Brian Beaton Award 2025 open for submissions
Applications are now open for the 2025 Brian Beaton Award.
The Brian Beaton Award recognises the contribution late documentary producer Brian Beaton made to the Western Australian screen industry. It honours his legacy by supporting filmmaker/s who have a current social impact project that needs further support.
Carnaby preening. Photograph by Jane Hammond.
Western Australian filmmaker, journalist and life-long environmental activist Jane Hammond said the 2021 Brian Beaton Award had been instrumental in providing a clear pathway and support for Black Cockatoo Crisis to initiate environmental change.
Black Cockatoo Crisis follows the plight of Western Australia’s three south-west black cockatoo species as conservationists desperately try to save the birds from extinction.
Black Cockatoo Crisis producer and director Jane Hammond said: “The assistance the Brian Beaton Award provided to Black Cockatoo Crisis was huge. It was a fantastic help in getting the story out…and it’s still working. It’s still being used as a campaign tool today.”
“Most importantly, it continues to play the role in talking about endangered species. The fact is, it’s still going and that’s incredibly important for it to truly have social impact. You don’t just make the film and walk away.”
Screenwest Documentary Executive Melissa Hayward said: “The Brian Beaton Award plays a vital role in championing bold, distinctive stories that ignite meaningful conversations and inspire real change within our communities. Its support enables WA filmmakers to tackle pressing issues with creativity, courage, and impact.”
The award, which started in 2018, comprises grant funding from Lotterywest, and in-kind mentorship from leading Western Australian industry professionals. The award is administered by Screenwest.
Previous recipients of the Brian Beaton Award include Taryne Laffar and Sam Bodhi Field for Our Law, Sam Lara and Cathy Henkel for Laura’s Choice, Brooke Tia Silcox and Mat de Koning for 29 Years Eight Days, Dawn Jackson for Pointe: Dancing on the Knife’s Edge, and Karla Hart for Forever Fifteen.
About Brian Beaton
Brian Beaton was a well-respected Western Australian documentary maker with an impressive career spanning over 35 years. During his career he held various roles including producer, writer and director and Executive Producer at Artemis.
Brian produced award-winning documentaries and factual programs for national and international markets, including Who Do You Think You Are?, Saving Andrew Mallard, Shaun Micallef’s Stairway to Heaven, The Dreamhouse and Desperately Seeking Sheila with business partner Celia Tait.
“Brian was a resolute champion of impactful stories and a great mentor to many. This annual award celebrates his legacy by supporting inspiring and illuminating content,” Celia Tait.
Brian also contributed to the screen industry nationally through his advocacy and professional work with Screen Producers Australia, Screenwest and the Australian International Documentary Conference.
Applications for the 2025 Brian Beaton Award close Monday, 3 November 2025 at 5pm AWST.
How to apply
For eligibility guidelines and more information, visit the Special Initiatives page on the Screenwest website.