North East & The Border Centre, RTS AWARDS 2006

Category 1: BEST NEW MEDIA PRODUCTION
Guest Presenter: PAM ROYLE

Winner:
BIG MUTHA TRUCKERS
Eutechnyx

Andy Allan (Codeworks, left) and Pam Royle present the trophies to Darren Jobling (Eutechnyx)

This is a new category in these landmark awards — one which recognises the increasing importance of our changing landscape. And what a breadth of talent the judges found in the eclectic mix of entries.... ranging from broadband TV to interactive websites, and promotional internet campaigns to computer games.

They particularly liked AMAZING TUNES from the Amazing Group — a witty web space where budding entertainers can publish their own music and be judged by their peers. Also NATURE'S CALENDAR — a wonderful resource created for the BBC's website (supporting the BBC2 daytime series), produced by Sue Wilkinson at BBC North East & Cumbria.

Three other entries stood out:

CLOSER!, from the production company Falling Cat, demonstrated the power of digital technology to create unique on-screen interactivity, giving autistic children the opportunity to learn through movement how they can have an impact on the world. With a specially composed soundtrack, the installation was premiered at the opening of Dance City's new building on Tyneside.

BIG MUTHA TRUCKERS was the latest success from Gateshead-based video games company EUTECHNYX. Based on racing trucks, it took the USA by storm and showed again that this region boasts a world-class computer games industry.

MEMORYNET showed how oral history can be brought to life through the internet. With British Sign Language translations, it documented the experiences of 12 groups, all linked to the sea.

The judges decided to make two commendations.

They go to MEMORYNET from MHP Media and Tyne Wear Museums, and to Falling Cat for CLOSER!

But the winner is BIG MUTHA TRUCKERS from Eutechnyx.