Dreamchaser, the Hugh Marks- and Carl Fennessy-headed venture which has ambitions to become a significant studio, has signed a development and production deal with prolific Australian novelist and producer, Posie Graeme-Evans. She was the creator behind Nine Network’s hit series “McLeod’s Daughters.”
Joining Dreamchaser as executive producer, partner: scripted, Graeme-Evans’ Millennium Pictures will develop and produce a slate of new scripted projects for the studio. Dreamchaser will serve as executive producer on all projects and take them out internationally.
Already in advanced development under the new partnership is the drama “The McLeods of Drovers Run.” Penned by Graeme-Evans, the prequel to the hit 2001 series received early support from the state government in Tasmania through Screen Tasmania.
The original series ran for 224 episodes across eight seasons. The series and its cast were nominated for multiple awards including the AFI Award for “Best Television Drama Series” in 2004 and 2006 and 41 Logie Awards,...
Joining Dreamchaser as executive producer, partner: scripted, Graeme-Evans’ Millennium Pictures will develop and produce a slate of new scripted projects for the studio. Dreamchaser will serve as executive producer on all projects and take them out internationally.
Already in advanced development under the new partnership is the drama “The McLeods of Drovers Run.” Penned by Graeme-Evans, the prequel to the hit 2001 series received early support from the state government in Tasmania through Screen Tasmania.
The original series ran for 224 episodes across eight seasons. The series and its cast were nominated for multiple awards including the AFI Award for “Best Television Drama Series” in 2004 and 2006 and 41 Logie Awards,...
- 7/13/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Australian startup studio Dreamchaser, backed by Endeavor Content, has assembled its first set of development and production deals, partnering with a trio of veteran nonscripted producers.
The company has signed on Debbie Cuell (Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds, Ambulance Australia), Leigh Aramberri (The Voice) and Emma Lamb (Married at First Sight, Byron Baes) as producer partners, with each enlisted to develop and produce new projects for TV and streaming platforms for the studio’s factual and entertainment divisions. Dreamchaser will serve as executive producer on all forthcoming projects and then take them out internationally.
Headquartered in Sydney, Dreamchaser was co-founded earlier this year by entertainment executives Hugh Marks and Carl Fennessy. The company has stated its ambitions as becoming Australia’s first full-scale production and distribution studio.
“Leigh, Debbie and Emma are three of Australia’s most dynamic, trusted and admired non-scripted executive producers,...
Australian startup studio Dreamchaser, backed by Endeavor Content, has assembled its first set of development and production deals, partnering with a trio of veteran nonscripted producers.
The company has signed on Debbie Cuell (Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds, Ambulance Australia), Leigh Aramberri (The Voice) and Emma Lamb (Married at First Sight, Byron Baes) as producer partners, with each enlisted to develop and produce new projects for TV and streaming platforms for the studio’s factual and entertainment divisions. Dreamchaser will serve as executive producer on all forthcoming projects and then take them out internationally.
Headquartered in Sydney, Dreamchaser was co-founded earlier this year by entertainment executives Hugh Marks and Carl Fennessy. The company has stated its ambitions as becoming Australia’s first full-scale production and distribution studio.
“Leigh, Debbie and Emma are three of Australia’s most dynamic, trusted and admired non-scripted executive producers,...
- 6/16/2022
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Dreamchaser, the Hugh Marks- and Carl Fennessy-headed venture which has ambitions to become a significant studio, has unveiled its first creative partnership agreements. It has attached a trio of leading producers in the factual and entertainment zones to multi-year development and production deals.
Marks is the former head of Nine Entertainment, the TV group that swallowed Fairfax Media and took full ownership of local streamer Stan. Fennessy was the co-founder of Endemol Shine Australia.
The creative partnerships are with Debbie Cuell, Leigh Aramberri (“The Voice”) and Emma Lamb who will join as producer partners. They are expected to develop and produce projects that play out on TV and streaming platforms. Dreamchaser will serve as executive producer on all projects and be responsible for taking them out internationally.
With a 20-year track record in Australian TV, including a stint at Endemol Shine Australia, Cuell joins Dreamchaser as executive producer,...
Marks is the former head of Nine Entertainment, the TV group that swallowed Fairfax Media and took full ownership of local streamer Stan. Fennessy was the co-founder of Endemol Shine Australia.
The creative partnerships are with Debbie Cuell, Leigh Aramberri (“The Voice”) and Emma Lamb who will join as producer partners. They are expected to develop and produce projects that play out on TV and streaming platforms. Dreamchaser will serve as executive producer on all projects and be responsible for taking them out internationally.
With a 20-year track record in Australian TV, including a stint at Endemol Shine Australia, Cuell joins Dreamchaser as executive producer,...
- 6/15/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Former Endemol Shine Australia co-founder Carl Fennessy and ex-Nine Entertainment CEO Hugh Marks have set up a major new Sydney-based production company and have scored backing from Endeavor Content.
The duo have launched full-service production and distribution studio Dreamchaser and will serve as joint CEOs.
