CAREER PANEL PRESENTERS CAREERS EXHIBITORS

Universities:

• Australian Catholic University (ACU)

• Bond University

• Christian Heritage College

• Griffith University

• QUT

• University of Queensland (UQ)

• Southern Cross University

• The Hotel School

RTOs:

• Airways Aviation

• Aurora Training Institute

• Australian Academy Of Dental Assisting

• Australian Institute Of Learning

• CTIA

• First Choice College

• GESS Education

• Gold Coast Trades College

• Groei Education

• Huxley School of Makeup

• JMC Academy

• Malyon Vocational Training

• New York Film Academy

• Paramount Adventure

• TAFE

• UQ Skills

Other:

• Australian Defence Forces

• CC USA

• Checkup – Health Gateway to Industry Schools Program

• Coomera Marine Trades Collaboration

• Glow College

• MAS Experience – Australian Apprenticeship Support Network

• Queensland Police Service

Allied Health Room 81

DIRK LAUBSCHER PHYSIO

Dirk is an internationally recognised Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist specialising in back and neck pain. He and his wife co-founded Rejuv Wellness with Clinics in the UK and UAE. Dirk has been treating patients for over 20 years and originally founded The Back Clinic on the highly prestigious Harley Street in London. Dirk has treated many VIP clients such as Helen Mirim, Shakira, Elle Macpherson, Qatar and Abu Dhabi Royal families and even helped Micheal Clarke, the former Australian cricket captain.

Animal Care Room 22

SIMONE LAUBSCHER

NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR

Dr Simoné specialises in Functional Medicine and co-founded Rejuv Wellness with her husband. After being the victim of domestic violence, she had an eating disorder which led to developing her own organic supplement line, Rejuv Wellness. This led her to become business partners with Elle Macpherson and the formulator for Welleco. Simoné has experienced infertility, had 3 children naturally and is a cancer survivor. She is very passionate about helping others get to the root cause of their health issues.

Architecture And Design Room 23

SCOTT DEPPELER ASSOCIATE, ARCHITECT DBI DESIGN

Scott is a Registered Architect in Queensland with local and international experience in master planning, high rise residential, resort and education sectors. Scott’s passion for architecture and design innovation comes from a background training in computational design and BIM. software.

RAYMOND LEHMANN BUILDING DESIGN AND DRAFTING

Raymond Lehmann is a Building Designer with over 30 years experience in the industry and owns and operates his building design practice. Rapid Line Design provides a personalised, practical and innovative design service, working on a range of projects, including residential, multi residential and commercial projects throughout QLD and NSW.

DR JUSTIN WARD VETERINARIAN, OWNER REEDY CREEK VET

Justin was born and raised In South Africa with a keen interest in wildlife which eventually led to his decision to study as a veterinarian. After attending university in South Africa, Justin traveled the world, working in the UK and around Australia, having opened multiple practices over 22 years in his profession. Justin has seen his practice, Reedy Creek Veterinary Surgery go from one vet and one nurse when he opened it in 2012 to 8 vets and 14 nurses 10 years on.

DAVID FLEAY WILDLIFE PARK

Sarah is the Visitor Services Supervisor at David Fleay Wildlife Park. Her role is centred around educating the general public about Australia’s unique native flora and fauna. She is responsible for developing presentations, programs and experiences that connect people with wildlife and encourage habitat protection. Sarah enjoys assisting firsthand with threatened species breeding programs, participating in animal care and training.

Business Room 26

HANK

Van Der Merwe Mastery Global

Hank is an internationally recognised facilitator, keynote speaker, consultant, coach, and author on the subjects of Business Leadership and Self Mastery. He combines his 20 years of executive corporate experience in the ICT industry with his passion for inspiring people and has clients all over the globe.

Angela Mcmahon Refresh People

Angela is a business strategist with 30 years of experience in corporate, SME, and the not-forprofit sectors. Her background includes founding a charity and working at Thompson Reuters, UK and World Vision Australia. Over the past 12 years, she has been consulting, coaching, and mentoring start-ups, SMEs, individuals and leaders. Her strategic approach and relational style allow her to delve into the heart and foundation of businesses, helping them achieve their mission and purpose.

