Family Business Conference 2025
Western Sydney | 20–23 May
Navigating Change – ADAPT. INNOVATE. LEAD. THRIVE.
Article by Family Business Conference Public Relations Sponsor: Zadro Agency
We travelled to Western Sydney for an action packed four days starting off in the beautiful Blue Mountains visiting Scenic World, heading to six different Family Business Site Visits across Sydney and then enjoying the two Longest Lunches at the SCG and The Calyx. And this was just the beginning...
Thursday and Friday, we delved deep into the economy, geopolitics, AI, gentelligence, leadership, succession and so much more through keynote addresses, workshops and family business panels. We also danced the night away and celebrated the family business sector in style at our masquerade Family Business Excellence Awards Dinner. Congratulations again to all our award winners.
The energy throughout the conference was palpable, it was a fantastic week bringing the family business community together for that special 'magic dust'.
Conference Week Kicks Off in Style
The Family Business Conference: Asia-Pacific officially began on Tuesday 20 May, with a spectacular site visit to Scenic World Blue Mountains, hosted by the Hammon family. Delegates experienced four iconic attractions – the Scenic Railway, Skyway, Cableway, and Walkway – before hearing an insightful and candid presentation from third-generation leader, Anthea Hammon. That evening, the community came together for the Welcome Function, where FBA Chair Angus Kennard officially opened the week of events, speaking to the magic of connecting with fellow family businesses from across the region.
On Wednesday 21 May, delegates had the opportunity to participate in a number of family business site visits across Sydney, including A.H. Beard, Mongrel Boots, Harris Farm Markets, ActronAir, Kennards Hire, and Garlo’s Pies – each offering a behind-the-scenes look into their operations, stories of generational leadership, and lessons in navigating change. Some also took part in the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb before gathering for the conference favourite – The Longest Lunch – held at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The afternoon combined networking, movement, and a keynote Q&A with Sydney Swans Chairman Andrew Pridham AO, offering reflections on legacy, leadership, and succession.
The Emerging Generation Longest Lunch provided an equally energising experience tailored to the next generation of family business leaders. It was a celebration of fresh ideas, new perspectives, and the power of connection among emerging voices in the sector.
These pre-conference days set the tone for a powerful and inspiring week, connecting family business leaders through shared experiences, storytelling, and the unmistakable spark that ignites when this community comes together.
DAY ONE
The Family Business Conference 2025 was truly special; there was an energy, warmth, and shared purpose that made it memorable. From the moment guests stepped into the Western Sydney Conference Centre, there was an immediate sense of connection. Conversations sparked easily, ideas were freely exchanged, new friendships and business bonds formed.
It was a gathering of people united by legacy, leadership, and a drive to adapt and grow. As one of the Family Business Association’s values says, “one family” — the 2025 Family Business Conference: Asia-Pacific, embodied this spirit from start to finish.
Now in its 25th year, and proudly the only event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, the conference brought together family business leaders, advisors, and advocates from across Australia, New Zealand and the broader region. With a theme focused on how family businesses can lead through change, embrace innovation, and thrive in the face of disruption, day one delivered rich insights and connection.
A Warm and Insightful Opening
Master of Ceremonies, Andrew Klein.
Catherine Sayer, CEO of Family Business Association, opened the conference with a heartfelt welcome and highlighted the power and momentum of the family business community. Ms Sayer said the Association was delighted to share that the number of new members in the recent financial year is the highest recorded in recent years – a strong reflection of the sector’s growing influence and valued community.
She was joined by Chad Gates, Managing Director, Pronto Software, and Ms Allegra Spender MP, Independent Member for Wentworth, who both offered insights grounded in personal experience.
Chad presented findings from the Family Business Barometer Report 2025, noting that; “AI is an eliminator (of busy work) and an enabler (of productivity). A way to elevate the humans above the work that wastes their time.
"You don’t have to be an expert, but you need to know enough to be dangerous.”
Allegra shared her own family business journey with Carla Zampatti, encouraging attendees to speak up and share their stories: “Your family business stories are amazing and inspiring and have brought Australia prosperity. Knowing these stories is how we will drive change.” She encouraged us to connect with local MP’s to highlight the importance of the family business sector.
Keynote: Economic and Geopolitical Update
A standout session of the morning was the keynote addresses from David Koch AM (Kochie) renowned financial journalist and Dr Merriden Varrall, Partner, Geopolitics KPMG, who both provided a deep dive into the current economic and geopolitical landscape.