It comes after Fennessy, who ran Endemol Shine Australia with his brother Mark in its various forms for 10 years, having previously formed FremantleMedia Australia, left the MasterChef producer in September 2020 following its takeover by Banijay. Mark Fennessy recently launched his own production group Helium.
Meanwhile, Marks spent five years as CEO of Nine Entertainment, which owns Nine Network, one of the country’s three top broadcasters, as well as streaming service Stan.
Dreamchaser is looking to partner with established and emerging creators to develop programming slates for both local and international broadcasters and streamers. It is eyeing a number of creative partnerships across the scripted,...
The duo have launched full-service production and distribution studio Dreamchaser and will serve as joint CEOs.
It comes after Fennessy, who ran Endemol Shine Australia with his brother Mark in its various forms for 10 years, having previously formed FremantleMedia Australia, left the MasterChef producer in September 2020 following its takeover by Banijay. Mark Fennessy recently launched his own production group Helium.
Meanwhile, Marks spent five years as CEO of Nine Entertainment, which owns Nine Network, one of the country’s three top broadcasters, as well as streaming service Stan.
Dreamchaser is looking to partner with established and emerging creators to develop programming slates for both local and international broadcasters and streamers. It is eyeing a number of creative partnerships across the scripted,...
- 4/19/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Mike Sneesby, currently the head of Australian streamer Stan, has been appointed CEO of its parent group Nine Entertainment. His elevation follows the imminent departure of Hugh Marks and other board room changes at the one of the country’s largest media groups.
Marks, who presided over the transformation of Nine from a legacy TV group into a broadcast, publishing and digital player through the acquisition of newspaper giant Fairfax, will depart at the end of the month. He resigned following revelations that he was in an intimate relationship with a former member of staff.
In recent days, non-executive board member Patrick Allaway also resigned, and local media published suggestions of an ongoing split between Nine and Fairfax executives. Another executive is also under investigation for alleged misuse of corporate benefits.
“Under Mike’s leadership, Nine will be able to maintain the strong momentum it has built in audience, subscribers,...
Marks, who presided over the transformation of Nine from a legacy TV group into a broadcast, publishing and digital player through the acquisition of newspaper giant Fairfax, will depart at the end of the month. He resigned following revelations that he was in an intimate relationship with a former member of staff.
In recent days, non-executive board member Patrick Allaway also resigned, and local media published suggestions of an ongoing split between Nine and Fairfax executives. Another executive is also under investigation for alleged misuse of corporate benefits.
“Under Mike’s leadership, Nine will be able to maintain the strong momentum it has built in audience, subscribers,...
- 3/3/2021
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Stan boss Mike Sneesby has been appointed the new CEO of Nine, succeeding Hugh Marks.
Sneesby, who had been considered a frontrunner for the role since Mark’s resignation last year, will begin effective April 1.
Announcing his appointment, Nine chairman Peter Costello said: “We are pleased to make such a significant appointment.
“Under Mike’s leadership, Nine will be able to maintain the strong momentum it has built in audience, subscribers, content, revenue and earnings. Mike is well placed to continue to drive Nine’s transformation as a digitally led business which is actively adapting to meet the contemporary media consumption habits of Australians.”
Sneesby has been the CEO of Stan since its launch in 2015, and prior to that headed Microsoft/Nine ecommerce venture, Cudo, until its sale in 2013.
The exec also set up Dubai’s Iptv while working for Saudi Telecom/Astra Malaysia joint venture lntigral and has held...
Sneesby, who had been considered a frontrunner for the role since Mark’s resignation last year, will begin effective April 1.
Announcing his appointment, Nine chairman Peter Costello said: “We are pleased to make such a significant appointment.
“Under Mike’s leadership, Nine will be able to maintain the strong momentum it has built in audience, subscribers, content, revenue and earnings. Mike is well placed to continue to drive Nine’s transformation as a digitally led business which is actively adapting to meet the contemporary media consumption habits of Australians.”
Sneesby has been the CEO of Stan since its launch in 2015, and prior to that headed Microsoft/Nine ecommerce venture, Cudo, until its sale in 2013.
The exec also set up Dubai’s Iptv while working for Saudi Telecom/Astra Malaysia joint venture lntigral and has held...
- 3/2/2021
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
Nine Entertainment Co. CEO Hugh Marks announced his resignation over the weekend after five years in the role.
According to the formal announcement lodged on the Asx today, Marks intends to step down during the second half of the 20-2021 financial year and will actively continue as CEO during the recruitment of his replacement.
“When I was appointed CEO five years ago, my brief was to lead the transformation of what was then a television business, to a digitally-based media company. We have achieved so much in that time frame. Bringing together three legacy media businesses, each with their own structural challenges, and investing in the assets that will ensure our position at the forefront of Australia’s media future,” Marks said in the statement.
“Nine’s suite of assets today – with Stan, 9Now and Domain, complementing our core broadcast and publishing businesses – is second to none in Australia. With...
According to the formal announcement lodged on the Asx today, Marks intends to step down during the second half of the 20-2021 financial year and will actively continue as CEO during the recruitment of his replacement.
