Film Fantastic Ltd, the not-for-profit organisation behind the Gold Coast Film Festival (GCFF) and Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF) are excited to announce recent Board appointments – Chair, Luke Wheatley and Deputy Chair, Lynne Benzie

The organisation has grown exponentially since taking over the management of the long running BIFF twelve months ago, adding to the 20-year delivery of the GCFF which in April this year, saw record crowds and the biggest red-carpet galas in the event’s history.

The appointments of Luke and Lynne to the Board’s leadership further cements the strength of Film Fantastic as it proudly profiles the industry to filmmakers, screen professionals and cinema lovers on a national and global stage with a spotlight on the thriving industry in South East Queensland.

Incoming Chair, Luke Wheatley, has been a Film Fantastic board member since 2019, also serving as Deputy Chair since 2021. A wealth of knowledge in the film industry, Luke was the Head of Acquisitions and Marketing for Magna Pacific, Australia’s largest film distribution company and created and directed the travel series, The 48 Hour Destination along with directing the documentaries Plant Delicious, Beyond the Reef and Grounded.

Deputy Chair, Lynne Benzie, is the President of Village Roadshow Studios and has over 25 years’ experience in the film industry. Lynne has been a Film Fantastic board member since 2018.

Film Fantastic also announces new Director, Renée Fry, who brings extensive marketing, governance, policy and strategy development skills built in both the public and private sectors. Renée worked in a voluntary capacity for Film Fantastic in 2006 and is looking forward to bringing her passion for film and skills to the Board.

Josh Martin, Film Fantastic CEO said the recent board appointments are timely with the 28th annual Brisbane International Film Festival just around the corner, premiering on October 27, serving to strengthen the business as they take the film festivals to the next level.

Josh said “The board plays a vital role in helping steer and support our organisation to deliver two international-level celebrations of screen culture in South East Queensland. I’m delighted to have such a depth of knowledge and experience in Luke and Lynne, along with the entire board to work closely with as we continue to grow BIFF and GCFF.”

Chair Luke Wheatley said, “I’m thrilled to be able to serve as Board Chair, and it is great to have the support of Lynne Benzie taking on the Deputy Chair position while juggling her many other industry commitments. As voluntary Board members, I thank all our Directors for their generous time and expertise to give back to this wonderful industry”

The Board and CEO particularly acknowledged the contribution of outgoing Chair, Sue-Anne Chapman and outgoing Director, Leanne Mash.

Luke Wheatley adds “Sue-Anne leaves us in a great position, and we thank her for her service as Chair over the past few years. Her tenure saw the Gold Coast Film Festival in particular grow, as well as our expansion to secure the rights to the Brisbane International Film Festival.”

The Film Fantastic Board

Luke Wheatley – Chair
Lynne Benzie – Deputy Chair
Brett Thornquest – Director and Finance Committee Chair
Nikola McWilliam – Director and Company Secretary
Michael Selwyn – Director
Renée Fry –  Director

For more information
Peta-Jayne Habner | pj@pjmarketingandmedia.com.au