Noel Monkman


Noel Monkman was an Australian filmmaker, born in New Zealand, best known for specialising in underwater photography. He was a press photographer in New Zealand before moving to Australia and jointing the Orpheum Theatre orchestra.
He established Australian Educational Films with F.W. Thring, directing a series of educational nature films about the Great Barrier Reef. He later made several documentaries as well as two dramatic feature films. He collaborated throughout his career with his wife Kitty.
Filmink argued "Had the quota been enforced, Noel Monkman would have become a significant feature director of adventure movies – he and his wife still had a fine career, but it’s not what it could and should have been."
He and Kitty lived for a time on Green Island, acting as a volunteer air observer during World War II.

Selected filmography

Secrets of the Sea - director The Cliff Dwellers - director Coral and its Creatures - director Typhoon Treasure – writer, directorThe Power and the Glory – writer, directorMarvels of Miniature - documentaryKing of the Coral Sea – underwater photographyDeep Down Under - director Coral Kingdom – director

Writings

  • Escape to Adventure
  • From Queensland to the Great Barrier Reef : a naturalist's adventures in Australia
  • Quest for the Curly-Tailed Horses - autobiography