Kochie, a long-time family business owner, and renown Australian television presenter painted a picture of Australia’s financial standing – stable with its AAA credit rating yet facing pressures from cost-of-living increases and global uncertainty. His advice was clear:
- Stress-test your business to remain agile
- Embrace technology to drive productivity.
- Have regular, honest conversations within your family and leadership teams
He noted that while Australia’s economy remained comparatively strong, households were feeling the pinch, with interest rate pressures, labour shortages, and inflation all creating strain for small and family businesses.
Dr Merriden Varrall, from KPMG, explored the broader shifts impacting businesses globally, from climate change to emerging technologies and declining global trust in institutions and western systems. Her message encouraged businesses to think strategically; “Understand your risk profile, assess vulnerabilities, and adapt to change through informed and intentional planning.”
Keynote: Succeeding in a Continuously Changing World
In a highly anticipated and information-rich session, Professor Göran Roos academic, technologist, author and businessman unpacked the complex web of global change; technological, geopolitical, environmental, and examined how family businesses can use their unique structure and values to navigate these shifts.
“Collect data, access it, and use it,” he advised, challenging attendees to be proactive rather than reactive.
Professor Roos highlighted family business strengths of long-term thinking, strong values, customer loyalty while urging leaders to stay ahead of digital and generational change.
Keynote: The Rise of The Big Group – Turning the Ordinary into Extraordinary
Bruce Keebaugh, Co-Founder of The Big Group, sat down for an engaging Q&A with Tony McGinn OAM. Together, they explored the journey of The Big Group — the iconic event and catering business Bruce built with his wife, Chyka Keebaugh.
From humble beginnings to becoming industry leaders, Bruce shared valuable insights on building a strong culture, fostering creativity, and the importance of nurturing relationships in business. He also spoke candidly about the transformative power of social media in shaping the way events are experienced and valued, and the deep loyalty that comes from generosity and service.
“We are sellers of dreams and makers of memories. We are architects of experience,” said Mr Keebaugh.
Parallel Sessions & Workshops: Real Tools for Real Change
Following a morning of inspiration and connection, the afternoon program delivered a dynamic series of breakout sessions and workshops designed to equip delegates with practical tools, new perspectives, and real-world strategies to take back to their businesses. Each session was led by experienced voices who brought honesty, insight, and actionable advice to the table.
- Leveraging Family Business as a Competitive Advantage
Jonathan Coles and Iain Good, Founders, Premiumisation Partners, and Garry Beard, Chairman/Managing Director, A.H. Beard, explored how storytelling, commitment to quality, and a strong sense of heritage can significantly elevate brand value and customer connection.
- Turning Crisis into Currency
Sally Branson, Managing Director, The Sally Branson Consulting Group, delivered a powerful session on reframing crisis as a moment of opportunity, offering practical strategies for communicating with clarity, empathy, and purpose when it matters most.
- Navigating Change in Perspectives and Beliefs
In a powerful conversation facilitated by Francesco Lombardo; Hugo Douglas, Director, and Sam Douglas, Director & Chair of the Douglas Family Investment Committee shared their personal journey of bridging generational divides through shared values, trust, and open communication. They explored the emotional challenges that come with conversations around money, wealth transfer, and the myths that can influence family beliefs and behaviours. The session offered practical insights on how understanding and aligning family perspectives can build stronger connections and support long-term family harmony.
- Leading and Influencing Change in Family Business
Trudy MacDonald delivered practical tools and leadership frameworks to help family business leaders navigate resistance to change with clarity and purpose. Drawing on real-world examples, she addressed common barriers such as generational differences and employee engagement, and how to lead change in a way that sticks. Delegates walked away with strategies to communicate vision effectively, drive innovation, and create a culture of adaptability while honouring the family legacy.
- The Role of Family Offices in Shaping the Future of Family Businesses and Business Families
Brad Scott, Founder, CEO and Managing Director of EWM Group, explored the increasingly significant role of family offices in sustaining legacy, managing generational wealth, and supporting long-term strategic planning for business families. His session provided valuable insight into how family offices can offer stability, governance, and clarity in an ever-changing economic landscape.
