Two decades ago, securing 200 hectares for the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct laid the foundation for one of the city’s most transformative developments. In this episode we speak with Gareth Richardson, Development Manager for Economic Development Queensland, about how the Precinct - home to Griffith University, the Gold Coast University Hospital, and a thriving innovation ecosystem - has redefined the region’s economy and positioned the Gold Coast as a global leader in knowledge-intensive industries.Gareth shares insights into the bold vision for the city’s future, the need for a 50-year strategic plan, the vital role of collaborative leadership and the opportunities that transformative urban planning can unlock, plus the enduring legacy that town planners can leave in shaping a region’s future. This episode is an invitation to reimagine what’s possible when innovation meets strategic foresight - a testament to the Gold Coast’s ambition to lead on the global stage.About GarethGareth Richardson, Development Manager at Economic Development Queensland, brings over two decades of urban development and planning expertise to his role. A QUT graduate, Gareth is part of the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct team with his specific focus on curating private sector investment and driving property solutions for the emerging health and knowledge economy within the Precinct. His passion for the Gold Coast and sustainable urban outcomes drives his commitment to creating transformative spaces for Queensland's future.LinksGareth Richardon LinkedInGold Coast Health and Knowledge PrecinctEconomic Development Queensland

“What do you stand for and why should I care?” According to veteran brand strategist Melissa Donnelly, this is the most fundamental consumer question, and one which should inform every single business communication. But how do we cut through the noise and build consumer trust when we are living in a new ‘VUCA’ world – awash with volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity? Melissa, Director of Affinity Communications and Chair of the newly formed Brand Gold Coast, has a wealth of insightful answers and 'nuts and bolts' examples for us, including a deep dive into AI applications, why they are vital for businesses in 2024, and exactly how they can be used to enhance your relationship with customers. Melissa firmly believes that we have now reached the 'AI inflection point' – ignoring it is simply no longer an option. Expect actionable takeaways for your business as well as a healthy dose of brand inspiration!About MelissaWhen CEOs and founders are ready to accelerate change and dominate their markets, they turn to Melissa Donnelly – an ambitious brand strategist with over 30 years of experience launching and reigniting global brands. From MTV to Telstra, Melissa has built a reputation for transforming businesses into market leaders, driving growth, and delivering unmatched brand equity. As a LinkedIn Top Voice, keynote speaker, and Chair of the Gold Coast’s Domestic Violence Prevention Centre, Melissa’s influence extends beyond the boardroom, making her a trusted force for innovation and impact.LinksMelissa Donnelly LinkedInAffinity CommunicationsAffinity Communications LinkedInBrand Gold Coast

If not for a bold tax reform in the 1970s, the life and career of the Hon Rob Borbidge AO - and the political landscape of Queensland - might have unfolded very differently. Raised on a sheep farm in Victoria, it was the abolition of Queensland's death duties that spurred his family to relocate to the Gold Coast. This move eventually led Rob to be elected as the Member for Surfers Paradise, a position he held with distinction for over 20 years, before becoming Queensland’s 35th Premier in 1996. In this inspiring conversation, Rob reflects on his formative years, the moment that sparked his political career and his extensive community work with LifeFlight Australia and Destination Gold Coast. He shares his thoughts on the essence of leadership, the importance of giving back, and the legacy he has helped shape as one of Queensland’s most respected elder statesmen. About Rob The Hon Robert Borbidge AO was the 35th Premier of Queensland and served as the state member for Surfers Paradise from 1980 to 2001. Since his resignation from the Queensland Parliament in 2001 he has held a number of Board positions. In 2006 he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia and awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Griffith University. He is also former Chair of the Board of Advice for the Institute for Glycomics at Griffith University. From 2013 until 2024, Rob served as Chair of LifeFlight Australia, one of the world's largest not-for-profit aero medical and rescue providers. In July 2023 he was appointed Chair of Experience Gold Coast by Gold Coast City Council. LinksLifeFlight AustraliaExperience Gold Coast

With sweeping workplace relations reforms introduced on 1 July, and even more coming into effect this earlier week (from 26 August), our podcast guest Catherine Craig is here to help us understand and navigate the changes. Catherine, the founder of Gold Coast company NEXUS Human Resources, walks us through a raft of new regulations regarding maternity leave, the right to request flexible working arrangements, casual employee definitions, same job/same pay for labour hire contractors, the right to disconnect, parental leave and psychosocial hazards. We also discuss trends such as the rise of hybrid workplaces, DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) and personalised learning and development. If you want to future-proof your small business and minimise risk, or you are an employee wanting to know your new rights, this episode is a must! About Catherine Catherine is a seasoned HR executive with a strong background in strategic Human Resources management. As a Board Member and Non-Executive Director at Transcord Community Transport Inc, she brings her expertise in HR, sales and marketing, and P&L oversight to drive the organization's strategic direction. With a master's in strategic HRM, Catherine has successfully led projects in employee relations, business restructures, and change management. She was a 2015 Telstra Businesswoman of the Year nominee and is the Managing Director and Founder of NEXUS Human Resources, an HR organisation that delivers strategic Human Resources solutions to clients across various industries. Links Catherine Craig LinkedIn NEXUS Human Resources NEXUS Human Resources LinkedIn Industrial Relations Changes 2024 (PDF) Psychosocial Hazards (PDF)

A seasoned urban planner with over 20 years’ experience, this week’s podcast guest Patrick Hefferan provides an expert and nuanced perspective on how to address one of the Gold Coast’s most pressing issues: housing supply. Paradoxically, Patrick believes our housing crisis is actually a good problem to have – it means people are wanting to live, work and play on the Gold Coast, and the economy is accelerating.But where do we go from here? In a free-ranging conversation, we talk about issues such as the need for non-traditional housing types and purpose-built student accommodation, ‘build to rent’ development and how it works, incentivisation for developers, and how transport and sustainability issues impact housing design. This is also a great episode for aspiring urban planners; learn how this multi-disciplinary calling is shaping the city, the economy and our future. About Patrick Patrick Hefferan, a Director at Urbis, is a town planner with over twenty years of experience in state government, local government and private consultancy. Known for his expert knowledge, he has served as an expert witness in the Planning and Environment Court (Qld) and the Supreme Court (NSW). Patrick builds strong client and government relationships, delivering timely, cost-effective outcomes for various planning projects. He has led major development applications in Southeast Queensland and contributed to drafting planning instruments. Specializing in market analysis and residential trend forecasting, Patrick optimises large commercial assets to meet market demands.  Links Patrick Hefferan LinkedIn Urbis Urbis LinkedIn Urbis Instagram Urbis X

