The picturesque town of Walhalla in regional Victoria has undergone a magical metamorphosis into a Nepali village for the filming of Ice Road 2: Road to the Sky, starring Northern Irish legend Liam Neeson. 

The town, about 180 kilometres east of Melbourne, was bedecked with vibrant prayer flags and a fresh coat of paint, giving it an authentic Nepali vibe.

The film, a sequel to the 2021 hit The Ice Road, promises a high-octane adventure through Nepal’s treacherous mountain scape for Neeson’s character, Mike McCann.

Russell Wright, President of the Walhalla Mountain Rivers Tourism Association, enthusiastically shared the behind-the-scenes magic, describing how the town’s main hotel and surroundings have been revamped into a Nepali haven. From repainted buildings to an open-air market in the car park, Walhalla turned into an unexpected slice of Nepal in the heart of Australia.

As the transformation took shape in just a week, onlookers and locals couldn’t help but be captivated by the cinematic spectacle. With nearly 600 local job opportunities and a hefty $30 million economic boost anticipated, the film is not only creating movie magic but also stirring excitement in the local community.

Liam Neeson, fourth from left, with the crew at Walhalla Witchery eatery. Picture: Facebook/Wallhalla Witchery 

People have been sharing snaps and videos online of Liam Neeson spotted filming. One local eatery, Walhalla Witchery, even had a visit from the man himself. Posting a photo of their staff with Liam on Facebook, they said: “This is not a card board cut out!! Thank you Mr Liam Neeson it was such a pleasure to meet you!”.

Although some may wonder why the film wasn’t shot in Nepal itself, it is thought to be due to the logistical challenges in executing a major international production in the mountainous Himalayan country.

As the town of Walhalla embraced its newfound role as ‘Little Nepal,’ the film industry eagerly anticipates the release of Ice Road 2: Road to the Sky, directed by Jonathan Hensleigh and featuring a star-studded cast of Australian actors. 

The cinematic blend of Liam Neeson’s Irish charm and the enchanting transformation of an Australian town into a Nepali oasis promises an unforgettable viewing experience.

*This story was published in the February edition of Anglo&Celtic magazine

Main pictures: Wallhalla in Victoria was transformed into a Nepali Village for the filming of Liam Neeson’s movie Ice Road 2: Road to the Sky. Picture: Facebook/Wallhalla