Gold Coast Insider

What does it take to turn a clever idea into a product used around the world? For Sandra Barber and the team at DockPro, it started with solving a problem: finding a better way to protect boats from barnacles without relying on toxic antifoul paints. Today, the Gold Coast company exports its SeaPen dry-docking system to more than 20 countries, helping cement the Gold Coast's reputation as a global innovation hub. In this episode, Sandra shares the long and winding path from a prototype built in her engineer father-in-law Allan Barber's garage, to one of the Gold Coast's standout manufacturing and export success stories. Together with her husband Mark, she transformed Allan's idea into a globally recognised product that is helping boat owners reduce maintenance costs and protect marine environments. Discover what it takes to grow a successful export business, why the region's marine industry is a powerful economic driver, and why Sandra believes every aspiring entrepreneur — especially young women — should find a mentor and back their ideas. About Sandra Sandra Barber is a co-founder and Sales Manager at DockPro, where she has played a key role in building the Queensland-based marine dry-docking business since its early days. Based in Nerang, she has helped grow DockPro into a specialist provider of dry-docking solutions for recreational and commercial vessels, including the SeaPen system. In 2025, she was named Gold Coast Woman in Business of the Year, recognizing her leadership and contribution to the marine industry. Links DockPro Sandra Barber, LinkedIn DockPro Facebook DockPro Instagram DockPro YouTube

How do you go from secretary on a working holiday to the head of a film studio which has attracted more $5 billion in production activity to the Gold Coast? In this week’s episode, Village Roadshow Studios President Lynne Benzie shares the story of a career built on curiosity, resilience and a passion for creating opportunities for others. Lynne offers a rare, behind-the-scenes peek at the surprisingly diverse day-to-day life of a screen industry executive – everything from glamorous twice-yearly trips to LA to secure major productions, to ousting rogue possums and pigeons from sound stages. She also explains how the screen sector has become a major economic powerhouse for the Gold Coast, supporting allied businesses and 5000+ jobs, and driving investment across the region. It’s an inspiring conversation about leadership, vision, the diversity of job opportunities for a new generation, and the growing impact of the Gold Coast’s world-class screen industry. About Lynne Lynne Benzie is President of Village Roadshow Studios, with over 36 years of experience in the film, television and entertainment industry. Originally from the UK, she migrated to Australia in 1979 and built a diverse career across insurance, finance, legal services, information technology, the building industry and entertainment, including five years with EMI Records in sales and marketing. Since joining Village Roadshow in 1990, Lynne has been involved in promoting the industry locally and internationally and has strong client relationships with many studios, as well as producers across multiple platforms. She is on the boards of Ausfilm and Screen Queensland and Chair of the Gold Coast Film Festival. Links Village Roadshow Studios Lynne Benzie LinkedIn Village Roadshow Studios LinkedIn Village Roadshow Studios Facebook Village Roadshow Studios Instagram

(00:00) Gold Coast Insider Introduction (00:22) Introducing Mark Girard and Invest Gold Coast (10:24) The Gold Coast: A city of unpretentious ambition (13:57) Confident businesses and a confident economy (16:53) The challenges facing the city (20:11) What infrastructure can't wait (23:35) Olympic Games: Local content and Meet the Buyer (25:15) Expansion of the screen industry on the Gold Coast (31:23) What are the next big investment opportunities? (33:32) Big picture view over the next five years (34:52) The snowball effect (37:42) How can Invest Gold Coast help? The Gold Coast is entering a bold new phase of growth — and opportunity is everywhere. In this episode, inaugural Invest Gold Coast CEO Mark Girard unpacks why the Gold Coast has become a $40 billion economic powerhouse, and the diverse projects shaping the city’s trajectory over the next decade. Discover how the region's transformative developments are unlocking major opportunities for local contractors, suppliers and investors, while generating the high-skilled, high-paid jobs needed to keep young people living, working and thriving locally. Momentum is building here in Australia’s most investable city, and businesses looking for their next opportunity – or new homebase – should be paying close attention. About Mark Mark Girard is the inaugural CEO at Invest Gold Coast Pty Ltd, the investment and economic development arm of the City of Gold Coast. He is a seasoned executive and company director with deep state and local government experience. Mark has held strategic leadership roles across significant Queensland-based infrastructure and investment projects. At Invest Gold Coast, Mark is charged with boosting the economy of Australia’s fastest growing city and cementing the Gold Coast’s position as a premier investment destination. Links Mark Girard LinkedIn Invest Gold Coast Invest Gold Coast LinkedIn