In one industry on the Gold Coast, there are a wealth of jobs which you can start straight out of high school, become highly skilled and highly paid in a relatively short amount of time, and which can take you around the world (in style). Sounds enticing? Then the $1.2 billion Gold Coast marine industry is waiting for you. We talk to Gold-Coast-based Maritime Industry Skills Advisor Adam Chanter, to explore the smorgasbord of career paths on offer, and why local demand for workers is outstripping supply. (Adam jokes that he is in an “arms race to attract talent”, with almost every industry struggling to fill vacancies.) Get a rare insight into this high-prestige, knowledge-intensive local industry, as we talk superyachts, workforce development, global demand, pathways for young people, the upcoming Gold Coast Marine Careers Open Day (7 Sept) and more. About Adam Adam Chanter is the Maritime Industry Skills Advisor for the marine industry, a position that is co-funded by three peak national marine industry associations - AIMEX, Superyacht Australia and ACMG - and the Queensland Department of State Development and Infrastructure. Adam is heavily focussed on raising the profile of marine industry jobs and careers for the whole sector across Queensland’s four superyacht hubs of Gold Coast, Brisbane, Mackay / Whitsundays and Cairns, plus other national marine hotspots including Fremantle and Henderson, where Australia’s only superyacht builders and manufacturers are located. Links Adam Chanter LinkedIn Marinejobs.org.au Marine Jobs Facebook

This week’s podcast guest, Rebecca Hyssett, is the Gold Coast's own ‘Pied Piper’ for the building and construction industry. As Industry Engagement Officer for Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), she is absolutely passionate about encouraging and supporting the next generation of people into a trade. And with 61 cranes currently towering over the Gold Coast, plus major projects underway like the Coomera Connector, SkyRidge at Worongary, Coomera Hospital and the Light Rail extension to Burleigh, the Gold Coast is crying out for more building and construction workers – we actually need 2.5 times the current workforce just to complete the program of works in the pipeline over the next 10 years. In this episode you’ll hear about CSQ's vital role in the industry, the 70 different career paths on offer, why CSQ is actively encouraging a more diverse workforce, including women, the mature-aged, and those from a multicultural background, and how to get your foot in the door of this booming Gold Coast sector.   About Rebecca Rebecca Hyssett is an Industry Engagement Manager with Construction Skills Queensland, focusing on the Gold Coast region. Rebecca excels in helping businesses understand workforce capabilities and designing plans to maximize their team potential. She takes pride in witnessing individuals of all ages discover their passion and evolve from new entrants to leaders in their respective fields. She believes that building personal connections through face-to-face interactions allows individuals to feel comfortable asking questions and gathering necessary information within the industry. Links Rebecca Hyssett, LinkedIn csq.org.au  CSQ LinkedIn CSQ Facebook CSQ YouTube CSQ Instagram

Operating for an incredible 76 years, the 45-hectare Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (originally the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary) is one of the Gold Coast’s most beloved community assets, and is also a significant regional employer and training centre, with 1000+ workers, volunteers and trainees. Today’s guest Michael Kelly, who until recently was the Sanctuary’s General Manager, gives us an insight their world-class conservation projects around the region, the newly launched ‘Homestead’ fine dining and event facility (a game changer for the Southern Gold Coast), and a mind-boggling 33 other projects in the works. We also talk about Michael’s new role overseeing all strategic and major projects for the National Trust of Queensland, which includes the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. About Michael Michael commenced his career in operational management within the theme park, hotel and casino industries before joining Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in 2013. During his tenure with Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Michael has overseen unprecedented growth in visitation and revenue with his strengths in connecting strategy, visitor experience and business outcomes. This has allowed the commercial revenue arm of the business to almost double during his tenure. After leading the Sanctuary for seven years, Michael is now the General Manager of Strategic Projects for the National Trust of Queensland, which is headquarted at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Links Michael Kelly LinkedIn Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary National Trust of Queensland

Robotics engineer and entrepreneur Luis De Jesus firmly believes that the Gold Coast will be Australia's next major tech hub. His Arundel-based company Mexx Engineering - a manufacturer of robotics, autonomous vehicles and automated systems - is already one of the driving forces in a Gold Coast-led ‘Industry 4.0’ revolution, which is transforming industry processes and workplaces nationwide. Robotics and automation are often feared to be taking jobs, but in this episode we discover that it’s really about solving real-world problems, freeing up workers from repetitive, boring or dangerous tasks, and increasing business sustainability. Tune in to hear from a passionate advocate of this ‘beautiful field’, with the potential to change the way your business (big or small) operates, or for students, spark an interest in a career pathway with exhilarating local opportunities.   About Luis Luis De Jesus, the founder and Director of Mexx Engineering Pty Ltd, has over 26 years of experience in engineering design, senior management and project management. With over a decade of experience in designing automatic machines in Australia and Canada, Luis possesses in-depth knowledge of automation systems across many industries. He holds qualifications in electro-mechanical engineering (mechatronics) and is proficient in pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical and electronic systems, as well as manufacturing methods and rapid prototyping. Links Luis De Jesus LinkedIn Mexx Engineering Mexx Engineering LinkedIn

Concerned about business sustainability? This week’s episode is a refreshingly optimistic conversation with Professor Chris Fleming and Professor Nick Barter, co-authors of the new book, Future Normal: 8 Questions to Create Businesses Your Children Will be Proud Of. Four years ago, Chris and Nick, both lecturers in Griffith University’s MBA program, realised a new paradigm had emerged around core business values - one which they wanted to develop further, and get into the hands of a wider audience. (As Chris points out, not everyone wants to spend a few years of their life and $50,000 on an MBA...) The outcome of their collaboration is a book which explores the idea that businesses are the really the tools we use to shape our world, so it follows that they also need to lead the charge in changing our world. This is not about businesses sacrificing profitability for future generations, but rather, how long-term business value is actually optimised when society thrives. Find out what a 'future normal' business looks like, and how small steps now can set you on the right path for both the planet and your bottom line. About Chris Chris Fleming is Professor of Economics at the Griffith Business School in Brisbane. Completing his doctorate at the University of Queensland, his career has spanned the public sector, academia (leading the Griffith MBA), and industry, providing advice on economic frameworks that align with our lived reality. About Nick Nick is Professor of Strategy and Sustainability at Griffith Business School in Brisbane. Completing his doctorate at the University of St Andrews, his career has included strategy consulting with Ernst & Young, leading the Griffith MBA and advising organisations on moving past myopic approaches. Links Professor Chris Fleming LinkedIn Professor Nick Barter LinkedIn Future Normal: 8 Questions to Create Businesses Your Children Will be Proud of

