About
A boutique casting company for Queensland’s screen.
QLD Extras was founded and is run by Melissa Crabtree — a casting professional who has spent two decades on Queensland film sets.
Founder
Melissa Crabtree
“Nothing makes me happier than giving people the opportunity to shine.”
After studying Film & Television in Wagga Wagga, Melissa began her career in London, working in Post Production, Live Events and the Disney Channel. After 13 years working in the Production Office, Melissa started doing Casting on the Chris Lilley television series Lunatics in 2018. Thriving in the creativity that working on a Chris Lilley production brings, Melissa discovered her love for casting and the opportunities it can bring for up-and-coming Actors.
Founding QLD Extras shortly after — it has helped to strengthen the growing Community of Queensland Talent, and a way to stay in touch with the thousands of talented Queensland Extras she has had the pleasure to work with.
The team
Behind the scenes.
Melissa runs QLD Extras alongside two extras casting coordinators who look after the talent before, during, and after every shoot.
Extras Casting Co-ordinator
Karmen
Karmen graduated with a degree in Film & Screen Media from Griffith University. Drawn to the camaraderie, logistics, and creative aspects of the industry, Karmen naturally fell into casting.
Karmen began her career working on the feature film Spiderhead, followed by the acclaimed television series The Wilds. Since then, she has continued to build an impressive portfolio, with career highlights including Boy Swallows Universe and Mortal Kombat II.
Passionate about connecting talented performers with exciting opportunities, Karmen is excited to continue growing within the industry and contributing to inspiring productions for years to come. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and love for storytelling make her a valued part of every project she joins.
Assistant Extras Casting Coordinator
Matt
After many, many, MANY years in the Hospitality industry, Matt had decided it was time for a change. Joining the industry in May 2022, he utilised his two most valued traits (computer skills and friendly personality), and worked in Covid, Production, and most notably, Extras Casting.
Matt also enjoys being short and concise with his words, and therefore has struggled to elaborate on his Bio. Other notable traits are; his star-sign is Aquarius, he enjoys long walks on the beach, loves eating food and drinking drinks, and also spending time with his friends and family.
Industry-led
Two decades on set means every match is informed by real production reality.
Community-first
Thousands of Queensland extras — a network built on trust and reputation.
A chance to shine
From first-timers to seasoned background pros, you’ll always be treated with care.