In Memoriam: Danny Batterham
Without doubt one of the finest cameramen in Australia and an absolute gentleman, a man who travelled both the high and low roads and more recently in Broome found a home, friends and solace from troubled times.
And in Broome re-invented himself and re-ignited the passion and desire that had inspired and driven his 40-year love affair for Film and Television.
He was a loving father to his two daughters Lucy and Bess and a life teacher to many others. He held such a unique view of the world that he shared with, always the comedian he never took life too seriously and loved a good joke.
From ABC’s "Seven Little Australians" back in 1973 to "The Circuit 2" in 2008 Danny Batterham’s life reads like a who’s who of Australian Film and Television. He worked with Directors such as Phillip Noyce (Echoes of Paradise), Bruce Beresford (Black Robe) Luis Lhosa (Sniper), Peter Duncan (Children of the Revolution) and Ken Cameron (Monkey Grip).
He was Director of Photography on many successful Australian TV series including Water Rats, Heartbreak High, Minder Down Under and most recently The Circuit 2.
A shining career was cut prematurely short by troubled times but with the help of his brother, Tim, they set out on a road trip that eventually brought them to Broome.
The simplicity and pace of life held great appeal for Danny far from the rat race of his previous life. He made a living by doing odd-cleaning jobs and enjoying the lifestyle and magic of this remarkable little town.
Walking home from work one day he happened upon producer Bruce Best (Ocean Star, Second Chance, Heartland). It marked the beginning of Danny’s resurgence as one of Australia’s premier cameramen and culminated in Danny taking on DOP role on The Circuit 2. During this time Danny re-established himself once again as a first class
Cinematographer and became friend and mentor to some of WA’s promising young talent through his work on "Trapped" and "The Circuit 2."
On Saturday night 21 March, after two days in hospital being diagnosed with cancer, Danny passed away peacefully and beautifully with his family by his side.
Danny’s untimely death is a great blow for Film & Television, but he will be remembered fondly and celebrated frequently. Danny is survived by his two daughters, Lucy and Bess, their mother Anna Howard, his brother Tim and sisters Robin and Linda.
[announcement from Dan Wood]