Before you put another product on your face, this is a podcast you won't want to miss! Skincare and cosmetics is a $100 billion global mega-industry, but a revolution is underway - one which will upend everything (we think) we know about what is good for our skin. This week we chat with Shaun Roux, the Director of Gold Coast-based biotech company BiomeCentric, which is leading the charge to empower skincare and beauty manufacturers with a new science-based approach to their product ingredients and manufacturing processes. The key - made possible by advances in DNA sequencing over the last two decades - is understanding the diverse microbiome of the skin and scalp, and how products can either destroy or support this critical ecosystem of microflora. And with BiomeCentric now positioned to be a global juggernaut, supplying bioactive ingredients and products to beauty brands worldwide, this is a true Gold Coast success story. About Shaun Shaun Roux is the Director of BiomeCentric, leveraging over a decade of experience as the former Head of Production at BJP Laboratories. He excels in leading cross-functional teams, driving innovation, and fostering a strong business culture. Shaun's expertise includes technical leadership, managing complex projects and international collaborations. As the General Manager for Probiotics Australia, he played a key role in shaping the probiotic industry in Australia through the transfer of biotechnologies. Shaun is known for his strategic vision and commitment to excellence, consistently delivering results and driving growth in the companies he leads. Links Shaun Roux LinkedIn BiomeCentric BiomeCentric LinkedIn

Imagine if there was a dazzlingly futuristic surgical training facility that could use medical imaging equipment and 3D printing to build a precise model of a patient's aneurysm or stroke - and then enable clinicians to practice robotics-assisted surgical procedures on the models, under near identical conditions to real life. Actually, there is no need to imagine - the Gold Coast already has this, and in today's episode we chat with Dr Laetitia De Villiers, co-founder of the NeuTex Image-guided Therapy, Surgical and Robotics Training Center, to find out how it all came about. Laetitia, the 2023 Gold Coast Woman in Business of the Year, is a globally-renowned  interventional neuro-radiologist who pioneers cutting-edge treatments for patients with complex conditions of the brain and spine. This episode provides eye-opening insights into how new technologies are revolutionising the way we treat aneurysms and strokes, why collaboration is so vital, and what medical specialities will be benefitting from these incredible advances next.  About Laetitia Dr Laetitia de Villiers (MBChB, FRANZCR) is a specialist in interventional and diagnostic neuro-radiology at the Gold Coast University Hospital. Letitia is one of the co-founders of Qscan Radiology Clinics and was the first female partner, contributing to its growth to over 85 clinics across Australia, with 1200+ employees and 1.5 million patients annually. She is also co-founder of the NeuTex Image-guided Therapy Surgical and Robotics Training Centre in the Gold Coast Health & Knowledge Precinct, and an Associate Professor at Griffith University Medical School and Bond University School of Medicine. In 2023 Laetitia was awarded Gold Coast Woman in Business of the Year. Links Dr Laetitia De Villiers LinkedIn NeuTex Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct Qscan Radiology Clinics

After selling her successful beverage company to Coca-Cola many years ago, Maryann Thexton could have easily just put her feet up or travelled the world, but her innate curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit set her on a different path - and our Gold Coast biotech industry is stronger for it. She had switched careers to become a top-flight thoroughbred racehorse trainer (mentored by Gai Waterhouse), when a chance meeting with a microbiologist at a wedding led her into a new venture making products to support the animal gut microbiome.  Now after many years of research and development, Maryann, the same microbiologist and a team of other founders (all over 60!) have launched Bio-az, a Gold Coast-based nutraceutical company with a suite of world-first, game-changing functional ingredients that can enhance both human and animal health. Their proprietary 'synbiotic' formulas - a blend of prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics - are unusually shelf-stable and bioavailable, and can be added to a host of different products including foods, beverages, cosmetics, oral and personal care items, supplements and animal medicines. Hear about the ground-breaking new production technologies that have made this possible, and how Bio-Az are collaborating with other manufacturers around Australia and the globe to share their science and value add for consumer benefit. About Maryann Maryann Thexton is the CEO and Co-founder of Bio-Az and is a seasoned executive with over two decades of leadership experience in the Australian equine and FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) beverage industry. Known for driving profitability and efficiency, she excels in innovative strategies to achieve challenging targets and maintain competitive advantages. Recognized as an industry expert in animal health, particularly in the equine sector, Maryann has a successful background as a thoroughbred racehorse trainer. Notable achievements include transforming start-ups into profitable ventures, advancing sales and marketing efforts, and fostering consistent business development.  Links Maryann Thexton LinkedIn Bio-az

In this week's podcast we delve into the exciting realm of personalised healthcare, and no, we're not talking about your doctor's bedside manner! We chat with Monica Russell from global company Materialise, headquartered at Griffith University on the Gold Coast in Australia. Materialise is spearheading a healthcare revolution by leveraging software to devise personalised surgery plans, 3D print surgical implants and devices tailored precisely to each patient's requirements, and even craft custom surgical instruments. Monica is also the Founder and CEO of Ontic Ortho Solutions, specialising in designing and 3D printing lifelike bone models for individualised orthopedic surgical training, leading to significant enhancements in patient outcomes. The future of medicine is unfolding before our eyes, converging disciplines such as engineering, AI, software, biotechnology, and materials science - and it's all happening right here on the vibrant Gold Coast. About Monica Monica is an expert lead at Materialise Australia, specialising in the integration of the company's Medical Software Solutions within the Australian and New Zealand markets. In addition to her role at Materialise, Monica served as a valued member of the ADaPT 1.0 Advisory Board at Griffith University, where she contributes her industry expertise and strategic insights. Monica is also the visionary founder of Ontic Ortho Solutions, a company dedicated to perfecting medical device placements through the development of precise 3D anatomical bone models for surgical training purposes.  Links Monica Russell LinkedIn Materialise Ontic Ortho Solutions

Dr Stephanie Chaousis - Chief Customer Officer of Datarwe, General Manager of intelliHQ and Director of the Qld AI Hub - has had quite a wild career trajectory in science. She started out as a marine biologist ('chasing turtles in a boat'), then moved up to molecular biology (studying the nature of jellyfish and tarantula venom), but eventually landed in the emerging field of data science for healthcare, where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used to build predictive models which will allow clinicians to diagnose and treat patients much more effectively. The potential of AI to advance society - but also threaten it - has steeped into the public consciousness like never before. This podcast is a great antidote to fear, providing valuable insights into why AI and Big Data are essential tools for transforming the nature of healthcare for the greater good, and how it's happening right here on the Gold Coast with world-leading innovator Datarwe. About Stephanie Dr Stephanie Chaousis currently heads up AI for Healthcare not-for-profit intelliHQ as General Manager. She is also recently appointed on the board of directors of the Queensland AI Hub and is the Chief Customer Officer at Datarwe, a clinical data company developing tools to support secure adoption of AI for healthcare in Australia. Having rich experience at the intersection of public health, technology, research, and innovation, Stephanie has extensive knowledge on the current AI in healthcare ecosystem as well as the practicalities, benefits, and risks of AI adoption in health. Stephanie is also a mentor for HealthTech innovators through Gold Coast HealthTech accelerator Lumina X. Links Dr Stephanie Chaousis LinkedIn Datarwe intelliHQ Qld AI Hub Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct

