The Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) has announced the appointment of industry leaders Fiona Donovan and Greg Woods to the AFTRS Council.
Fiona Donovan, a renowned production designer with a distinguished career spanning over three decades, has worked on Australian and international feature films including Christmas Ransom, Ascendant, Truth, The Shallows and Pacific Rim Uprising. Her television credits include The Twelve, Frayed, Back to the Rafters, Between Two Worlds, Young Lions, Crownies, and Love Child. Fiona brings a deep passion for storytelling and a commitment to mentoring emerging talent. As a former AFTRS lecturer and industry mentor, Donovan possesses a unique understanding of the School’s mission and the aspirations of students.
In announcing Fiona as a Governor General appointment, Arts Minister Tony Burke commented, “ Many Australians will already have watched Fiona’s work on the screen. As an industry professional she knows what goes on behind the scenes to create memorable film and television.
Fiona has devoted her career to the production and support of Australia’s film and television industry and is a strong champion of the development of original Australian content.”
“I am honoured and thrilled to be selected to join the AFTRS Council,” said Fiona. “I look forward to working with our amazing chair Rachel Perkins and our fellow Council Members as well as the high calibre staff led by Nell Greenwood, and all the talented students. I hope to contribute to the vital and innovative work AFTRS is doing nurturing new talent in the media, arts and entertainment industry.”
Greg Woods, CEO of Fremantle Australia, brings extensive industry experience and a proven track record in strategic leadership to the Council. Throughout his tenure at Fremantle Greg has played an integral role in top-rating and iconic programs such as Neighbours, Wentworth, Heartbreak High, Grand Designs as well as the Fremantle unscripted catalogue programs. Appointed to Council as well as AFTRS’ Finance, Audit & Risk Management (FARM) Committee, which he will chair, Greg’s deep understanding of management and business performance across a global screen landscape will be invaluable as AFTRS continues to evolve and adapt to the changing industry.
“Being appointed to the council for AFTRS is a tremendous honour,” said Greg, “I look forward to making a strategic contribution to the growth and future of Australia’s premier film and television school.”
AFTRS Council Chair Rachel Perkins welcomed the appointments, stating, “Fiona Donovan and Greg Woods are both highly respected figures in the Australian film and television industry. Their knowledge and experience will be invaluable to AFTRS as it continues to produce world-class screen talent.”
