Network 10 has officially opened the doors to its state-of-the-art virtual production studio located in Melbourne. This innovative space, known as Studio 1A, combines advanced technology, including a large chromakey setup, sophisticated virtual production software, and automated cameras, all powered by the Unreal Engine graphics platform.
According to Martin White, vice president of news at Network 10, this technological advancement is designed to support the network's growing audience. "Our local 5pm bulletin is up 9% year-on-year across all markets, and we know how important the Melbourne market is," White stated. "Victorians love local news, so I’m thrilled we’re able to give them an unparalleled, immersive local news, sport and weather experience with this new technology."
The studio's automated camera systems are designed to operate remotely. They are integrated with the graphics platform to allow for complex effects in live broadcasts. This technology enables camera movements and scene transitions that would be hard to accomplish with traditional studio setups, or require even more staff.
Network 10 has designed the facility to be versatile, accommodating a wide range of program formats, from news broadcasts to special event coverage. This initiative follows a similar trend seen at CBS News, its U.S. counterpart, which has made significant investments in virtual production for local affiliates and the streaming service CBS News 24/7.
White described the studio as “just a first step” in the network’s ongoing technology development plans. However, the company has yet to release details on future investments or plans to expand virtual production capabilities to other markets.