Media Release

Screen Producers Australia (SPA) today announced the four finalists for the inaugural SCREEN FOREVER Simpsons Pitching Competition, showcasing bold new projects from some of Australia’s most exciting producers.

The finalists will pitch their projects live on stage at SCREEN FOREVER 40 on Wednesday 29 April 2026, in front of an industry jury, before the winner is announced.

The winner will receive a prize package, proudly supported by Simpsons, including a $10,000 cash prize towards development costs, legal services valued at $3,000(ex GST), and curated one-on-one meetings with potential marketplace partners at the SPA Connect In-Person Market.

The 2026 finalists are:

MOONSHOT

2033: As climate disasters ravage the Earth, the super-rich are secretly fleeing to a luxury survival colony on the dark side of the Moon. A documentary investigation uncovers the truth and its disturbing implications.

Madeleine Hetherton-Miau (Media Stockade)

Walkley Award-winning producer and co-founder of Media Stockade, Madeleine Hetherton-Miau has built one of Australia’s most active independent documentary production companies, with a strong track record across theatrical release and global broadcasters.

PARROT

A scrawny outcast fights for survival when a wilderness trip spirals into a psychosexual nightmare, mutating his toxic friends into carnivorous doppelgängers.

Kate Separovich (Lake Martin)

WA-based producer Kate Separovich creates bold, ambitious films grounded in strong craft, combining creative vision with extensive experience across feature, television and live production.

THE WHITE GIRL

Desperate to protect her granddaughter from the Aborigines Welfare Board, Odette hatches a plan to outsmart newly appointed Sergeant Lowe.

Maggie Miles (Savage Films & Typecast Entertainment)

Maggie Miles is one of Australia’s leading producers working in cross-cultural collaboration, with credits including High Ground and Journey Home, David Gulpilil,both recognised internationally. 

THREE MOON HUNT

Two detectives pursue an escaped murder suspect in outback Australia, only to uncover something far more dangerous. Some legends are born. Others bite.

Karen Radzyner (Photoplay Films)

Karen Radzyner, co-Head of Scripted at Photoplay Films, has produced award-winning series and feature films, with deep experience across development, finance and international co-productions.

SPA CEO Matthew Deaner said the new initiative reflects SPA’s ongoing commitment to supporting producers and accelerating project development.

“The launch of the Simpsons Pitching Competition provides a new platform for producers to present bold, market-ready ideas and connect directly with industry decision-makers,” Mr Deaner said.

“The calibre of this year’s finalists reflects both the creative ambition and the commercial awareness required to succeed in today’s global screen market.”

SCREEN FOREVER 40 takes place on Queensland's Gold Coast from 28 to 30 April 2026.

Link to media image HERE.