Poster for WASHED AWAY, directed by Terry William Webster, Stuart Mckay, AFIN 2025

Feature Documentary AFIN 330

WASHED AWAY

Directed by Terry William Webster, Stuart Mckay

AFIN 2025 Winner

  • 2025
  • 1h 28m
  • Australia
  • English
  • M
Australian
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Stills

3 frames

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Credits

Synopsis

In February 2022, a ‘monster’ flood inundated the Northern Rivers with more than 14 metres of water, submerging thousands of homes overnight. On-theground first responders could only watch and wait, hamstrung by red tape and a lack of resources - leaving scores of people trapped in their homes, cut off from assistance and left to fend for themselves. Washed Away follows the locals who stepped in to help, risking everything to save a stranger, and reveals a community on its knees that triumphed over tragedy, celebrating the heroes and paying tribute to those who lost their lives. This documentary will inspire the viewer through the strength of the human spirit and fight for accountability and a renewed government response to crisis management in areas that are destined to flood again.

Director's Statement

Terry William Webster, filmmaker portrait provided to AFIN.

“In an era where storytelling surpasses mere entertainment, documentaries like Washed Away are pivotal in inspiring the depths of human endurance, compassion, and unity in the face of natural disasters.”

What makes this one special

Directors' Biography

Terry William Webster, filmmaker portrait provided to AFIN. Terry William Webster Stuart Mckay Directors

Free Flow Films is a studio born from the passion and vision of Terry Webster and Stuart McKay. Their mission? Craft films that delve into Australia’s heart, exploring its REAL challenges and beauty through the lens of humanity, love and longevity.

Backgrounds of Terry Webster and Stuart McKay.

Terry Webster has an illustrious career in films around the globe and is known for his strength in harsh environments. He has a keen eye for storytelling. His work as a DOP and editor, from the wilds of “Man Eats Wild” to the tales of ABC’s “Fightback Farmers,” showcases a dedication to films that inspire and provoke thought. Stuart McKay complements Terry’s vision with his impeccable music scores and sharp cinematography, sharing a boldness to traverse Australia’s most challenging terrains to capture its stories. Like Terry, Stu’s specialities are in tourism and films for humanity, and both are incredibly dedicated to being one of Australia’s best film producers. They are a one-stop shop.

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WASHED AWAY was Winner of Best Documentary Feature and a Nominee for Best Film Editing at the AFIN International Film Festival 2025, a Top 100 Best Reviewed and IMDb-qualifying festival.

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  1. Open the AFIN International Film Festival event page on IMDb and choose the 2025 edition.
  2. Choose Edit (contribute), then Awards, and add your film under the category (Best Documentary Feature and Best Film Editing) with the outcome shown on your laurels above.
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