Gold Coast Insider

(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 MarkMark 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.LinksMark Girard LinkedIn Invest Gold Coast Invest Gold Coast LinkedIn

(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 ToddTodd 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.LinksTodd Babiak LInkedIn Brand Gold Coast (article)

(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 RemarksThe 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 ShaneShane 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.LinksGold Coast Regional Jobs Committee Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee Facebook Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee LinkedIn Subscribe to GC Jobs & Industry LinksGet in contact with ShaneE: projects@goldcoastrjc.org.au M: 0492 976 421

(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 CommentsWith 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.About BIROThe 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.LinksDepartment of Home Affairs: Employing Overseas WorkersDepartment of Home Affairs BIRO networkSkilled Occupation ListNational Innovation VisaSkills in Demand VisaSkilled Employer Sponsored Regional VisaSkilled Work Regional VisaShort Stay Specialist VisaDepartment of Home Affairs LinkedIn

(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 CommentsRunning 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 GlennGlenn 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.LinksBusiness Concierge ProgramBusiness Queensland — Grant information and business resources for small businessMentoring for Growth program — Free mentoringQueensland Small Business Commissioner — Assistance for tenancies/leased business premisesGlenn Ayrton LinkedInContact Glenn on 0478 405 423 or SEConcierge@desbt.qld.gov.au

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 NicoleNicole 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.LinksConnectedLE WebsiteConnectedLE FacebookConnectedLE InstagramConnectedLE XConnectedLE LinkedInNicole Evans LinkedInDr Kylie Armstrong LinkedInConnectLE 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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