In this special podcast episode, host Estella Rodighiero dives deep into the origins, drivers and incredible potential of our booming biomedical industry, interviewing Dr Chris Davis, General Manager of Griffith University’s Institute for Glycomics, and Dan Barr, Director of the Better Cities Group. Both have played a key role in the development of our new Gold Coast Emerging Biomedical Industry Study, released this week, which lays out a ten-year growth strategy for the sector. Twenty years ago, the Gold Coast had exactly zero biomed companies or institutions. Now now it’s a thriving innovation ecosystem anchored by the Gold Coast Health & Knowledge Precinct and the world-leading Institute for Glycomics, with forward-thinking startups and a top-10 global pharmaceutical company. You'll hear how this growth has not just happened by accident - it has required vision, investment in infrastructure, the right government policy settings, and most importantly, the Gold Coast’s highly collaborative and entrepreneurial spirit. The challenge for the next decade, addressed by the study, is strategic: how to support and enable a sector that's expected to grow at twice the rate of any other local industry, and attract the right investment to position the Gold Coast as one of the world's pre-eminent biomed and medtech cities. About Chris Dr Chris Davis obtained a PhD in synthetic medicinal chemistry from the Institute for Glycomics on the Gold Coast before launching his career in the private biotech sector, negotiating technology deals with pharmaceutical and biotech companies globally. In 2009 he returned to the Institute as General Manager, where he leads a group of professionals dedicated to the strategic and operational development of the Institute, covering domestic and international business strategy, technology commercialisation and general Institute operations. The primary focus of the Institute is developing and translating its drug, vaccine and diagnostic inventions into health, social and economic benefit, locally and globally. About Dan Dan Barr leads the multi-disciplinary consultancy, Better Cities Group – a collaboration of leading city shaping consultants that work throughout Australia to drive economic revitalisation and create great places. In this role Dan is commonly sought after to lead a response to complex projects for both the public and private sector. Dan has lived on the Gold Coast for nearly twenty years and prior to founding Better Cities Group he held leadership roles in the delivery of the Gold Coast Light Rail project, Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games and Community Renewal program. He holds formal qualifications in urban design, public health, and project management. Links Dr Chris Davis LinkedIn Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University Gold Coast Health & Knowledge Precinct Dan Barr LinkedIn  Better Cities Group 

From working in war-torn Zimbabwe to lecturer at Bond University, corporate sustainability expert Dr Clare Burns has had a unique career trajectory. In our most in-depth conversation about sustainability to date, Dr Burns provides insights into topics such as greenwashing, supply chains, psycho-social hazards, the 2032 Olympics, modern slavery in Australia, eco-anxiety, how SMEs can get started with sustainability, microcredentialing, the SDG Compass and much more.  About Clare Dr Clare Burns is a passionate corporate sustainability/business ethics and organisational culture researcher. For the past seven years, Clare has been teaching undergraduate, postgraduate, and MBA students in business management at Bond University. Before re-entering academia, Clare worked for 18 years in corporate communications, media, marketing, management and organisational development in Australia and overseas. During this time she wrote speeches, releases and strategic plans for ministers and premiers, worked at Telstra in investor relations, and lived in an African war zone. Outside of work, Clare is a volunteer and non-executive director of Rosies Friends on the Street. Links Dr Clare Burns LinkedIn Bond University Environmental and Social Government Microcredentials Sustainable Development Goals Compass Calculate your Carbon Footprint

Not many people in life get the opportunity to establish an institute from the ground up, let alone one which is now a world leader in the discovery and development of drugs and vaccines for globally significant diseases. After leading the team responsible for developing Relenza, the first ‘designer drug for flu’ (one of the most important antiviral advances of the last century), Professor Mark von Itzstein was offered the opportunity to establish and lead Griffith University’s Institute for Glycomics, the first (and only) biomedical research hub of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. In 2000 he chose the Gold Coast as the Institute’s home - then a greenfield site for biomed – and his vision has had a profound impact on the Gold Coast economy, its maturity as a city and ability to attract world-class talent ever since. After 23 years at the helm, Professor von Itzstein will soon be stepping down as the Institute's Director. In this podcast we’ll explore the career journey of one of our city’s most significant figures, the story of a flourishing research organisation, and why both are intertwined with the emergence of the Gold Coast’s fastest-growing industry About Mark Professor Mark von Itzstein OA is the Director of Griffith University’s Institute for Glycomics, a world leader in the discovery and development of next-generation drugs, vaccines and diagnostics that fight diseases of global impact. He was a joint recipient of the prestigious Australia Prize in 1996, was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia (General Division) in 2019, and has won numerous other national and international awards during his career. Professor von Itzstein has international standing in glycol-science and drug discovery, particularly in the area of anti-infective drug discovery, has published over 240 papers and invited reviews, and extensively patented his research. Links Professor Mark von Itzstein LinkedIn Institute for Glycomics Institute for Glycomics Facebook Institute for Glycomics LinkedIn

Marion Charlton is the Chief Operating Officer of Queensland Airports Limited. A described 'aviation nerd' who helped steer Sydney Airport through the 2000 Olympics Games, perhaps her greatest career achievement (and most daunting challenge) to date has been overseeing the redevelopment of the Gold Coast Airport. One our city's biggest ever infrastructure projects (the airport doubled its footprint to 30,000sqm), it happened to coincide with... a worldwide pandemic. Find out how Marion navigated the monumental challenges that COVID dumped on the project (no flights, no passengers, no income, no workers...) and what has been achieved since then. We cover the new aerobridges that are transforming airport operations, wonderful new initiatives for passengers such as the Hidden Disabilities Program and 'pat me' airport dogs, plans for the future, and why the Gold Coast is truly the 'Goldilocks' city. About Marion Marion Charlton has an impressive track record in business and aviation domestically and abroad. Since joining Queensland Airports Limited (QAL), Marion has held a variety of senior roles including her current position of Chief Operating Officer, where she manages the day-to-day operations of QAL group airports. Recently, Marion oversaw the transformational Gold Coast Airport terminal expansion, which doubled Gold Coast Airport’s footprint to 30,000sqm. Marion worked in Atlanta during the 1996 Olympic Games and leveraged this experience to develop Sydney Airport's successful 2000 Olympic Games delivery framework. She also led the exemplary handling of the 2018 Commonwealth Games at the Gold Coast Airport. Links Marion Charlton LinkedIn Gold Coast Aiport Queensland Airports Limited

