James Crawley, co-founder and creative director of independent brand and advertising agency Common Ventures, has been awarded Best Documentary at the 56th annual Australian Writers’ Guild Awards (AWGIEs) for his debut documentary, 'Volcano Man'. The film explores Crawley’s complex relationship with his eccentric father, Richard Crawley, who lives atop a dormant volcano. The documentary uses a combination of uncovered home videos and new interviews with those closest to Richard Crawley to reveal his 'real' persona and the complicated dynamic between father and son.

The AWGIEs are annual awards that recognise and reward the outstanding achievements of Australian performance writers. They are the only industry awards given by writers, to writers, judged exclusively on the final script. 'Volcano Man' was written and directed by Crawley, and co-written by Tim Russell and Steven Sander. Since its official premiere at last year’s Melbourne International Film Festival, the film has received critical acclaim. It was also selected for the Heartland International Film Festival (USA) and received a nomination for Best Feature Documentary by the Film Critics Circle of Australia (FCCA).

On receiving the award, Crawley said, “For such a personal project to be acknowledged is incredibly humbling. Processing grief is something we all have to do at some point, and the fact that others are finding meaning in the film is beyond satisfying.”

Common Ventures, the agency co-founded by Crawley, is a storytelling, brand and full-service advertising agency. Australian-owned and independent, it is managed by Brian Merrifield, Jane Burhop and James Crawley. Its clients include Tourism NT, Woolworths Group, Spirit Super, Prospa, Meals on Wheels, Bush Heritage Australia, Australian Boutique Spirits and the Sydney Opera House.

'Volcano Man' is currently screening at Palace Cinemas nationwide and is also available to stream on DocPlay in Australia and New Zealand.