Amy Friesen’s life reads like a script from a movie, packed with adventure, creativity, and a passion for storytelling. Born in Gympie and raised between Imbil and Brisbane, Amy’s adventurous spirit was sparked early by her father’s outdoor adventures.
At school, she loved geography which in turn created a passion for travel and awakened an interest in global impact. She later studied Anthropology and Archaeology, Amy jokingly says she wanted to be Indiana Jones, but discovered acting along the way. Film became her creative outlet, opening a new world of storytelling and meaningful connections.
Amy’s first job was at Baskin-Robbins, where she was fired at 14 for being too generous with the scoops. Devastated, she moved on to Macca’s.
At 20, Amy landed her first ad for KFC, playing a beachgoer having fun with the crowd, and remembers that the burgers had to look perfect before the actors could eat them.
Amy says, “The whole set experience was really unique and at the time was very exciting.”
“Like many aspiring actors, I juggled hospitality jobs around uni and auditions, I did the waitress wanna be actress well!”
Over the years, Amy has appeared in short films and TV commercials, been a presenter, and done voice-over work, highlighting her versatility both on-screen and behind the camera. Her passion for performance intertwined with her love for travel, taking her across the globe. At 21, she lived in LA, attended acting school, and landed small film roles. Later she spent a decade in Canada, where she met her filmmaker husband, Kevin in Vancouver.
Kevin’s humour and bold personality kept things interesting, but their friendship deepened when they teamed up for a documentary in Mozambique. With his background in acting and stunts, their shared love for film brought them closer. Romance sparked in the African savanna—though Kevin briefly panicked and broke up with her upon arrival! Luckily, by that same night, they were back together, Amy laughs.
The pair also lived in Cambodia with their kids, blending their passions for culture, humanitarian work, and filmmaking. where they shot another documentary, being able to merge their passions has been an incredible blessing.
Amy and Kevin have been married for 15 years and have four beautiful kids.
"Kevin keeps me in stitches. Our bond is built on friendship, laughter, and the ability to forgive—it's the secret to weathering life’s challenges together."
Now settled in Hervey Bay, Amy is channelling her love for film and community into Screen Fraser Coast, an organisation set to shape the region’s cinematic future.
At 42, Amy co-chairs Screen Fraser Coast, a volunteer-led nonprofit dedicated to growing the region’s film industry. Inspired by Screen Illawarra’s success, she envisioned a similar hub for Hervey Bay. With Fraser Coast Films already making its mark, Screen Fraser Coast adds another layer of support, helping to shape a thriving future for local filmmaking.
Screen Fraser Coast will act as a facilitator, building a database of talent, from actors to editors, scriptwriters, producers, directors and everything in between, and supporting local filmmakers. The goal? To create a sustainable industry, attract regional and global productions, and provide mentorship so local youth can develop their careers without leaving the region.
It has now been two and a half years since Amy and Kevin moved to Hervey Bay.
Amy says, "It's the perfect place to raise a family, beautiful, accessible, and surrounded by nature. With K’gari nearby and stunning beaches at our doorstep, we could not love it more! We are both excited to see this next chapter of our lives play out."
By Kim Parnell
From What’s On Fraser Coast Magazine