Professor Stefanie Feih is a Cambridge-educated world expert in advanced manufacturing and materials performance. As the Director of the ADaPT Institute at Griffith University, she and her team are ushering in a new era of virtual design, rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing (also known as 3D printing) - and working hand in hand with Gold Coast companies to incorporate these new 'Industry 4.0' technologies into their operations. This is a fascinating dive into the future of manufacturing; learn about the process for designing and 3D printing components and devices (or even whole houses) using metals, polymers, ceramics and concrete. There are a myriad of applications including industrial parts, satellite and marine components, medical devices, individualised implants - even building models of aneurysms in the brain for practicing robotic surgery! An episode not to be missed. About Stefanie Professor Stefanie Feih is an engineering professor in advanced manufacturing and 3D printing at Griffith University. She is the Director of the ADaPT institute, which is Southeast Queensland’s leading institute for research and design of medtech devices (surgical guides, implants, artificial hearts), satellites and marine components. Stefanie has a passion for sustainability and recycling of materials. Stefanie received a PhD from Cambridge University and a Masters from Cornell in the US, but is originally from Germany. Stefanie is ranked in the top 2% of scientists worldwide in the field of advanced manufacturing and materials. Links Professor Stefanie Feih LinkedIn ADaPT

Struggling with how to attract and retain staff? This episode actually has some solutions! We talk to Paul Kahlert, the CEO of All Purpose Transport, a Berrinba company that has been around for 48 years. And with a rapidly ageing workforce, that’s also the average age of their truck drivers. So how exactly do you attract enough 'new blood' to support business growth of 8% per year, in a decidedly unglamorous industry? Paul discusses the revolutionary and award-winning workforce development initiative that APT implemented 11 years ago - still running today - that has made them the most qualified transport workforce in Australia and an ‘employer of choice’ along the way. We also cover workforce diversity and why it matters, catering for mums returning to the workforce, why they set set up a 'McDonalds-like' after school work program, their Net Zero strategies and more. About Paul Paul Kahlert is the CEO of All Purpose Transport (APT). He has been in a senior leadership position since 2002 and with APT since 1988. Based in Berrinba (Logan) APT employs close to 400 people including 290 owner drivers and has many blue-chip customers including IKEA, Cotton On, Castrol and Rheem. APT has operated in the Queensland market for over 48 years. Paul has held long-term memberships with the SCLAA / CILTA and is a board member and President of the Queensland Trucking Association. Links Paul Kahlert LinkedIn All Purpose Transport All Purpose Transport Facebook

Karen Dickinson, the General Manager of TAFE Gold Coast, is passionate about sustainability and believes that education providers need to build holistic knowledge and skills that will equip students to manage in a new sustainability-focused world. And she not only talks the talk - she walks the walk. Karen developed the concept for the new TAFE campus at Robina, which has won several international awards and has sustainability embedded into every facet of its operation, including the curriculum, fit-out, procurement policies, administration, student life and culture. Join this conversation about how sustainability must become part and parcel of how we do business, current and future trends for TAFE on the Gold Coast, addressing skill shortages and more insights into our vocational education sector. About Karen Karen Dickinson is the General Manager for TAFE Queensland on the Gold Coast, a position she has held for nearly seven years. She has extensive executive level experience in public sector management roles across health, employment services and vocational education and training. Karen developed the concept for the new TAFE Robina Campus which opened in 2022 and has won several international awards for its commitment to sustainability. She has a Masters in Health Services Management, Graduate Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety and a Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing). Karen is also a board member for Be Slavery Free and Study Gold Coast. Links Karen Dickinson LinkedIn TAFE Gold Coast

There are 13.5 million unused spare rooms in Australia, across 10 million households. Always ahead of the curve, entrepreneur Ludwina Dautovic spotted an opportunity and six year ago established The Room Xchange, Australia's first ID-verified house-sharing platform. The cutting-edge technology at its core matches households and housemates based on values, personality and lifestyle, with options to rent or rent offset (household help in lieu of rent). It's a concept that's time has surely come, creating a new 'Third Option' (after buying or renting) as we grapple with an unprecedented housing crisis. This fascinating conversation encompasses issues of housing affordability and sustainability, how The Room Xchange was born and has evolved, what makes it work, its potential in country areas (especially during events), future plans and more. About Ludwina Ludwina's journey to CEO of The Room Xchange was fueled by a desire to revolutionise the housing landscape. Drawing from her extensive business background, she recognised the need for a disruptive solution in the housing market. The Room Xchange was born from this vision, leveraging cutting-edge technology to connect people, bridge generational gaps and address the challenges of housing affordability. Under Ludwina's leadership, The Room Xchange has become a trailblazer in the real estate space, pioneering a platform that aims to become real estate’s 'third option'. Her commitment to innovation, combined with her dedication to social impact, has propelled the company to the forefront of the industry.  Links Ludwina Dautovic LinkedIn The Room Xchange The Room Xchange Facebook The Room Xchange Twitter The Room Xchange Instagram

Well-known Gold Coast livewire, communications professional and women's leadership advocate Karen Phillips is like a human shot of adrenaline for any weary business woman (or man) out there. Founder of Women in Business Australia, the Women in Business Awards and the Gold Coast Women in Business Breakfast series (now in its 30th year), she's a master of motivation with a deep love of her hometown, the Gold Coast. In this wide-ranging podcast, we talk about developing an 'antifragile' mindset - where we don't just survive adversity and disruption, we are actually enhanced by it - and dig into related topics such as resilience, burnout, imposter syndrome, stretching out of your comfort zone, the importance of recognition for women in business, equity in the workplace and more.   About Karen Honoured as Gold Coast Citizen of the Year 2018, Karen Phillips is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, media commentator, women’s leadership advocate and dedicated charity supporter. She is Executive Director of Women in Business Australia, and Women in Business International, just launched in the UAE. She sits on the Institute for Glycomics advisory board, the Gold Coast Community Fund board and is a Vinnies CEO Sleep Out Founding Ambassador. Karen has worked with some of the world’s most prestigious brands, identities and heads of state, and conducts the longest-running women’s program in Australia – the Gold Coast Women in Business Breakfast series, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Links Karen Phillips LinkedIn Karen Phillips Corporate Communications Karen Phillips Corporate Communications Facebook Women in Business Australia Women in Business Awards Facebook Early Risers Gold Coast Women in Business Club

Chris Derksema, CEO of the Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) was previously the Sustainability Director at the City of Sydney, leading them to become the first carbon neutral certified government organisation in Australia. He brings all of his sustainability bona fides to his role with GCWA, a statutory body responsible for the sustainable management of the Gold Coast's rivers, canals, lakes and dams. In this podcast we explore the critical balancing act between competing priorities: the development of the waterways and their infrastructure, which generate $600 million a year in economic and tourism activity; enhancing amenity and access for local communities; and the protection of these precious environmental assets - part of the very essence and soul of the Gold Coast. About Chris  Chris leads the Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) through place-based planning, delivery and management of marine and land-based infrastructure that improve access, connections and destinations for the Gold Coast waterways users and the community. Prior to joining GCWA, Chris was the Sustainability Director at the City of Sydney where he led them to become the first carbon neutral certified government organisation in Australia, implement decentralised energy and water grids, embed climate resilience into $8B asset portfolio and establish globally leading industry partnerships. Chris has an Environment Engineering degree and Executive MBA, and is a recipient of the Vincent Fairfax Leadership and Ethics Award. Links Gold Coast Waterways Authority Gold Coast Waterways Authority Facebook Gold Coast Waterways Authority Instagram Chris Derksema LinkedIn Gold Coast Waterways Authority LinkedIn

