‘True South’ debut

A new Australian documentary exploring the legacy of the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, and two families whose lives were shaped by it, is set to screen in March.

18 February 2026

Produced by Heckler, a poignant Australian documentary charting the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and its impact on two families, is set to premiere in cinemas around the country on March 5, 2026.

Marking 80 years of the race ‘True South’ explores the history of one of the world’s great ocean races and a cornerstone of Australian sporting culture, and was filmed 25 years after its darkest chapter in 1998, when six sailors lost their lives.

Each year, the nation follows the fleet south to Tasmania and into Bass Strait, one of the world’s most treacherous bodies of water, where shifting weather systems can transform elite competition into a fight for survival.

'True South' tells the poignant story of lives that were shaped by the Sydney Hobart race.

Comanche in action from 'True South' documentary.

The documentary examines the experiences of the Winning and Dean families, exploring themes of endurance, family and long-term involvement in the race.

Based on the stories of lifelong friends Herman Winning and Nathan and Peter Dean, the film portrays the 1998 race – a defining moment when a violent East Coast Low struck the fleet, generating 90-foot seas and claiming six lives, including John Dean, father to Nathan and Peter.

Twenty-five years later, Herman, Nathan and Peter returned to the race together – an act of extraordinary bravery that becomes the emotional spine of the film.

‘True South’ was directed by Dave Klaiber and created and produced by Will Alexander, founder of independent creative studio Heckler. Alexander had been close friends with the Winning and Dean families since childhood and was entrusted to tell the story because of that lifelong bond, helping shape the film’s emotional authenticity.

Narrated by Sigrid Thornton and featured an original score by Elena Kats-Chernin, this documentary also marks the first release for Lisa Garner and Matt Soulos under their new distribution banner, Match Point Films.

‘True South’ will screen in cinemas nationwide from 5 March 2026.

Watch trailer here: youtube.com

truesouthmovie.com.au