“When I was appointed CEO five years ago, my brief was to lead the transformation of what was then a television business, to a digitally-based media company. We have achieved so much in that time frame. Bringing together three legacy media businesses, each with their own structural challenges, and investing in the assets that will ensure our position at the forefront of Australia’s media future,” Marks said in the statement.
“Nine’s suite of assets today – with Stan, 9Now and Domain, complementing our core broadcast and publishing businesses – is second to none in Australia. With...
- 11/16/2020
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
Paul Fletcher.
The commercial free-to-air networks and Foxtel are major beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s package of measures to help sustain Australian media businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Fta networks will get $41 million in tax relief via a 100 per refund of the broadcasting spectrum tax and will save money from the suspension of the local content quotas for drama, documentary and children’s programming until the end of this year.
Similarly, the government is waiving the rule obliging pay TV drama channels to spend at least 10 per cent of their revenues on local content for the rest of 2020.
Screen Producers Australia CEO Matt Deaner slammed the total suspension of the quotas as a “very blunt tool,” particularly given that animation and documentary programming could still have been commissioned, keeping people in jobs during the wider shut down.
“These hard cuts have the potential to at worst cripple Australia...
The commercial free-to-air networks and Foxtel are major beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s package of measures to help sustain Australian media businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Fta networks will get $41 million in tax relief via a 100 per refund of the broadcasting spectrum tax and will save money from the suspension of the local content quotas for drama, documentary and children’s programming until the end of this year.
Similarly, the government is waiving the rule obliging pay TV drama channels to spend at least 10 per cent of their revenues on local content for the rest of 2020.
Screen Producers Australia CEO Matt Deaner slammed the total suspension of the quotas as a “very blunt tool,” particularly given that animation and documentary programming could still have been commissioned, keeping people in jobs during the wider shut down.
“These hard cuts have the potential to at worst cripple Australia...
- 4/15/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
‘Kitty is Not a Cat’ was commissioned by the Seven Network.
Amid ongoing debate over local content quotas, the Seven Network has threatened to halt the production of children’s programs, raising the ire of producers.
Earlier this week, the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age reported that Seven had advised the Federal Government of its plans to halt production following the posting of $66 million half year loss.
The move follows longstanding calls from all commercial free-to-air networks for the children’s quotas to be scrapped, arguing they are outdated, restrictive and no longer serve audiences.
Seven CEO James Warburton told the Nine papers: “We’ve been clear for a long time that the children’s content quota was not a sustainable one for us and the wider commercial television industry in Australia.
“The substantial cost in producing this content, which in some instances is watched by such a low...
Amid ongoing debate over local content quotas, the Seven Network has threatened to halt the production of children’s programs, raising the ire of producers.
Earlier this week, the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age reported that Seven had advised the Federal Government of its plans to halt production following the posting of $66 million half year loss.
The move follows longstanding calls from all commercial free-to-air networks for the children’s quotas to be scrapped, arguing they are outdated, restrictive and no longer serve audiences.
Seven CEO James Warburton told the Nine papers: “We’ve been clear for a long time that the children’s content quota was not a sustainable one for us and the wider commercial television industry in Australia.
“The substantial cost in producing this content, which in some instances is watched by such a low...
- 2/27/2020
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts Paul Fletcher.
The Federal Government has committed to a staged process of media regulation reform, ultimately culminating in what it says will be a “platform-neutral regulatory framework covering both online and offline delivery of media content.”
Within its immediate focus in 2020 is looking at the content obligations on free-to-air broadcasters and whether there should be local content requirements imposed on Svod services like Netflix and Stan; a move welcomed by industry bodies such as Screen Producers Australia and networks alike.
The government has also prioritised a uniform classification framework across all media platforms and “other aspects of the policy framework to support Australian film and television content”.
As part of the first stage of reform, Screen Australia and Acma will release an options paper in early 2020 that will look at how to best support Australian stories in a modern, multi-platform environment.
The...
The Federal Government has committed to a staged process of media regulation reform, ultimately culminating in what it says will be a “platform-neutral regulatory framework covering both online and offline delivery of media content.”
Within its immediate focus in 2020 is looking at the content obligations on free-to-air broadcasters and whether there should be local content requirements imposed on Svod services like Netflix and Stan; a move welcomed by industry bodies such as Screen Producers Australia and networks alike.
The government has also prioritised a uniform classification framework across all media platforms and “other aspects of the policy framework to support Australian film and television content”.
As part of the first stage of reform, Screen Australia and Acma will release an options paper in early 2020 that will look at how to best support Australian stories in a modern, multi-platform environment.
The...
- 12/12/2019
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
In a move that took international markets by surprise overnight, Australia’s Nine Entertainment announced a $3 billion takeover of Fairfax Media. The TV net will take a controlling 51.1% stake in the newly merged company, which will be renamed NEC, or Nine Entertainment Company.
The deal creates the country’s largest media company and means the Fairfax Media brand will be history. Read the details here. The takeover price marked a nearly 22% premium on Fairfax’s closing the previous day.