So how do you get a foot in the door of the Gold Coast film industry, and maybe end up the CEO of a world-renowned visual effects (VFX) studio with Disney, Warners Bros. and Netflix as clients? For Duncan Jones, who founded Gold Coast's Myriad Studios, you start off training dolphins at Sea World! Our newest podcast uncovers the story of his spectacular career ascent, bringing him to the present day where he spends each day doing 'cool things in cool places' (with very cool people). You'll also hear why our abundant local talent (a 9000-strong film and TV industry workforce) and having their 'thumbs on the pulse of technology' keeps international studios coming back to Myriad and the Gold Coast. About Duncan Duncan is the founder and CEO of Myriad Studios, a visual effects (VFX) support company specialising in pre-visualisation, digital capture, animation and virtual reality specifically for the film, television and gaming Industries. Based at Village Roadshow Studios on the Gold Coast Australia, Myriad’s customers include Disney, Warner Bros. and Netflix. His film experience extends for more than 20 years working across Australia and the Pacific not only in VFX, but also sourcing locations for some of the biggest films to come to Australia including Aquaman, Thor: Ragnarok and Love and Monsters. His unique position in the industry has exposed him to some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes, unique and unusual places, fascinating and famous people, and some of the most technically advanced film-making tools available. LinkedIn profile Links from this podcast: Myriad Studios Myriad Studios Instagram Myriad Studios LinkedIn Myriad Studios YouTube

Jan McCormick was a software engineer for mining equipment, when a chance encounter at a mining industry conference on the Gold Coast changed her career trajectory and her life. She met her future husband (the event planner) and moved to the Gold Coast six months later, where they teamed up to start their own event and concert production company. Now the CEO of Major Events Gold Coast, Jan and her crack team are the driving force behind such locally beloved and internationally renowned events as Blues on Broadbeach and the Groundwater Country Music Festival. But hold onto your hats and water bottles - there's a new festival coming to the Gold Coast in August which is also set to claim iconic event status. The Pacific Airshow Gold Coast will feature a flotilla of high-performance military and commercial aircraft performing stunning aerobatics and manoeuvres over the ocean in front of Surfers Paradise Beach from 18-20 August. Get the inside story of how this incredible event was lured to the Gold Coast (it's the top airshow in the US - and there are hundreds!), what was involved, what you can expect as a spectator, and what it means for the Gold Coast.  About Jan Jan came to Major Events Gold Coast from the Broadbeach Alliance (BA), where her transformational leadership drove real success and positioned BA as a leader in festival delivery on the Gold Coast and throughout Australia. Notable achievements during her tenure included the extraordinary growth and positioning of Blues on Broadbeach and the development of Groundwater Country Music Festival as major events for Queensland and the City of Gold Coast that have proud national and international reputations, and an unprecedented return on investment. Prior to this, Jan was the Executive Director of her own highly profitable business events and concert production company. LinkedIn Profile Links from this podcast Major Events Gold Coast Major Events Gold Coast Facebook Pacific Airshow Gold Coast Pacific Airshow Facebook

Study Gold Coast CEO Jennine Tax - the 2021 Gold Coast Woman of the Year for the Education Sector - reckons she has struck gold with her job, "selling education in a city that I love and feel so passionate about". In this podcast, Jennine talks about the role of Study Gold Coast in promoting the City as a world-class education destination, supporting the students who come here, connecting them with local employers and the community, and the organisation's mega-plans for the future. And if your business is struggling with skills shortages take note: Jennine says international enrolments will be back to pre-COVID levels by about the end of this year, students will have work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight from 1 July, and then post-study work rights of up to 5 years in regional areas, which includes the Gold Coast. Listen in for a wealth of information and insight (not to mention unbridled enthusiasm!) about this key pillar of the Gold Coast economy. About Jennine Jennine Tax is the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Study Gold Coast, and head of Partnerships and Trade. Prior to joining Study Gold Coast, Jennine predominantly worked in management consulting, with work centered around strategic planning, business improvement, project management and stakeholder engagement. In addition to 10 years working at KPMG in the Management Consulting Division, Jennine has held senior roles at HSBC and ABN AMRO banks. She has worked overseas in Japan, UK, the Netherlands, India and China. Jennine was awarded the 2021 Gold Coast Bulletin Woman of the Year in the Education category for her work in growing the education sector and supporting students. LinkedIn Profile Links from the podcast Study Gold Coast Study Gold Coast Jobs Portal Host for the Coast program Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok LinkedIn

Tech entrepreneur and educator Nathan Burns was an early adopter of cryptocurrencies, but it was the underlying technology - blockchain - that really lit a fire in him. Nathan immediately recognised the myriad of potential applications for solving problems and creating efficiencies across almost all industries, and dove in to become an early blockchain expert and advocate. He is now the Co-founder and CEO of the Blockchain Collective, a globally recognised blockchain training hub on the Gold Coast, which offers Australia's first and only accredited diploma courses to help businesses and individuals leverage this emerging technology's incredible potential. Blockchain allows digital information to be recorded and distributed quickly, with trust at its core - it can't be altered or hacked. And with AI currently dominating the headlines, Nathan's technology insights are hugely relevant; find out why we need to get aboard the tidal wave of technology change and 'start paddling like hell' - or get washed away. About Nathan Nathan Burns is the Founder and CEO of Blockchain Collective, an education company that creates emerging technology curriculum, with accredited courses, such as the Diploma of Applied Blockchain, Diploma of Applied Blockchain merging Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, and the Advanced Diploma of Applied Blockchain, as well as technical short courses designed to build the skills for the future technology workforce. He also maintains active roles in a variety of companies across software development, fintech, blockchain and decentralised banking. Nathan advises and has interest in a number of start-ups. LinkedIn Profile Links from this Podcast Blockchain Collective Facebook Instagram YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Contact the Blockchain Collective: Level 3, Suite 10, 3 Alison Street, Surfers [email protected](07) 3186 1013

