Four dynamic Far North Queensland screen businesses are set to expand their operations, thanks to the latest round of funding through Screen Queensland’s NQ Enterprise initiative — a key part of the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to building a thriving regional screen sector.
A total of $220,000 has been awarded to BioQuest Studios, Blue Octopus Films, Platinum Talent Management, and Resonant Films, enabling them to grow, innovate, and create new career pathways within the region. These grants form part of the larger North Queensland Regional Program, a multi-year effort designed to strengthen local creative industries through enterprise funding, skills development, and industry-building events.
Since its launch in 2022, the NQ Enterprise program has delivered nearly $900,000 across 16 grants, helping position North and Far North Queensland as emerging powerhouses in Australia’s screen landscape.
Supporting Growth, Innovation & Local Jobs
Queensland Minister for the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek, underscored the importance of this investment, noting that the Far North is now firmly on the map for both Australian and international filmmakers.
“Queenslanders voted for a fresh start, and the Crisafulli Government is committed to supporting local jobs and capitalising on new screen opportunities,” Minister Langbroek said.
“Facilities like Screen Queensland Studios in Cairns are helping attract major productions, and this latest round of grants will continue that momentum.”
Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney echoed this sentiment, highlighting the unique contributions of the latest recipients.
“This year’s cohort showcases the diverse talent within our regional screen ecosystem — from compelling local storytelling and production services to world-class underwater cinematography,” she said.
“We are investing across every layer of the screen industry to ensure North Queensland is ready for both homegrown projects and international collaborations.”
Real-World Impact: BioQuest Studios Leads the Way
BioQuest Studios, renowned for its breathtaking macro and underwater cinematography, is one example of the tangible impact this funding delivers.
Pete West, Technical Director at BioQuest, described their 2022 NQ Enterprise grant as a “transformative moment” — enabling the purchase of advanced underwater cameras and vital team training. That support led to global opportunities, including work with Oscar-winning director Luc Jacquet in Tahiti.
“The 2025 grant will fund the next phase of equipment development and help us grow our team,” West said.
“We’re creating new technical and creative roles and exploring internship opportunities for emerging talent right here in North Queensland.”
A Growing Ecosystem of Opportunity
Previous recipients of NQ Enterprise grants include production companies like Pandamonium Films and Millstream Productions, alongside screen service specialists like FilmCrewNQ and Biopixel — a global leader in aquatic life cinematography.
Together, these investments are building a robust and sustainable screen industry across the region — one that reflects Far North Queensland’s unique stories, landscapes, and communities.
To learn more about NQ Enterprise and the North Queensland Regional Program, visit screenqueensland.com.au.
