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24 – 26 SEP  |  QT GOLD COAST

Speakers & Special Guests

Tarryn Stokes - Recording Artist + Winner, 'The Voice' 2023

Tarryn Stokes

Vocalist Tarryn Stokes has worked in the music industry for many years but rose to national prominence in 2023 as winner of Channel 7’s ‘The Voice’, taking home $100,000 and a record label deal with Universal. In 2024 she has toured Australia as support act with For King + Country. Tarryn also teaches, songwrites and sings Christian worship and we’re honoured to have her as a feature artist for CONNECT24.

Svrcina - Recording Artist

Svrcina

SVRCINA (Sur-Cee-Nah) is one of pop music’s fast rising stars, with her songs totalling over 30 million streams on Spotify alone. With not only her own releases but many collaborations to her name, SVRCINA’s goal is to create music that is culturally transcendent. Experimentation with sounds, mixtures of musical elements with cultural personality traits, influenced by faith and current events, SVRCINA is carving out a niche that music lovers around the world will embrace. SVRCINA is a passionate artist and worshipper, and we are thrilled to host her at CONNECT24.

Chris Marsh - Creative Audio Producer for Hamish & Andy

Chris Marsh

Chris is an experienced Creative Producer with a demonstrated history of working in the broadcast media industry, most significantly - his 15 year association with the Hamish and Andy Show. His official title is Senior Lead Future State Sound Design @ LiSTNR and has been a driving creative force behind many of Australia’s biggest radio shows and podcasts. He has collaborated with notable names such as Carrie Bickmore, Mick Molloy, Jane Kennedy, Matt Okine, and even former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, and we’re excited that Chris is joining us at CONNECT24.

Petra Bagust - Podcaster & TV Presenter

Petra Bagust

“I talk for a living, that came naturally, now I listen as well – it’s an excellent development. Whether it is emceeing live events, presenting on TV or radio, or one on one get togethers for media chaplaincy - people are my jam. I really love them…I'll never stop sharing the love and being curious. Ka pai” – Petra Bagust. Petra is a TV presenter, radio host, podcaster and media chaplain, perhaps best known as co-presenter of TVNZ’s morning show, Breakfast. We’re thrilled to have Petra join us for CONNECT24.

Valerie Ling - Clinical Psychologist, Speaker, Author

Valerie Ling

Valerie is the founder of the Centre for Effective Serving, an organisation providing training, supervision and consulting for workplace wellbeing, burnout prevention and leadership solutions in the people professions, as well as the Clinical Director and founder of the Centre for Effective Living, a group psychology practice dedicated to clinical excellence in mental health. Valerie is a Clinical Psychologist, speaker, published author and Clinical Supervisor with a special interest in the prevention and treatment of burnout. As a ministry wife herself, Valerie has a particular passion to support gospel workers. She has recently completed a Masters of Leadership, with the final research project based on her 2023 leadership and wellbeing survey of Australian clergy.

Jon Bergmann - Organisational Strategist

Jon Bergmann - Organisational Strategist

Jon works in leadership and organisational development, and operates from the belief that helping people to thrive at work has a positive impact on the ecosystem of their entire life. "I love to help leaders both imagine and cultivate a world that is just, equitable, and good news for everyone." In the words of Will McAskill: "Whether the future is wonderful or terrible is, in part, up to us."

Noddy Sharma - Founder, Abel Movement

Noddy Sharma - Founder, Abel Movement

Noddy is one of Australia’s leading voices and thought leaders on engaging the next generation in Jesus, the church and faith. He has pioneered movements within previous roles at OM Australia and World Vision Australia and has spent the best part of 20 years ensuring kids and young people are known, loved and protected within a church context. As founder of Abel Movement, Noddy is a sought after speaker at churches, schools and conferences and is passionate about seeing the next generation supported to take hold of their God given potential and come up with their own solutions to change the world around them.

Sam Valich - Brand Strategist

Sam Valich

Sam is a cherished part of the CMAA community and for over 20 years has worked with executive teams to create Brand-Led Organisations. “In a brand-led organisation, your brand is not just a marketing tool or visual identity; it's the driving force behind every aspect of your organisation... your purpose, mission, values, promise, and personality… It’s a compass, guiding strategic decisions, product development, customer experiences, culture, and employee behaviour. It's not only about selling…but creating connections with customers and stakeholders based on shared trust, values, and experiences."

Luke Weston - Content Director, Rhema NZ

Luke Weston

Luke Weston is a well-loved friend from across the pond, where he is recognised for his outstanding work as the Content Director at Rhema Media, New Zealand. Back by popular demand, Luke will be one of our hosts at this year’s CONNECT, and will also be contributing to, and hosting, panels. Welcome back Luke!