Communications Room 32

JENI BONE FREELANCE JOURNALIST, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR, OCEAN MEDIA

Jeni has 30+ years writing for magazines, online media, brands, businesses, industry publications, events and TV. She has worked with major newspapers, advertising agencies, high calibre corporate clients, universities and health funds. Jeni has worked with the Vogue titles, SBS TV, broadcast media and trade and independent publications.

Creative Arts Room 30

Information Technology Room 25

Janine Bryson Public Relations

CONSULTING

Janine is a PR Consultant with over 20 years of experience in Public Relations Consulting, Marketing, Grants Writing, Film and TV, and Project Management.

Her passion is working on projects that require analytical thinking, innovative ideas, and creative drive.

Education

ROOM 20

WENDY MANZO

VISUAL ARTS

Artist, writer, and jewellery designer, Wendy is a creative entrepreneur on a quest to inspire. After a decade in journalism, Wendy spent 27 years as owner and designer at Wendy Manzo Diamonds, Pitt St Sydney. Wendy currently runs the Creative Hearts Art gallery and paints prophetically. Her passion is mentoring and releasing artists and writers into their full creative potential.

ANDY HAMISH-SMITH

THE CREATIVE PERSONALITY

Andrew has experience in counselling, education, and leadership development spanning four decades. Working extensively in community services, health, education, social enterprise, case management, human resources and corporate business sectors, Andy’s passion is to see people set free. With 15 years as a musician, band manager and music copyist for live television, Andy understands the creative personality.

Emergency Services

ROOM 21

JON REMINGTON SENIOR CYBER SECURITY CONSULTANT, AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT

Jon’s role covers delivery of the latest security technology, day-today operational challenges and constantly evolving threats. At 17, he started as a technical apprentice in building management systems before changing direction. Jon has worked for the British Broadcasting Corporation, Electronic Arts, Guardian News and Media, EMI music, Pottermore, Hitachi and now Government.

Sharon Hunneybell Ceo Gold Coast Innovation Hub

In 2018, Sharon was named one of Australia’s 100 women of Influence by the Australian Financial Review. Currently serving as CEO at the Gold Coast Innovation Hub, Sharon plays a major role in establishing global relationships, creating corporate and government connections for new businesses and mentoring hundreds of startup founders as they grow and scale into international markets.

MARKETING/GRAPHIC DESIGN ADF ROOM 31

Sarah Outerbridge is the Principal of Stallion Lawyers, a firm she founded in 2012. She practices personal injury law, and helping injured Queenslander’s obtain compensation for a better quality of life.

Kerryn Hammersley studied Science and Law at university and was admitted as a Solicitor in 2001. Since then Kerryn has worked in both the public sector (government) and private practice.

Psychology And Counselling Room 82

TOSCA NATHAN EDUCATION

Tosca has worked as a TESOL facilitator, instructional coach, school principal and Academic Dean. She currently leads a network of more than 300 educators serving in a variety of international education settings. She holds postgraduate degrees in Communications, Theological Studies, Teaching and Learning, and Education Leadership; and is currently pursuing doctoral studies related to faith and pedagogy from teachers’ perspectives.

KASSIA NATHAN EDUCATION STUDENT

Kassia is a recent graduate of Hillcrest Christian College and currently in her second year studying a Bachelor of Education Primary/Secondary at Southern Cross University. She is passionate about studying education and hopes to one day teach abroad.

Engineering

ROOM 24

DAN STAUFFER ENGINEERING SUPERVISOR, TRAINER, JETSTAR

Dan commenced his Engineering apprenticeship with Qantas Sydney in 1995 and upon completion began work for impulse airlines which later became Jetstar. Dan has earned many aircraft type licenses such as the B717, B787, A320, A330 and A320 NEO. Dan has worked in Coolangatta Engineering for 16yrs and been Supervisor for 10, working 4 days on / 4 days off, 11hr shifts which is a great lifestyle.

RICKY ARNOLD PARAMEDIC

I’ve been a paramedic for 28 years, 25 of those as a Critical Care Paramedic. Originally qualified in South Africa and moved to Australia 14 years ago. I’m currently stationed out of Burleigh Heads Ambulance Station, and work on their rapid response vehicle.

GORDAN SHOEBRIDGE

FIRE

Gordan began his career in 2004 in the Logan area. Transferred to the Gold Coast in 2008 and has been at Robina Fire Station for 13 years. He’s also a recruit instructor at the Live Fire Academy.