- Forging Stronger Futures: How Strategic Partnerships Drive Family Business Success
Bill Andrews, Director, and John Andrews, Regional Manager, together with David Church, Director from the Royan Group of Companies shared how intentional and strategic partnerships have underpinned their growth. Their session highlighted how collaboration, shared values, and a clear vision can position family businesses to thrive in competitive markets.
A Harmonious Finale: Music, Meaning and Momentum
At the final session of day one The James Morrison Quartet took to the stage, sharing not only extraordinary musical talent but an inspiring story of family, collaboration and legacy.
James Morrison, joined by his sons Harry and William, delivered a high-energy live jazz performance that had delegates tapping their feet, and eventually rising for a standing ovation. The buzz in the room was electric.
In between unforgettable musical moments, James, Harry and William shared insights from their journey as a family in business, drawing compelling parallels between the spontaneity of jazz and the dynamics of running a family business. They spoke of communication, trust, listening, and knowing when to step back and let others shine.
“Listening to each other and supporting each other is key,” Mr Morrison said, highlighting the subtle gestures, eye contact, and mutual respect that make both their music and business work. William and Harry spoke candidly about setting boundaries between family and business, calling their father ‘James’ at work and consciously separating logistics talk from personal time.
And when it came to succession and leadership, Mr Morrison offered wise, self-aware advice:
“One of your main jobs is to know when to stop teaching and realise when they can do it as well as you can. Be open to hearing what they know,” said Mr Morrison.
It was a powerful reminder that creativity, respect, and emotional intelligence are just as vital in a family business as they are in a jazz band.
As the applause echoed and the room buzzed with inspiration, it was the perfect crescendo to a rich and rewarding day. With hearts full and spirits lifted, delegates flowed into the transformed space – now set for a spectacular themed masquerade ball – ready to honour excellence and achievement at the Family Business Excellence Awards.
What a day!
Family Business Excellence Awards
Following an inspiring day of learning and connection, the delegates stepped into a spectacular celebration for the Family Business Excellence Awards Dinner — and what a night it was!
The room was transformed into a glamorous masquerade ball, complete with chandeliers, red velvet drapes, and glittering candelabras adorning every table. The energy was palpable from the moment the doors opened, with supportive cheers, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable entertainment filling the evening with joy.
Hosted by the electric Brihony Dawson, the evening was equal parts elegance and exuberance. With quick wit, infectious humour, and a nostalgic singalong to You're the Voice - a nod to last year’s conference in Carins, Brihony kept the crowd laughing and engaged. The entertainment didn’t stop there: Midnight Mix delivered a high-octane performance, featuring a live band, rap, DJ sets, saxophone and drum solos, and dazzling dance numbers that had everyone on their feet.
But the heart of the night was the recognition of excellence in family business. Five outstanding recipients were honoured with a highly coveted Family Business Excellence Award, each one celebrated with pride, passion, and powerful applause.
The highest accolated, the Family Business of the Year 2025 was awarded to DECO Australia (NSW).
The other winners were:
- Established Family Business Award: DECO Australia (NSW)
- Founder’s Family Business Award: Eather Group (NSW)
- Legacy Family Business Award: Yalumba (South Australia)
- Leading Woman in Family Business Award: Amanda K Challen, Advance Civil Engineering (Northern Territory)
- Emerging Leader in Family Business Award: Jordana Ashcroft O'Sullivan, Fore Design + Flex Planning (South Australia)
As always, the awards dinner was infused with FBA’s signature ‘magic dust’ – that indescribable mix of pride, connection and celebration that comes from being among those who understand the unique journey of family business.
The evening ended with dancing, reconnection, and stories shared late into the night. A true celebration of family, legacy, and the vibrant future of our sector.
DAY TWO
The second day of the Family Business Conference 2025: Asia-Pacific delivered a powerful mix of heartfelt storytelling, expert insights, and practical tools for the future, all tied together by a common thread: purposeful leadership passed down through generations of family business.
Women Leading the Way Breakfast: A story of cultural pride and entrepreneurial grit
Guests were captivated by the story of Uppma Virdi, Founder of Chai Walli, at the Women Leading the Way Breakfast. A first-generation Indian Australian, Uppma shared how the absence of relatable role models led her to become her own inspiration.
“There was no one I looked up to, no one I was inspired by that looked like me. So, I decided I needed to be that person for myself,” she said.
Passionate about honouring her grandfather’s Ayurvedic tea blends, Uppma launched Chai Walli with a mission to bring people together over a shared cultural experience.
