About
Community development sits at the centre of my work. My name is Tom Hearn, founder of BushTV, a creative and cultural social enterprise I established in 2003. I am a program manager, documentary filmmaker, writer, and photographer with Celtic roots and a deep commitment to helping communities design and deliver their own stories, programs, and futures.
Over the past two decades, I have worked across regional and remote Australia managing projects that bring together culture, health, employment, and leadership development. BushTV has grown from a small storytelling venture into a platform for community development and social impact, supporting local organisations to co-design programs that strengthen wellbeing and create practical, lasting change.
One of BushTV’s most recognised initiatives is Camping on Country, a national program that reconnects Aboriginal men with culture, healing, and employment pathways. As Program Manager, I oversaw logistics, budgets, and partnerships across states and territories, working closely with Traditional Owners, Elders, and local leaders to deliver culturally grounded on-Country experiences that build identity, confidence, and belonging.
Through BushTV, I have managed more than 40 community development projects in partnership with Aboriginal corporations, ranger groups, schools, and health services. Each project combines strong program management with local governance and participation. Whether through documentary filmmaking, facilitation, or mentoring, my focus is on community-led solutions that restore agency and build trust between people and systems.
BushTV continues to evolve as a bridge between storytelling and development practice. I believe that a good community program with a strong story — grounded in culture and guided by local knowledge — can heal, inspire, and create real social change. It is a privilege to walk alongside communities and turn ideas into action that work for people living in some of the most remote parts of Australia.