(00:00) Gold Coast Insider Introduction (01:12) Myriad's vision for the film industry (01:57) How Myriad's technology is supporting the BioSpine project (03:41) Film and the future of healthcare (04:40) How digital twins are transforming the sports experience (05:36) The future of sports venues and stadiums (08:16) The strength and maturity of the screen industry on the Gold Coast (09:22) Flow on effects for the Gold Coast (10:26) Keep it all local (11:28) How the Gold Coast's film industry is evolving (13:54) The Gold Coast: A unique place to live (15:03) Where are the untapped opportunities? (18:23) What workforce do we need to support the industry? (22:42) Where will GC be positioned in five years' time? (25:37) The GC screen industry: Where innovation and jobs intersect Gold Coast visual effects studio Myriad has built a global reputation for creating cutting-edge “digital twin” technology for film and television, contributing to major productions like Aquaman, The Fall Guy and Godzilla vs Kong. But the real story is what’s happening beyond the screen. In this episode, Myriad CEO Duncan Jones shares how the company is now applying that same advanced technology across new industries — from immersive virtual reality rehabilitation programs for spinal cord patients through Griffith University’s BioSpine project, to reimagining sports performance, fan experiences and even stadium design. The implications extend all the way to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. We also explore what this means for the Gold Coast’s future as Australia’s most prolific screen production hub — and why the opportunities for local talent and businesses are becoming broader, more diverse and more exciting than ever. 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 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. Links Duncan Jones LinkedIn Myriad Studios Myriad Studios Instagram Myriad Studios LinkedIn Myriad Studios YouTube

(00:00) Gold Coast Insider: Introducing Todd Babiak (00:44) Culture, identity and community (04:55) The potential of the Gold Coast (06:29) Case study: The fight to keep Austin weird (10:39) Who are we and what are we selling to the world? (11:45) Brand Gold Coast (13:55) What does it mean to be a Gold Coaster? (21:34) Interviewing Gold Coasters (23:21) Key priorities for Brand Gold Coast (26:55) What is place branding and how does it shape the economy? (32:31) The Gold Coast's overseas markets (34:35) The big question: What is the Gold Coast story (36:31) How can Gold Coasters we part of building our next chapter? In this week’s episode, we meet internationally renowned place-branding expert Todd Babiak , the new CEO of Brand Gold Coast. You might assume his role is all about logos, taglines, ad campaigns… but you’d be wrong. In this compelling conversation, Todd shares Brand Gold Coast’s deeper mission: uncovering and articulating the core story of the Gold Coast — what the city means to its residents, why we build our lives here, and how do you amplify this? According to Todd, the Gold Coast is ‘the city that says yes’ — an unpretentiously ambitious place that welcomes and embraces newcomers, creating a fertile field for positive transformation or reinvention. We explore how a city’s cultural identity shapes investment, entrepreneurship and opportunity — and how the power of a shared story can influence decisions at every level: government, business, community and individual. About Todd Todd Babiak is CEO of Brand Gold Coast and, in his spare time, an author and investor. He co-founded the strategy consultancy firm Story Engine, which ultimately brought him to Australia and — lucky Todd — to the life-changing Gold Coast. Links Todd Babiak LInkedIn Brand Gold Coast (article)

