Jill & George Pappas support new prize for Screen Media students

Mrs Jill Pappas and former Chancellor of Victoria University, Mr George Pappas AO, established the $10,000 Roger Dunn Prize to support Screen Media students.

On behalf of the VU family, thank you to Jill and George for their generous gift in memory of Roger Dunn. We look forward to meeting the amazing winners of this prize for many years to come.

VU Screen Media student Abbey Hewat won the $10,000 Roger Dunn Prize. She was both humbled and encouraged by the prize.

I was so surprised and proud when I won. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t fighting back tears. The award reminds me that I’m capable of great things.

She attributes her ability to stay motivated – in spite of the challenges of lockdowns and online learning – to her teachers and the innovative VU Block Model®.

“One of the best parts of the course is learning from people with extensive industry experience, who I can go to for advice and feedback.”

“Studying under the VU Block Model® with its single-unit focus means I can give all my attention to one project at a time – so I can be my most creative. It's also been good for my mental health as I don’t feel so overwhelmed.”

Senior Lecturer Dr Marc C-Scott commended Abbey’s commitment to her studies.

“While Abbey's consistently high grades were a considerable achievement, her ability to receive these results in a year with external challenges including remote learning is a real testament to her dedication. Abbey will be an asset to the projects she is associated with in the future.”

Roger Dunn was an AWGIE award-winning Australian scriptwriter whose writing credits include Australian TV dramas 'The Box', 'The Sullivans', 'Neighbours', 'A Country Practice' and 'Blue Heelers'.

Roger was dedicated to the development of the industry and writers. VU is proud to join Jill and George in recognising Roger's legacy.

Mrs Jill Pappas and former Chancellor of Victoria University, Mr George Pappas AO, established this prize in memory of Roger, who was Jill's brother.