Bridey Drake - Social Influencer & Entrepreneur

Bridey Drake

Bridey and her business partner run a highly successful PJ company called Night Sweet Thing (launched in 2019). Bridey is a renowned content creator, with an extensive social media following: 1.7m on Instagram, 2.8m on TikTok and 1.76m on YouTube. We can’t wait to hear what Bridey has to teach us about producing content and engaging an audience.

Danielle McAlpine - TV Producer

Danielle McAlpine Johnson

Danielle McAlpine Johnson is an award-winning Writer, Director and Producer, creating documentary, film and TV as a catalyst for change in the social justice landscape. Passionate about issues of injustice and sharing stories of the human heart, Danielle loves to connect with people to draw out the unique heartbeat of every story. With her husband, singer Chico Johnson, Danielle is the Co-Founder of CheekyMac Productions, with docos currently broadcasting on Network Ten Australia, GOOD TV, Foxtel, Ozflix, as well as in the Netherlands, the Middle East and Africa.

Des Ong - Managing Director, Future Leader Group

Des Ong

Des is the Managing Director of The Future Leader Group. He is an authentic, intuitive, and future-focused leader who has spent 25 years in research and leadership consulting, working across various industries and organisations, ASX listed, NFP, education, media and private enterprise both locally and internationally. He is a developer of leadership capacity, highly engaged teams, organisational strategy and a coaching professional. Des has governance roles as Chairman and as a Board director across multiple organisations and has done his research thesis on the role of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and Cultural Intelligence (CQ) in developing effective leaders.

Murray Norman - CEO, Faith NSW

Murray Norman

Murray Norman is CEO of Better Balanced Futures and Faith NSW and for many years, with his wife Rachel, has worked with SRE - scripture in schools. Murray is routinely meeting with government to represent faith communities on key legislative issues – including current discussions on gender, equality, and religious discrimination. He is highly respected across all levels of government, and played a key role in connecting faith communities with government during COVID so that faith communities could re-open for services. It is a pleasure to have Murray at CONNECT24.

Clare Steele - CEO, Compassion Australia

Clare Steele

Following a successful business career, Clare has worked for over a decade in Christian ministry, focusing on strategic leadership that enables churches to better serve their communities. She studied Engineering in Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering at the University of Western Sydney as well as Master of Divinity through Sydney Missionary and Bible College. As Compassion Australia CEO, she is excited to see churches and Christians around the world empowered to release children from poverty in Jesus’ name. We are thrilled to have Clare with us, contributing to CONNECT24.

Sharon Callister - CEO, Mission Australia

Sharon Callister

Sharon is a CEO with over 15 years’ experience managing large and diverse organisations in Australia and overseas. She holds a Graduate Diploma from the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Master of Business Administration, a Bachelor Degree in Health Administration and is a Registered Nurse. Sharon is the CEO of Mission Australia, and we are excited to hear her wisdom and input at CONNECT24.

Melissa Lipsett - CEO, Baptist World Aid

Melissa Lipsett

Melissa is an experienced executive with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit organisation management industry. She is a strong professional and servant leader, playing active roles in governance across the church and for purpose Christian sector. She holds a Bachelor of Ministry and a Bachelor of Applied Science, and is also a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Melissa is the CEO of Baptist World Aid Australia, and we are grateful for her presence and wisdom at CONNECT24.

Lucy Holmes - Radio Host, 89.9 TheLight

Lucy Holmes

Lucy Holmes is one of Australia’s most versatile media personalities. For the past 16 years, Lucy has been the voice of Breakfast on 89.9 TheLight, making her one of Australia’s longest-serving radio hosts. For the past 11 years, she’s been one-half of Lucy and Kel—a partnership that extended beyond the airwaves when they married two years ago. Lucy is also the most nominated and awarded host in CMAA history. Beyond radio, Lucy has excelled as a television host, professional singer, actress, recording artist, voiceover artist, MC, and stars in the internationally acclaimed stage show 100% Kylie, which has toured to over 20 countries. Her 20 year career as a performer has made her one of Australia’s most sought-after talents.

Kel McWilliam - Radio Host, 89.9 TheLight

Kel McWilliam

Kel McWilliam is a seasoned radio professional with nearly three decades of experience in radio. Having worked in Commercial radio for a decade at stations like Triple M and Fox FM, for the past 16 years, he has been a cornerstone of TheLight. His versatility has seen him excel in a variety of roles there, from Music Director to Drive host. Most notably, Kel has co-hosted the Award-Winning Breakfast show, "Lucy and Kel," for the past 11 years. Kel is not only a master of audio editing and content creation, but he also has a unique talent for making the listeners feel truly included and seen.

Shekeinah Hill - Creative Pastor, TV Presenter

Shekeinah Hill

Shekeinah is originally from Florida, USA but has lived in Australia for the past 12 years. She is a Pastor at Hillsong Church on the creative team, where she has held a large variety of leadership roles, including overseeing the vocal team and creative moments. She is an accomplished TV and online presenter and voice artist, and we’re thrilled to welcome her as MC and host for this year’s CONNECT conference, alongside Luke Weston. An American and a New Zealander – what could possibly go wrong?