“It’s a universal language, chai/tea. It’s a beautiful beverage to bring people together.”
She encouraged business owners to stay grounded in their purpose and not forget to have fun along the way. Her story, and her chai, left attendees both inspired and nourished.
Sponsor’s Welcome
Wes O’Donnell, Head of Workplace at Citation Group, shared practical insights on building your business ‘dream team’ through modern workplace practices. Emphasising that “people are part of our struggles, and people are part of our success,” Wes encouraged delegates to take simple but effective steps back to their businesses. These include conducting stay interviews to engage key personnel with vulnerability and openness, reviewing HR platforms and onboarding processes, and refreshing audit procedures.
Keynote: Gentelligence for the Family Business
Dr Megan Gerhardt, Professor of Leadership at Miami University and founder of Gentelligence® , provided a thought-provoking keynote on intergenerational collaboration in family business.
“Every generation has something they can learn and something they can teach,” Megan shared, calling on the audience to look beyond stereotypes and the ‘us versus them’ mentality that often defines generational discussions. Instead, she urged business owners to shift focus to the things they share: values, curiosity, and meaningful dialogue.
At the heart of Megan’s message was the idea that while each generation may have different norms shaped by their life experiences, we all share core human needs: respect, connection, competence, and autonomy. The challenge lies in understanding how those needs are expressed differently and creating space to talk about them.
She introduced the four Gentelligence® practices to help navigate this complexity:
- Identify assumptions
- Adjust the lens
- Build trust
- Expand the pie
Using the analogy of a house, Megan explained how family businesses must determine which “walls” are load bearing i.e. the values and traditions that should be preserved, and which ones can be rebuilt to welcome innovation and new perspectives.
Megan’s keynote was not just insightful it was a call to action. Reminding us, for the first time, we are in a five-generation workforce; our differences are not barriers, but opportunities to grow stronger together.
Keynote: Fabric of Leadership: Weaving a Legacy Through Succession
In a moving intergenerational dialogue, father and son Ajay and Kunal Amalean shared the remarkable story of MAS Holdings, offering an intimate look at how one family’s shared vision, values, and trust helped transform a small Sri Lankan operation into a global powerhouse.
Facilitated by FBA CEO Catherine Sayer, the keynote traced MAS Holdings’ journey from its humble beginnings in 1987 – with 20 machines, 40 employees, and $10,000 – to it today – a major supplier for global brands like Victoria’s Secret and Nike.
Ajay reflected on the business’s early growth, crediting strong partnerships, a people-first culture, and a belief in empowering communities through initiatives like Women Go Beyond.
A key theme was the “one family concept” – a deep commitment to equality, shared values, and a united approach to both leadership and ownership. Ajay and his co-founders (his two brothers) made bold decisions early on, including creating an equal shareholding structure for the next generation.
Kunal discussed the thoughtful succession process that brought eight cousins into the fold. Through workshops with an external consultant, the next generation united around a shared purpose, gained a deeper understanding of each other’s strengths, and committed to professionalising the business while staying true to their core family values of trust, integrity, transparency, and merit-based leadership.
This generational transition was not just about passing the baton; it was about evolving the company’s purpose. Sustainability, innovation, and people remain at the heart of the MAS Holdings ethos. And with early exposure to the business, the next generation found their own inspiration and roles within the enterprise, helping to drive it forward.
Parallel Panels and Workshops
After an inspiring morning filled with powerful keynote sessions, family stories of legacy, and time to network and meet the exhibitors, delegates broke out into a series of thought-provoking parallel panels and workshops.
The sessions gave attendees the chance to hear directly from experienced founders, leaders, consultants, and next-gen successors – sharing tools, real-world strategies, and lessons learned.
- It’s time for A Sales RevolutionTM
Ingrid Maynard, Founder and Managing Director, The Sales Doctor, led a high-energy workshop that challenged business owners to rethink the role of sales in their growth strategy, shifting from transactional to transformative.
- Family Transitions: Why They Stall and Strategies for Restoring the Flow to Bring about Change
Catherine Sanders, Co-Director, Bower Place, unpacked the psychological and relational reasons succession transitions often stall and how families can navigate blockages to move forward together.
