Adam Elliot (OH 1989), OHA Medallist, 2024

We are thrilled to announce that Adam Elliot (OH 1989) has been awarded the 2024 OHA Medal. The medal was awarded for the 18th time at Tuesday’s Founders Day assembly in Aikman Hall, joined by former OHA Medallists, OHA Presidents, and members from the Class of 1985 celebrating Forty Years on.

Adam is an Academy Award winning animation writer and director who has always based himself in his hometown of Melbourne. His animated films are what he calls, Clayographies which are clay animated biographies based on the bittersweet lives of his family and friends.

After graduating from the Victorian College of the Arts in 1996, Adam has created seven animated films that have been voiced by some of the world’s leading actors. His breakthrough came with his film Harvie Krumpet, which won the 2004 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film, cementing Adam’s place on the international stage.

Adam’s contributions to animation continue to be recognised globally. In 2025, he received his second Academy Award nomination, for his feature film, Memoir of a Snail. The film centres on Grace Pudel, a lonely hoarder of ornamental snails who lives in Canberra and stars Sarah Snook, Jacki Weaver, Eric Bana and Kodi Smit-McPhee as the main characters. The Academy Award nomination further solidifies Adam’s legacy in the industry. His dedication to handcrafted storytelling and unique visual style has made him a pioneer in stop-motion animation, inspiring filmmakers worldwide. Today, Adam remains a passionate advocate for independent cinema, championing stories that celebrate life’s imperfections with heart and humour.

Adam join an illustrious list of Old Haileyburians to have been awarded the OHA’s most prestigious award.

Congratulations Adam!