20 October 2025
The Helpmann Academy is delighted to share that filmmaker Guy Nelson has been awarded the Elise Ross Regional Award 2026, made possible by the generous support of the Ross Family.
Originally from Whyalla, Guy’s journey into filmmaking is both inspiring and unique. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Animal Behaviour at Flinders University, he spent five years working in conservation as a Ranger. Later, his creative path called him back to Flinders University, where he completed an Honours degree in screen and media production.
During his studies, Guy developed a deep passion for Australian national cinema, which continues to influence his own storytelling. His documentaries, The Brink of Extinction and It Happened in Copley Street, showcase his talent and vision—It Happened in Copley Street was even featured at the Adelaide Film Festival’s “Made in SA” in both 2022 and 2024.
Guy’s passion for regional filmmaking is inspirational, and he says …
“meaningful art is driven by community, I want to make things, share them and form connections with others. Helpmann Academy’s support doesn’t just benefit me, its support for my community and every emerging artist in the Eyre Peninsula region.”
Guy Nelson, Elise Ross Regional Award 2026 recipient
Currently, Guy is working on new projects in Farina (regional SA) and the Strzelecki Desert, continuing his commitment to sharing regional stories with authenticity and heart.
Valued at up to $5,000, the Elise Ross Regional Award supports regional artists like Guy in overcoming challenges such as distance and limited local opportunities. Established in loving memory of Elise Ross, the award honours her passion for supporting creative talent in regional South Australia.
“Being raised in the upper southeast on a farm at Yumali, Elise was all too familiar with the obstacles young regional people face when trying to pursue their passion. She felt there just isn’t the same access to support or professional development as is available to creatives based in, or around major cities. Elise was very passionate about trying to help change this and support emerging regional creatives to chase successful careers in the Arts”
Nick Ross and family, in loving memory of Elise.
With support from the Elise Ross Regional Award, Guy will create a 10-minute art film titled The Steel City Stare. This evocative project aims to explore the concept of cultural drift—a sense that a place is losing something once significant—by capturing the temporal beauty and emotional texture of Whyalla. Filmed entirely in his hometown and developed in collaboration with local community members, The Steel City Stare will spotlight culturally significant and visually striking locations across Whyalla. The finished work will be screened locally alongside works from other regional artists.
Image: Guy Nelson working behind the scene for “Local Legends”. Image credit: Yang Zhang.
The Elise Ross Regional Award 2026 is proudly supported by the Ross Family.
Main image credit: Guy Nelson during an interview with Claire Bishop. Photo credit: Emily Eilers.