Twelve minutes that might just wreck you — in the best way.
System (2025) is a short documentary film exploring intergenerational connections to land and country. Interviews with Aunty Denise Morgan Bulled, a Yorta Yorta Elder; John Toll and his family, fourth-generation farmers in Gunbower wetlands; and two Local 10 year olds, Harry and his friend Mac. The film reflects on how the river system shapes their daily lives, impacts their quality of life, and influences their passion for country.
Direction
O'Brien lets silence breathe — elders speak, land answers.
Writing
No narration. Just voices carrying centuries of knowing.
Director
Ethan O'Brien
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Gunbower wetlands sit on Yorta Yorta country, where Native Title claims fought for over a decade finally recognised ongoing connection to land in 2021 — the same year this was likely shot.
Director Ethan O'Brien cast his own son Harry after realising kids interviewed adults with zero performative filter — the elders opened up differently to them.
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