Health Room 80

Sergeant Lyndon O’Neill joined the Queensland Police in 2002. He’s experienced in strategic support, operational and proactive policing. His focus is on evidencebased interventions of offending and victimisation support for first nations and multicultural people.

EDEN SHIRLEY

TITLE

Eden has many years experience as a Graphic Designer, Strategist, Creative and Founding Director of multiple innovative creative firms, moving seamlessly between the design, technology and global services industries. Eden co-founded Guerrilla, an AwardWinning creative agency servicing national and international clients in the digital design and production space.

AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE (ADF)

Looking for a rewarding and challenging career? Join the ADF and become a vital part of the nation’s security. As a member of the ADF, you’ll serve in the Army, Navy, or Air Force, equipped with cutting-edge technology and comprehensive training. Make a difference, safeguarding Australia’s interests at home and abroad while experiencing exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Sport Room 83

MICHAEL MCCULLY PSYCHOLOGIST

Michael McCully is tertiary trained in theology, counselling, and psychology. He has 20 years’ experience in mental health, working across government and non-government sectors. He is an advocate of life-long learning and continues to learn and research areas within clinical psychology.

Rochelle is a mum, educator and counsellor with her Masters in Guidance and Counselling. The Raising Legends team deliver a holistic, practical and grounded approach to wellbeing and health. Rochelle is dedicated to researching and studying the industry leaders in trauma, behaviour change, anxiety, ADHD, ODD and other disabilities, neuroplasticity, shame, leadership, growth mindset and grit just to name a few.

TOURISM, TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY ROOM 28

LEN

OLDFIELD MANAGING DIRECTOR, VOS GROUP

Having successfully led the design section of a multi-national design and construct company in the UK, Len started the Queensland branch for a national consulting practice. In 1991 he started his own practice and then amalgamated this into VOS Group. With over 40 years experience in the building services industry, Len brings a wealth of expertise and experience in mechanical, electrical, fire and lift engineering.

JORDAN LAVIGNE

DOCTOR, GOLD COAST UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Dr. Jordan Lavigne is currently completing his specialty training in Anaesthetics at the Gold Coast University Hospital. Dr. Lavigne completed a Bachelor of Science at Brock University in Canada, before attending medical school at the University of Queensland. His interests include Trauma and Retrieval Medicine, Paediatric Anaesthesia and Medical Education.

CHARLOTTE YARROW CLINICAL NURSE, GOLD COAST UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Charlotte began her career 10 years ago in the Coronary Care Unit which brought a lot of excitement and plenty of experience in emergency situations. After 5 years she became a Clinical Nurse in a specialist team - the Acute Pain Service, where she provides specialised techniques for pain relief. Nursing has afforded a lot of variety at work and provided flexibility with a growing family.

DANIEL ATKINS

HEAD COACH, NATIONAL PERFORMANCE CENTRE

TRIATHLON AUSTRALIA LTD

Dan has been the Head Coach at the Tokyo Olympics, Head Coach Tokyo Paralympics, Head Coach Gold Coast and Birmingham Commonwealth Games. He has been coaching at a High Performance level across swimming and triathlon since 2003.

AARON COOPER

AFLW MEDIA LEAD AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR, GOLD COAST SUNS

Aaron studied a Bachelor of Journalism at Griffith University and was then employed as a Sports Journalist in regional Victoria. He spent four years at Brisbane Roar Football Club including two years as Media Manager and most recently as AFLW Media Lead and Communications Coordinator at the Gold Coast SUNS since March 2021.

SARAH COLGATE BUSINESS AND MARKETING SOLUTIONS

Sarah has over 25 years experience in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. In 2018 she purchased Aquaduck Gold Coast, then expanded into the Sunshine Coast before acquiring Southern Cross Tours. Sarah turned each business around to achieve more than 30% year on year growth.

Sarah is passionate about the tourism industry and helping owners grow their businesses.

WISKY YI LAI CHIEF CONCIERGE, INTERCONTINENTAL SANCTUARY COVE RESORT

Wisky oversees daily operations, trains staff and maintains relationships with vendors to provide exceptional guest experiences. She is dedicated to developing strategies to increase revenue, collaborating with departments to provide seamless experiences and monitoring guest feedback to implement improvements.