Nine’s Hugh Marks will be NEC’s chief executive, and Nine chairman will lead the new company’s board. Fairfax CEO Greg Hywood, will remain for about six months but will then exit the business.
In a memo to staff announcing the deal between the Sydney-based companies, Marks wrote, “At the end of this process, the business will be a media company of scale, depth of offering and digital capacity...
The deal creates the country’s largest media company and means the Fairfax Media brand will be history. Read the details here. The takeover price marked a nearly 22% premium on Fairfax’s closing the previous day.
Nine’s Hugh Marks will be NEC’s chief executive, and Nine chairman will lead the new company’s board. Fairfax CEO Greg Hywood, will remain for about six months but will then exit the business.
In a memo to staff announcing the deal between the Sydney-based companies, Marks wrote, “At the end of this process, the business will be a media company of scale, depth of offering and digital capacity...
- 7/26/2018
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Australia’s Nine Entertainment is to buy rival Fairfax Media. The move creates Australia’s largest integrated media group, spanning television, streaming video, print and advertising, with a roughly $3 billion (A$4 billion) valuation.
The move was announced Thursday (local time) and caught many by surprise. The companies describe it as a merger, though in practice Nine shareholders will control 51% of the enlarged group. Hugh Marks and Peter Costello, both from Nine, will head the new group, which will retain the Nine name. Fairfax CEO Greg Hywood will leave the business after six months.
The deal sees Nine offer a mix of cash and shares, valuing each Fairfax share at A$0.77, or 22% above its Wednesday closing price. Fairfax directors say they have unanimously agreed to the bid, unless another group comes in with a higher offer. The companies said that combining the two will lead to annual cost savings of $37.5 million (A$50 million) per year,...
The move was announced Thursday (local time) and caught many by surprise. The companies describe it as a merger, though in practice Nine shareholders will control 51% of the enlarged group. Hugh Marks and Peter Costello, both from Nine, will head the new group, which will retain the Nine name. Fairfax CEO Greg Hywood will leave the business after six months.
The deal sees Nine offer a mix of cash and shares, valuing each Fairfax share at A$0.77, or 22% above its Wednesday closing price. Fairfax directors say they have unanimously agreed to the bid, unless another group comes in with a higher offer. The companies said that combining the two will lead to annual cost savings of $37.5 million (A$50 million) per year,...
- 7/26/2018
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Over the weekend the Federal Government unveiled a wide-ranging media reform package, with plans to abolish broadcasting licence fees and conduct a review into Australian and children.s content..
In a statement, Minister for Communications and the Arts Mitch Fifield said the reforms were vital to the ongoing viability of the sector and that the package would support the creation of local content and modernise broadcasting and content regulation..
The package.s measures include:
· . . . Abolishing broadcasting licence fees and datacasting charges.
· . . . Applying a fee for the spectrum that broadcasters use at a level more reflective of the current media landscape.
· . . . Further restrictions on gambling advertising in live sporting events across all platforms.
· . . . Amending the anti-siphoning scheme and list.
· . . . Repealing the two out of three and 75 per cent audience reach media ownership rules.
· . . . A broad ranging and comprehensive review of Australian and children.s content.
· . . . Funding to support the broadcasting of...
In a statement, Minister for Communications and the Arts Mitch Fifield said the reforms were vital to the ongoing viability of the sector and that the package would support the creation of local content and modernise broadcasting and content regulation..
The package.s measures include:
· . . . Abolishing broadcasting licence fees and datacasting charges.
· . . . Applying a fee for the spectrum that broadcasters use at a level more reflective of the current media landscape.
· . . . Further restrictions on gambling advertising in live sporting events across all platforms.
· . . . Amending the anti-siphoning scheme and list.
· . . . Repealing the two out of three and 75 per cent audience reach media ownership rules.
· . . . A broad ranging and comprehensive review of Australian and children.s content.
· . . . Funding to support the broadcasting of...
- 5/8/2017
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
Andrew Backwell. Nine.s director of programming and production Andrew Backwell has resigned after 14 years with the network.
.Andrew has been a valued member of Nine.s programming team and a key contributor to ratings growth over his 14 years with the business," Nine Network CEO Hugh Marks said in a statement.
"I am grateful for his unwavering commitment to Nine and his drive to innovate our business model. I wish him every success for his future endeavours."
Backwell said it had been an "absolute privilege" to run programming and production at the Nine Network.
.I.ve also had the opportunity to work with some incredible CEOs during this period including David Gyngell, Jeffrey Browne and Hugh Marks and I sincerely wish the company all the very best,. he said.
Backwell will finish at the Nine Network at the end of October. His responsibilities will be assumed jointly by Nine executives.
.Andrew has been a valued member of Nine.s programming team and a key contributor to ratings growth over his 14 years with the business," Nine Network CEO Hugh Marks said in a statement.
"I am grateful for his unwavering commitment to Nine and his drive to innovate our business model. I wish him every success for his future endeavours."
