Cate McQuillen

Cate McQuillen is an Emmy-award winning Australian creator, writer, director, and producer, best known for her work on the beloved children’s series Dirtgirlworld and its live-action follow-up, Get Grubby TV.

Born and raised in Melbourne, Cate co-created these series with her partner Hewey Eustace through their production company, mememe productions, based in the NSW Northern Rivers region. Cate’s work combines storytelling, music, and interactivity to encourage children to engage with nature, sustainability, and creative thinking. Her iconic character, Dirtgirl, has reached audiences in 128 countries, extending into apps, organic seed kits, websites, and social campaigns, including national Tree Day and Clean Up Schools ambassadorships.

Cate has been widely recognised for her contributions to children’s media and sustainability education. Her accolades include an Emmy Award, the Esben Storm Award for Best Direction in Children’s TV (Australian Directors Guild), the NSW Green Globe Award, and the Richmond Valley International Women’s Day Businesswoman of the Year Award. She has also won the Screen Producers Association of Australia Holding Redlich pitching competition and Kidscreen Summit Best Pitch Presentation in New York.

Passionate about nurturing the next generation of talent, Cate is committed to creating a sustainable screen industry in regional Australia, with a particular focus on empowering women in media. Through her work, she inspires audiences to explore their connection with the world, the power of storytelling, and the impact of ideas, words, and actions on future generations.