The “unlikely coach” movie trope gets a fun twist by Droga5 ANZ to show what Optus connectivity can do. There’s always a way presents Optus as the supporter of Aussie’s resilience, positivity and can-do spirit.

The lead commercial, directed by Steve Ayson, tells the story of an Italian nonna who is thrust into coaching her grandson’s basketball team after the regular coach drops out before a semi-final. Despite having little basketball knowledge and standing barely five feet tall, Nonna Maria uses the Optus network to learn, adapt and find a way.

The Australia-wide campaign covers television, online video, out-of-home, social and audio, supported by a collection of shorter films highlighting Optus’ fast 5G network and human tech support. Accenture Song spearheaded the campaign’s media strategy.

Adding to the new platform is an evolved visual identity created by Droga5, designed to make the brand more dynamic, responsive and emotionally intelligent while building on the distinctive assets Australians have recognised for more than 30 years.

Optus executive general manager – marketing, Lauren Dawber, stated, “Aussies are famously resourceful, resilient and determined. We’re a nation of doers who find a way forward through life’s twists and turns. ‘There’s always a way’ is our new brand platform celebrating that spirit, using stories full of warmth, humour and heart to showcase the role Optus plays in people’s lives.”

Droga5 ANZ chief creative officer, Barbara Humphries, added, “The best stories aren’t about perfect heroes – they’re about ordinary people rising to extraordinary moments. Our Nonna doesn’t suddenly become an elite basketball coach. She simply refuses to give up. With a little curiosity, a lot of heart and the right tools, she finds a way. That’s a wonderfully human story, and one we think people will recognise.”

Credits:
Client: Optus
Chief Corporate Affairs and Marketing Officer: Felicity Ross
Executive General Manager, Marketing: Lauren Dawber
Director, Brand: David Hustwit
Senior Manager, Brand: Vanessa Burr
Senior Marketing Manager, Brand: Prue Cope
Associate Director, Meda: Sam McGroder
Associate Director, Digital Media: Phil Spurden

Creative Agency: Droga5 ANZ, part of Accenture Song
ANZ Marketing Practice Lead, CEO of Droga5 ANZ: Matt Michael
Co-Chief Creative Officers: Barbara Humphries and Damon Stapleton
Principal Director: Kezia Quinn
Creative Directors: Thomas Gledhill and Lennie Galloway
Creatives: Ewan Harvey and Aicha Wijland
Head of Strategy: Ben De Castella
Group Business Director: Samar Karim
Business Director: Harrison Stone and Jack Asimus
Business Manager: Lily Tootill
Head of Production: Penny Brown
Senior Producer: Elliot Liebermann
Design: Beck Feiner and Kamron Lyons

Media Agency: Accenture Song Media

Production Company: 3&7
Director: Steve Ayson
Executive Producer: Allison Lockwood
Director of Photography: Germain McMicking

Post Production Company: ARC
Editor: Phoebe Taylor
Colourist: Edel Rafferty

Audio & Music Production: Sonar Music
Sound Designer: Tim Bridge

Social Director & Photographer: Will Robertson