Backwell said it had been an "absolute privilege" to run programming and production at the Nine Network.
.I.ve also had the opportunity to work with some incredible CEOs during this period including David Gyngell, Jeffrey Browne and Hugh Marks and I sincerely wish the company all the very best,. he said.
Backwell will finish at the Nine Network at the end of October. His responsibilities will be assumed jointly by Nine executives.
- 9/29/2016
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
Nine Entertainment Co. CEO Hugh Marks.
The chief executives of five of Australia.s television networks — the ABC.s Michelle Guthrie, Sbs.s Michael Ebeid, Foxtel.s Peter Tonagh, Nine Entertainment.s Hugh Marks and Seven West Media.s Tim Worner — will appear (separately) at this year's Screen Forever conference, held November 15-17 in Melbourne.
.This is an unrivalled opportunity to hear direct from the CEOs themselves — the leaders of the major investors, collaborators, and underwriters of and in our production industry,. said Screen Producers Australia CEO Matthew Deaner. . .The networks. participation offers guests a comprehensive overview of the contemporary landscape, examining the goals, motives and forecasts for each broadcaster." The .In Conversation. series will be hosted by The Australian.s media editor Darren Davidson and ABC News Breakfast host Virginia Trioli.... In addition, all broadcasters — including the Ten Network, whose CEO Paul Anderson will notably not be appearing in...
The chief executives of five of Australia.s television networks — the ABC.s Michelle Guthrie, Sbs.s Michael Ebeid, Foxtel.s Peter Tonagh, Nine Entertainment.s Hugh Marks and Seven West Media.s Tim Worner — will appear (separately) at this year's Screen Forever conference, held November 15-17 in Melbourne.
.This is an unrivalled opportunity to hear direct from the CEOs themselves — the leaders of the major investors, collaborators, and underwriters of and in our production industry,. said Screen Producers Australia CEO Matthew Deaner. . .The networks. participation offers guests a comprehensive overview of the contemporary landscape, examining the goals, motives and forecasts for each broadcaster." The .In Conversation. series will be hosted by The Australian.s media editor Darren Davidson and ABC News Breakfast host Virginia Trioli.... In addition, all broadcasters — including the Ten Network, whose CEO Paul Anderson will notably not be appearing in...
- 9/22/2016
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
Nine Entertainment Co. CEO Hugh Marks.
Nine Entertainment Co. will beef up its regional Nbn service, making 9Life and 9Hd accessible to regional viewers in northern Nsw in the coming months.
CEO of Nbn Deborah Wright will move to a broader role as Director of Regional Strategy, with a mission to "evolve and integrate across the business a broader regional focus", a statement said.
.Deborah.s wealth of experience and knowledge will be invaluable to NEC as we move to the next stage of our engagement with regional audiences", CEO Hugh Marks said.
"As Director of Regional Strategy, Deborah.s remit will involve not just our television business but our overall media and content strategy..
Wright said: .It.s a privilege to have the opportunity to work on NEC.s regional strategy aligned with the company.s overarching strategy of investing in new ideas, innovation and platforms with a key...
Nine Entertainment Co. will beef up its regional Nbn service, making 9Life and 9Hd accessible to regional viewers in northern Nsw in the coming months.
CEO of Nbn Deborah Wright will move to a broader role as Director of Regional Strategy, with a mission to "evolve and integrate across the business a broader regional focus", a statement said.
.Deborah.s wealth of experience and knowledge will be invaluable to NEC as we move to the next stage of our engagement with regional audiences", CEO Hugh Marks said.
"As Director of Regional Strategy, Deborah.s remit will involve not just our television business but our overall media and content strategy..
Wright said: .It.s a privilege to have the opportunity to work on NEC.s regional strategy aligned with the company.s overarching strategy of investing in new ideas, innovation and platforms with a key...
- 2/9/2016
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
ABC head of content and creative Adrian Swift will return to Channel Nine after he was controversially poached by the public broadcaster in 2014.
Swift formerly ran Channel Nine's reality TV division and was credited with being behind programs including The Voice and Big Brother..
Swift has been appointed to the position of head of content production and development at Nine.
Nine director of television, Michael Healy, said the role would incorporate production and development of Nine's local content, across all platforms..
"Adrian has a great knowledge of Nine, he will be a welcomed member of our team.. he said.
Swift will be responsible for non-scripted production across Nine broadcast and digital platforms including external commissions and the internal production unit as well as program development and format acquisitions.
.Nine is my spiritual home and I.m very excited to be returning," Swift said..
"With so many great shows commissioned for...
Swift formerly ran Channel Nine's reality TV division and was credited with being behind programs including The Voice and Big Brother..
Swift has been appointed to the position of head of content production and development at Nine.
Nine director of television, Michael Healy, said the role would incorporate production and development of Nine's local content, across all platforms..
"Adrian has a great knowledge of Nine, he will be a welcomed member of our team.. he said.
Swift will be responsible for non-scripted production across Nine broadcast and digital platforms including external commissions and the internal production unit as well as program development and format acquisitions.
