30th Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress

Shane Jacobson is one of Australia’s most loved, award-winning actors, presenters and entertainers. His incredible and varied career spans over 40 years both here at home and internationally.

As an author, Shane has penned his best-selling bio The Long Road to Overnight Success and most recently his exploration of his life as a motoring tragic in his second book, Rev Head.

As a speaker he delivers highly entertaining and engaging keynote speeches and after dinner talks about his unique life. His keynote centres around his best-selling book ‘A Long Road to Success’ and talks about the quintessential Australian sense of humour and the dying art of joke and yarn telling. His Keynote is packed full of funny and memorable stories from his extraordinary life.

Skarpi Hedinsson joined the Los Angeles Rams in February 2017 as the organization's first Chief Technology Officer.

In this role, Hedinsson oversees the team's technology strategy, shared service delivery and management of both football and corporate technology activities. In addition to these roles, Hedinsson drove the vision for, and led the team that oversaw the implementation of technology throughout Hollywood Park, the 298-acre district being built by Rams Owner/Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke. This includes SoFi Stadium, YouTube Theater, a 6,000- seat performance venue, as well as retail, commercial office space, a hotel and more than 20 acres of parkland.

Prior to Hollywood Park and the Rams, Hedinsson was the Chief Technology Officer for Disney/ABC Television Group, where he oversaw efforts to identify new technology talent, capabilities and platforms. Hedinsson had previously served as the company's senior vice president, Technology & Platform, Digital Media and developed the revolutionary WATCH ABC and WATCH Disney services, making the Disney/ABC Television Group the first entertainment company to provide authenticated users access to both live, 24/7 linear network streams as well as an extensive offering of advantaged window "on demand" episodes on desktops, mobile and connected TV devices.

Hedinsson is the inventor or co-inventor of eighteen U.S Patents in the field of digital media and streaming video. He graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Computer Science.

Tony is Chairman of Infrastructure SA, Bingo Industries Limited and the AFL GWS Giants. He is a Director of Enviropacific Pty Ltd, Racing NSW, Virgin Australia International Holdings Limited and Snowy Hydro Limited.

Tony has had an extensive career in Australia and overseas in the private and public sectors. He pioneered private infrastructure with projects such as the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, Melbourne City Link and East Link.

Tony was the inaugural Chairman of WestConnex and oversaw the listing of Transurban, Transfield Services and Connect East. He was also President of the Business Council of Australia, Chairman of Macquarie Specialised Asset Management, VenuesNSW, the National Commission of Audit and ASTRA (the subscription TV Association).

Tony is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Patron of Infrastructure Partnerships Australia. In June 2012, Tony was named as an Officer of the Order of Australia.

Lars Brandle has reported at the frontline of the international music industry for over 20 years. A former musician, Lars joined the American music trade “bible” Billboard in 2000 and went on to serve as Global News Editor, based in London. Now Billboard’s Australia correspondent and senior writer with The Brag Media, Lars has appeared on CNN, the BBC and ABC, American Public Media and South Africa's EastCoast Radio, and he has spoken at Midem in Cannes, Music Matters in Singapore, Amsterdam Dance Event, London's City Showcase and at industry gatherings on both sides of the Tasman. His works have been published by Reuters, Media Week, Spin, and The Hollywood Reporter, and he has featured as a pundit in the Australian Financial Review, Business Review Weekly and Britain’s The Independent.

Annabelle is the CEO of ARIA and PPCA. She came to the music industry in February 2021 following a 16-year career in television at Network 10 where she most recently held the role of Chief Operating Officer looking after a range of functions including operations, corporate and government affairs, and strategy. Prior to Network 10, she spent several years working in government including four years in senior political roles for then Minister for Communications and the Arts, Senator the Hon. Richard Alston AO. She is a Council Member of the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) and was previously a board member of Save the Children Australia, Freeview Australia, and Free TV Australia. In 2019 Annabelle was invited to participate in the McKinsey Remarkable Women Program. Annabelle has a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts (Asian Studies) from the Australian National University.

Kate is an accomplished professional in the venue and event management industry, with over 12 years of experience across both stadium and arena environments within the sport and entertainment sector. Currently serving as the Head of Major Events at Melbourne & Olympic Parks, Kate is responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of large-scale events within the precinct, including the upcoming 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Kate is a dedicated advocate for enhancing operational efficiencies, maintaining safe and secure environments, elevating customer experiences, promoting sustainability, and fostering the growth and development of team members.

Keris Arndt is a Senior Meteorologist at the Bureau of Meteorology, with over 12 years of experience providing weather intelligence to the Australian community, emergency services and industry. Primarily based in Melbourne, he has worked through numerous large events; from fire to storm to tropical cyclone. Over the last few years, in addition to his regular work, he has had the opportunity to work alongside Tennis Australia to provide weather information critical to the smooth operations of the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.

David is the Head of Precinct Culinary Arts at HOTA – Home of the Arts on the gold Coast. David overseas the 3 Food & Beverage outlets plus the Conferencing and Events Business. David was apart of the Cultural Precinct Masterplan committee which oversaw the design and implementation of the New HOTA Gallery. Before HOTA David was a project manager involved in many projects such as King Street RNA redevelopment in Brisbane, Gold Coast Cultural Precinct and various Hotel builds and renovations around Australia. David also has a vast experience as a Hotel General Manager with National and Independent Hospitality Companies.

Becc Barry is a people centred leader focusing on talent, attachment and engagement. She is currently Group Director, People & Culture with ASM Global (APAC). In this role Becc is working with all ASM Global venues in the Asia Pacific and Gulf Region to bring together collaborative initiatives that drive performance, capability and culture.

