If you love character-driven drama with mystery and secrets, The Last Anniversary (2025) is right up your alley.
Based on Liane Moriarty’s novel, it follows Sophie Honeywell (Teresa Palmer) after she inherits a house on a mysterious island.
But that island isn’t just in your imagination the show was filmed in some real, moody locations in New South Wales, Australia.
Here’s everything I found about where The Last Anniversary was filmed, why those spots were picked, and what you’d get by going there yourself.
🎥 Where Was The Last Anniversary Filmed?
While the story is set on the fictional Scribbly Gum Island, the real filming locations are in NSW, Australia, especially around the Hawkesbury River, Sydney, and Moore Park (Disney Studios).
Here are the main spots:
- Hawkesbury River region, NSW – primary outdoor and “island-like” scenes
- Sydney, NSW – city, built environments, bridging urban scenes
- Disney Studios, Moore Park, Sydney – for controlled or interior scenes (including underwater sequences)
📍 Key Filming Locations & Why They Matter
| Location | Role in Show | Why Chosen / What Makes It Special | What You Could Do if You Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawkesbury River, NSW | The “island” scenes, riverfronts, nature shots | It looks remote, natural, water-surrounded – perfect to stand in for fictional Scribbly Gum Island. | Kayaking or boating on the river, walking riverbank trails, scenic views, relaxing in nature |
| Sydney, NSW | Urban and mixed scenes, contrast vs nature | Sydney offers both historic architecture and modern city backdrop to balance the wild island feel. | Explore Opera House, Harbour Bridge, historic district walks, cafés, city tours |
| Disney Studios, Moore Park, Sydney | Indoor scenes, controlled lighting, underwater or detailed sequences | Studios let filmmakers shoot scenes needing precision (sound, lighting, effects) not possible outside. | If they allow tours, you might see sets and behind-the-scenes; understand how parts of the show are built in studio |
⏳ When Did Filming Take Place?
Production began in November 2023 around New South Wales. The creators wanted real locations to match the novel’s tone – the land, water, and nature are nearly characters themselves.
🌟 Behind the Scenes & Extras
- Inspired by Dangar Island: The fictional Scribbly Gum Island is heavily inspired by Dangar Island on Sydney’s Hawkesbury River.
- Author insisted on Australia: Moriarty wanted the adaptation filmed in Australia – especially around Hawkesbury – because the river setting is central in the book.
- Local involvement: They used local settings, historians, and landscapes to make the visuals feel native to the region.
✅ Final Thoughts
The Last Anniversary weaves mystery and personal drama against landscapes that feel alive. The Hawkesbury River region gives that dreamy, somewhat eerie “island” feel. Sydney’s urban scenes add contrast. And studio work ensures tricky scenes look flawless.
If you ever travel to New South Wales, visiting the Hawkesbury River area is a must. You’ll feel the same hush, water, and hidden landscapes that the show uses to build tension and beauty.
FAQs
Where was The Last Anniversary filmed?
In New South Wales, Australia – especially the Hawkesbury River region, Sydney, and Disney Studios in Moore Park.
What is Scribbly Gum Island based on?
It’s fictional, but heavily inspired by Dangar Island and locations around the Hawkesbury River.
Why was the Hawkesbury River chosen?
Because it offers natural, atmospheric landscapes that match the novel’s island setting, and Moriarty wanted that region included.
How important is Sydney to the show?
Very. It provides city contrast and settings the story needs beyond the natural, isolated places.
When did filming start?
Filming began in November 2023.