Ariana Margetts - innovation maven - is on a mission to diversify and power the Gold Coast economy by attracting and supporting startups and SMEs from emerging sectors like Medtech, Biotech, Sportstech and AI. As the Chief Operating Officer of CoSpaces at Southport, she works with landlords, governments and developers to activate co-working commercial communities, including the Cohort Innovation Space in the Gold Coast Health & Knowledge Precinct and the Queensland AI Hub. And that's not the only hat she wears; Ariana is also the first ever female President of the Southport Chamber of Commerce, Co-Director of Startup Grind Gold Coast, a Griffith University academic and a mentor for Global Shapers Gold Coast Hub, a network of young people driving dialogue, action and change. Tune in for an inspiring podcast on how and why the Gold Coast is rapidly transforming into a world-class, knowledge-based economy. LinkedIn About Ariana As the Chief Operating Officer of CoSpaces, Ariana oversees the delivery of facilities management, commercial management, communications, marketing, public relations and events for all individual spaces under the CoSpaces umbrella, including Cohort Innovation Space, The Station, Queensland AI Hub and The Residence. Ariana is the President of the Southport Chamber of Commerce, the first female President in the Chamber's 109-year history. Ariana is also the Co-Director for Startup Grind Gold Coast, is a practice-based academic at Griffith University with the Griffith Business School and is a mentor for the Global Shapers Gold Coast Hub, an initiative of the World Economic Forum. Links from this Podcast Cohort Innovation Space Queensland AI Hub Startup Grind Gold Coast Global Shapers Gold Coast Hub

If the challenges that Australia and the world face in addressing climate change and reaching net zero by 2050 fill you with despair, then this podcast will be a welcome tonic. New Gold Coaster Geoff Matthews is an expert in industrial decarbonisation and the Event Director of SIM-PAC - Sustainable Industrial Manufacturing Asia Pacific - an expo of low emission technologies debuting in Brisbane next year and coming to the Gold Coast in 2025 and 2027. In this passionate discussion full of hope, deep knowledge and practical solutions, find out why Geoff can see renewables-rich Australia becoming the decarbonised industrial powerhouse of the world, and how even the smallest businesses can contribute game-changing solutions. About Geoff Geoff is the Event Director and Partner of Sustainable Industrial Manufacturing Asia Pacific (SIM-PAC), an upcoming showcase of low emission technology for sustainable manufacturing, and the host of SIM-PAC Live. Geoff brings a wealth of international business and event experience to the role, as well as a deep understanding of the issues facing industry as we transition towards net zero. Geoff is widely published on the subject of energy modulation and has authored a number of thought-provoking articles on the decarbonisation of industry. He has also given keynote addresses at many international conferences and is an Advisory Board Member of the Future Aluminium Forum. LinkedIn profile Links from this podcast SIM-PAC LIve YouTube SIM-PAC Live Facebook SIM-PAC Live LinkedIn SIM-PAC Live Twitter The Geoff Matthews Podcast (Spotify) Website

In this deep dive into the Gold Coast visitor economy, tourism supremo Karen Bolinger,  acting CEO of Destination Gold Coast (DGC), discusses where we sit post-pandemic, where we need to be headed, and the guiderails and strategies that DGC is laying out to help the Gold Coast define 'who we are and what we stand for'. Expectations have changed... with consumer demand for sustainability, accessibility and immersive Instagram-worthy experiences now reshaping the industry. And only nine years out from the 2032 Olympics, what's the groundwork we need to do now to ensure the Gold Coast extracts maximum benefit from the influx of global visitors? (We'll need an additional 11,000 hotel rooms just for starters.) This session is also a great listen for anyone considering a career in the 'structured chaos' of the tourism and hospitality industry. About Karen Karen Bolinger, the acting CEO of Destination Gold Coast, is a dynamic and experienced strategist and executive leader in the international events, travel, tourism, and hospitality services sector. Karen has made a significant contribution to the visitor economies of several Australian and international cities and has a unique track record of bringing commercial industry, government policy makers and service organisations together to collaborate and deliver outstanding public value outcomes. She is passionate about the tourism sector becoming a force for economic and social change, re-imagining the way tourism can create more cohesive and inclusive communities, and more vibrant and resilient economies, locally and internationally. LinkedIn Profile Links from this podcast Destination Gold Coast Facebook Twitter Instagram

Many Gold Coast locals would be surprised to learn that Helensvale is home to the first privately-owned aerospace company in Australia, co-founded by pioneering Brisbane brothers Adam and James Gilmour a decade ago. Gilmour Space is a truly stunning Gold Coast success story; it's now the largest space tech employer in Australia, with over 190 full-time staff, and on the cusp of launching their revolutionary LLV Eris rocket, utilising hybrid propulsion technology (greener than conventional liquid or solid fuel rockets). In this podcast, James and Estella dive into the Gilmour Space story; with 20,000 small satellites needing to be launched worldwide in the next decade, and not enough launch capability to meet demand, Gilmour Space's ambition is to be the 'FedEx of space delivery', affordably launching satellites into Low Earth Orbit. This is also a story of resilience; James says the weight of the all the 'no's' they have received on their journey could sink a battleship. Don't miss this one!  About James James Gilmour is Co-Founder, Director, and Head of Launch Operations at Gilmour Space. James has over 15 years of experience in marketing, business development and operations in Australia and Singapore. James led and was instrumental in driving Gilmour's engagement with government, academia, and industry. Today, he’s responsible for launch site development and operations for Gilmour's launch vehicles. James also holds other positions dedicated to furthering Australia's contributions in space and is in the Advisory Council for the Space Industry Association of Australia (SIAA); and a Director at the National Space Society Of Australia (NSSA). Links from this podcast Gilmour Space Facebook

How can we work with the growth of the Gold Coast and not against it? How do we retain the dynamic and fast moving character of our city, but embed sustainable business practices and environmental management as core pillars of our economic growth? Larissa Rose, Director of Gold Coast environmental consultancy GG Enviro, has the answers in this broad-ranging interview, which also explores the pathways that took her from a career as a chef to nationally recognised renewable fuel advocate and thought leader in decarbonising our future. About Larissa Larissa is a locally and nationally recognised Environmental Consultant who has contributed at a United Nations level. Her leadership in sustainability and environmental management, has seen her advancing policy for the use of renewable fuels in Queensland, while enabling projects opportunities to decarbonise the transport sector. Larissa is a Board Director of the World Bioenergy Association, she sits on the Gold Coast City Heart Taskforce under the portfolio Sustainability and Environment, is an Adjunct Lecturer at Bond University, and Director of GG Enviro, her environmental consultancy company for 13 years on the Gold Coast. LinkedIn Profile⁠ Links from this podcast GG Enviro Facebook Instagram LinkedIn company profile 

