World Premiere of Riveting Yacht Race Documentary 'True South' Graces Sydney's Westpac OpenAir Cinema

Published: 22 Dec 2025
The riveting documentary 'True South' garners attention as it commemorates 80 years of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, premiering at the Westpac OpenAir Cinema in Sydney.

Marking the commencement of a new era in maritime storytelling, the momentous documentary ‘True South’ set its sails at the Westpac OpenAir Cinema in Sydney. The film vividly captures the roller coaster ride experienced by the participants of Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race over 80 years. An emotional testament to the resilience of Homo Sapiens, ‘True South’ not only superbly narrates an epic yacht race but unveils a deeply human story of grief, perseverance, and camaraderie. The film enters the canvas of the Winning and Dean families, whose roots intertwine, tested through rigorous and ruthless maritime challenges.

The documentary is the brainchild of Will Alexander, a childhood friend of the Winning and Dean families. His proximity and understanding of the families allowed him an unprecedented access, offering the film an unfiltered emotional authenticity.

‘True South’ is decidedly more than a sailing film. It’s a timely tribute to familial resilience, bravery, and to the sailors whose voyage ended prematurely. Directed by Dave Klaiber and vocally carried by Sigrid Thornton AO with an evocative original score by Elena Kats-Chernin AO, ‘True South’ promises to leave a haunting echo in the chapters of the maritime history.