Inducted into ACS Hall of Fame – 2004
Robin Copping, a Cinematographer since 1960 previously worked as a stills photographer before being trained in specialised cinematography in London. He moved to Melbourne in 1963 and was employed by Senior Films for five years as a cinematographer. In 1968 he and David Bilcock established Bilcock and Copping Prod’s and played a key role in the production of feature films in the 70’s as directors of a newly formed company, Hexagon. Tim Burstall, David Bilcock and Rob Copping formed the production arm of Hexagon. Graham Burke and two other directors headed the exhibition and distribution side, representing Village/ Roadshow and Greater Union. Rob is well known for his feature film cinematography particularly the films he made with Tim Burstall, “Stork” in 1972 and “Alvin Purple” in 1973
Rob’s Credits Include:
Feature Films (as DOP): 2000 Weeks 1968, Stork, Libido (The Child) 1972, Alvin Purple 1973, Peterson 1974, Alvin Rides Again (Also co-director) 1974, End Play 1975, Eliza Fraser 1976, The Pirate Movie 1980, Kangaroo 1987 (2nd Unit Director)
TV Specials (as DOP): ‘Procol Harum’ 1970 A one hour TV documentary featuring an iconic band of the day. Shown Nationally on the ABC and in the UK on BBC, ‘Forbidden Journey’ 1986 A one hour film fan overland crossing of Tibet) shown nationally on Our World… prod, dir, dop, ‘Getting Back to Nothing’, TV documentary on the World Surfing Championship in Australia 1971, ‘The Tracking of a Galleon’s Ghost’ 1992.
Rob, throughout his illustrious career has photographed, produced and directed films in most categories and his highly regarded production company Bilcock and Copping is engraved in Victorian film history. He is currently the Victorian President of the Australian Cinema Pioneers 2009-2010.
Rob was an early member of the Society and played a major role in the organisation and running of the Victorian State Branch for several years, and served as Vice President for two years. Although Rob has won many awards, he rates the high point of his career as being inducted to the ACS Hall of Fame in 2004.
Footnote: Rob’s friend, Tim Burstall died in 2004 and his partner and friend of four decades, David Bilcock, died in 2009. He feels very privileged and grateful to the many fine people with whom he has been friends and associates throughout his career.
