The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) has another ‘new’ film commissioner.

Terri Hadwin comes into the role after spending time as a board member of the Thompson-Nicola Film Commission, while also having spent time in the non-profit sector. She was also the Grant and Research Assistant for the TNRD

“Having now been awarded the Thompson-Nicola Film Commissioner position satisfies my devotion to the arts and economic development in tandem,” Hadwin said. “I could not be more thrilled to be working in fund development within the creative industry for the entire region.”

Speaking on the NL Noon Report, Hadwin says one of her initial tasks will be to convince production companies currently in B.C. that the TNRD is a viable option for them.

“One of the things that we have recently discovered from a feasibility study about studios is that the Lower Mainland is inundated and their studios are jam-packed and it is very very challenging for productions to find space within the Lower Mainland,” she said.

“That would be fantastic for the industry and allow us to have more jobs so that it is not such a gig economy for people that are interested in working in the field.”

Hadwin takes over the Film Commissioner’s role after Gareth Smart – the initial replacement for long-time Commissioner Victoria Weller – was let go by the TNRD just weeks into his tenure.

Weller – who was hired as the first-ever Film Commissioner in April 2000 – officially retired in June after a 22 year career with the TNFC.

“It will take time to fully encompass Vicci’s vast knowledge and experience, but the TNFC will move ahead with existing goals,” Hadwin added. “Vicci has left the TNFC with tremendous resources, including a stellar team that will continue building the TNRD as a film destination of choice.”

In the immediate future, Hadwin says feature film productions remain active across the TNRD, though she wasn’t able to say when or where. As well, discussions on a proposed Kamloops film studio continue.

“I have already been on the road quite a few times checking out some locations so that we can provide them to location scouts and let them know what we have to offer,” she said. “Some exciting stuff coming through the woodwork.”

It comes after a record 2021 with more than $8.5 million spent in TNRD communities by film production companies, which the Film Commission says resulted in about $25 million in induced spending.

“While dollars and jobs are important, so is protecting our neighbourhoods and natural resources. It is important to maintain our film friendliness and try to be as eco-conscious as possible, always seeking out ways to offer sustainable film production,” Hadwin added.

“These will be some of my aspirations as Film Commissioner.”