Aeronautical pioneer Lawrence Hargrave and his research into flying machines are the subject of a new film set to screen in the scientist's former homestead next month.
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Director Geoffrey Sykes developed Father of Flight, a full-length documentary about the Stanwell Park-based aviation engineer.
The film, which took more than a year to complete, comes just months after Hargrave was flagged as a possible namesake for the soon-to-be-built second Sydney airport.
"It's not even something we should be arguing about, obviously it should be named after him," Mr Sykes said.
"Hargrave was one of the great scientists of his time and he's a terrific international figure; his story is just a great part of our history."
Mr Sykes' documentary examines Hargraves' research into wing structures, kites and biplanes, along with whether the scientist was adequately recognised for his work.
The film includes interviews with several scientific experts including Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, as well as footage of regional scenery and hang-gliding.
Mr Sykes also used specially designed interiors and studio shots to recreate Hargraves' models and life, engaging Wollongong musician Stephen Goldrick to play the famous engineer.
"Stephen was one of those people I had in my theatre network and he's such a lovely talent, he has this wonderful camera presence," Mr Sykes said.
"There's a photo of Hargrave with this cropped beard, it's almost contemporary and it's just Stephen - he captured him perfectly."
Mr Sykes has had a long connection with Hargrave's story, writing and staging a play about his journey at the now-defunct Theatre South in the '90s.
"I think his work really captures the spirit of our early nation," Mr Sykes said.
"Hargrave was a thinker; I was really interested in what motivated him; I wanted to create something that was informative and entertaining and gave an insight into his life."
Father of Flight will screen at the Helensburgh Tradies Club on March 7 and 20 and at Hargrave's old residence, Hillcrest, at Stanwell Park, on March 27 and 28.
It will also screen at the Excelsior Hall in the Thirroul Community Centre on March 6 and 14.
Tickets are available via trybooking.com or at the door.
A previous version of this story reported that this project was the first full-length documentary about Lawrence Hargrave. The Mercury has since been told this was incorrect. Filmmaker Jim Davis released The Man Who Would Fly, about Hargrave, in 2003.
