The Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) is the largest organization of Location Managers and Location Scouts in the motion picture, television, commercial and print production industries. Their membership plays a vital role in the creativ
Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1538382
14 • LMGI COMPASS | Summer 2025 LMGI Oceania on the Gold Coast: A Night of Connection and Community On June 7, the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort on the Gold Coast transformed into a vibrant hub of industry conversation and connection, as the Location Managers Guild International held its LMGI Oceania Members Event— bringing together location professionals from across the region. The evening was organized by LMGI members SLM Mary Barltrop, with the support of SLM Lauren Cooper and LMGI Oceania Regional Director, SLM Lisa Scope. Their efforts culminated in an inspiring night where the community came together in a relaxed setting to celebrate their craft and forge deeper professional ties. Attendees included LMGI members Monique Miller, Leann Emmert, Luke Ford, Kathryn Metcalfe and Nicci Dillon. "It was a real privilege to help bring together the LMGI event on the Gold Coast," said Barltrop. "Opportunities like this are rare—a chance to step away from the fast pace and pressure of our day-to-day work, and simply connect. Over a few relaxed drinks, we shared stories, ideas and laughter. In an industry driven by deadlines and logistics, moments like these are vital." The newly formed Gold Coast Film Commission proudly sponsored the event, recognizing the value of cultivating local and international industry ties. Gina Black of the Commission reflected, "The Gold Coast Film Commission is proud to have sponsored the recent LMGI Oceania Members Event. The conversations, great food and 'artisan' cocktails flowed late into the night, and many friendships and collaborations were formed." Expressing optimism for the future of LMGI in the region, Lauren Cooper added, "Since we are still in our genesis period in Queensland, it was inspiring to see so many location professionals come together under the LMGI banner to network and connect. To have interstate and visiting international members in attendance highlighted how far-reaching these connections can be. As we gather momentum and build our local membership base, I'm excited for the future and proud to be part of this collective." The night drew a diverse crowd—from seasoned industry veterans to up-and-coming location professionals—all united by a shared passion. New LMGI business partners and proud sponsors of the event, Safe Knight Security & Traffic Management, general manager Jason Williams stated: "It was a great night and we are proud to support some of the hardest working and creative location professionals across Australia in a relaxed and fun environment." LMGI business partner and Managing Director of Cato Location Services Kieran Cato, who traveled with his Cato Location Services team to attend, summed up the spirit of the event: "What an experience to be at one of those rare industry Large group, front row: Leann, Gina, Lisa. Second row: Anthony, Mary, Monique, Pia Emery, Kathryn, Anna, Lauren. Third row: Jason, Karen Illesca, Monin, Erin O'Shiel. Cass, Kieran, James Cowling. Fourth row: Matt/Safe Knight, Sam, Jacob. 3. Back row: Sharda & Tom. Small group, front row: Nicci & Lynne. Back row: Loyish, Kate Tully, Luke. L-R: Lisa Scope/LMGI, Mary Barltrop/LMGI, Lauren Cooper/LMGI, Leann Emmert/LMGI