Councillors have endorsed Shadowbox Studios, an international heavyweight in the film industry, as the preferred developer for a cutting-edge screen production facility on the Gold Coast. The facility is anticipated to create thousands of jobs and bolster the local economy.
Shadowbox Studios, which already operates major studios in London and the Atlanta metro areas, has proposed the construction of up to 10 sound stages, workshops, office spaces, a backlot, and training facilities on the City-owned site in Yatala. The new film studio is expected to contribute approximately $195 million to the economy annually once completed.
Negotiations will now begin between Shadowbox Studios and the City for the use of the land at 396 Stanmore Road, Yatala. The arrangement will include a development lease, allowing Shadowbox Studios to develop the 22-hectare site, followed by a long-term operational lease.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This is such an exciting opportunity for the Gold Coast and will cement our position as one of the most sought-after filming destinations in Australia. It is vital we work to support the continued growth of the screen industry, creating jobs for our families and boosting our regional and visitor economies.”
Peter Rumbold, Chief Executive Officer of Shadowbox Studios, added, “We are thrilled to expand the footprint of Shadowbox Studios’ premier production facilities to the Gold Coast. As the local screen industry continues to grow, Shadowbox looks forward to hosting first-class film and television productions and fostering substantial job creation for the region through our studio-run, industry-certified crew training program. We’d like to thank Mayor Tate and the Council for this opportunity and are excited to continue our work together to make this vision a reality.”
Phase 1 of the proposal includes up to six sound stages, a workshop, an office building, a backlot, and outdoor filming space, all expected to be operational by 2028. Phase 2, which will be expanded in response to market demand, may include an additional four sound stages, workshop, and office space.
The project is projected to generate over 1,000 jobs during construction and 3,400 direct and indirect jobs once both phases are operational.