Olivia commenced her current role of Head of Operations at Tennis West in early 2020, just as COVID hit the industry and forced lockdowns. During this time, Olivia engaged heavily with the IAVM and VMA webinars and had calls with people in the USA and Australia, to support each other. Olivia comes from a small venue environment, where she has had to ‘wear a lot of hats’ and manage a range of issues. Olivia is now well versed in biosecurity and COVID Safety Plans, as much as emergency response plans, bookings systems, asset registers and staff management. Oliva brought this diverse range of skills and knowledge together as she completed her Accredited Venue Manager accreditation in 2020. Olivia joined the Venue Management Association Board in 2021 and she looks forward to seeing the industry grow and embrace a diverse range of venues and members.

Associate Professor David Caldicott is an Emergency Consultant at the Emergency Department of the Calvary Hospital in Canberra and a Clinical Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine at the Australian National University.

He is a spokesperson for the Australian Science Media Centre on issues of illicit drug use and the medical response to terrorism and disasters.

Dr. Caldicott designed and piloted the Welsh Emergency Department Investigation of Novel Substances (WEDINOS) project in the UK, a unique program using regional emergency departments as sentinel monitoring hubs for the emergence and spread of novel illicit products associated with harm. He has replicated this work in Australia with the ACT Investigation of Novel Substances (ACTINOS) Group.

He has published widely in the peer-reviewed literature, and presents nationally and internationally on the subject of the use of the emergency department as an observatory for the surveillance of novel psychotropic substances as they evolve, as well as their effects in acute overdose. He remains a staunch advocate for harm reduction, maintaining that drugs policy is an issue of public health, and not political morality.

Lauren Castles is an experienced Membership administrator with over 15 years’ experience in the sporting industry. In her time, Lauren has worked in number of sporting codes including AFL, A-League and Horse Racing, and now the Melbourne Cricket Club. Her love and passion for sport - and the connection it brings to the community - is what drives her to achieve great experiences for customers.

Lauren is currently the Executive Manager – Member & Guest Experiences and is responsible for Membership Services, Member & Club Functions and service delivery of the Australian Sports Museum and MCG Tours.

Heather is currently the General Manager, Event Operations & Planning at the Sydney Opera House and has over 30 years’ experience in event management across the arts and culture industries. Her extensive expertise includes experience in operational strategy development and implementation, budgeting and leadership management. She has a wealth of practical technical experience and has successfully managed tours into a wide variety of performing arts centres across a multitude of international venues.

She has had the pleasure of working with some of the country’s most well–known Choreographers and Directors and has worked for many of Australia’s major arts companies including Opera Australia, Sydney Festival, Bell Shakespeare, Ausdance, PerformingLines, Meryl Tankard Australian Dance Theatre and Belvoir. Heather is a current VMA Board Member.

Claudine has more than 20 years’ experience within the hospitality industry, having worked within hotels, large-scale major events and venues including Crown and the Melbourne Showgrounds and is self-professed foodie.

Claudine is the Division Manager – Hospitality Experiences at the Australian Grand Prix Corporation and is responsible for all aspects for the food & beverage offering at the Australian Formula 1 and Motorcycle Grands Prix.

Michael Cox is the Director of Operations at Qudos Bank Arena, having oversight of the total operation of the Arena including the delivery of the Arena’s Technical Operations, Ticketing, Assets (including Presentation Services), Events Services and Security Divisions.

With over 20 years’ experience in the industry, Michael is an Accredited Venue Manager (AVM) and a current instructor at the Venue Management School.

Harriet Devlin is a producer, performer and arts worker with extensive training and experience in producing high quality performances, projects and offerings from conception to delivery. Harriet has worked with Deaf and Hard of Hearing artists and communities as a producer, collaborating artist and project manager for over 10 years and is committed to improving access and inclusion in the arts sector. Harriet is also a NAATI-accredited Auslan interpreter who has worked closely with Auslan Stage Left since its inception. Currently the Artist Development Manager at Midsumma Festival, Harriet specialises in inclusive and flexible project design that supports the access needs of artists, audiences and communities.

Julia has over 20 years’ experience in leadership roles in the corporate, community and government sectors, including ten years working in General Management roles for a range of influential not for profit organisations. With experience in marketing, sales, fundraising and project management and a record of developing valuable relationships through stakeholder engagement, Julia is passionate about building collaborative support to fund research and mental health training programs for the Australian Entertainment Industry. In her role as Chief Executive, Julia is determined to build awareness of Entertainment Assist and to work with the Board to ensure the organisation makes a positive contribution to the mental health and wellbeing of members of the Australian entertainment community.

Matthew has over 25 years’ experience in the events industry having spent a large portion of his working life, leading the delivery of major event, concerts, festivals, national and international sporting events, tournaments, and major public participation events across Australia but most recently leading Canberra’s major venues.
Matthew currently oversees all the major venues in Canberra, including the Canberra home of the Giants, and Sydney Thunder, Manuka Oval, and the home of the Canberra Raiders and Brumbies, GIO Stadium, as well as Exhibition Park Canberra, EPIC as it is known host’s numerous festivals including the 2019 Grovin the Moo festival and was the location of pill testing services delivered as part of the festival.
In his spare time, Matt extends his love of sport to running the whiteboards in his son and daughters’ football and basketball teams.

Liza has spent more than 25 years in the entertainment industry, starting out with the Australian Radio Network as an on-air presenter and producer. Liza currently manages Feld Entertainment’s regional business, overseeing the marketing, venue contracting and day to day business operations.

Liza has worked on tours including Disney On Ice, Monster Jam, Marvel Universe Live, the Harlem Globetrotters and Disney Live in Australia, New Zealand and Asia Pacific.

