International broadcasters on the hunt for Gems docuseries from WildBear

Gem Hunters Down Under comes from WildBear Entertainment

Broadcasters covering Australia, Benelux, Germany, the UK, the Nordics, the Baltics and CEE have pre-bought the first season of observational documentary series Gem Hunters Down Under.

The 6×60′ show has been acquired by Seven Network for 7Mate in Australia, Warner Bros Discovery for Discovery in both the UK and Benelux, Seven One Entertainment in Germany, and Viasat World for Viasat Explore across the Nordics, Baltics and CEE.

Produced by Australia’s WildBear Entertainment, it follows the sapphire hunters of Central Queensland, home to one of the richest sapphire deposits on earth, when the blind pursuit of an incredible gem pushes a hardy band of miners to their very limits.

Against the backdrop of an epic landscape, they battle harsh weather, perilous working conditions and constant mechanical breakdowns. The series follows the exploits of five crews, from crusty veterans who are still on the gem high to wild-eyed local lads born into the game – each with a unique approach.

UK-based Wild Thring Media, WildBear’s long-term coproduction and pre-sales finance partner, said the initial demand for Gem Hunters Down Under and subsequent responses to early cuts from the pre-sale partners had resulted in WildBear Entertainment swiftly moving into production on seasons two and three, both also 6×60′.

Due for delivery in spring and autumn next year, seasons two and three have secured initial support from Seven Network down under.

The completed series of Gem Hunters Down Under will be distributed by WildBear International, the sales arm that launched last year.

Edwina Thring of Wild Thring Media said: “Gem Hunters Down Under brilliantly meets the current demand for obs docs about interesting and challenging jobs. However, its uniquely Australian locations, a fascinating range of characters and the real-life quest for buried treasure – and the associated risks – provide universal themes and exciting scenarios that elevate this series for the international market.”

Veronica Fury of WildBear Entertainment added: “Gem Hunters Down Under has been a joy to produce and is a prime example of what we do so well at WildBear – taking distinctive Australian stories and creating compelling series that not only work well at home but also have wide appeal with viewers around the world.”

Billy Betts of Seven Network said: “Gem Hunters Down Under is an entertaining mix of brilliant characters, jeopardy and adventure, and resonates perfectly with the 7Mate audience. We could not be more thrilled with the early response to this gem of a show, and had no hesitation in committing to these future series.”