Jake Duczynski, a proud Gomeroi and Mandandanji writer and director, is dedicated to amplifying Indigenous voices in the animation industry. In 2021, he co-founded Studio Gilay with James Hackett, assembling a diverse team committed to showcasing thought-provoking stories. Jake prioritises collaboration, working closely with artists, communities and companies to infuse projects with unique design and authentic perspectives. His innovative approach has garnered recognition, including Walkley and Webby awards, and Best Direction in Animation at the Australian Directors Guild awards for Cooked (2021). His work has graced iconic venues like the Sydney Opera House and been exhibited at AGNSW and MCA, while also reaching audiences through major networks and platforms like ABC, Netflix and SBS/NITV. Currently, Jake is developing co-created shows like Orcy & JJ with Taboo from Black Eyed Peas and other long-form series with Studio Gilay, continuing to push Indigenous storytelling forward. 

Accolades

Robert Connolly and Emma Kelly and Susan Danta and Lee Whitmore and Anthony Lucas and Kathy Sarpi and Eddie White and Simon Rippingale and Pierce Davison and Marieka Walsh and Susie Shapones and Jake Duczynski and Liz Kearney and Kate Laurie and Chloé Brugalé
Best Youth Film, 2024

Robert Connolly and Emma Kelly and Susan Danta and Lee Whitmore and Anthony Lucas and Kathy Sarpi and Eddie White and Simon Rippingale and Pierce Davison and Marieka Walsh and Susie Shapones and Jake Duczynski and Liz Kearney and Kate Laurie and Chloé Brugalé

Best Youth Film, 2024

Robert Connolly and Emma Kelly and Susan Danta and Lee Whitmore and Anthony Lucas and Kathy Sarpi and Eddie White and Simon Rippingale and Pierce Davison and Marieka Walsh and Susie Shapones and Jake Duczynski and Liz Kearney and Kate Laurie and Chloé Brugalé

Magic Beach

After reading the iconic book by Alison Lester, nine children (and one dog) find themselves on the titular Magic Beach. They explore caves, build giant…

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Films

Magic Beach

Magic Beach

Australia

Magic Beach

After reading the iconic book by Alison Lester, nine children (and one dog) find themselves on the titular Magic Beach. They explore caves, build giant…

More Details

The Asia Pacific Screen Academy expresses its respect for and acknowledgement of the South East Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners of country, including the custodial communities on whose land works are created and celebrated by the Asia Pacific Screen Awards. We acknowledge the continuing connection to land, waters and communities. We also pay our respects to Elders, past and present. We recognise the integral role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and First Nations peoples continue to play in storytelling and celebration spaces.

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