Australian shadows: ‘riptide’ filmed in melbourne’s hidden landscapes
A chilling psychological thriller, ‘Riptide,’ is gripping Channel 5 viewers, but the drama’s stunning Australian locations hold a secret – and a surprisingly local production history.
Beyond the beach: where ‘riptide’ really shot
The show, following a British woman’s desperate search for her missing husband amidst the perilous beauty of the Australian coast, initially aired in 2022. While the narrative focuses on the dramatic tension of the riptides themselves, the actual filming unfolded across a diverse range of Victoria’s landscapes. Forget the postcard-perfect beaches – much of ‘Riptide’ was captured just a short drive inland.
Initially, production centered around Melbourne, the state’s bustling capital and a key location for the series. Numerous exterior shots were filmed throughout the city, leveraging existing sets and utilising the network’s facilities at Network 10 Studios in Nunawading – a space previously used for acclaimed productions like ‘Neighbours’ and ‘Masterchef Australia’. This proximity offered a significant logistical advantage.
A glimpse of alison’s world
But the show’s most evocative setting, Alison’s opulent estate, is anything but a constructed set. The Morning Star Estate, a former wedding venue nestled on 155 acres outside Melbourne, served as the backdrop for those unsettling, sun-drenched scenes. Now privately owned, the estate’s sprawling grounds – complete with 20 bedrooms – offer a strikingly authentic, albeit slightly melancholic, atmosphere. Its transformation from a lavish event space to a shadowy crime scene adds another layer to the series’ intrigue.
Cliffside secrets and mountain majesty
The dramatic cliffside sequences, undeniably a cornerstone of ‘Riptide’s’ visual impact, were filmed near Mount Eliza, a coastal town within the Mornington Peninsula. This area, known for its quiet charm and beautiful beaches, provided a fitting, isolated setting for Alison's desperate pursuit. However, the show’s inland locations – particularly those within the Dandenong Ranges – proved equally crucial. These mountainous regions, a mere hour’s drive from Melbourne, offered a stark contrast to the coastal drama, demanding extensive travel for the production team.
A production rooted in local talent
The commitment to authenticity extends beyond location. The show’s creative team deliberately sought to tap into Melbourne’s established film industry, demonstrating a calculated reliance on local resources and expertise. ‘Riptide’’s success isn’t just about the story; it’s about the skillful blending of captivating narrative with the rich, multifaceted landscape of Victoria. It’s a testament to how a compelling script can unlock hidden gems within a familiar city.