(00:00) Introduction (01:30) Introduction to Leah Harrison (02:49) Leah’s role at LifeFlight (04:56) LifeFlight Overview and Mission (06:07) First minutes after an incident are so critical (10:37) First Minutes Matter Program Overview (21:04) Real life examples of First Minutes Matter making a difference (22:46) Recap: What is taught in the workshop (25:07) How to request a workshop (26:05) Future goals for First Minutes Matter (30:29) Closing comments If you came across an accident — or a family member or friend had a medical emergency — would you know what to do before help arrives? (… And how would it feel if you didn’t?) In this week’s podcast episode, we speak with Leah Harrison, Senior Medical Educator with First Minutes Matter, an emergency trauma training program developed by LifeFlight Australia. Leah explains why the first few minutes after an incident are critical — and how calm, informed bystanders can actually save lives or dramatically improve long-term outcomes. From bleeding and burns, to snake bites, airway obstructions, strokes, seizures and cardiac arrest, there are practical actions anyone can take with the right knowledge and confidence. Learn how LifeFlight is empowering communities and workplaces throughout Queensland with their completely free, hands-on workshops — and how you, your business or community group can get involved. An unmissable episode with takeaways for everyone. About Leah Leah Harrison is a Registered Nurse with more than 20 years’ experience working in Emergency Departments. She is currently a Senior Medical Educator with LifeFlight Australia, based in Sunshine Coast, and serves as the First Minutes Matter Regional Medical Educator covering the Sunshine Coast and South Burnett regions. In her role, Leah works alongside critical care doctors to develop and deliver the First Minutes Matter program, providing free and practical emergency trauma training to communities across Queensland. Links First Minutes Matter Program LifeFlight Facebook LifeFlight LinkedIn LifeFlight Instagram LifeFlight YouTube

(00:00) Introduction (02:11) Shane Thomson Introduction (03:05) Regional Jobs Committee Overview (03:50) Shane’s Role as Project Manager (05:16) How the RJC Addresses Local Workforce Challenges (07:34) GC RJC Webpage & Newsletter Launch (08:29) Supporting Small Businesses & Workforce Planning (11:34) Key Workforce Challenges on the Gold Coast (14:08) Youth Workforce Trends (16:43) GC Priority Sectors & Workforce Trends (18:33) Future-Proofing for the Olympics & Beyond (21:48) Engaging with the GC RJC (23:18) Available Queensland Government Programs (25:17) GC RJC Future Goals (28:51) Closing Remarks The Gold Coast is on the cusp of a workforce explosion — with a projected 6.2% jump by 2027–28 and more than 22,000 new jobs on the way. For local businesses already battling skills shortages, the pressure is only set to increase. Enter Shane Thomson , the new Project Manager of the Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), a Queensland Government-backed initiative delivered by RDA Gold Coast. In this episode, Shane reveals how the RJC will cut through the noise, connect businesses with real workforce solutions, and help employers tap into government support, training pipelines and industry partnerships. If finding staff feels harder than ever, this conversation is a much-needed dose of clarity — and a roadmap for navigating the biggest workforce shift the Gold Coast has seen in decades. About Shane Shane Thomson is the new Project Manager for the Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee, bringing extensive experience in workforce development, vocational education and industry engagement. He joins the RJC following a successful career with the Queensland Government, where he worked closely with employers, training providers and community organisations across the Gold Coast, Logan, Redlands and Scenic Rim. His background spans skills development, apprentice and trainee support, and collaborating with businesses and industry to address real workforce challenges. Links Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee Facebook Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee LinkedIn Subscribe to GC Jobs & Industry Links Get in contact with Shane E: projects@goldcoastrjc.org.au M: 0492 976 421