.Nine is my spiritual home and I.m very excited to be returning," Swift said..
"With so many great shows commissioned for...
- 1/4/2016
- by Brian Karlovsky
- IF.com.au
Channel Nine has appointed commercial director Amanda Laing as the company's new managing director..
According to a company statement, the role of managing director will encompass the management and exploitation of Nine.s content and be central to the relationships with key partners in Nine.s busines.
Laing will continue her involvement in Nine.s commercial negotiations and transactions.
Nine chief executive, Hugh Marks, said he had enormous respect for Amanda and all she has achieved within Nine Entertainment Co. over the past 10 years..
"As Nine transitions from operating as separate broadcast and digital businesses into a modern content business, Amanda.s ability to drive and forge commercial relationships with a broad group of industry stakeholders will be a key to our future success,. he said.
Laing began her career with the Group in 1999 as general counsel for Acp Magazines..
In 2006, she was appointed group general counsel across the magazine and television businesses,...
According to a company statement, the role of managing director will encompass the management and exploitation of Nine.s content and be central to the relationships with key partners in Nine.s busines.
Laing will continue her involvement in Nine.s commercial negotiations and transactions.
Nine chief executive, Hugh Marks, said he had enormous respect for Amanda and all she has achieved within Nine Entertainment Co. over the past 10 years..
"As Nine transitions from operating as separate broadcast and digital businesses into a modern content business, Amanda.s ability to drive and forge commercial relationships with a broad group of industry stakeholders will be a key to our future success,. he said.
Laing began her career with the Group in 1999 as general counsel for Acp Magazines..
In 2006, she was appointed group general counsel across the magazine and television businesses,...
- 12/3/2015
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
Nine has appointed former Southern Star chief Hugh Marks as its new CEO.
Marks will replace David Gyngell, who has stepped down after eight years at the helm.
Marks will take up his role on November 10, while Gyngell will remain on the board as a non-executive director.
Hugh Marks joined the board of Nine in February 2013, prior to the Ipo..
He has almost 20 years. experience as a senior executive in content production and broadcasting in Australia and internationally..
He now owns talent agency Rgm Artists, together with ownership and management interests in a number of independent companies producing content for broadcast and pay TV..
As a result of this appointment, Hugh will cease his involvement in these other businesses.
Previously, Marks served as an authority member of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (Acma) for over two years, following his seven years as CEO of Southern Star Group. Earlier, he...
Marks will replace David Gyngell, who has stepped down after eight years at the helm.
Marks will take up his role on November 10, while Gyngell will remain on the board as a non-executive director.
Hugh Marks joined the board of Nine in February 2013, prior to the Ipo..
He has almost 20 years. experience as a senior executive in content production and broadcasting in Australia and internationally..
He now owns talent agency Rgm Artists, together with ownership and management interests in a number of independent companies producing content for broadcast and pay TV..
As a result of this appointment, Hugh will cease his involvement in these other businesses.
Previously, Marks served as an authority member of the Australian Communications and Media Authority (Acma) for over two years, following his seven years as CEO of Southern Star Group. Earlier, he...
- 11/8/2015
- by Inside Film Correspondent
- IF.com.au
Transmedia entertainment company The Project Factory has taken a majority stake in Envelop Entertainment with options to acquire 100% of the business.
Envelop founder Nathan Anderson has joined The Project Factory full-time as Executive Producer looking after project development as well as driving production on high profile projects. The Envelop brand will be folded into The Project Factory.
.Anderson currently is producing a second season of the transmedia crime drama Precinct 13 for NBCUniversal.s 13th Street channel as well as a multiplatform extension of Sam Fox Extreme Adventures with Slr Productions for Network Ten and Zdfe.
Gadney and Anderson worked together on the first season of Precinct 13, a co-production between Envelop and independent producers Michelle Cotterill, Alex Alexander and Timothy Wilde.
.We realised there is a commonality of vision, . Gadney told If. .The acquisition of Envelop allows us to take on more of the larger-scale entertainment projects that have proven to boost TV audiences,...
Envelop founder Nathan Anderson has joined The Project Factory full-time as Executive Producer looking after project development as well as driving production on high profile projects. The Envelop brand will be folded into The Project Factory.
.Anderson currently is producing a second season of the transmedia crime drama Precinct 13 for NBCUniversal.s 13th Street channel as well as a multiplatform extension of Sam Fox Extreme Adventures with Slr Productions for Network Ten and Zdfe.
Gadney and Anderson worked together on the first season of Precinct 13, a co-production between Envelop and independent producers Michelle Cotterill, Alex Alexander and Timothy Wilde.
.We realised there is a commonality of vision, . Gadney told If. .The acquisition of Envelop allows us to take on more of the larger-scale entertainment projects that have proven to boost TV audiences,...
- 11/17/2013
- by Don Groves
- IF.com.au
Screen Australia has announced a round of investment, with $2m for nine documentaries, with production valued at $12m.