This week's podcast guest, Southport Yacht Club General Manager Brett James, takes us through the truly eye-popping economic benefits that the 2022 opening of the Superyacht Berth has brought to the Gold Coast. With the Yacht Club now able to cater to vessels up to 135 metres, the Gold Coast has become Australia's number one superyacht destination. And whenever a superyacht docks - do they ever spend! It's nothing for a vessel to outlay $5000 a day...  just on fresh flowers. A single superyacht can generate more local economic benefit than an entire commercial cruise ship. Get an insight into this truly mind-boggling world, and what it means for the future of the Gold Coast. About Brett Brett James is the General Manager of Southport Yacht Club (SYC), a not-for-profit association with over 150 employees. Comprising of four venues, SYC is currently Queensland’s largest yacht club. A former professional golfer, Brett has over 20 years’ experience in hospitality and sport management. Brett is also a Board member of the Southport Chamber of Commerce, Clubs Queensland, RDA Gold Coast, the Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee, with a great vision in sustainable and consistent growth for the Gold Coast. LinkedIn Profile Links from this podcast Southport Yacht Club Facebook YouTube

Did you know that the Gold Coast is home to a company developing the world's first rotary artificial human heart? How about an AI leader collecting crisis-care data from hospitals across the country, to build a real-time diagnostic platform for clinicians? Or thousands of other innovators, entrepreneurs and researchers in medtech, clinical trials, life sciences, cybersecurity, AI, blockchain and more... and that they are all located in the same 200ha Gold Coast site? Our guest this week is Craig Rowsell, Acting Director of the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct, and he has a fascinating story to tell about what is truly the Gold Coast's most transformative project.  About Craig After completing a Bachelor of Applied Science at the University of Canberra, Craig began his career at the Australian Sports Commission. He was heavily involved in the Australian Government’s policy and programs in high performance and community sport. Craig relocated to the Gold Coast with his family in 2011, and since then has worked on transformational economic development projects, initially focusing on the sport and film sectors with the City of Gold Coast’s Economic Development Branch. Four years ago, Craig was drawn to the city transformational project that is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct, and four months ago was appointed Acting Director.  LinkedIn Profile Links from this podcast Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct Lumina Gold Coast COHORT Innovation Space BiVACOR Datarwe

Prominent Gold Coast real estate developer Stephen Harrison was born in country Victoria, but fell under the Gold Coast spell on a family holiday as a child. Not only did he made GC his home, he has been a passionate advocate, leader and visionary for our sunny region,  managing projects to revitalise Surfers Paradise and Hope Island during his tenure at the City of Gold Coast, creating signature residential real estate projects at Coomera, Upper Coomera and Pimpama as a developer, and chairing the Light Rail Business Advisory Group since 2010. In this episode, Estella and Stephen discuss the Gold Coast Light Rail project in detail - how did it come about, why did it come about and where is it going (hint: to Coolangatta Airport by 2030) - as well as his take on Gold Coast challenges and opportunities as we head towards the 2032 Olympics.  LinkedIn Profile About Stephen Stephen has 30 years' experience in the development industry and has held key positions in both public and private sectors. He is currently the Principal of Harrison Development Group, which is responsible for the delivery of signature projects across the Gold Coast and in Cairns, Moreton Bay and Logan. He is also Development Director for Flinders Lakes, a 21,000-lot master planned community at Flagstone. Stephen holds a Bachelor of Civil Engineering and a Master of Project Management. He is the past President of the Urban Development Institute of Qld in 2016 having been a past President of the UDIA Gold Coast Logan Branch. He’s also the current Chair of the Gold Coast Light Rail Business Advisory Group.

The Gold Coast is the small business capital of Australia, and Martin Hall, President of the Gold Coast Central Chamber of Commerce with 300+ members, is someone with his finger on the pulse of our local economy. A strong voice for small business and a well-known figure in the Australian bus industry, Martin has great insights into the future of transport on the Gold Coast as we aim for net zero, as well as the challenges and opportunities around issues such as affordable housing, skills shortages and the 2032 Olympics. About Martin Martin Hall is the Chief Commercial Officer for the BusTech Group in Burleigh. In addition, Martin is the long-standing President of the Gold Coast Central Chamber of Commerce, Vice-Chair of the Gold Coast Community Fund as well as a husband and father. Martin has been a transport industry professional for 14 years during which time he was GM at Surfside Buslines overseeing a 900+ strong workforce, including managing the public transport uplift for the GC2018 for Surfside. Martin is a passionate community advocate and spends much of his time doing community work that he deems as 'paying his rent for being on the planet'. LinkedIn Profile Links from this podcast BusTech Group Gold Coast Central Chamber of Commerce

Amanda Bulow grew up on a farm in Ipswich where there were no ‘girl jobs' and ‘boy jobs' – just jobs (and you got them done!). That formative experience of equality undoubtedly had an influence on her career trajectory. Straight out of uni (and with some chutzpah), she seized an early career opportunity to move into the male-dominated construction industry, forging a path in estimating and procurement. While she was supported by her mainly male bosses and colleagues, Amanda still felt a need for connection with other women working in the construction industry. In this podcast you’ll hear the awesome story of Awesome Women in Construction - the not-for-profit organisation she founded - and how it’s grown to provide unparalleled networking, advocacy, camaraderie and learning resources for women (and girls) across the Gold Coast, SEQ and nationally. About Amanda Amanda Bulow is a well-connected construction industry professional with over 20 years’ experience. Her extensive knowledge in procurement, sales and production estimating has assisted numerous organisations in streamlining their business, finding efficiencies and improving results.  Amanda is the Founder and CEO of Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC), and she continues to provide a space for women to come together to learn, connect and share while leading the growth of the construction industry. Her support, advocacy and education of small businesses and women in the construction industry is a strong focus. LinkedIn Profile Links from this Podcast Awesome Women in Construction Be Ready App (Apple) Be Ready App (Android)

Gold Coast resident Dr John Zakos calls himself a technologist with an entrepreneurial drive. An internationally recognised Artificial Intelligence (AI) pioneer, researcher, business founder and now Honorary Professor at UTS, John says he has been 'thinking about thinking machines' for his entire career. In this fascinating interview, find out how John's passion for AI was ignited way back in his first high school computer class at Trinity Lutheran College Ashmore; how Cognea, the AI start-up he co-founded and later sold to IBM came about and evolved (with all the twists and turns along the way); and get his timely insights into resilience, entrepreneurship, innovation and inspiration. If you have an interest in technology or entrepreneurship or both, this is a must. About John  Dr John Zakos is an Honorary Professor at the School of Software, University of Technology Sydney. John co-founded the Artificial Intelligence (AI) company Cognea in 2005. The company became recognised as a world leader in delivering virtual human solutions before being acquired by IBM in 2014. He was the Program Director for Virtual Agent technologies at IBM Watson Group until 2019, where he played a key role in developing the next generation of cognitive computing alongside colleagues at IBM. John holds a PhD in AI and has published his work internationally. He also holds numerous patents and has given invited talks at forums such as TED. LinkedIn Profile