They’re quite good performers, I watched them, and they don’t pull focus. I’m very proud of them. Ben and I have our moments working together as a married couple , but we’ve always had art and story at the centre of our relationship. Over 20 years we’ve been together now, and we keep coming back to creating together – so that must be the cornerstone of our relationship, with our two beautiful daughters on the other side of the triangle. I was told all the time when I was younger that anything is possible. You just have to go out there and take it. I never believed it and now I do, as long as you’re doing it from an authentic place, you can make things out of nothing, and you can leave something behind that is worthwhile. Marta’s new TV show Bay of Fires is streaming on ABC iview now.
Most of them left in their pyjamas from Syria, thinking they could return in a matter of weeks, and they sit in front of you, 11 years later and their kids have grown up in these camps. You’re talking about whole generations who are losing education, opportunity and connection to their culture. UNHCR encouraged me to bring Ben along to the camps, because I would need someone to talk to. I also took my girls to Uganda, because the camp was very safe, and I showed them the children; how they survive and thrive. These kids have such joy in them despite their circumstances. I learnt early on how to involve my daughters in my work , because I had to be away so much, often 70 hours a week shooting. I would bring them along, but only if they were helpful. On Bay of Fires Maggie and Grace were extras.
Years ago, when I started on A Place to Call Home , Channel Seven were interested in pushing me out to the public arena but I found it a little unsatisfying to talk about what’s my favourite thing to bake or who’s my favourite designer? So I said, “Look, I’d much rather put my voice behind things that matter.” My brother Yoris died of leukaemia, so initially I worked Marta in her own words How the star involves her family in her work and devotes her time to causes that matter.
at the Cancer Council, before joining Australia for UNHCR.
There’s not a single moment you don’t have your heart in your mouth , trying not to cry in front of refugees, because who are you to cry? When their whole lives have been torn away in an instant.
“UNHCR turn up and return people to their dignity. I have found it incredibly rewarding being involved.”
Above left: Marta with a Syrian refugee family on a trip to Jordan with Australia for UNHCR. Above right: starring as Stella in her drama series Bay of Fires .
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SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2023 DARE
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