One of Australia’s most influential producers is stepping back into the spotlight, with Penny Chapman set to deliver a major keynote at SCREEN FOREVER 40 on the Gold Coast this April.
The long running conference staple will again feature the Hector Crawford Memorial Lecture, a centrepiece session honouring one of the industry’s early pioneers.
Screen Producers Australia on Wednesday confirmed Chapman will take on the role for the 2026 edition, bringing decades of experience across film and television to the stage.
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The lecture has been a fixture of the event since 1992, recognising the ongoing importance of independent production in shaping Australia’s screen sector.
Chapman said the lecture will focus on navigating uncertainty while backing bold storytelling.
“I am delighted to be invited to give the Hector Crawford Memorial Lecture. Its theme will be creative courage in turbulent times. We have much to tell the world”
Penny Chapman
Chapman is best known as a founding partner of Matchbox Pictures, where she helped steer the company across nearly two decades, delivering dozens of projects spanning local drama and global co-productions.
Her credits include titles such as Secret City, Deadline Gallipoli and Devil’s Playground, alongside a long history of commissioning work during her time at the ABC.
In announcing the appointment, SPA CEO Matthew Deaner said the selection reflects Chapman’s standing across the industry and her ability to speak to both creative and commercial challenges.
“Penny Chapman’s career reflects the creative ambition, entrepreneurial leadership and industry stewardship that the Hector Crawford Memorial Lecture seeks to celebrate.”
The announcement of Penny Chapman delivering the lecture comes after NBCUniversal owned production company Matchbox Pictures revealed plans to shutter last month, marking the end of an era for the local industry.
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SPA also confirmed on Tuesday the strategic hiring of former Matchbox Director of Business & Legal Affairs Samantha Turi as its new Director of Commercial.
SCREEN FOREVER 40 will take place on the Gold Coast across three days from 28-30 April 2026, with registrations now open for delegates HERE.
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