Gold Coast Insider

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

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

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

(00:00) Introduction(01:15) What is Cyber Wardens?(03:19) Cybersecurity Risk for Small Businesses(05:11) Prevalence of Cybercrime(06:49) Common Cyber Attacks on Small Businesses(10:33) Red Flags and Warning Signs(15:44) Good Cybersecurity Habits(19:50) Cyber Wardens Training Overview(25:13) Queensland Government/Cyber Wardens Partnership27:35) What to do if you clicked on a Phishing Link?(29:52) Importance of a Cyber Response Plan(32:59) Cyber Hygiene & Ongoing Tips(38:33) Closing RemarksNearly half of cybercrimes reported in Australia target small businesses and sole traders – and Queensland tops the nation for attacks. The average loss? Around $50,000 per incident. In this essential episode of Gold Coast Insider, Kimberley Roberts-Salee from the government-backed Cyber Wardens program shares practical, jargon-free advice to safeguard your business from scammers and hackers. We explore the most common attack types and how to counter them, key red flags, the #1 cyber habit to slash your risk, how AI is changing the threat landscape, and the free Cyber Wardens training available to all Queensland businesses.Don't miss our bonus, FREE Cyber Wardens & RDA Gold Coast Webinar on Wed 12 November!About KimberleyAs one of the Cyber Wardens program educators, Kimberley is passionate about raising awareness around the importance of small business cyber security and empowering small business owners and employees to increase their cyber resilience and learn how to stay safe online. WIth a career spanning 15 years in small businesses across industries including tourism, business events, government consultancy, aviation and professional services, she has a strong appreciation of the vital role small businesses play in their communities and the unique challenges they face.LinksCyber WardensCyber Wardens LinkedInCyber Wardens InstagramCyber Wardens FacebookCyber Wardens XKimberley Roberts-Salee LinkedIn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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