The Wateries is an action-packed police drama, exploring the world of the water police. A local production, it was the first police-orientated action drama to be given filming permission by the Queensland government to utilise high profile police props. 

Filmed in a mockumentary style, The Wateries made use of the Sony PMW-EX1, V1 and HVR-Z5P to mobilise acquisition in order to add drama and immediacy to the series.

Shooting on boats, pontoons and helicopters, the crew needed a compact solution that would deliver high quality images and excellent capabilities in low light. Executive Producer Terry Turner and his crew found that the Sony HVR-Z5P delivered shots at up to five stops better in low light than their secondary camera, and was also very easily  manoeuvred in the cramped shooting locations.

"The HVR-Z5P was designed to enhance creativity and deliver the highest standard of optical and audio quality when shooting in a variety of conditions," said Nick Buchner, Senior Product Marketing Manager for Content Creation at Sony Australia. "With the camera's built-in 'G Lens', The Wateries crew was able to capture excellent resolution, colour and contrast in difficult lighting without having to change lenses."

The crew made use of the HYBRID technology of the HVR-Z5P, recording the footage simultaneously to both digital files on CF cards and to HDV tape. This feature allowed the data files to be reviewed and ingested for editing quickly, and the tape then stored as a back-up without ever being used.

"We recorded to both tape and digital memory with the Sony HVR-Z5P. We reviewed and edited the data files, which were quick and easy to manipulate in our editing suite, and the tape is simply being used to archive our raw footage," said Terry Turner, Executive Producer of The Wateries. "The series is licensed and distributed exclusively by Channel 7 subsidiary Hybrid Television Services (ANZ) Pty Ltd via their CASPA delivery system; currently available to TiVo owners, and  soon other exciting platforms such as the new Internet enabled Televisions now on sale at major retailers . It's a truly digital production for truly digital delivery."

The Wateries is the first action drama to be produced specifically for Hybrid Television Services (ANZ) Pty Ltd for delivery to TiVo and other CASPA enabled customers. As it was shot in full high definition, users can enjoy the full immersive experience of viewing The Wateries in the highest quality - all in the comfort of their lounge room.

(Editor note: Like many, I am familiar with "Firey", "Ambo", "Garbo", "Towey" and so on, but despite owning boats all my life, I have never heard the term "Wateries". Maybe just me, but sounds a but wishy washy if you'll pardon the pun. Anyone have a suggestion for a better name?)

By Press Release

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