AI in the Screen Industry Keynote Event
The global technology sector and entertainment landscape are undergoing a profound transformation. As emerging tools redefine visual storytelling, virtual production, and digital pipelines, regional screen ecosystems have a unique opportunity to build global competitiveness. To explore these rapid shifts, DELFOZ is proud to spotlight an exclusive session at SHOWFEST 2026 featuring global strategist Dave Gougé in dialogue with Visie founder and tech pioneer Jay Topping. Hosted by the Sunshine Coast Screen Collective at Altitude Nine, Maroochydore, this session will examine how professionals and studio leaders can navigate AI in the screen industry to drive scalable growth.
Grounding the session in Gougé’s thirteen-year tenure as Head of Marketing & Publicity at Wētā FX—where he contributed to over 60 Oscar, BAFTA, and Emmy wins and helped position the studio for its $1.6B USD acquisition by Unity Technologies—the dialogue will explore the realities of tech integration, digital storytelling, and tech-culture leadership. Paired with Jay Topping’s deep background in creative technology and digital infrastructure at Visie, the dialogue offers filmmakers, studio executives, game developers, and tech innovators a practical perspective on thriving in an age of technological disruption.
As Queensland builds momentum across its screen, games, and technology sectors, establishing robust cross-industry collaboration and strategic foresight is critical. Attendees will gain direct insights into international AI trends, production pipelines, and strategies for leveraging new technologies while maintaining creative integrity.
Session Details & Schedule
Event: SHOWFEST 2026 – AI in Screen
Session Highlights: Feature dialogue with Dave Gougé and Jay Topping
Host: Sunshine Coast Screen Collective
🗓 Date & Time: Thursday, 22nd October | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍Venue: Altitude Nine, Corner First Ave and South Sea Islander Way, Maroochydore QLD
Focus: Explore how AI is transforming filmmaking, from creative development and visual effects to production and storytelling.
About the Speakers
Dave Gougé is a business and marketing strategist working at the intersection of emerging technology, entertainment, and global growth. He leads a global consulting practice advising companies looking to pivot, scale, or innovate, and works closely with organisations in visual effects, AI, and digital storytelling. Dave serves on the Board of the Visual Effects Society and is a Beachhead Advisor for the New Zealand government’s Trade & Enterprise agency, helping tech-forward businesses expand globally. As former Head of Marketing & Publicity at Wētā FX for thirteen years, he shaped the global reputation of one of the world’s most awarded VFX studios.
Jay Topping is the founder of Visie and a recognised technology leader specialising in digital transformation, creative tools, and enterprise innovation. Working at the frontier of interactive media and tech infrastructure, Topping brings deep operational expertise in helping creative businesses harness emerging technologies for scalable commercial impact.
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