A bold new sporting documentary series celebrating First Nations athletes, culture, and the power of sport 7 August, 2025
Media releases
Dreaming Big premieres on Friday September 5 at 7:30pm on NITV and SBS On Demand
At its heart this series is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of athletes and the enduring legacy of First Nations culture
Dreaming Big, a powerful 6-part documentary series spotlighting the journeys of First Nations youth in sport, will premiere on NITV and SBS On Demand on Friday September 5 at 7:30pm.
This real-life sporting docuseries of six 30-minute episodes, offers an intimate look into the lives of thirteen emerging Indigenous athletes from various disciplines, including Boxing, Surfing, Car Racing, Flat track Motorbike Racing, Sport Climbing, Karate and Soccer. Each story is delivered with authenticity and heartfelt storytelling grounded in cultural integrity,
Dreaming Big follows the journeys of these Indigenous athletes, aged between 12 and 19, capturing their raw determination and resilience in the pursuit of sporting excellence. More than a showcase of athletic ambition, each episode is deeply rooted in First Nations narratives, celebrating personal triumphs while exploring the challenges these young athletes face on and off the field.
The series also honours the rich cultural heritage of Australia's First Nations communities. It weaves together themes of perseverance, identity, and unity, offering a unique Indigenous perspective on sport and success. Through the eyes of the athletes, their families, and mentors, the series reveals how individual achievements become shared victories that uplift entire communities.
Filmed in locations chosen in collaboration with local First Nations communities, each setting holds cultural significance - transforming sporting grounds into powerful symbols of heritage and connection to Country.
In celebrating diversity and cultural strength, Dreaming Big leaves a legacy for future generations that dreams, when rooted in identity and community, can soar beyond the finish line.
Directed by Andrew Dillon (Le Champion) and Wirrim Media's Abraham Byrne-Jameson (Broadcast directing debut), with writer/producer Richard Jameson OAM (Strait to the Plate Season 2) and WildBear International Consulting Executive Producer, Veronica Fury (And We Danced).
NITV Head of Indigenous Commissioning and Production, Dena Curtis said: Dreaming Big is a show for the whole family it represents our communities at the highest levels of sport and captures the strength, support and courage that come from family and culture. A powerful celebration of First Nations athletes, it highlights the dedication, talent and passion of these remarkable young people and their families as they chase their dreams, breaking barriers in their chosen sports. Offering both visibility and inspiration for the next generation, Wirrim Media has beautifully crafted a series that NITV is proud of, demystifying the path to elite sport while reinforcing the powerful message: if you can see it, you can be it.
Wirrim Media Director, Abraham Byrne-Jameson said: We set out to make a series that was real - something that showed the grit behind the glory, and the community behind the athlete. These stories are filled with hope, humour, and unstoppable heart.
Screen Australia First Nations Department Investment Manager Samuel Paynter said: Dreaming Big is a compelling look at First Nations sporting excellence through the unique intersection of athletic dedication, aspiration, challenge and the rich traditions of our communities. We are proud to be able to support Wirrim Media and WildBear International in this masterful exploration of the connection between athleticism and culture. Sport-lover or not, this captivating series has something for everyone.
Screen Queensland CCO Belinda Burns said the series is a strong example of the agency's commitment to supporting locally produced First Nations stories: Screen Queensland is proud to support Wirrim Media and their vision to amplify the voices of young athletes across regional, urban and remote areas of Queensland. We have a proud history of championing First Nations' creatives to tell powerful, authentic stories that connect with audiences both locally and internationally. Projects like Dreaming Big reflect the rich cultural diversity of Queensland and have the potential to deliver lasting social impact and foster a deeper appreciation of First Nations stories and voices.
MEET THE CAST
JAYDEN HOLDER, 16, NSW
Mob: Dunghutti
Sport: Flat Track Racing
Achievements: 6 x Australian Champion, 8 x NSW Champion and 4 x QLD state champion in Flat Track Racing.
Jayden Holder is an aspiring Motocross and flat track racing champion. Raised on a farm he began riding at the age of 4 and remarkably, by the age of 8, had already clinched a State Championship. This impressive start set the stage for Jayden's successful career in Motocross. For Jayden, Motocross and flat track racing isn't just a sport; it provides structure in his life and guides him on the right path, according to his Uncle Dylan. His dreams extend to following in his uncles' footsteps and participating in international flat track racing in the UK and the USA. Jayden's focus remains firmly on the track and his dedication to the sport, combined with family support and a passion for competition, sets the stage for an exciting journey ahead for this young racing prodigy.
RILEY HOLDER, 12, NSW
Mob: Dunghutti
Sport: Flat Track Racing
Achievements: Australian Dirt Track Champion, 2 x third place in NSW and Australian Titles
Riley Holder is a rising star in Australian dirt bike racing, showcasing exceptional skill and determination from a young age. Competing at the highest levels of flat track racing, Riley has already claimed an