Gerry (Gman) Lyons, First Nations Media

Gerry (Gman) Lyons

Gerry (Gman) Lyons is from an Indigenous (Maori) background and has worked in First Nations Media for over 30 years. Gerry's career began at 8CCC in Alice Springs and then the CAAMA Network where he was as an Announcer, Journalist, OB Coordinator and Station Manager. He is a recipient of the Centralian Citizen of the Year award for outstanding work in the community, a CBAA Station Leadership Award, and a Paul Harris Fellow from Rotary International. For 7 years Gerry was GM at First Australians Media Enterprises 3KND Radio. He has been a guest speaker Nationally and Internationally and recently was invited to present a TEDx Talk.

Jared Haschek - Music Director, Composer

Jared Haschek

Jared Haschek is a producer, arranger, songwriter and composer based in Melbourne, Australia. Working across both the Christian and mainstream music industries, Jared particularly shines as a music nerd, writing string arrangements and orchestrations for events and recordings all around the world. Recent projects have involved Lauren Daigle, Jennifer Hudson, 5 Seconds of Summer, Riley Clemmons and Hillsong. Jared lives with his wife Rebecca, three children, 2 dogs and too many chickens.

Chico Johnson - Recording Artist

Chico Johnson

Chico is an accomplished musician and artist, with a huge heart for young people. His initiative, The East G Project, was launched in five schools throughout East Gippsland in 2023, tackling the rapid decline of mental health in drought and fire affected areas, empowering youth with self-expression through the art of music, film, motivational speaking and songwriting workshops.

Jo Curtin - CEO, Community Broadcasting Foundarion

Jo Curtin

Jo’s commitment to social justice, inclusion and authentic human connection has led to a life-long passion for community media. Jo leads a team of 12 staff and over 160 volunteers who support community broadcasters across the country to share stories and culture with their local communities. Jo started her career at youth station SYN Media, where she became Station Manager, later moved on to become Assistant Manager at 3ZZZ, and she has also served on the Board of the CBAA, among other roles.

Jon Bisset - CEO of the CBAA

Jon Bisset

Jon is passionate about the non-profit and charity sector having spent more than 25 years as a Chief Executive and non-executive director. Jon is CEO of the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBAA) as well as CEO for Disability Media Australia, the peak body for the Radio Reading Network, community media empowering Australians with a print disability, with combined member stations reaching over 5 million people per week. Jon is also a Non-Executive Director of the Community Council for Australia; a Non-Executive Director of Spots and Space Pty Ltd and the Chair of the Local Independent News Association.

Susan Holt - Author, Radio Personality, and Founder at GracifyMe

Susan Holt

Well known across Australia as former presenter on the Luke and Susie Show, Susan is also a published author of her memoir, Becoming Susan: Finding Joy and Delight, Fulfilment and Purpose, Fun and Meaning in Life Again. She serves as founding director at Gracify Pty Ltd and is a board director for CMAA and Agape Outreach. As an announcer, speaker, mentor and coach, she is passionate about helping others fulfil their potential, and raising the next generation of leaders.

Stuart Harris - CEO, Story Strategist

Stu Harris

Stu is a passionate communicator with an extensive career spanning 30+ years in marketing and business leadership. He is an international vision caster and creative thought leader in the technology and entertainment industries. He is Founder and Managing Director of Story Strategist Pty Ltd, a former General Manager of ACCTV (GOOD) and former Country Manager for Christian Vision (CV) where he was Executive Producer for more than 30 short films; and for a decade he worked in Product Marketing for Apple.

Rohan McHugh - Director, John Anderson Media

Rohan McHugh

Rohan McHugh has 20 years' experience in Public, Private and Not-for-Profit Sectors, working as a staffer in the federal Senate, and on the executive of legal policy think-tanks and consultancies. His roles have focused on the development of strategic relationships, stakeholder management, interdisciplinary team leadership and cultural analysis. He is currently the Media Director for former Deputy Prime Minister John Anderson.

Jodie McEwen - Sector Partnerships Lead, CMAA

Jodie McEwen

As a communicator working in marketing for businesses, Christian media and not-for-profit organisations, Jodie loves finding ways to connect like-minded people to build community and increase impact. In her role as Sector Partnerships Lead at CMAA, Jodie works with CMAA’s partners, including charity organisations, members and other key partners, to amplify our voice across the Christian media landscape and get the word out on issues that matter.

Clayton Bjelan - CEO, Positive Media

Clayton Bjelan

Clayton is CEO of PositiveMedia (89.9 TheLight in Melbourne), and a member of the Board of CMAA. As host of Towards Understanding, a full-length feature interview program running on 21 radio stations around Australia & NZ, Clayton has interviewed over 1,700 guests. He also co-hosted, produced and released the Incurable podcast, a podcast of conversations with his Mum in the last few months of her life as she battled cancer.

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