Keynote Speakers

Wednesday, 5 September

Michael McQueen

Michael McQueen understands what it takes to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Recently ranked #12 among the world’s top futurists, Michael is widely recognized for having his finger on the pulse of change, helping clients ranging from Google to Toyota and Mastercard navigate uncertainty and stay ahead of the curve.

A bestselling author of 10 books, Michael’s latest release was named by Malcolm Gladwell and Adam Grant as one of the top five must-read new leadership books. He is a sought-after media commentator, with his insights regularly featured in Forbes, The Guardian, and CNN.

Having presented to over 500,000 people across five continents since 2004, Michael is a familiar face on the international conference circuit, sharing the stage with Bill Gates, Mel Robbins, and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak. 

Formerly named Australia’s Keynote Speaker of the Year, Michael has also been inducted into the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame.

Thursday, 6 September

Dr. Fiona Kerr

Dr. Fiona Kerr is the Founder of The NeuroTech Institute, and Director of Strategic Research for the MindChamps Group, Singapore. 

Globally recognised for her work on the neurophysiology of interaction and proximity (between humans and with technology), Dr Kerr combines qualifications in cognitive science, systems engineering, psychology and anthropology with over 40 years in industry to consult on contemporary issues such as how virtual vs proximal interaction impacts trust and decision making, leading hybrid organisations and creating human-tech partnerships that maximise the unique capabilities of both. 

Fiona advises a broad international list of clients across government and corporate sectors from healthcare, law and robotics to Defence and Cirque du Soleil. She holds academic roles here and overseas, speaks globally, and is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering.

Friday, 7 September

Dr. Chadden Hunter

Dr. Chadden Hunter is an award-winning filmmaker and wildlife biologist. For most of the last two decades he has worked alongside Sir David Attenborough on the world’s most seminal nature documentaries.

While escaping armed bandits and brain parasites he completed a ‘Gorillas in the Mist’ style PhD on baboons in the mountains of Ethiopia. Chadden then worked as an on-screen host for National Geographic, PBS and Discovery Channel, filming everything from tribal ceremonies in Africa to snow leopards in Pakistan.

On the BBC series Planet Earth he became known as 'the guy covered in bat poop', and whilst filming arctic wolves for Frozen Planet learnt that minus 40C was cold enough to freeze his eyes shut. As a Divemaster he has worked alongside underwater crews around the world, exploring the issue of plastics in the ocean and how the ‘Blue Planet 2 Effect' encouraged changes in corporate behaviour and global politics.

His television series, including Wild Arabia, Seven Worlds One Planet and most recently The Platypus Guardian have scooped over twenty Emmy and Bafta awards.

His anecdotes are as inspirational as they are entertaining. Sometimes heart-breaking, often humorous, always riveting. Using a stunning multi-media presentation, including never-before seen footage from wildlife blockbusters, Chadden shares stories about achieving goals through resilience, communicating with wider audiences, the importance of team building, and creative leadership. Not to mention what to do if you find yourself face to face with a grizzly bear.