Bringing Dreams to Life: ‘Beach Watch’ Begins Filming on Coolum Beach

A special kind of magic happens when community, art, and heart come together — and it’s unfolding right here on the Sunshine Coast.

‘Beach Watch’ is a heartfelt short film inspired by local legend Andrew Toolis and his lifelong dream of living in a world like the one he saw on the iconic 90s show Baywatch. For Andrew, who has Down syndrome, the sun-soaked beach scenes and life-saving camaraderie of Baywatch represented more than just entertainment — it was a place where people truly belonged. A place where everyone was valued, looked after one another, and lived purposefully and joyfully. In Andrew’s words, Baywatch felt like the kind of world he always wished he could be part of.

Now, that dream is becoming a reality.

A year ago, artist and community champion Chony Bowden from Chony’s Art Room applied for a Sunshine Coast Council community grant, determined to bring Andrew’s story to life on the big screen. The Council agreed, and the project officially kicked off with the support of local filmmakers Amy and Mark Gray and Timothy Birch. Their passion and enthusiasm for the story were instant.

This Saturday, May 24, the sands of Coolum Beach will transform into Andrew’s dream set as filming begins for Beach Watch. Dozens of local extras will join the cast and crew in a celebration of inclusion, creativity, and courage. It promises to be a day filled with joy, laughter, and, hopefully, good weather (fingers crossed, weather Gods!).

The excitement doesn’t stop there. Mark your calendars for October 25, when Beach Watch will make its glamorous debut. Think red carpet, think Grammy Awards glam — it’s going to be an unforgettable night that celebrates not just film, but community spirit and the power of believing in someone’s dream.

This project is more than just a film. It’s a living, breathing example of how art and community can uplift, empower, and truly change lives.

We can’t wait to see Andrew shine.

See you on the beach!

With love and excitement,

X Chony