Screen Queensland announces speakers for In the Frame screen practitioners forum

In the Frame: Screen Queensland Practitioners Forum begins on 7 October.
in the frame conference screen queensland

Screen Queensland has announced the speakers for its upcoming In the Frame: Screen Queensland Practitioners Forum, an educational event taking place on 7 October at the State Library of Queensland in South Brisbane, with a new focus on helping screen practitioners build sustainable careers for long-term success.

‘This year’s Brisbane program explores the key elements currently shaping the sector, with an eye firmly on the future, panellists will dive into creative entrepreneurship, financing and IP, what gets projects the green light and how Queensland screen practitioners and businesses can best position themselves for the opportunities to come,’ Jacqui Feeney, Screen Queensland CEO says.

‘In the Frame offers a full day of practical insights, real-world experience and honest conversations about building a successful, long-term career in screen and we look forward to connecting with local practitioners and industry leaders about how we can seize this moment to be future-focused and ambitious for our industry’s potential.’

In the Frame: Screen Queensland Practitioners Forum speakers for 2026

Image: Screen Queensland.
Andy Ryan, Sophia Mogford, Sam Lingham and Que Minh Luu. Image: Screen Queensland.

Here’s the breakdown of all the speakers and their core focuses during the event:

  • Clare Sladden, writer, director and producer, Rhianna Malezer, writer and director, and Steph Dower, director, producer and access co-ordinator, will speak on the topic of crafting careers that can go the distance.

    ‘Hear from practitioners at different stages of their careers about the decisions, relationships and opportunities that have helped them move forward and how they’ve adapted as the industry has changed.’
  • Emma Sargent of Five Storey Films and Kristen Souvlis of Like A Photon Creative will discuss the nature of screen budgets and how to keep project finances growing alongside practitioners.

    ‘We’re pulling back the curtain on the wide world of soft and hard money, private investments and public grants, production companies, distributors, sales agents and more in this practical masterclass.’
  • Andy Ryan of Stan, 9Network and 9Now, Brett Sleigh of ABC TV, Que Minh Luu, content creator and executive producer, and Sophia Mogford of Paramount Australia and New Zealand, will discuss how great screen ideas are greenlit for production.

    ‘Every year, hundreds of projects are pitched to broadcasters, streamers and funding bodies, yet only a handful get that sought-after green light. So, what sets these projects apart?’
  • John Harvey of Brown Cabs, Sam Lingham of Aunty Donna, Haven’t You Done Well and Grouse House, and Takeshi Takeda of Alt Group will talk about what the next wave of screen opportunity looks like and how creatives can harness it.

    ‘So what’s coming next? Where is Queensland well placed to take advantage? How can practitioners be ready? Hear from people working at the forefront of change about the opportunities they’re pursuing and what they believe the industry will need next.’

What to know about In the Frame

All speakers will discuss their experiences and career advice throughout the event in panels led by MC Loani Arman, writer, director and screen executive.

Once the educational portion of the day concludes, there will also be opportunity for networking with a dedicated function for attendees to gather together and connect.

Those keen to attend the annual event can learn more on the Screen Queensland website. Tickets are paid and booking is essential.

In the Frame: Screen Queensland Practitioners Forum takes place on 7 October at the State Library of Queensland in South Brisbane, Australia.

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Leah J. Williams is an award-winning senior entertainment and technology journalist with a core interest in storytelling and its power in the modern era.