Former Wingello resident Eric Bruggeman has discovered transferable skills from professional chef to pyrotechnic supervisor for a film at Ballarat's iconic medieval themepark, Kryal Castle.
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The project is called "Fond" and was produced by the Valiant Film Company as an entry in the worlds largest short film competition, My Rode Reel 2020.
It involved a fiery swordfight between two actors, including medieval weapons specialist and world champion jouster, Phillip Leitch.
"I used my pyrotechnic knowledge to control the fire effects on set while making sure that everyone involved was safe," said Eric.
The practical effects included a campfire, two flaming swords and a flaming shield.
This wasn't Eric's first time on a film set.
The son of Wingello Village Store owner and local identity David Bruggeman had employed his extensive culinary skills to cater a previous Valiant Film Company production called "Corgi".
"After I had finished my catering duties, I was given the opportunity to jump in as an extra," said Eric.
The Rode Reel competition invites filmmakers' entries from around the world and boasts over $1 million in prize money across several categories: drama, comedy, animation, documentary and behind the scenes.
Readers are invited to watch and vote on their favourite entries on the myrodereel website and to follow Valiant Film Company on Facebook for more information.