Baz Luhrmann’s ambitious “Australia” project once had Russell Crowe attached, but has now replaced with lead Hugh Jackman, is now proving a local boon for the actors.

In a past Sunday Herald Sun interview, Hugh Jackman was asked about the impact his taking the role over from his friend Russell Crowe had on their relationship. “I talked to Russell and we’re fine. I don’t really know the details, if I did know the details I wouldn’t tell you, but if it was ever a situation that was awkward I would definitely talk to him. For me no job is worth losing a friendship over. Whatever happened was solely out of my world but when that didn’t work out and I was offered the role I took it with glee; it’s the role of a lifetime. Things happen.”

Luhrmann has allegedly added local Aussie actors Barry Otto and “Star Wars” & “Kinky Boots” star Joel Edgerton for supporting roles according to The Sun Herald.

The news comes after actor Jack Thompson’s alleged casting in a supporting role on the romantic epic currently well into pre-production, and set to begin filming shortly at both Fox Australia Studios and in Western Australian locations.

Baz the Great! online webzine devoted to all things Baz reports that the producers are currently searching for people with the same build as lead actors Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman to do some of the stunt double work for the trickier riding sequences.