Rocky Mountain High
After our Alpine adventure 2 weeks ago we had the challenge of rock climbing at the Grampians this weekend on our pick up shoot. Having been to this location previously, it was familiar territory, but I’d forgotten how much effort it took to lug all the makeup equipment up the side of the mountain! Got to the top, took out the camera to take some shots and discovered that my digital camera battery was flat – Doh! In addition to the usual cast and crew we had an additional cast member – “Buckethead” the crash dummy/stunt man, who bravely took a dive off the side of the mountain (several times!) 
The fight scenes filmed in this location were most effective – Luke really does “throw” himself wholeheartedly into his work!! 
Makeup was “routine” for the first part of the the day’s filming, but the second location shoot involved a bit more “hard core” action as we had a rather gruesome scene to be filmed. 
My blood kit was well used in this scene and the actor who endured the application of the special effects did well to cope with it all! I’m sure there were a few anxious tourists who either heard the blood-curdling screams or saw the action from a distance and wondered what strange “cult” people were up the mountain that day! Actually we were not the only strange ones there….the busload of hikers we encountered in the car park certainly had some unusual “team-building” activities going on, judging by the roaring and chanting noises we heard!
The end of the day was very special as we had the opportunity to sit and watch a spectacular display of “God Rays” beaming down on the Grampians 
as the sun slowly set. It was an awesome view and a fitting end to a great day’s work in a spectacular environment. Thanks to Leanne and Andrea for the food – always greatly appreciated! A special thanks to Andrea for transporting the “devonshire tea” up the side of the mountain!!
While the rest of the crew wearily set off for Melbourne at the end of the long day (which had started at 5am for most) “Thelma”, “Louise” and Andy headed back to base camp at Hall’s Gap (where we had chosen to spend the night) and enjoyed a very pleasant and relaxing meal. So glad we weren’t driving straight back to Melbourne – we were wrecked!
(thanks to “Thelma” for the photos!)
Luke Oliver said,
April 14, 2008 at 10:24 pm
Mark Snell is the only person so far that doesn’t have sore legs. Mine are killing me!!! But it was a good shoot and the scene has come out a treat….and Bucket head has made it into the final cut!!
maxfactormama said,
April 16, 2008 at 11:16 am
what’s Bucket head’s secret? Andy will be shattered – his scene got cut! LOL