Screenworks today announced the seven regional NSW-based practitioners who will be supported in 2026 through its Career Pathway Programs in partnership with Screen NSW.
The programs include Inside the Writers’ Room, Director Pathway, and Regional Producer Elevator – selected participants will receive invaluable support and guidance over the next 12 months from some of Australia’s most respected writers, directors, producers and prestigious screen organisations.
Lisa O’Meara, CEO of Screenworks said, “Congratulations to this year’s cohort of regional writers, directors and producers – and thank you to Screen NSW for supporting this important initiative to develop above-the-line talent from regional areas. In 2026 we are thrilled to see such passion and diversity among applicants including a strong female contingent and First Nations representation – it’s a wonderful indication of the future of regional voices on screen.”
The Inside the Writers’ Room emerging Regional NSW screenwriters have been announced as Brooke Hemphill (Central Coast), Mark Rogers (Wollongong) and Leearni Hamilton (Bungendore), they will be placed with production companies, Northern Pictures, Jungle Entertainment and Easy Tiger respectively, who will generously provide a coveted experience of accessing and observing one of their writers’ rooms.
Participants will be provided travel and the opportunity to gain rare insights into the collaborative process, observing first-hand how professional writers develop stories from concept to screen, and will also be supported by the Australian Writers Guild.
Brooke Hemphill said, “I’m absolutely stoked for this opportunity. Thanks so much, Screenworks, for this, and all that you do to support regional filmmakers. We’re very lucky to have you in our corner.”
Mark Rogers is looking forward to collaborating, “I love working with other artists to find the heart of an idea. I’ve had many people say – wait till you get into a writers’ room! This is a chance to observe how industry professionals break story and build shows together from the ground up.”
Leearni Hamilton added “I love learning and I knew the only way to get real hands-on experience, develop my script writing skills and understand this industry would be to see how a Writers’ Room works. I can’t wait to see where this opportunity takes me.”
The emerging directors selected for the Director Pathway Program are Elkie Chadwick (Wollongong) and Nadia Townsend (Central Coast). Each will receive $3,500 to implement a bespoke professional development program in consultation with the Australian Directors Guild.
Elkie Chadwick said, “I’m thrilled to take this next step in my creative journey and learn from amazing mentors, connect with inspiring peers, and continue developing my voice as a storyteller who’s passionate about empowering diverse communities.”
Nadia Townsend added “The Director Pathway Program is an awesome opportunity to evolve craft through mentorship and training. I’m looking forward to working with Screenworks, champions of regional practitioners!”
Regional Producer Elevator recipients Claire Lindsay (Coffs Harbour) who is a First Nations Producer of Gamilaraay descent and Miah-Tya Nungheena Gowland (Bungendore), will receive $3500 each to develop their careers. In partnership with Screen Producers Australia these up and coming regional NSW producers will receive a SPA membership and career advice from a professional producer.
Claire Lindsay said, “With the film and television ecosystem rapidly evolving, I am excited to be part of this bespoke program that provides tangible career acceleration pathways for regionally-based Producers. I intend to leverage this opportunity to elevate the visibility, distinct voices and rich stories from regional Australia.”
Miah-Tya Nungheena Gowland added, “This is an incredible opportunity for filmmakers, like me, to elevate their career. This program will foster a creative and challenging 2026 and strengthen my creative practice. Thank you Screenworks for connecting NSW’s regional filmmaking community.”
The Career Pathway Programs have been boosting the careers of regional creatives for 10+ years, giving film and television writers, directors and producers from regional NSW vital opportunities and fostering the next generation of Australian talent.
The selection panels for the programs were made up of representatives from program partners and guilds.
Screenworks’ Regional Crew Pathways program is supported by Screen NSW, Australian Writers Guild, Australian Directors Guild, Screen Producers Australia, Easy Tiger Productions, Jungle Entertainment and Northern Pictures.
*IMAGE FROM L-R: Elkie Chadwick, Nadia Townsend, Claire Lindsay, Miah-Tya Nungheena Gowland, Brooke Hemphill, Mark Rogers, Leearni Hamilton
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Vicki Heath – Communications Manager, Screenworks
[email protected] +61 402 355 325