(00:00) Introduction (01:15) What is Cyber Wardens? (03:19) Cybersecurity Risk for Small Businesses (05:11) Prevalence of Cybercrime (06:49) Common Cyber Attacks on Small Businesses (10:33) Red Flags and Warning Signs (15:44) Good Cybersecurity Habits (19:50) Cyber Wardens Training Overview (25:13) Queensland Government/Cyber Wardens Partnership 27:35) What to do if you clicked on a Phishing Link? (29:52) Importance of a Cyber Response Plan (32:59) Cyber Hygiene & Ongoing Tips (38:33) Closing Remarks Nearly half of cybercrimes reported in Australia target small businesses and sole traders – and Queensland tops the nation for attacks . The average loss? Around $50,000 per incident. In this essential episode of Gold Coast Insider, Kimberley Roberts-Salee from the government-backed Cyber Wardens program shares practical, jargon-free advice to safeguard your business from scammers and hackers. We explore the most common attack types and how to counter them, key red flags, the #1 cyber habit to slash your risk, how AI is changing the threat landscape, and the free Cyber Wardens training available to all Queensland businesses. Don't miss our bonus, FREE Cyber Wardens & RDA Gold Coast Webinar on Wed 12 November! About Kimberley As one of the Cyber Wardens program educators, Kimberley is passionate about raising awareness around the importance of small business cyber security and empowering small business owners and employees to increase their cyber resilience and learn how to stay safe online. WIth a career spanning 15 years in small businesses across industries including tourism, business events, government consultancy, aviation and professional services, she has a strong appreciation of the vital role small businesses play in their communities and the unique challenges they face. Links Cyber Wardens Cyber Wardens LinkedIn Cyber Wardens Instagram Cyber Wardens Facebook Cyber Wardens X Kimberley Roberts-Salee LinkedIn

(00:00) Introduction (01:37) What is the Business Industry and Regional Outreach (BIRO)? (03:36) 2024 Visa Changes Explained (04:10) National Innovation Visa (05:05) Skills in Demand Visa (07:06) Specialist vs Core Skills Streams (10:24) Resources Available for Business & Migrants (12:12) Common Business Visa Concerns (15:06) Construction Industry Visa Updates (23:21) Health Sector Visa Updates (28:02) BIRO Speaking Events/Workshops (29:05) Closing Comments With unemployment on the Gold Coast at historic lows, many businesses are struggling to find and retain the skilled staff they need — especially in health, construction, digital and hospitality. This week’s podcast explores how Australia’s Skilled Migration Program is filling critical workforce gaps. Our guests — Yvette Adams, Camm Gibson and Natalie Walsh from the Department of Home Affairs' Business, Industry and Regional Outreach (BIRO) — share practical insights into the program, and explain how BIRO equips employers with the guidance they need to navigate the ‘migration maze’ with ease. Discover how to get started with the process, which visa types best suit your situation (and why), plus insider tips on how to fast-track processing times to as little as seven days. If your local recruitment efforts are falling short, this episode is packed with essential information to help your business unlock global talent and thrive. * Please note: the information in this podcast was current at the time of recording. The most up to date information is available on the Department of Home Affairs website. About BIRO The Department of Home Affairs’ Business, Industry and Regional Outreach (BIRO) network supports business, industry, government agencies and regional stakeholders to understand and effectively utilise the skilled migration program and workforce visa to fill workforce vacancies where positions cannot be filled by Australian workers. The BIRO network also engages with stakeholders on skilled visa program matters, gathering sentiment and feedback from businesses and peak bodies. Links Department of Home Affairs: Employing Overseas Workers Department of Home Affairs BIRO network Skilled Occupation List National Innovation Visa Skills in Demand Visa Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa Skilled Work Regional Visa Short Stay Specialist Visa Department of Home Affairs LinkedIn

