Film legend who produced Australia's first kangaroo horror movie starring The Terminator actor dies in shock accident at 42
Legendary Australian film identity Liz Tomkins died on Monday in a road accident, just days after stepping down from her role as chair at Women in Film and Television.
The news of her sudden death at just 42 has sent shockwaves through the Australian screen community, leaving many mourning the loss of a dedicated leader.
Throughout her celebrated career, Tomkins worked as a film producer, advocate, bookkeeper, production manager and general all-rounder.
The Queensland-born producer also worked with many renowned Australian actors, including Home and Away star Tess Haubrich and Stingers' Brett Whittingham.
WIFT announced the heartbreaking news of her death in a social media statement.
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'It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce today the sudden passing of our colleague, former Chair, and friend Liz Tomkins on Monday,' they began.
'The Australian screen community has lost a shining light, an inspirational and dynamic leader, and a wonderful human being whose legacy will endure for generations to come.'
Tomkins made significant contributions to the Australian film sector in the two decades she spent working in it.
She helped shape many acclaimed productions including Steven Spielberg's Australian-filmed 2010 mini-series The Pacific, the science fiction show Terra Nova and the Doctor Who spin-off K9.
Her final work was as co-producer of the 2024 Australian kangaroo horror movie Rippy, featuring The Terminator star Michael Biehn and Home and Away's Tess Haubrich.
During her three-year tenure as Chair of WIFT Australia, Tomkins helped the organisation make strides in promoting opportunities for women in showbusiness.
She relocated to North America for several years in the early 2020s to work for the Canadian Australian Chamber of Commerce, to help promote and develop joint productions with Australia.
According to a statement from WIFT, Liz's leadership was marked by 'infectious energy, enthusiasm, and unwavering pride,' which contributed to unprecedented growth and impact on the organisation.
She had stepped down from her position at WIFT just one week before her death.
Many of Tomkins' former industry colleagues took to social media to pay tribute to her.
'Such a terrible tragedy. Liz had such a massive heart and will be deeply missed,' wrote TV director Helena Brooks.
'I'm so shocked this morning to hear that sad news,' added motion capture actress Silvia Gaillard.
'So so sad. Such a soft, hard working, and brave woman,' added Rippy actress Mara Jean Quinn.
Tomkins is survived by her parents and brother.
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