation.
I recognise the original Custodians of Country, their ongoing connection to the land, sky, seas, cultures and communities – paying my respects to Elders, past and present.