Emma Gallagher is a proud Autistic woman who works as a consultant, advocate and researcher with Aspect’s Autism Friendly team. As an Autistic advocate, Emma provides valued insight and input into a wide range of projects and is involved in all stages of development and delivery.
Emma is also a founding member of the Aspect Think Tank, a remunerated group of adults on the autism spectrum who provide advice for Aspect on day-to-day autism practice.
Emma is a keen advocate for the rights and needs autistic people through sharing her personal journey on the autism spectrum and her expertise in providing support for children of all abilities.
Emma holds a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Care.

Dr. Neil Gibson is Project Director for the redevelopment of an Olympic legacy site in Blacktown, Sydney. The redevelopment includes a health, education and sports centre with tenants including the Australian Catholic University, the Australian Football League, WentWest and Sydney West Sports Medicine; a 100-bed hotel, disability sport centre of excellence; physical literacy area; playing fields; and new active transport infrastructure. Existing stakeholders within the Olympic legacy precinct include Cricket NSW, Western Sydney Wanderers, Baseball and Softball NSW who occupy Ovals, Soccer pitches and Diamonds. Neil is responsible for capital infrastructure with a capital value of $120 million.

Prior to moving to Australia Neil was responsible for the delivery of Oriam, Scotland’s national sports performance centre, a £37 million home for the Scottish Football Association, Scottish Rugby Union and Scottish Institute of Sport. After the project was opened Neil assumed the role of Director of Sport, Performance and Health where he had oversight of performance programmes as well as initiatives designed to promote community health and physical activity. Neil developed two new taught postgraduate courses in the area of sports management, supervised postgraduate research students in sport and developed taught content for Edinburgh University.

Neil received his doctorate from Chester University in the area of self-regulation and pacing during high intensity running in adolescent athletes. Neil was previously head of Sport Science with Heart of Midlothian FC and the Scottish Football Association supporting their men’s national team in UEFA and FIFA tournaments, leading a programme of research in their performance schools and managing their womens national academy. Neil has attended two Commonwealth Games as team manager and held consultancy roles with the English Football Association, Great Britain Water Polo and Scotland Rugby League. Neil is a published author and Fellow with the British Association of Sport and Exercise Scientists and holds a professional accreditation with the United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning Association.

Erin Goedhart is a Client and staff member of Guide Dogs Victoria. Erin is a Guide Dog Handler and also works as a chaplain in the Aged Care industry. In her spare time, she love to travel with her Guide Dog Jet. Together they have been on many trips around Australia, and Erin has been lucky enough to travel to many overseas countries.

Ben has over 20 years of experience in the live event industry, specialising in strategy and organisational change, with a proven track record in ticketing and commercial management.
As the Director of Strategy and Transformation at Melbourne & Olympic Parks, Ben is responsible for leading the development and implementation of business-wide strategies that drive new opportunities, products, technologies, business retention, growth, continuous improvement, and customer experience.

Chris Harrop is the Sports Product Principal for Telstra. He joined the company in 2016 and has worked closely with a number of sporting partners on digital products and strategy in that time. In this role, Chris has been able to work at the intersection of sport, technology and entertainment. This has enabled him to work on a wide range of fan experiences in the home, in the stadium and on the go. Prior to Telstra, Chris worked in TV production and digital services at the ABC. When he is not working, Chris enjoys spending time with his family and watching even more sport.

Assistant Commissioner Mick Hermans has been a member of Victoria Police for over 33 years. Mick has risk management and training / assessment qualifications, a graduate certificate in organisational leadership & management and an executive masters in public sector administration. He has worked in General Duties, Surveillance, Crime Command, Regional Response Units and Management positions. In 2017 Mick was awarded the Australian Police Medal for distinguished service.

Mick has extensive prior experience in major events, having held management roles at the Commonwealth Games and G20 Demonstrations. Post the 2009 ‘Black Saturday’ fires Mick was tasked to create the Centre for Incident & Emergency Management within People Development Command inclusive of the implementation and integration of the ICCS, incident management system, into Victoria Police. Mick has also worked as a Divisional Commander in North West Metro Region and within the State Surveillance Services Division, where he managed the provision of covert technical and physical surveillance in support of counter terrorism and serious organised crime investigations.

In 2018 Mick was promoted to Commander within Counter Terrorism and in addition to his substantive role he also maintained a portfolio regarding the development of strategic and operational command capabilities across Victoria Police. In 2020 Mick was promoted to Assistant Commissioner in Command of Counter Terrorism.

Candy Hertz is a popular Broadcast Journalist, TV Presenter, Podcaster, MC and Keynote Speaker in the Australian Sports, Entertainment and Business landscapes.

She’s well known for her TV Broadcast roles on ESPN for the NBL and WNBL, as the Stadium MC at many of Australia's biggest sporting events including the Australian Open, Grand Prix and Commonwealth Games, and as the Podcast Host for Carlton Football Club’s Carlton in Business Podcast.

She also has a career in Marketing and Advertising, as a University Lecturer and is the face of Ozito DIY Tools.
Whether facilitating a professional panel, MCing a gala ball or presenting in front of 80 thousand people at the MCG, Candy is well researched and prepared, engaging, and ready to bring her positive energy to her audience.

Elodie has been in the venue and event industry for 16 years, and has experience in managing large-scale events and public venues, leading workforce teams, developing training and customer programs and stakeholder management.
Leveraging this operational experience, Elodie’s role as Project Manager – Business Improvement at Melbourne & Olympic Parks drives organisational process improvements, implement systems and technology, develop centralised approaches to knowledge and supports overall change management.

Matt is a creative technologist who has spent the last 20 years working in enterprise Information Technology leadership roles.

In recent years he has gone down the blockchain rabbit hole and regards his curiosity for blockchain technology as a natural extension of his passion for software.

With many years spent implementing marketing technology, ticket sales systems, point of sales systems and other line-of-business applications, Matt brings a diverse technology background to the table.

