Mudgee will star as the backdrop for Channel Nine’s new comedy drama series with filming beginning today. 

The ten-part mini series, Doctor Doctor, follows egotistical heart surgeon Hugh Knight who has lived too much of the high life and is struck off, forced to return to his country home town to work as a GP. 

The all star Australian cast includes Rodger Corser (Underbelly, Rush, Puberty Blues, A Beautiful Lie) as Knight alongside Tina Bursill, Steve Bisley, Ryan Johnson and Nicole da Silva. 

Producer Claudia Karvan said Mudgee’s diverse landscapes made it an easy choice for filming. 

“Mudgee is picturesque, it’s so beautiful and has the diversity of landscapes with the vineyards,” Ms Karvan said. 

With some delays expected, she said the crew is apologetic for any disruptions caused during filming. 

“I wanted to make our sentiments known to the good people of Mudgee that we hope that we don’t hold them up too much when we’re working in the main street and when we’re diverting traffic,” she said. 

“Hopefully they’ll be really proud of what they see on screen. I know we’re employing a lot of extras, we’ve found some wonderful people to come and play on our set.”

Crews will be filming at various locations on May 13, 14, 16, 17 and 18 with traffic controls in place at times. 

Market Street, between Church and Perry streets, will be closed to general traffic from 6.30am to 1.30pm on Monday, May 16. 

Deliveries will be permitted during the closure.  

Mid-Western Regional Council’s corporate communications officer Pip Goldsmith said the production will bring a major economic boost to the region.  

“We are excited about welcoming the cast and crew of about 60 people to the region,” Ms Goldsmith said. 

“A group of this size provides a significant economic injection while they are in town and we’re sure local businesses will see the benefits.

“I’m also looking forward to seeing the finished product which will showcase our town and the region to a national audience.

“Some of our landmark buildings and street scapes will be featured, including Market and Perry Streets, and the Town Hall building. Many of our local businesses are also taking part and you’ll recognise scenes filmed inside a few iconic cafes and pubs.”

She said the size of the project means there will be some impact on residents and businesses as scenes are filmed in the main streets.

“At times, there will be different traffic conditions and traffic management in place, and you will notice cameras filming scenes on footpaths,” Ms Goldsmith said. 

“We’re sure that the benefits of having Doctor Doctor filmed here will make up for any temporary inconveniences.”