For many, the path to a career in the arts is anything but linear.

For one Huonville local, a journey that began with computer science and online content creation is now taking an exciting new turn into the world of film. Born and raised in Huonville, Scott Hobbs initial academic and professional life revolved around technology.

After completing a university degree in computers and information technology in the 2010s, he found his niche in the digital realm, creating content for streaming platforms like Twitch [the largest video game streaming platform in the world].

This led to a successful freelance career as a video editor for other online creators.

However, a desire to expand his skillset and move beyond the digital screen sparked a new passion.

This year, Hobbs enrolled in a Film Studies course at TAFE, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of the entire filmmaking process—from inception to final cut.

The goal is to build a foundation that will eventually lead to a job in the creative field, offering the chance to learn from experienced professionals and discover their long-term career aspirations.

As part of the course, we were tasked with our first major production, handling every aspect of the project ourselves. The subject matter was an easy choice, inspired by a running joke within our study group.

“I talk about coffee and how cool the DS Coffee House Cafe is so much that everyone in my study group said that I absolutely had to make my doco about coffee and the cafe,” said Hobbs.

The documentary, which was originally intended to feature multiple coffee shops, quickly evolved into a focused and intimate portrait of the DS Cafe and its owners, David Batters and Steve Hollingsworth.

“David and Steve were incredibly supportive, granting full access for filming and interviews,” said Hobbs.

“The rich content and warm atmosphere at the DS Cafe ultimately led me to scrap my initial plans and focus exclusively on this single, compelling location.

“The resulting film I feel is a personal and heartfelt piece that showcases the genuine passion and community spirit behind our local DS Cafe,” said Hobbs.

“My film making journey is guided by George Goerss our Film Studies lecturer, who is a seasoned professional in the industry.

“As I hone my skills in writing, organising equipment, filming, and editing, these documentary projects serve as a perfect capstone for my newfound knowledge.

“This hands-on experience is not only a crucial learning tool but also a stepping stone toward my ultimate goal – a career in the dynamic world of film and media,” said Hobbs.

Tasmanian Times (TT) is a community-based news and current affairs service covering the island state of Tasmania. It exists to provide a diverse view of Tasmanian issues. TT creates and supports independent media content utilising the best of modern technologies and tried-and-true practices of public-interest journalism.

Support us in expanding our coverage and developing new content by and for Tasmanians. 

New initiatives on the way include:

  • a weekly podcast covering current affairs
  • a revamped website
  • a monthly cartoon competition
  • a user-friendly app for both Android and Apple devices
  • a weekly roundup of key stories