InvestSA 2015

InvestSA 2015Following the completion of the 12th InvestSA, 75 delegates have returned from the Clare Valley more informed, better connected and ready to take on the challenges and opportunities that our industry is facing. A selection of images from the event can be found at our Flickr page, and you can access them by clicking here.Sunday night saw the group come together at the historic Bungaree Station in what can only be described as a truly authentic shearing shed, complete with all the sights, sounds and smells you would expect. The group heard from Minister Geoff Brock MP and Minister Kyam Maher MLC, who both expressed their desire and passionate commitment to taking South Australia forward, with emphasis on the need to work with the regions and focus on innovation. Monday’s session started brightly with some of the State’s best young minds in Lily Jacobs, Josh Fanning and Daniels Langeberg taking the group through their projects and what they see as the keys to unlocking South Australia’s potential. All three speakers identified red tape and bureaucracy as the biggest hurdles in more innovative entrepreneurs choosing South Australia as their home. Following morning tea, Rod Harrex, Steven Marhsall MP and Steve Harrison discussed the development of South Australia with increasing international visitation, tax reform and the embracement of the digital economy as the main talking points. After lunch, the world’s greatest ever paralympian, Matt Cowdrey OAM, inspired the room with his personal story of resilience and Mike Fisher followed by taking the group through his experiences with post-Earthquake Christchurch and the innovative ideas that have resulted. Both Matt and Mike spoke about the strong support mechanisms that have allowed them to succeed in the face of adversity; whether it be Matt’s family and coaching staff or the Christchurch Council in Mike’s case, embracing new ideas and allowing people to have a crack at helping with the city’s recovery. Scones and jam were on the menu for afternoon tea, where the group were joined by Julie Barry from Good Catholic Girl Winery. Julie took us through the history of her family and the label followed by a tasting session and the opportunity to purchase her products. That evening, delegates, sponsors, speakers et al converged on the Clare Valley Country Club dining room for the Gala dinner. Garry Nash from dinner sponsor Alerton Australia provided some light entertainment and welcomed our special guest, the Right Honourable Lord Mayor of the City of Adelaide Martin Haese, who spoke passionately about his vision for the city and the important role to be played by the property sector. InvestSA 2015 would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors: Principal Partner Hames Sharley, Major Partners BankSA and Built Environs, Supporting Partner Adelaide Airport Limited and Gala Dinner Sponsor Alerton Australia. Special thanks also must go to our speakers who collectively inspired, challenged and informed delegates with their stories and ideas. To the delegates and our event management company, Keito Events, we owe thanks for the professionalism and commitment shown to InvestSA and the Property Council of Australia. Planning for InvestSA 2016 has already begun and we will be in touch as details are confirmed.Thank you once again for your loyalty and involvement in the property sector’s premiere conference event.