On business

Why is Brisbane the city to watch right now? 

I think Brisbane has transitioned from being a "city of potential" to a global city of action. We are a city that balances high-growth economic opportunity and an incredible outdoor lifestyle - a combination that is attracting the best talent and investment in the country. The 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games is certainly the “headline act” garnering national and international attention, but I think the “warm up acts” - our flourishing arts and sporting calendar, our dynamic restaurant and bar precincts and the innovation and growth being delivered across multiple business sectors - are what makes Brisbane so special right now.

Personally, what’s been the biggest shift you’ve had to adapt to in the media industry, and how did you navigate it? 

The most significant shift has been the move from traditional linear broadcasting to a truly integrated, platform-agnostic content model. Navigating this required a mindset shift – focusing less on the "channel" and more on the content and the audience. At Nine, we’ve harnessed the combined strength of TV, radio, publishing, and digital to ensure our stories reach people wherever they are.

What’s your approach to leadership? 

My philosophy is "people first." I’ve always admired leaders who maintain a deep connection to their team. I believe in being an "open book," fostering an environment of transparency and encouraging my team to "work like you own the business". It’s about building a resilient culture that can navigate the inevitable "tough times" together.

What did the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics reveal about how audiences are consuming content today and the types of stories that truly cut through? 

Like the Paris Games, the Milano Cortina Games proved that live, "appointment" viewing is still incredibly powerful, but it must be supplemented by immediate, snackable digital content. Audiences also crave the "human" side of the athlete - the stories of resilience and the behind-the-scenes reality that goes beyond the podium - are the ones that really resonate with audiences.

The media landscape has shifted dramatically over the past decade. In 2032, what media do you think will dominate? 

By 2032, I believe immersive and highly personalised content will dominate. While "mass reach" platforms like television will remain the cornerstone for major events like the Olympics, the way we interact with that content - through augmented reality or deeply integrated social-first storytelling - will be the standard, not the exception.

How can Brisbane businesses work with the media to tell their stories, grow their businesses or make an impact locally and globally? 

It’s about moving beyond "transactional" relationships toward genuine partnerships. Some of the most successful campaigns we have created have come from allowing us to immerse ourselves in our clients’ strategy and gaining a deep understanding of their brand. Local businesses should look for ways to align their brand values with media content that resonates with the community.

How critical is cross-industry collaboration in driving Brisbane’s continued growth? 

It is absolutely vital. My work with the Better Brisbane Alliance and Tourism and Events Queensland has shown me that the city’s success depends on the intersection of all levels of government, industry bodies and the private sector. When we align our strategies for investment, visitation, and infrastructure, we create a unified "Brisbane brand" that is far more powerful than any one sector acting alone.

For local businesses trying to keep pace with the city’s growth, what’s your advice for staying relevant and connecting with audiences/customers/clients? 

Stay agile and authentic. The city is moving fast, and businesses need to be able to recalibrate their agendas as market conditions change. Most importantly, stay connected to your local community - authenticity is the only thing that doesn't go out of style in a fast-moving world.

On a personal note

What’s the best business/professional advice you were ever given? 

"Back yourself" and "Work like you own the business". These two principles have guided me through every promotion and every challenge in my career.

Best business book or podcast? 

Whenever I am asked this question, I can’t go past Legacy: What the Wallabies Can Teach Us About the Business of Life by James Kerr. It has so many practical lessons on leadership and building a high-performance culture. As a lover of sport and business it is an absolute must read.

Favourite Brisbane bar or restaurant? 

It’s like picking your favourite child! So many great spots right across Brisbane. If we are going local it’s hard to go past Grappino in Paddington or Blackhide in Caxton Street for the best steak!

Describe your ideal Sunday morning. 

An ideal Sunday involves a walk up Mt Coot-tha, a coffee at the Java Lounge and a long lunch somewhere on the river. It’s hard to beat anytime of the year!!!!