The first photograph of Kate Winslet starring in the Australian film production The Dressmaker has been released.

Based on a 2000 Australian book of the same name, written by Rosalie Ham, The Dressmaker is set in a fictional Australian town in the 1950s. Winslet plays the story’s protagonist Tilly Dunnage, who returns to the town and exacts revenge on figures from her troubled past.

Winslet joined by an ensemble cast of prominent Australian actors, including Judy Davis, Liam Hemsworth and Hugo Weaving, for the the eight-week film shoot, which has now concluded. The film is set for release in Australian cinemas on 1 October.

The film’s director, Jocelyn Moorhouse (Proof, A Thousand Acres), said in a media release “Working with Kate, Judy, Liam and Hugo was wonderful. A great crew, brilliant supporting cast and beautiful locations, costume and design helped make the shoot a delight.

The film was predominantly shot in Victoria at Docklands Studios in Melbourne, as well as several regional locations across the state.

Producer Sue Maslin thanked community members of towns such as Horsham, Little River and Jerilderie for their involvement. “From unique locations to country extras, period vehicles to afternoon tea cakes – we have had extraordinary support, and most got involved because they loved the book.”

This first image hints at cinematography that takes full advantage of the rich colours and dramatic landscapes of rural Victoria. Don McAlpine, who worked on Moulin Rouge! and X-Men Origins: Wolverine, has taken up the role of director of photography.

Winslet is not the only international film star shooting in Australia. Filming for the political news drama Truth has commenced in Sydney, with Robert Redford slated to play journalist Dan Rather, who was embroiled in controversy following a story about former American president George W Bush.

The international co-production is being directed by James Vanderbilt, better known as the screenwriter of films The Amazing Spider-Man and Zodiac.

Truth marks Vanderbilt’s directorial debut and is reportedly being shot in Sydney in part to accommodate Redford’s co-star Cate Blanchett, who plays fellow CBS reporter Mary Mapes.