Erika Addis appointed Australian Cinematographers Society president

Ron Johanson OAM ACS said the following:

“So, after fourteen years at the helm, I have decided to steer a different course.

At the ACS AGM on Sunday 23 January, the National Executive elected the very first ACS female National President; Erika Addis.

I congratulate Erika on this great honour afforded her and wish her smooth sailing with the wind at her back.

It is difficult for me to put into words how much I have enjoyed my time as National President because the title doesn’t really fit the involvement which happens on so many levels. You have all inspired me to do better, and while there were times I possibly did not come up to par, I believe we achieved so much together, and our beloved Society can hold its head up high as a valued global entity.

We still have challenges ahead but we must maintain integrity, truth, professional ethics and principles above self-interest, always remembering we are here for our members and not for personal benefit or gain. A reminder that we are members of a great Society, steeped in tradition and we must always represent the Society with dignity and mutual respect.

Erika Addis said the following:

“I am proud and humbled to be charged with the responsibility of leading the ACS. The purpose of the ACS is to nurture the knowledge and understanding of cinematography and all those who practice it. I look forward to working closely with all the ACS team, and especially Ron Johanson OAM ACS, to further this work.

I acknowledge Ron’s considerable legacy and support, that has enabled me to take on this role. 2022 is the 10th anniversary of the formation of the ACS Women’s Advisory Panel, and throughout those ten years Ron steadily worked to ensure the integration of the WAP into the fabric of the ACS. And the Society can all rightly be proud that the WAP recently evolved into the Diversity, Inclusion and Reconciliation working panel in 2021.

That evolution reflects the extent to which the ACS of the second decade of 21st century is a global citizen, aware of its place on the world stage, that sees and values the importance of the contribution of women, first nations peoples and all minorities.

The time ahead will bring a focus on ensuring we have good governance throughout the ACS which is vital to the Society’s well-being. And at the same time the work being done on the outward facing wings of the ACS will bear fruit soon – in particular the website and social media. And the research, both technical and industry based, being done and shared with members will continue to ensure the ACS is a relevant and vital organisation.

Like all of us, I want the ACS to thrive, and to reach out not only to those who have the privilege and good fortune to know what they can gain from the ACS, but also to those whose life experiences are rich in ways that many members of the ACS National Executive may not have lived experience. Those who don’t yet know or understand what they can gain from the ACS. Many story tellers of the coming generations will have different ways of seeing and experiencing the world and we have a lot to learn from them.

I am honoured by the support so generously shown me within the ACS, and I look forward to leading the Society into its bright future.”