(00:00) Introduction(00:55) Inspiration for At the Helm Career Services(02:19) Lived Experience(03:47) Women in the Workforce(07:28) Fears about Returning to the Workforce(08:27) Skills Gained During Career Breaks(10:09) Overview of At the Helm Career Services(15:25) Most Rewarding Moments(18:01) Employer Accreditation & Initiatives(22:45) What Employers Can Do(27:01) First Steps for Women Returning(32:04) Closing Comments Restarting your career? Not sure where to begin? Start here! This week’s podcast guest Natalie Moloney , Founder of At the Helm Career Services, shares how a chance conversation at her daughter’s school inspired her shift from HR professional to career coach. Hearing another mum’s anxiety about returning to work sparked a lightbulb moment, leading Natalie to a new mission: helping women (and anyone re-entering the workforce) rebuild confidence, market their skills and embrace new opportunities. In this upbeat conversation, Natalie shares insights on breaking through barriers, and thriving in a changed workplace. We also explore a range of free government resources to support career reboots (including Gold Coast libraries!), and flip perspectives to hear what employers can do to foster a supportive workplace culture and tap into this underutilised talent pool. About Natalie Natalie Moloney is a qualified Career Practitioner with a strong HR background across diverse industries. In 2021, she launched At the Helm Career Services to help individuals — especially women returning from career breaks — navigate their next steps with confidence. With lived experience, practical insight, and formal credentials in Career Development and HR, Natalie is passionate about helping people thrive at work and in life. She is tertiary qualified with a Graduate Certificate of Career Development and a Bachelor of Commerce (HRM) and is a Professional Member of the Career Development Association of Australia. Links At the Helm Career Services At the Helm Career Services LinkedIn At the Helm Career Services Facebook At the Helm Career Services Instagram Resources Career Revive Resources Work 180 Family Friendly Workplaces Workplace Gender Equality Agency Suited to Success Fitted for Work FW Jobs Academy LinkedIn Learning (free access for anyone a Gold Coast library card)

(00:00) Introduction (00:38) Gold Coast as a Small Business Capital (02:04) Post-Covid Business Shifts (05:38) Current SME Challenges (09:39) Role of Business Concierge (14:53) Emerging Trends Impacting SMEs (16:48) How Concierge Services Bridge the Gap (20:34) Most Requested Business Support (22:34) Tips for Small Business Owners (24:41) Business Success Stories (32:22) Final Piece of Advice (33:02) Closing Comments Running a small or medium-sized business in today’s economy is no easy feat. The rules of the game have shifted, and consumer expectations continue to evolve. The good news? A wealth of free government services and resources are available to help your business adapt, grow and succeed. In this week’s episode, we chat with Glenn Ayrton , Business Concierge for the South-East Region, from the Queensland Department of Customer Services, Open Data, and Small and Family Business. With his expertise and insider knowledge, Glenn helps connect SMEs with tailored support — from mentoring and business planning to grants, financial counselling, marketing, website development, social media, workforce planning, and wellbeing programs. Tune in to discover how you can access this invaluable help and set your business up for long-term success — all just a phone call away. About Glenn Glenn Ayrton is the Business Concierge representative for the South-East Region of Queensland with the Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business. Glenn provides a range of support services to small businesses including grant funding information, access to business mentoring, financial and wellness coaching plus access to a range of free online resources. Links Business Concierge Program Business Queensland — Grant information and business resources for small business Mentoring for Growth program — Free mentoring Queensland Small Business Commissioner — Assistance for tenancies/leased business premises Glenn Ayrton LinkedIn Contact Glenn on 0478 405 423 or SEConcierge@desbt.qld.gov.au

Interview with Professor James St John, Head of the Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research at Griffith University’s Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics Every day, one Australian suffers a spinal cord injury — often with lifelong consequences. But what if the key to healing lies... in your nose? This week on the Gold Coast Insider Podcast , we dive into revolutionary research that’s turning heads worldwide. Our guest, Professor James St John, is leading a world-first clinical trial at Gold Coast University Hospital that aims to regrow damaged spinal nerves using olfactory cells (yes, the ones that detect smell!) to create neural bridges and spark regeneration. It’s bold. It’s ground-breaking. And it’s happening right here on the Gold Coast . From spinal repair to early detection of Alzheimer’s and dementia, this episode is a deep dive into radical science, brilliant minds and hope for millions. Tune in now – this is one episode you won’t want to miss. (00:00) Introduction (01:35) Journey into Neuroscience (04:20) Olfactory System & Regeneration (06:54) Breakthrough Spinal Cord Therapy (09:58) Clinical Trials & Challenges (16:58) Previous CIinical Trial Attempts (20:28) Long-term Intensive Rehabilitation to Therapy Success (22:46) Impact of Spinal Cord Injury (26:16) Clinical Trial Goals & Designs (33:01) Power of Philanthropy & Community Support (37:21) Alzheimer's & Smell Loss Link (44:59) Building a Legacy of Innovation (47:39) Closing comments About Prof St John Prof James St John is Head of the Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research at Griffith University. Prof St John has been lead investigator on more than $38 million of research projects funded by philanthropy, state and federal government. The major project of the Centre is the translation of a cell transplantation therapy to repair spinal cord injury. The community co-designed therapy uses transplantation of olfactory glial cells within three-dimensional nerve bridges to repair the injury site of chronic spinal cord injury, combined with intensive long-term rehabilitation. This therapy is now progressing to a clinical trial that is commencing in late 2025 in Queensland. Links Griffith University Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics Griffith University Smell Clinic Professor James St John LinkedIn