“Among the domestic projects, the critically acclaimed Anatomy series will continue to deliver visually inventive arts documentaries, while Running to America promises a feel-good story from the Top End. The seven international projects will further extend our uniquely Australian stories and voices on the world stage,” said CEO Ruth Harley.
The projects that received funding are:
Anatomy Series 3
Matchbox Pictures
Executive Producer Tony Ayres
Producers Michael McMahon, Polly Staniford
Writers/Directors Paola Morabito, Alethea Jones, Kim Munro
Broadcaster ABC TV
Sales None as yet
After the success of the first and second series of Anatomy, Matchbox Pictures are currently developing a third series, which, following the form of the previous series, will consist of three documentaries that explore art, sex and the body. The three films – Hair, Nerve and Tissue – will all...
“Among the domestic projects, the critically acclaimed Anatomy series will continue to deliver visually inventive arts documentaries, while Running to America promises a feel-good story from the Top End. The seven international projects will further extend our uniquely Australian stories and voices on the world stage,” said CEO Ruth Harley.
The projects that received funding are:
Anatomy Series 3
Matchbox Pictures
Executive Producer Tony Ayres
Producers Michael McMahon, Polly Staniford
Writers/Directors Paola Morabito, Alethea Jones, Kim Munro
Broadcaster ABC TV
Sales None as yet
After the success of the first and second series of Anatomy, Matchbox Pictures are currently developing a third series, which, following the form of the previous series, will consist of three documentaries that explore art, sex and the body. The three films – Hair, Nerve and Tissue – will all...
- 4/12/2011
- by Miguel Gonzalez
- Encore Magazine
Blackfella Films, Electric Pictures, Great Wight Productions, Playmaker Media and Wild Fury are the latest recipients of Screen Australia’s Enterprise program. These production companies will receive $3m in support over three years. Blackfella Films (Rachel Perkins, Darren Dale), Electric Pictures (Andrew Ogilvie), Great Wight Productions (Andrew Wight, Peter Robinson, Monica Wight), Playmaker Media (David Maher, David Taylor) and Wild Fury (Tina Dalton, Veronica Fury, Hugh Marks) were chosen because their business plans showed “a strong vision for how they can build capacity and achieve ongoing business viability”, according to Screen Australia CEO Ruth Harley. The companies’ plans incorporate strategies for growth including diversification, new partnerships and alliances, marketing and innovative distribution, and expansion across state borders and into international markets. This funding will enable Blackfella Films to recruit Miranda Dear, previously head of drama at the ABC, as creative producer to oversee development of a varied slate of documentary,...
- 10/25/2010
- by Miguel Gonzalez
- Encore Magazine
It’s been four years since Encore published its Top 20 Directors and Producers list, and we felt it was time to compile a new, more comprehensive list that included professionals working across all areas – film, television and Tvc production – as well as the leaders and decision-makers that determine the direction of the industry.
Instead of having a limited list of panellists, we consulted with the main agencies and organisations, and also asked our readers to nominate their candidates. We ended up with a list of more than 200 screen industry professionals, and deciding the final 50 was indeed a difficult task. Of course, some other very influential and successful people didn’t make the final cut, but there were only 50 spots and too many talented men and women!
We hope you’ll enjoy – or not, and if so, debate it passionately – the selection of what will become our annual Power 50 list.
1. Christopher Mapp...
Instead of having a limited list of panellists, we consulted with the main agencies and organisations, and also asked our readers to nominate their candidates. We ended up with a list of more than 200 screen industry professionals, and deciding the final 50 was indeed a difficult task. Of course, some other very influential and successful people didn’t make the final cut, but there were only 50 spots and too many talented men and women!
We hope you’ll enjoy – or not, and if so, debate it passionately – the selection of what will become our annual Power 50 list.
1. Christopher Mapp...
- 6/22/2010
- by Miguel Gonzalez
- Encore Magazine
Fairfax Media on Tuesday confirmed its Aus$75 million ($49.7 million) sale of the Southern Star Group, of one of Australia's leading television production and distribution outfits, to U.K.-based Endemol.
The deal sees Endemol CEO Ynon Kreiz make good on his pledge to grow his company's scripted drama businesses, giving the producer-distributor of "Wipeout" and "Deal or No Deal" full control of Southern Star's 14,000-hour portfolio of drama, kids' entertainment, factual and reality TV formats, including rights to such key international shows as "Home and Away" and "McLeod's Daughters."
Kreiz said the deal, first announced Monday in London, will help private-equity-backed Endemol achieve "key strategic objectives," including establishing itself as a major production force in Australia, New Zealand and the Asia Pacific region, building its global distribution platform and accelerating it scripted programming activities.
In a statement to the Australian Stock Exchange, Fairfax, the country's largest newspaper publisher, said that...
The deal sees Endemol CEO Ynon Kreiz make good on his pledge to grow his company's scripted drama businesses, giving the producer-distributor of "Wipeout" and "Deal or No Deal" full control of Southern Star's 14,000-hour portfolio of drama, kids' entertainment, factual and reality TV formats, including rights to such key international shows as "Home and Away" and "McLeod's Daughters."