Matt is seeing particular interest in his expertise in the crossover of web2 and web3 applications in the venue and event management space, such as in blockchain ticketing, redemptions at the point of sale and venue access control. He is also well versed in eCommerce and is passionate about the payments and finance space.

Darren Horne joined the award-winning Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) in July 2018.

Previously with over 11 years’ experience in Victoria Police he achieved the rank of Sergeant before moving into private industry. Darren continues to maintain a deep knowledge of the National security environment including subject matter expertise in activism and public safety risk mitigation strategies.
Dedicated to his team’s success, Darren leads MCEC’s high-performing Security, Safety and Wellbeing Team to drive a culture of health and safety.

With over 1,500 events held at the venue each year, and over 3 million visitors, Darren is responsible for ensuring every visitor is safe and secure.

As a venue and events industry leader, he has held senior executive roles in some of Australia’s most iconic venues such as Crown Melbourne, Melbourne and Olympic Parks, Southern Cross Station, and Federation Square.

Matthew has led large-scale operational teams and major infrastructure developments. As a Non-Executive Director of the VMA, he is committed to developing the industry’s future leaders and the long-term development of the industry.

Cameron Hoy, Ticketek’s Managing Director & Chief Digital Officer TEG, is a highly respected industry leader with three decades of executive level experience spanning the technology, e-commerce, media and entertainment sectors. Joining Ticketek as Director of Sales and Marketing in 2007, Cameron became Managing Director in 2010 and now leads Global Ticketing Operations across Australia, New Zealand, the Asia Pacific and the United Kingdom. Cameron oversees the Client Service, Operations, Product and Engineering teams and was instrumental in establishing TEG’s Ovation business which provides partners with a single destination for analytics, research, personalisation and advanced digital marketing. Cameron has a proven track record of achieving growth in highly competitive markets and delivering innovative technology solutions to enhance fan experiences and deliver intuitive tools for clients. Under Cameron’s leadership, Ticketek was awarded Ticketing Business of the Year in 2019 and 2022.

Chris King is the Director of the Reimagining Project at Arts Centre Melbourne. Currently underway, this major cultural and civic infrastructure project will upgrade the Theatres Building (under the Spire) in its first major renovation since it opened in 1984.

As a seasoned theatre and project management professional, Chris has worked at Arts Centre Melbourne for over 20 years – taking on roles in technical production, facilities and asset management, capital projects, and the redevelopment of Hamer Hall. Since 2015, he has shepherded the Reimagining Project from masterplan to implementation – engaging a passion for the performing arts and live entertainment alongside his knowledge of theatre architecture and history.

After 20 years in TV Production and the live music scene, and 5 years in concert touring and video production, Glen commenced as Operations Manager of Rod Laver Arena in 2019. Recently promoted to Head of Production & Operations, at Melbourne & Olympic Parks, he has a strong desire to continue to improve the efficiency, consistency, and safety of all MOPT venues.

Justin is responsible for 24/7 Software’s global commercial operations including marketing, sales, and customer success. He is passionate about partnering with customers around the world and helping to bring the market leader in venue operations technology to the world’s greatest venues. Justin has over 20 years of international experience in high-growth SaaS companies. He has lived and worked throughout Europe and North America and has an MBA from the Adam Smith Business School at the University of Glasgow.  Justin is Canadian and an avid hockey player, having played throughout Europe and North America.

Phil King is the Chief Commercial Officer at the South Australian Cricket Association.

His previous role was General Manager of the Adelaide Entertainment Centre and Coopers Stadium, which encompassed the overall managerial responsibility for the operational and commercial aspects of both venues.

Prior to moving to Adelaide, Phil was the Director of Live Entertainment at the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICCS) from 2016 to 2018 and was part of the pre–opening team. From 2011 to 2015 Phil was the Commercial Manager at Qudos Bank Arena (QBA), Australia’s largest indoor arena. Prior to working at QBA, Phil was the Commercial Manager at Suncorp Stadium, widely regarded as the best rectangular venue in Australia, working there from 2004 to 2011.

Phil commenced in the venue management industry at Marvel Stadium in 2001 (formerly Colonial Stadium). Phil is well recognised as a Senior Venue Management Professional with more than 18 years’ experience across Stadia and Arena’s. Phil is an Accredited Venue Manager (AVM), and an alumnus of the inaugural Venue Management School’s Graduate Institute Program, a current instructor at the Venue Management School and a VMA Board Member from 2017.

Manuel is a Senior Consultant at Arup specialising in pedestrian planning and user experience. He is an accomplished pedestrian planner with an enthusiasm to continue pushing the boundaries and his understanding of human behaviour and experience.

Manuel is a driven individual with a genuine interest in movement and engagement of people in urban environments. He has a depth of experience in designing for pedestrian movements through a range of built form environments including stations, sports and entertainment venues, arts and culture precincts and corporate buildings.

During the past 50 years, Harvey Lister and his business partners have been involved in the presentation and management of events spanning sport, the arts, conventions and exhibitions, concerts and general entertainment. He has a wealth of knowledge and practical experience in the design and operation of major public assembly facilities, the events they host, and of the tourism and leisure industries.

Mr Lister was responsible for initially establishing Queensland Leisure to expand into the specialised area of managing major venues, firstly with the Brisbane Entertainment Centre upon its opening in 1986, and later the development of the business into a global network of venues in partnership with the US-based entertainment industry giant AEG.

Following the 2019 merger of AEG Facilities and SMG, two of the world’s leading venue management and services companies, creating the world’s largest venue management company, ASM Global with 350+ venues, Mr Lister continued his role as Chairman and CEO of ASM Global (Asia Pacific), in a vast territory spanning Japan to the Gulf Region and everywhere south.

