Sydney Film Festival today announced the ground-breaking appointment of acclaimed First Nations Producer Darren Dale as Board Chair of Sydney Film Festival, following the retirement of media entrepreneur, producer and philanthropist Deanne Weir in October 2023 after eight years on the Board. 

A director of Blackfella Films since 2000, and an industry veteran, Darren is a leading advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content whose work has achieved local and global acclaim.

Minister for Arts John Graham said: “As the first Indigenous and industry practitioner to chair the Sydney Film Festival, Darren Dale's appointment marks a significant and positive shift for the festival. With an impressive track record in storytelling spanning two decades, he brings valuable experience to lead this cultural organization and is poised to continue the institution's festival's legacy.”

Darren Dale said, “It is both an honour and a privilege to assume the role of Board Chair for the Sydney Film Festival, a venerable cultural institution that I have drawn great inspiration from throughout my career."

“Deanne Weir has set a very high benchmark in her time as Chair, and I want to thank her for her exceptional stewardship and look forward to continuing and expanding on her legacy,” said Dale.

Sydney Film Festival Director Nashen Moodley and CEO Frances Wallace jointly stated, "Darren's calibre and visionary leadership as the SFF Board Chair fills us with immense excitement. His unwavering commitment to storytelling, particularly from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, assures us of a transformative era for the Festival. As we anticipate this new chapter, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Deanne for her outstanding leadership.  Her dedication and determination have left an enduring imprint on our organisation."

Deanne Weir said, “It has been an incredible honour to lead the SFF Board, but I am so delighted that Darren agreed to return to the Board and serve as our next Chair. I will look forward to attending the Festival as an audience member for many years to come, and I want to thank all of our supporters for their commitment over the last 8 years.”