Lights, camera, Lennox: Screenworks forum set to roll

CREATORS, commissioners and rising stars will converge on Lennox Head next week for Screenworks’ flagship Regional to Global screen forum, marking the group’s 25th anniversary.

Held June 18–20, the event will bring together more than 60 leading figures from the Australian screen industry – including representatives from ABC, SBS, Foxtel and Netflix – for three days of panels, workshops, case studies and networking.

“It’s a great opportunity for anybody who wants to connect or engage with the film and television industry,” Screenworks chief executive Lisa O’Meara said.

“We’re bringing producers, writers, directors – people who are actively creating wonderful Australian television – and giving regional filmmakers direct access to them in a relaxed and friendly setting.”

Screenworks was founded in Byron Bay in 2000 as a grassroots initiative. That first meeting drew 150 people and laid the foundations for what is now a nationally respected organisation.

“Twenty-five years later, that same spirit is still here,” O’Meara said. “We’re still based in the Northern Rivers, still prioritising this region – but now we support people right across regional Australia.”

The forum gives regional filmmakers the chance to pitch projects, ask questions and form partnerships with major players.

“Film and television is an industry built on collaboration,” she said. “Writers might start alone, but to make something happen you need a producer, a director, a crew. Regional to Global helps people find those collaborators – whether that’s local-to-local or national partnerships that might never have happened otherwise.”

Standout sessions include a behind-the-scenes case study on Mystery Road: Origin, a commissioner Q&A, and a panel titled How to Greenlight Yourself, exploring how creators are building careers outside traditional models.

The program also highlights regional talent now working on the national stage. Meanjin-based screenwriter Clare Sladden will share her journey – from leaving a corporate job in the Northern Rivers to writing for NCIS: Sydney and other major productions.

“Clare was part of Screenworks early on, and to see how far she’s come is incredibly rewarding,” O’Meara said. “It’s a beautiful story, and a great example of what’s possible.”

Another local success story is Byron-based director Rebecca O’Brien, who helmed episodes of ABC’s Austin. She’ll be joined by cast member and Love on the Spectrum breakout star Michael Theo, along with others from the production.

“Knowing that some of these people have come from our region and are now working at the highest level is so exciting,” O’Meara said.

Beyond the formal program, the event includes roundtables, one-on-one pitch sessions, and evening networking.

“It’s not intimidating,” O’Meara said. “We’ve worked hard to create a welcoming environment where people feel comfortable approaching commissioners, pitching ideas, or just having a conversation that might spark something down the track.”

The Netflix-sponsored opening night celebration will double as a 25th birthday bash for Screenworks.

“The media landscape is changing so quickly, and we’ve built a program that reflects that,” O’Meara said.

“Whether you’re working with traditional broadcasters or YouTube and social platforms, the opportunities are there – and Regional to Global helps people step into them.”

Tickets are still available for Screenworks members and non-members.