Champion: The Franz Stampfl Story

This film explores:

1) the history of Australia’s internment policies, focusing on WW2 and the Dunera, and how that has impacted on our society, as well as the impact internment has on the individuals concerned;
2) the importance of health and fitness at any level in young people, as well as adults;
3) the compatibility of Sport and The Arts in society;
4) the significant contribution that immigration has brought to Australia in the past;
5) stories of the Jewish peoples who were persecuted during WW2 in Austria, and interned in England and Australia;
6) the history of Australia as a growing, multicultural nation who began to have an impact on the world stage as seen through the lens of Athletics and the Olympics from 1955 onward; and
7) the incredible positive contribution one person can make to their community – locally, nationally and globally.

This film shines a light on an unsung hero of the sporting and motivational arenas, inspiring others to strive for excellence in their own lives. It shows that anyone can do anything if they believe in themselves & their abilities. It highlights that acquired disability is no barrier to go onto continued success in life in any field, that new immigrants can go on to become proactive, important figures in Australian society & that individuals can make a positive, global impact.

Through the film, we intend to take a personal look at the impact of war, immigration, mental health and disability and the ability to transcend adversity that will inspire others to greater heights themselves. We also intend to encourage people to seek help if they need it for any reason, build awareness of historical events that have a resonance in today’s world, drive conversations around the themes of the film, confront these difficult topics head on with empathy and understanding, inspire individuals to be the best they can be and to strive to have a positive impact themselves on their own communities due to the film’s message of “the positive power of one”.

Athletics Victoria, Athletics Australia, the Victorian Olympic Committee & Sport Australia Hall Of Fame are all supporters of the film, promoting the film to their networks and raising awareness that the film exists & we have support from various prominent Arts figures.

“I believe Champion has the potential to be a fascinating, original and rewarding documentary, of interest to a wide audience. I have no hesitation in supporting Sally and her colleagues in this project.” – Roly Keating (Former Controller BBC2 & BBC4)

“Franz’s philosophies transcend the sporting arena and can be applied to the pursuit of excellence in any field. In my opinion he is a truly inspirational figure and his story has universal appeal. I unreservedly wish to express my strong support of this project and the team involved. This is a story that must be told.” – Ethan Hawke (Oscar®-nominated Actor, Writer & Director)

These relationships have ensured that we have extra resources & support to complete the film.

Essentially this film is about making a difference and how one person can change the world they live in, no matter where they have come from or what their circumstances. Ultimately, this film is an exploration of the power of one, advocating for those with an acquired disability, for women in sport, for the positive impact immigrants can have on their new homes, for the power of belief in self and the greater good and for the power of the individual in the pursuit of excellence to inspire others to be the best they can be. We hope that this film will spark a national conversation about the importance of the Arts in all areas of life, and the importance of knowing our history so we do not repeat the mistakes of the past, as well as the positive contribution that immigrants have made to Australian society in the past through to the present.