ABOUT THIS PROJECT

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The life story of Georgina Beyer, of Māori whakapapa, transgender and former sex-worker, who in the late 1990s was elected into the New Zealand Government serving a largely white, rural electorate. Beyer was the world's first openly transgender Member of Parliament.

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Born George, Georgina Beyer was raised on a farm by a stern grandfather, learning to fish and shoot. In her late teens she discovers the LGBTQI scene in 70s and 80s Wellington (and mentored by the remarkable late Carmen Rupa). Taking the unusual step of leaving the city and the underground nightlife, Georgina achieves rapid ascendency, taken to the heart of a small (conservative) rural town, elected first as a local councillor, then as Mayor of Carterton and finally in 1999 as a Member of Parliament, elected into national office under a Labour Government headed by Helen Clark. Georgina never forgets her past however and works hard as an elected official to introduce progressive legislation — including the Prostitution Reform Act, which stops the criminalization of sex-workers. Georgina who passed away in 2023 has been an inspiration to many. She is an example of a courageous individual who overcame adversity, marginalization and discrimination.

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“Uplifting docu tells unusual tale of a transsexual who’s become a popular member of New Zealand parliament, mostly repping conservative white farmers. Already a hit on gay-fest circuit, Georgie Girl is a natural sale to pubcasters everywhere. Pic’s gently amused tone, like that of its subject, should have no trouble disarming skeptical or even reactionary auds.” 

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– Ken Eisner, Variety 

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For broadcast and education sales in North America, contact Women Make Movies. 

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​DVD available. Contact for more information.