Belinda Burns, the chief creative officer of Screen Queensland, is set to depart the agency at the end of this month, marking the end of her nearly five-year tenure. Her journey at Screen Queensland began in 2021 when she joined as the head of marketing and communications, eventually ascending to her current role in 2022.
During her time as CCO, Dr. Burns spearheaded various initiatives that left a lasting impact on the Queensland screen industry. These include the establishment of the $3 million Business Enterprise Fund, a comprehensive review of content guidelines in 2024, and the implementation of slate funding to bolster local production companies and promote Queensland-owned intellectual property.
One of her notable contributions was the expansion of the Digital Games program and the facilitation of investments in practitioners developing content for emerging platforms through the introduction of Online Production Grants.
Dr. Burns also played a pivotal role in securing the AACTA Awards for Queensland, shaping the format of Screen Queensland’s flagship industry conference, In the Frame, and driving the development of the agency’s Sustainability Roadmap. She was a founding member of Sustainable Screens Australia, advocating for sustainable practices within the industry.
In addition to her executive responsibilities, Dr. Burns assumed the role of acting CEO in 2023, providing strategic direction to the organization before Jacqui Feeney took the helm later that year.
Expressing her anticipation for the continued growth of the local screen industry, Dr. Burns shared her excitement about embarking on a residency at the Queensland Writers’ Centre. She emphasized the industry’s evolution and Queensland’s emergence as a creative hub for diverse screen narratives across various genres and platforms.
While looking forward to her creative pursuits, Dr. Burns acknowledged that bidding farewell to the dedicated and passionate team at Screen Queensland would be the most challenging aspect of her departure. She commended the team’s commitment to fostering industry growth and maximizing the potential of Queensland’s screen sector.
In response to Dr. Burns’ decision to pursue full-time writing, Jacqui Feeney, Screen Queensland’s CEO, lauded her dedication to storytelling and audience engagement. Feeney highlighted Dr. Burns’ unwavering commitment to elevating local creatives and promoting homegrown stories on a global scale.
Screen Queensland has initiated an executive search to fill two key positions: executive director, screen content, and executive director, industry and audience development. The agency is expected to announce the appointments for these roles in the near future, signaling a new chapter in its leadership structure.
Dr. Burns’ departure from Screen Queensland symbolizes a transition in leadership and marks the culmination of her impactful contributions to the Queensland screen industry. As she prepares to embark on her creative residency, her legacy of advocacy for local talent and storytelling excellence will continue to resonate within the industry.
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