Uplifting local voices during dry times

New BCG docuseries uplifts local voices during dry times

by Jess Bidstrup

The Vic Hub’s north-west node, BCG, is bringing local voices to the screen with Over the Fence, an eight-part docuseries that celebrates the resilience and ingenuity of farming communities across north-west Victoria.

The series shifts the focus from drought as crisis to drought as an opportunity for learning, preparation and connection. By capturing the lived experiences of farmers, advisors, local business owners, sporting clubs, contractors and community members, Over the Fence will shine a light on the strategies and stories that help people endure dry times, and move through them with confidence and hope.

Fiona Best, the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption & Innovation Hub’s Regional Director and CEO of BCG, said the series is about recognising and valuing the knowledge already within our communities.

“Too often drought is only spoken about when people are already in the middle of it. This project is about changing that conversation. Over the Fence encourages us to think ahead, to talk openly about risk management and wellbeing, and to see the strengths we already have. Our communities are collaborative, resourceful and connected. We want to capture and celebrate that.”

Learn about the four stages of drought

The docuseries builds on the success of BCG’s Over the Fence magazine published in 2023, which featured 33 local farming families and received overwhelmingly positive feedback. The magazine sparked conversations, prompted reflection and offered a hopeful outlook in contrast to the deficit-focused portrayal of drought that so often dominates mainstream media.

“The third iteration of Over the Fence reimagines the concept for a wider audience,” Fiona said. “By sharing authentic, local stories on film, we can highlight resilience in many forms, from financial planning to community connection, from the role of technology to the importance of wellbeing. These stories are inspiring, practical, and they remind us that resilience doesn’t start with rain, it starts with people.”

Showcasing how small towns band together in tough times

Extension Officer and project leader Alicia Gault said she was proud to be uplifting the voices of local people.

“By shining a light on inspiring stories across the community, from farmers to business owners and community leaders, we’re able to showcase the bigger picture of how small towns band together in tough times.”

Filming is taking place between September and November 2025, with a dedicated launch event planned for early 2026. The series will be made in partnership with local production company Mallee Media and released across BCG and the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub platforms.

Fiona Best said, “This project is about lifting each other up. By listening to one another and sharing what we’ve learned, we can strengthen our communities, inspire action, and be ready for whatever the future brings.”

This article is based on a piece originally published on the BCG website.