Qld film set rocked by lockdown breach allegations

Police have been called on to the set of the Jessica Watson biopic after complaints were made that the filming was in breach of lockdown rules.

Police have been called to the set of the Jessica Watson biopic on the Gold Coast after complaints the production was breaching the state’s lockdown rules.

Responding to complaints from the public, officers attended the set of True Spirit on Wednesday morning.

The Netflix movie, starring Teagan Croft in the title role of the solo sailor, has been in production on the Gold Coast for several weeks.

Police were called to the Jessica Watson biopic film set following reports lockdown as being breached. This picture of the filming was taking prior to the lockdown starting. Picture: Nigel Hallett

Acting Chief Superintendent Rhys Wildman from Gold Coast Police confirmed officers had attended the set, with information forwarded on to Queensland Health.

Queensland Health has been contacted for comment.

Three major film and TV productions are continuing on the Gold Coast during the lockdown, including the Jessica Watson biopic and teen series The Wilds and Taylor’s Island.

Police were called to the Jessica Watson biopic film set following reports lockdown as being breached. This picture of the filming was taking prior to the lockdown starting. Picture: Nigel Hallett

Queensland Heath said film production was not a restricted activity under the current lockdown directions.

“However, we are urging production companies to limit the number of people who attend film sites to the bare minimum,” it said in a statement.

Police were called to the Jessica Watson biopic film set following reports lockdown as being breached. This picture of the filming was taking prior to the lockdown starting. Picture: Nigel Hallett

“Companies must also have in place formal COVID Safe plans including daily processes to ensure film cast and crew wear masks at all times unless they are being filmed, are symptom-free, have not been to an exposure site, and are social distancing.

“Additionally, they must travel directly from their home or accommodation to work and back only - no other movement is permitted.”