Thompson-Nicola Film Commission makes Smart choice to succeed retiring Vicci Weller

KAMLOOPS — The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) has hired a new film commissioner.

Gareth Smart succeeds Vicci Weller, who will retire this spring after 22 years in the role.

Smart, a Vancouver Film School alum, has previously worked in the locations management side of the film industry, and spent 10 years living in the TNRD.

“Living in Cache Creek during this time has provided me with a unique opportunity to not only work on films in the TNRD catchment area, but also on many other productions all over BC,” said Smart in a news release. “I now look forward to the challenge of another side of film, with the role of Film Commissioner.”

Weller was hired in 2000 as the regional district’s first-ever film commissioner, tasked with growing the local film industry and attracting major productions to the region.

“Since I started as Film Commissioner 22 years ago, the film industry has changed and the [Thompson-Nicola] Film Commission has had to evolve along with it,” said Weller. “I feel grateful and blessed that I’ve been able to work at a job I love, with a supportive organization consisting of kind and resourceful staff, and with a supportive, progressive and trusting Board of Directors.”