To date, Mr Lister has been involved in the presentation of over 40,000 major events including multiple Olympic and Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, Invictus Games, Goodwill Games, South East Asia Games, World Title boxing matches, Commonwealth Heads of Government meetings, G20 meetings, World Expos, World Cup Rugby League, World Cup Rugby, Rugby League and Rugby Union International Tests, Asian Cup Football, Test Cricket, One Day and 20/20 Cricket, AFL Football, Basketball and Netball Internationals, major Tennis Tournaments, and literally thousands of global and national conferences, major indoor and outdoor concerts, family events, exhibitions, and touring spectaculars.

Tim Long, CVE is currently the Managing Director of Hawkridge Entertainment Services, a boutique management consultancy specialising in the sport, entertainment, arts and venue management industries.

Hawkridge Entertainment Services consult to diverse range of government and commercial clients who are undertaking the development of major infrastructure projects including performing arts centres, theatres, stadia, entertainment venues, rehearsal rooms, museums, galleries and community activity spaces. In addition, Tim assists organisations with feasibility studies, strategic planning, business, financial and operational planning as well as the assessment of economic impact.

Tim’s previous experience includes leading operations teams for venues hosting major cultural and sporting events and the strategic management of venues and precincts.

His qualifications include an MBA as well as the Certified Venue Executive accreditation from the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM). Tim is a qualified Gateway reviewer for the NSW, SA and QLD governments and is currently a board member of the VMA and the NSW Cultural Infrastructure Advisory Board.

David Marcus is EVP, Global Music for Ticketmaster, where he leads the company’s concert ticketing line of business, Ticketmaster Music. Ticketmaster Music designs and deploys ticketing products and strategies for thousands of touring artists each year and provides concert venues and promoters with the industry’s most advanced and effective ticketing software. Before joining Ticketmaster, Marcus was Chief Commercial Officer at ScoreBig, North America’s first name-your-own-price ticketing platform. Prior to ScoreBig, Marcus spent 4 years as Warner Music Group’s SVP, Worldwide Artist Services, where he developed new businesses for the label, including global touring, ticketing, merchandising, and e-commerce. Previously, he was SVP, Global Music at Ticketmaster, where he built and led the company’s first artist-focused team. Marcus began his career as an entertainment and intellectual property attorney at O'Melveny & Myers.

Sue Max is the General Manager, Operational Strategy, for VenuesLive (NSW) Management Services Pty Ltd. VenuesLive operates Accor Stadium and CommBank Stadium in Sydney and Optus Stadium in Perth. Sue is also the Licensee of Accor Stadium, one of the largest licensed premises in NSW.

Sue has been involved in the event and venue management industry for over 35 years, working with various sporting organisations, including the Sydney Olympic Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG). Just prior to the Olympic Games, Sue took up a permanent position with the Olympic Stadium (now Accor Stadium) and was part of the original team which opened the then, 110,000 seat venue in 1999.

Between 2004 and 2020, Sue was the General Manager of Venue Management, overseeing Venue Operations, Event Operations and Staffing Operations & Services. The role included the operation of both Accor Stadium and CommBank Stadium, the delivery of all events and the management of the Company’s 2,500+ strong NSW in-house casual workforce.

From an event perspective, Sue has been involved with the planning and delivery of some of the world’s largest sports and entertainment events held in Australia. Most recently, Sue was approached to work on a short-term placement at the 2023 Birmingham Commonwealth Games as a Liaison Advisor for the Organising Committee. Working in the West Midlands Police Multi-Agency Coordination Centre (MACC), Sue was a Liaison Advisor supporting the communication flow between the MACC and the Games Operations Centre.

In terms of her venue management experience, Sue played a lead role in the mobilisation and operational transition into CommBank Stadium and spent six months in Perth leading the initial delivery of the pre-operational phase of services at Optus Stadium.

Over recent years and drawing from her long tenure and experience in the venue management industry in particular, Sue’s position has evolved into a strategically focussed role, undertaking a company-wide approach to VenuesLive’s core operational systems across its core strategies and standards. Particularly as it relates to safety, security, emergency and incident management, risk management, training and education programs.

Paul is the Director of PBM Safety and has a wealth of knowledge in venue operations and greenfield events. With over 40 years of work in the entertainment and events industry and membership in peak bodies, Paul and the PBM Safety Team has delivered event safety and emergency elements on international tours and sporting events such as 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, ICC Women’s and Men’s Cricket World Cups (2020 and 2022), AFL Grand Final Entertainment for Grand Final (2014-2022) and Winery Concert Series for A Day on The Green (2010-2023). The session “Production and Technical Round Table” will be a great opportunity to assess where we are at as an industry, tailor some solutions and share information to develop and pathway forward.

Donna McColm is Assistant Director, Curatorial and Audience Engagement at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), Australia’s most visited art museum. Donna has worked across academic and museum education, curatorial and leadership roles for two decades. Her interests centre on the opportunities for art museums to connect audiences with art and ideas and support their long-term engagement with collections through new learning and social experiences.

She is a founding steering group member of the International Audience Engagement Network, a globally connected network of museum professionals formed in direct response to one of the biggest priorities facing cultural institutions today: nurturing authentic, cohesive engagement with audiences across their many interactions with museums.

Tim McGregor is the Managing Director of TEG Live. With a background as an entertainment lawyer, Tim has hands-on experience of operational, marketing, sponsorship and hospitality across the sports and entertainment industry. As the Managing Director of TEG Live, Tim is responsible for TEG Live’s rapidly expanding concert touring and festivals portfolio which now includes MJR Presents, Handsome Tours, Laneway Festival, Knotfest as well as several strategic partnerships across Asia Pacific. Tim draws upon three decades’ experience in major event touring, music festivals, motorsport, theatre and film.

Wayne Middleton CVE is the Global Vice President of Risk Manager software for Momentus Technologies, (formerly Ungerboeck). He is the founder of the software which was acquired by Ungerboeck in 2022. He is responsible for supporting Momentus’ clients globally to maximise product value and help mitigate risk.

