US-born filmmaker Bill Leimbach, who emigrated to Australia 47 years ago, has died.
On a heart-wrenching Saturday, I, an unabashed enthusiast, couldn’t help but share the sorrowful news that the charismatic brothers behind my beloved Australian band, Lime Cordiale, Louis Leimbach (age 35) and Oliver Leimbach (age 37), chose to disclose on their Facebook page.
Instead of sharing specific details about their father’s age or the circumstances surrounding his death, the duo only confirmed that he passed away on August 5, with his family present.
Known primarily for his documentary work, Bill contributed significantly to the beloved nature series “The World Around Us” that aired on Channel Seven from 1979 to 2000, alongside the renowned British naturalist, Sir David Attenborough.
Besides being an actor, he was also a film producer responsible for the critically-adored Australian war drama “Beneath Hill 60,” featuring Brendan Cowell (from Love My Way), released in 2010.
Hailing from San Diego, California, Bill spent his youth surfing. Later, he honed his skills as a filmmaker in London, eventually making his debut in the movie industry during the 1970s.
He spent time working with both the BBC and the British Film Institute, which brought him into contact with prominent Australian filmmakers such as Peter Weir, Bruce Beresford, and Phil Noyce – the creators behind “The Last Wave”, “Breaker Morant”, and “Dead Calm” respectively.
Moved to Sydney in 1978, having developed a fondness for Australians and admiration for the emerging Australian cinema of the 1970s, such as “Picnic at Hanging Rock.” Bill made this decision because he loved Australians and was captivated by the new films being produced there.
Additionally, Bill received recognition for his exceptional camera work on the French-produced documentary “Raoni” (1978), which was nominated for an Oscar.
The first significant movie he directed was a documentary titled “Walkabout to Hollywood” (1980), which focused on the Indigenous film icon, David Gulpilil.
Later on, he produced the well-liked travel show titled “Outback Adventures” from 1998 to 1999, as well as the highly praised historical documentary called “Gallipoli: Hidden Tales” in 2005.
Throughout more than five decades of his professional life, Bill has created movies not only for private entities but also for esteemed organizations such as National Geographic, PBS, SBS, ABC, and the BBC.
He also worked for the Nine, Seven and Channel 20 networks.
On their father’s Facebook page, his sons expressed that not many individuals could claim to have a dad as exceptional as Bill.
‘He was a filmmaker, a grandpa, a husband, a Yank-turned-Aussie, and a huge presence.’
Elsewhere in their tribute, the Leimbach brothers shared little-known family history.
In the groove of the vibrant, free-spirited hippie era, I found myself captivated by a passion for photography and embarking on journeys, as my father’s lifestyle unfolded.
In a different context, it reads: ‘When he was drafted to fight in Vietnam, he decided to escape to South America instead. Later on, they managed to capture him – at which point, he pretended to be insane and was admitted into an institution. His scheme worked, but once they released him, he vowed never to return to the United States again.’
His sons also shared intimate details about their relationship with their father.
He was tough on us, his sons, pushing us relentlessly, yet moments later, he’d advise us to rest,” they recounted.
‘He knew how to turn a holiday into a tax deduction.
Dad never really matured; he was a mischievous character with a contagious laugh, always trying to surprise you with something off-color. His antics serve as a reminder for us all – embrace your youth and don’t let life get too heavy because eventually, we’ll all meet our end.
‘You’d hardly ever see Dad without our merch on.
‘He was our best mate, and we were always trying to impress him. We’ll miss you, Dad.’
They concluded: ‘Written by his sons, but sending love from the whole family.’
Bill shares two daughters, Carli and Tania, with his first wife.
In my personal journey post-separation, I encountered my second spouse, the enchanting Karen – a gifted music instructor. Together, we’ve been blessed with the delightful duo, Oliver and Louis. Remarkably, these two talented young men founded Lime Cordiale back in 2009.
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2025-08-10 11:49