Australia is in the midst of a youth mental health crisis — but there is hope. In this Gold Coast Insider episode, mental health educator Nicole Evans shares how she and Dr. Kylie Armstrong are transforming the way we tackle mental wellbeing through their groundbreaking initiative, ConnectedLE. This award-winning, accredited training company is reshaping best practices in mental health education by empowering everyday people — teachers, coworkers, employers, friends — to become ‘connectors’: those who can recognise the early signs of distress and guide young people (or anyone else) towards support. Discover how blending personal storytelling with science is also helping to reduce stigma and drive early intervention. Plus, we cover some practical, actionable tips to boost your own mental health and wellbeing. This powerful conversation could help you make a life-changing difference in your family, workplace or community, so don’t miss it! About Nicole Nicole Evans is a Co-founder of ConnectedLE. She is a passionate educator, speaker, and connection consultant with over 25 years of experience. She has made it her life’s work to help people feel truly seen, heard, and empowered. During her 19 years at Griffith University’s School of Medicine and Dentistry, she transformed the way future healthcare professionals are trained, pioneering innovative programs that build stronger communication, collaboration and compassion across the health sector. Links ConnectedLE Website ConnectedLE Facebook ConnectedLE Instagram ConnectedLE X ConnectedLE LinkedIn Nicole Evans LinkedIn Dr Kylie Armstrong LinkedIn ConnectLE Evidence-based Helpful Tips (PDF) Join ConnectedLE for the Science of Connection breakfast sessions with co-founder and medical educator Nicole Evans . Nicole will explore the neuroscience behind human connection, share stories, and offer practical tools and tips to help you feel more connected to yourself, and build stronger and authentic relationships – both personally and professionally. For more information contact nicole@connectedle.com

Dr Craig Patch, CEO & Co-founder of Adepa Lifesciences, has had an extraordinary journey that began on the rugby field and led to groundbreaking innovations in biomedical science. In this episode, Dr Patch shares how his experiences in Nepal inspired a mission to combat a fatal disease affecting premature babies in developing countries. We’ll dive into how this remarkable discovery is poised to revolutionize gut health for people of all ages, not just infants. Dr Patch also offers a candid look at the challenges of bringing a global biomedical product to market. Whether you're a startup founder, a scientist, or simply fascinated by the next big breakthrough in health science, this conversation is not to be missed. About Craig Dr Craig Patch, the CEO, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Adepa Lifesciences, is a nutrition innovator with over 30 years of experience improving nutrition, health and wellness. He has extensive experience in value-added supply chains and commercialisation of new products. His research and commercialisation expertise are in Omega-3 and branched-chain fatty acids, targeting the gut-brain-skin axis, and publishing over 70 articles in these areas. Craig has a PhD in biomedical science, MBA and BAppl Science. He is an Australian Institute of Company Directors graduate and an Accredited Practicing Dietitian. Links Dr Craig Patch LinkedIn Adepa Lifesciences LinkedIn Adepa

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 Gareth Gareth 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. Links Gareth Richardon LinkedIn Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct Economic 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 Melissa When 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. Links Melissa Donnelly LinkedIn Affinity Communications Affinity Communications LinkedIn Brand 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. Links LifeFlight Australia Experience 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