Wayne is also the owner of Reliance Risk consulting in Australia and New Zealand. He held roles as Principal and Managing Director in Australia for over 15 years. Reliance helps public venues, events, sports and companies in the entertainment industry to manage safety, security, enterprise, emergency and disruption-based risk.

Wayne has over 35 years’ experience in management and operational roles in the venues and events industries and over 25 years as a risk management professional. He is a VMS graduate (1996), was the past Chair of the VMS (2018-21), holds a Masters in Risk Management, a Bachelor of Business Administration, and a Diploma in Security Risk Management. He also holds a CVE designation awarded by the IAVM, is an instructors on the IAVM’s Academy of Venue Safety and Security (AVSS) in the US, and is the inaugural Chair of the VMA’s Institute of Venue Safety and Security.

Jenny holds more than 35 years’ experience within the security industry, with 15 of those years in senior executive positions in Security, Organisational Change, Emergency management and Business Resilience. In more recent years her role has focused on Safety, Risk and customer excellence at Sydney Opera House where she holds the role of Head of Visitor Services and is responsible for the largest customer facing teams within the Opera House. She has implemented large scale organisational training programs for cultural change in customer excellence, diversity, inclusion and belonging.

Jenny also held the Role of Head of Security for Sydney Opera House from 2010 to 2016 and has worked internationally across the highly regulated environment in aviation and law enforcement industries, and has engaged over a long period with the counter-terrorism community and with Federal and State Governments. Jenny was a detective within the NSW Police and held this position for 13 years.

David Murphy has been a professional member and leader of the hospitality industry for over 30 years. His passion for the industry has been shared through owning and managing top rated restaurants & bars around the world. An strong advocate for giving back, he shares his experiences with others through wine education, matching wine to food and assisting in personal development. With such a wealth of experience in restaurants his chosen career has paid him back handsomely with many highlights.

David was initially trained at the prestigious Regent Hotel (now Four Seasons) working in fine diner Kables and then Level 41 & Brasserie Cassis before being recruited to open the iconic Banc and Wine Banc as assistant manager in 1995.

After a few stellar years at the groundbreaking Banc David was invited to move to Darlinghurst where he enjoyed the position of beverage manger of Chicane, one of sydney’s great night-spots in the late 90’s.

In 2000 he moved to London and became manager at the Michelin starred Lindsay House with larger than life Irish chef
Richard Corrigan before spending two and half years in a management role at Nobu on Park Lane serving the who's who
of Europe. Whilst working with Nobu, David travelled to Paris and New York assisting the teams with training systems and developing a wine education program.

Recently David has been a partner at the Inner West restaurant One Penny Red which in just a few years of opening has
received critical acclaim including multiple food & wine awards including a SMH 'Hat' in 2019 - 2022 and receiving a three wine goblet rating in the Gourmet Traveler Wine List of Year Awards for 2019 - 2022. In 2021 One Penny Red continued its wine legacy with the national award for Australia's Best Aperitif List.

He also owns Vernon's Bar, a small wine and cocktail bar which has been awarded a 2 goblet rating in the Gourmet Traveler Wine List of Year Awards for 5 years running, as well as a Wineslinger Top 50 nominee proving his ability in creating a strong overall beverage program.

In 2019 David was one of 20 selected sommeliers from around the world to participate in New Zealand's Wine Sommit, and more recently David is regularly featured as a tasting professional and panelist for The Australian Gourmet Traveler Wine Magazine and has also been featured in the USA for the Tasting Panel discussing both Wine and Spirits.

Since 2018 he has been an active member of The Sommelier Australia Association for NSW & the National Executive Committee, an appointment very dear to David's belief of giving back to the industry which has served him so well.

Since 2017 David has been involved with and is one of the co-creators of the Lyre's Non Alcoholic Spirits. Holding the title of Global Flavour Architect sees him create and manages the flavour profiles for each of the Lyre's spirits and beverages which is now considered the leading brand of NA Spirit in the world are now available in over 80 markets.

Guy is an extensively experienced venue professional with over 20 years leading some of the globe’s most identifiable entertainment venues across Australia, New Zealand, China, and the Middle East.

Guy’s career has included tenures as the Chief Executive at New Zealand’s Vector Arena, General Manager at China’s Mercedes Benz Arena, General Manager at Australia's Allphones Arena, Chief Executive at New Zealand’s Eden Park Stadium, and most recently as Chief Executive at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena.

During his broad experience in venue management, operations, event delivery and project management Guy has established a consistent record of building & developing outstanding stakeholder relationships, maximising revenue, and commercial opportunities, developing, and creating innovative, engaged, and high-performing teams often in unique markets.

Guy joined Live Nation in 2021 and leads all venue development opportunities across Australia and New Zealand. He is responsible for identifying venue opportunities, contract negotiations, leading consultant scoping, design briefs, financial modelling, and due diligence requirements. Guy is a member of Live Nation’s ANZ leadership team tasked with driving the strategic direction of the various businesses regionally.

Guy holds a Bachelor of Sport & Recreation and Diploma of Applied Sports from the Auckland University of Technology.

Michael O'Leary has worked in the Victorian Public Sector since 1999 when he began work in the Department of Education.

In addition to his current role as Deputy CEO & Project Director, Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation, he has held numerous senior executive roles including with the Department of Premier and Cabinet, Creative Victoria and Museums Victoria.

Michael has a Bachelor of Commerce from Deakin University and a Graduate Diploma in Labour Relations Law from the University of Melbourne. He has also completed Leadership Victoria’s year-long Williamson Community Leadership Program (2010), the Cranlana Colloquium for Executives (2012), ANZSOG’s Executive Fellows Program (2015) and the Victorian Public Sector Commission’s Victorian Leadership Academy in 2017. He is also a professional member of the Australian Society of Certified Practising Accountants.