Kreiz said the deal, first announced Monday in London, will help private-equity-backed Endemol achieve "key strategic objectives," including establishing itself as a major production force in Australia, New Zealand and the Asia Pacific region, building its global distribution platform and accelerating it scripted programming activities.
In a statement to the Australian Stock Exchange, Fairfax, the country's largest newspaper publisher, said that...
- 1/19/2009
- by By Pip Bulbeck and Mimi Turner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
SYDNEY -- Hugh Marks, the new CEO of Australian production and distribution major Southern Star Group (SSG), has shuffled his senior management team on the production side of the business, making two key internal promotions and poaching Granada Productions Australian managing director, Rory Callaghan, for a role with joint venture company Endemol Southern Star. Marks, who was elevated to CEO of the Southern Star Group following the retirement of long-time SSG executive chairman Neil Balnaves last month, has upped SSG chief operating officer Kim Anderson to chief executive of Southern Star Entertainment and Kris Noble to managing director of Endemol Southern Star (ESS). Callaghan has been tapped to fill Noble's shoes as director of programs at ESS and will take up his position with the company in January.
- 10/10/2005
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
SYDNEY -- Australian production and distribution entity Southern Star Group, has expanded its presence in the U.K., acquiring 75% of independent children's production company Darrall Macqueen, Southern Star parent Southern Cross Broadcasting announced Monday. The acquisition, through its British subsidiary Southern Star Entertainment U.K. Ltd, is part of the company's strategy to grow in that market by making "small acquisitions of U.K.-based production houses to further diversify our production operations," Southern Star Group CEO Hugh Marks said in a statement.
- 10/3/2005
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
SYDNEY -- Neil Balnaves, executive chairman of leading Australian TV production and sales company Southern Star Group and one of the country's best-known TV executives, announced Thursday that he is resigning after more than 30 years with the company. He will be replaced by Hugh Marks, chief executive of production division Southern Star Entertainment, effective Sept.15. Marks' replacement is due to be finalized over the next few months. Balnaves, 61, has presided over the group from its beginning in 1974 as Hanna Barbera Australia. The company later became Taft Hardie, affiliated with Taft Broadcasting, before Balnaves led a management buyout in 1988 to create SSG. In 1996, he floated the company on the stock exchange. SSG has since become Australia's largest TV producer and distributor with annual revenues of AUS$120 million ($92 million).
- 8/11/2005
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
SYDNEY -- Neil Balnaves, executive chairman of leading Australian TV production and sales company Southern Star Group and one of the country's best-known TV executives, announced Thursday that he is resigning after more than 30 years with the company. He will be replaced by Hugh Marks, chief executive of production division Southern Star Entertainment, effective Sept.15. Marks' replacement is due to be finalized over the next few months. Balnaves, 61, has presided over the group from its beginning in 1974 as Hanna Barbera Australia. The company later became Taft Hardie, affiliated with Taft Broadcasting, before Balnaves led a management buyout in 1988 to create SSG. In 1996, he floated the company on the stock exchange. SSG has since become Australia's largest TV producer and distributor with annual revenues of AUS$120 million ($92 million).
- 8/11/2005
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
SYDNEY -- Denis Spencer, CEO of Endemol Southern Star for the past four years, will sign off in August to pursue his own production opportunities. Spencer said Monday that his contract with Endemol SS, a joint venture between Australian production-distribution company Southern Star and Dutch format house Endemol, was up for renewal but that he had decided not to re-sign with the company. He said he will take a break before "hanging out my shingle." Spencer's will depart Aug. 20, and Southern Star Entertainment CEO Hugh Marks will add the Endemol SS top job to his responsibilities. "It's good for Denis to be able to pursue other things but regrettable for us," Marks said. "But already there are some things we're working together on. He loves the production side of the business."...
- 7/27/2004
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
SYDNEY -- Hugh Marks, director of Nine Films and Television (NFT), the production arm of Kerry Packer's Nine Network, has resigned the position in a move that has surprised the local television and film industries.
Marks' resignation comes a month after the release of the crime comedy "Dirty Deeds" starring Bryan Brown, Toni Collette and John Goodman, the first film in which Nine Films and Television had invested in. It has grossed around AUS$5 million ($2.7 million) since opening seven weeks ago.
Nine's successful drama series "McLeod's Daughters" is also co-produced through Nine Films and Television.
"It's a career change thing for me," said Marks, who will leave Nine towards the end of September. "I need to go and do something that I can get my teeth in outside of here (Nine) for a while."...
Marks' resignation comes a month after the release of the crime comedy "Dirty Deeds" starring Bryan Brown, Toni Collette and John Goodman, the first film in which Nine Films and Television had invested in. It has grossed around AUS$5 million ($2.7 million) since opening seven weeks ago.
Nine's successful drama series "McLeod's Daughters" is also co-produced through Nine Films and Television.
"It's a career change thing for me," said Marks, who will leave Nine towards the end of September. "I need to go and do something that I can get my teeth in outside of here (Nine) for a while."...
- 8/27/2002
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.