Screenworks’ Career Pathway Programs recipients Elkie Chadwick and Mark Rogers. Photo: Supplied.
Two Wollongong creatives are on the rise, with screenwriter Mark Rogers and director Elkie Chadwick selected for Screenworks’ sought-after Career Pathway Programs — a 12-month initiative designed to fast-track regional talent into Australia’s screen industry.
In partnership with Screen NSW, the programs include Inside the Writers’ Room, Director Pathway, and Regional Producer Elevator, where participants will receive 12 months of support and guidance from some of Australia’s most respected writers, directors, producers and prestigious screen organisations.
Mark, an award-winning playwright and screenwriter, was chosen for the Inside the Writers’ Room program, where he will be placed with a production company and supported by the Australian Writers’ Guild.
He will be given the opportunity to gain rare insights into the collaborative process, observing first-hand how professional writers develop stories from concept to screen.
Mark said he was looking forward to collaborating, having first become involved with theatre because he wanted to be part of a group.
“I love working with other artists to find the heart of an idea,” he said.
“Throughout my first few experiences in screen, I’ve had many people say, ‘Wait till you get into a writers’ room. That’s where you’ll really get the team experience’.
“This is what I’m hoping to get out of the Screenworks program — the chance to observe how industry professionals break a story and build shows together from the ground up.
“I’m keen to build valuable understanding and connections I can take into my own practice, building capacity to contribute to the screen industry the way I’m most excited to — as a good collaborator.”
Known for innovative storytelling that plays with form, Mark’s play Superheroes won two awards and had its premiere season in Sydney in 2020, followed by the play Naked & Screaming in Brisbane in 2022.
Mark also co-wrote the short film Luna & The Brain Tuna, which was awarded Screen NSW’s Short-to-Feature Fast Track. The feature version, Luna, is in development with Closer Productions and Cosmic Scream.
Elkie has been selected for the Director Pathway Program, receiving $3500 to implement a bespoke professional development program in consultation with the Australian Directors’ Guild.
“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,” she said.
With a background in VFX, 2D/3D animation and children’s screen storytelling, she has more than a decade of industry experience across feature films, television, broadcast and award-winning short-form projects, with credits including 65, True Spirit, La Brea, Deadly Women, Sunrise and The Morning Show.
Elkie’s skill set spans everything from screenwriting and story development to directing actors and children, and post-production oversight.
She specialises in imaginative, emotionally intelligent children’s content and has developed The Magic Lunchbox, Girl Squad, Firebird and The Caretaker with Australian and international production partners.
Screenworks CEO Lisa O’Meara said it was an 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,” she said.
“It’s a wonderful indication of the future of regional voices on screen.”
For more than 10 years, the Career Pathway Programs have been boosting the careers of regional creatives, giving film and television writers, directors and producers from regional NSW vital opportunities and fostering the next generation of Australian talent.
It is supported by Screen NSW, Australian Writers Guild, Australian Directors Guild, Screen Producers Australia, Easy Tiger Productions, Jungle Entertainment and Northern Pictures.
The selection panels for the programs were made up of representatives from program partners and guilds.