Mark spent 13 years working in law enforcement before transitioning to the private sector for the past 10 years, working in global security and asset protection roles in both logistics and major event planning. As the current Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) Executive Manager Security and Precinct, Mark is responsible for the security posture of the venue, this involves strategic oversight and delivery of major security projects, complex operational planning for national and international events, and leading a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders at the Melbourne Cricket Ground to ensure patrons can experience the theatre of live sport and entertainment in a safe and secure environment.

As Director of Auckland Stadiums, James leads a dedicated team of venue professionals that run Mt Smart Stadium, Western Springs Stadium, and North Harbour Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. The three stadia host a diverse range of sport and entertainment activity including football, rugby league, rugby, AFL, athletics, motorsport, music festivals, and concert events. James has embedded a strong customer centric culture within the team to partner with our hirers in delivering the extraordinary and creating memorable experiences that put Auckland on the map.

Driven to make a difference, Rob serves as an executive technology leader with purpose-led organisations, supporting diverse organisations through the changes necessary to align their customer experience with brand promise.

Rob has led several successful multimillion-dollar, multi-year digital transformations in industries as varied as digital education, financial services and is now undertaking a similar transformation activity in the sporting vertical.

Rob was named in Australia's top 50 technology and digital chiefs, in 2019, 2020 and 2022 (CIO50). He is currently employed as the General Manager of Technology and Chief Technology Officer at the Australian Football League and concurrently holds several non-executive director roles in not-for-profit organisations.

Michael is a safety, security and risk management professional with over 20 years’ experience in major event safety and security and critical infrastructure resilience.

He leads Arup’s major events and venues and critical infrastructure offering for the Resilience, Security and Risk team for Australasia and provides clients with support in the areas of safety and security design, strategy development and implementation, operations, resilience planning and delivery and security capability development and training.

With experience in both advisory and in-house government and private sector environments, Kym has held roles across several functional areas including policy, strategy and planning, business management and operations (including P&L), project and program management, stakeholder management and financial-commercial advisory. Until recently, Kym was a Partner in Deloitte’s Infrastructure and Contestability Advisory Practice in Sydney. Prior to joining Deloitte, Kym spent 10 years working in operational and management roles, in Local and State government, in public service and in political appointed roles, and 10 years in boutique consultancies providing strategic, financial and commercial advisory in infrastructure, cities and the built environment. Kym has specialist expertise in strategy and master planning, economic, financial and commercial modelling and appraisal of new or redeveloped infrastructure and urban precincts. Kym’s particular focus is on sport and entertainment, social and cultural infrastructure, working at the intersection of integrated infrastructure, land use and technology, public v commercial purpose, and innovative approaches to evaluating and funding infrastructure for optimal QBL outcomes.

Reegan Stark kicked off her career in the touring business in 1999, repping the who’s who of concert promoters in Brisbane. In 2003 she accepted a role with Michael Gudinski’s Frontier Touring, packed her bags and headed to Melbourne and its questionable weather.

Initially Frontier’s National Publicist, she went on to oversee all publicity, promotion and digital across Mushroom Group’s live and label businesses. With a particular passion for digital marketing, she was an early adopter of the power of data, steering Frontier’s digital brand presence to its position as market leader. In 2019 she moved into the role of Chief Marketing + Communications Officer for Frontier Touring shortly before the global pandemic brought the live industry to a standstill.

Following the passing of Michael Gudinski, Reegan was promoted into the newly created Frontier Executive team of four, jointly responsible for the day to day running of the business, as well as continuing as CMCO, overseeing all aspects of Frontier’s brand, marketing, communications, digital and sponsorship.

Kerry has over 10 years of experience in creating welcoming, safe and inclusive sporting environments for people from diverse communities. Kerry is the Head of Inclusion & Diversity at Tennis Australia who are working through a range of initiatives that engage people with disability, multicultural communities, First Nations people and people who identify as LGBTQ+. Tennis Australia is committed to create a diverse workforce that feel valued and included, a game that reflects the diversity of our communities and events that are inclusive and celebrate diversity.

Scott is Head of Innovation for Customer Engineering at Google. Scott has worked in Google since 2015 in the Ads Data Platforms, Analytics and Google Cloud product areas in AuNZ and APAC. Before Google, Scott worked with Adobe across APAC on digital strategy and digital transformation. He also worked for Telstra and Sensis in digital transformation and held the role of CTO in an Australian startup focused on personalised video advertising for mobiles. He is passionate about working with and helping startups throughout AU and NZ and still dreams of running away to join another startup circus.

Max works in the music industry as a Tour and Road Manager with a number of international acts, in particularly musician Jack Johnson. His role with Jack Johnson includes the co-ordination of their sustainability programs on tour, as well as the All At Once platform that supports a broad network of non-profit groups around the world. He is also the Sustainability and Environmental Manager for Splendour in the Grass music festival.

Andrew Travis is the Chief Executive Officer of AXS Australia and New Zealand, a global leader in ticketing and part of the Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG).

The experienced sports, events and venue management professional was previously the Chief Operating Officer at Australia’s home of live sports and entertainment, the Melbourne & Olympic Parks (M&OP) precinct where he was responsible for the development and operation of a precinct which is notably acclaimed for hosting the Australian Open Tennis, one of only four Grand Slam events in the World and a key element of Victoria’s globally renowned Major Events reputation.

The precincts iconic venues, Rod Laver Arena, AAMI Park, John Cain Arena, Margaret Court Arena, CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park and Kia Arena also host the city’s most celebrated national and international live music, sports, entertainment, conference and gala events.

Andrew’s professional background also includes serving as CEO of the Gold Coast Suns (AFL) and General Manager Operations at Marvel Stadium.

He has a strong background in venue development, having overseen the development of the $144 million Metricon Stadium at Carrara, led the client team in the construction of the iconic $268 million AAMI Park and the $272 million Stage 3 Redevelopment at M&OP.

He is a graduate from the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) Senior Executive Symposium and was the recipient of the prestigious AFL Graeme Samuel Scholarship.

Andrew qualified as a Certified Practising Accountant, is an Accredited Venue Manager (AVM) and a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD).

As Senior Manager, Public Realm and Precinct with the Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation (MAP Co), Dr Bree Trevena brings a social research lens to all things data, urban design and city resilience.

She has worked at the forefront of some of Australia's largest cultural and civic projects with a diverse portfolio of public, academic and private clients, partners and not-for-profit organisations.

Bree has recently returned to the civic and cultural sector. She formerly headed up Arup’s Australasian research portfolio and innovation pillar focusing on regenerative design, emerging technologies and well-being in design, planning and engineering.

Her continued academic research interests include bridging qualitative and quantitative datasets for equitable design and urban regeneration.

Clare is Client Services Director for Two Circles, a data-driven sports marketing agency helping rights owners around the world to grow. She leads Two Circles’ marketing and consultancy services in Australia and New Zealand, working closely with clients to understand their business objectives and utilizing a deep understanding of fans and brands to get results. Powered by data, brilliant digital products, and scroll-stopping content, Two Circles have developed unrivalled experience in fan insight and communication, which Clare and her teams leverage to get more people consuming sports in venues and beyond.

Jarrod Walsh is the voice of Australian Sport.

Locally, Jarrod represents all of the national league teams on their game day including Port Adelaide (AFL), Adelaide United (A-League), Adelaide Strikers (BBL), Adelaide Thunderbirds (SSN) and Adelaide 36ers (NBL). He is also the voice of National Australian sporting organisations being the match day emcee for the Australian Socceroos, Australian Boomers and Cricket Australia’s T20 side. Not only does Jarrod provide the match day experience, he also plays a key role in consulting with the clubs to ensure the fans have the best engagement in the country.

A highly sought after Corporate MC, Jarrod Walsh also ensures your business is represented professionally, with his laid back and fun presenting style, ensuring the crowds attention is always captured.

With a focus on connection, Jarrod also runs a successful Communications Workshop – helping people of all backgrounds understand their value and finding the confidence to speak openly, with no fear.

With 20 years experience in radio at the ABC, Nova Entertainment and FiveAA and working with some of the biggest businesses and brands in South Australia and beyond, Jarrod is the perfect host for you and your companies needs.

Troy Walsh is an immensely proud Panninher/Palawa man from Tasmania, he was born on Gunaikurnai Lands & raised here in regional Victoria & Melbourne.

He holds qualifications in Business, Management (AIB Post-Grad), ITIL, Technology/Network Engineering & Executive Leadership (UNSW AGSM).

He worked in the corporate world for Telstra for almost 29yrs employed in various Network Engineering, Senior Management roles around (Transit & IP/Aggregation Networks, International Submarine Cable Networks), involved as a business lead in IT-Transformation, prior to finishing his tenure with Telstra he was involved in the Data & Automation Solutions area for the company. During his time at Telstra, he was also part of the companies Indigenous Reference & Focus groups working on aspects around Indigenous recruitment, career progression and retention as well as involvement in the companies RAP, cultural awareness training & various community initiatives.

He has also worked in a NFP Community Controlled sector for VACCHO (Aboriginal Peak for Health & Wellbeing) as a Chief of Staff (CEO Office) & Executive Director – Research, Health Information & Technology.

Tim is Group Director of Arenas for ASM Global, the world’s largest venue management company. A 28 year veteran of the industry, he has oversight of Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Brisbane Entertainment Centre, RAC Arena in Perth and Newcastle Entertainment Centre and works with ASM Global’s convention centres on live entertainment. He has served the VMA as a Councillor and President and as an instructor, committee member and Chairman of VMS and Dean of LI.

Mark is a highly respected hospitality and venue specialist with significant catering and managerial experience. The former Group Executive Chef & Senior Management Team member with Compass Group UK, and Director of Member Services & Catering at Melbourne Stadiums Limited.

Mark embarked on the launch of his successful consulting company (Wright Venue Consulting) in 2017. 2019 saw Mark establish a second consulting business, Perfectly Paired Group Perfectly Paired. Mark also consults to several businesses within the events and entertainment industry on a wide range of subjects:
 Event Accreditation with Accredit Solutions
 Elimination of single use plastics with Wise – It's In Your Hands
 Mobile ordering and payments with Mr Yum

Mark has played a significant role in the progress and success of catering at many top venues that include Twickenham (London), Millennium Stadium (Cardiff), Aviva Stadium (Dublin), Allphones Arena (Sydney) and more latterly Etihad Stadium (Melbourne) where he was also responsible for the membership of the Medallion Club and Diamond Club, two of the most premium membership products in Australia.

In addition, Marks has also taken on responsibility for numerous venue remodelling and new builds at Twickenham, The Oval, Edgbaston, The O2, Anfield, Ricoh Arena, Aviva Stadium, Emirates Stadium, Khalifa International Stadium, Liberty Stadium, Cardiff City Stadium, Madjeski Stadium, London Stadium. He is also involved in the exciting new development of a stadium and Precinct with Western Melbourne Group.

Mark has a reputation for delivering outcomes, engaging a wide range of stakeholders at all levels, with a process driven approach from creation and development to implementation. His breadth of expertise covers all aspects of the venue catering business. This includes working with architects, builders and designers on layout and design of kitchens, public retail outlets, restaurants etc, negotiation of supplier agreements across all food and beverage products, design, costing and pricing of menu’s, interface with venue operators and sponsors to deliver their rights, all event operations, staff training, health, safety and hygiene control and financial management.