- Aligning Family Interests and Business Structure for Generational Success
Steve Thacker, Founder & Managing Director; Ashley Thacker, Managing Director; and Tim Van Dyke, General Manager of Ranger, explored how the Thacker family aligned values, roles, and structure to future-proof their business for generations to come with the help of facilitator, Angus Kennard.
- Advisory Boards – Steering Family Businesses Through Change
Louise Broekman, Founder, Advisory Board Centre; Alice Horne, Board Director, Stillwell Family Group: and Rob Davis, Principal Consultant, Enginuity Consulting, took a deep dive into the power of advisory boards as catalysts for transformation. And how they provide objectivity, expertise, and structured guidance for periods of change.
- If Disruption is the Problem, then Innovation is the Solution
Richard Turner, Author and Founder, The Essential Entrepreneur, shared frameworks from his book, inspiring business owners to embrace disruption as an opportunity for reinvention and entrepreneurial thinking.
- Resilience and Imposter Syndrome
Pamela Jabbour, CEO, Total Image Group; Elisabeth Shaw, CEO, Relationships Australia (NSW); and Michael Bateman, CEO, Little Miracles, joined this honest and heartfelt panel tackling leadership resilience and imposter syndrome. The speakers shared their personal strategies for self-belief and growth.
- From Family Dream to Sustainable Leadership
Martin Brook, Co-Founder and Will Brook, CEO shared the inspiring Brookfarm story, from transforming a rundown dairy farm into a sustainable, thriving macadamia business to regenerating a rainforest and leading the way in regenerative agriculture. Their session highlighted the power of values-driven leadership and the impact of balancing product quality with a long-term commitment to sustainability. Delegates gained a deeper appreciation of how family businesses can lead environmental and social change while building a legacy for future generations.
Keynote: Fostering a Strong Organisational Culture Amid Workforce Challenges
Lieutenant General Natasha Fox AO CSC, Chief of Personnel, Australian Defence Force (ADF), brought wisdom and humility to her keynote on leading through change.
Drawing on over three decades of service, Natasha shared her deeply personal and professional insights into building adaptive cultures, supporting future generations, and leading through complexity. She spoke about the ADF’s response to modern workforce challenges, from recruiting and retention to integrating cutting-edge roles in cyber security, data science, and AI.
She also addressed the importance of creating inclusive, multi-generational teams and reforming outdated systems to reflect today’s social, cultural, and technological realities.
Her reflections on leadership were grounded in real-life experiences, from commanding teams in the Middle East to navigating tragedy and trauma with emotional intelligence and composure. Natasha’s message was clear: resilience, compassion, and clarity are the cornerstones of great leadership.
From being one of the first women in her platoon to now shaping the future of the ADF workforce, she offered attendees powerful reflections:
“Kindness, compassion and empathy go a long way.”
“As a leader, find the joy in what you do and help others find the joy in what they do.”
“Always cheer for your team.”
“We stand on the shoulders of giants who came before us.”
“Leave something for the people who come behind us to inherit.”
“You need to have people who believe in you more than you believe in yourself.”
Natasha’s authenticity and strength resonated with the family business community, offering practical and inspiring reminders of what it means to lead with purpose.
Keynote: Stepping In and Stepping Up in Style
Elisha Hopkinson, CEO of APG & Co., shared her perspective on leading a legacy brand while embracing modern change. In a Q&A with Elizabeth Pilovski, Director of ANZ, she reflected on staying curious, honouring brand heritage, and redefining leadership in retail.
As a second-generation leader of one of Australia’s most recognised fashion houses, home to Sportscraft, SABA, and JAG, Elisha spoke candidly about her unconventional path into the family business, the importance of not simply accepting a leadership role out of obligation, and how her experiences abroad helped shape her approach.
“Curiosity is really important to allow change to happen. If you keep doing what you are doing, you will just blend in,” she said, highlighting the need to constantly challenge the status quo. At the same time, she emphasised the responsibility of preserving the essence of iconic brands while evolving them for today’s consumer.
Elisha discussed the shift in retail post-COVID, the role of AI in understanding customers, and how sustainability and storytelling are central to their strategy. Her leadership style champions empowerment, self-reflection, and adaptability – qualities she sees as essential in navigating the pressures of family business and the fast-moving fashion landscape.
Final Keynote: AI for the Future of Business: Navigating the New Frontier
The final session of the Conference welcomed, Stephen Scheeler, Former Facebook CEO and Founder of The Digital CEO, who delivered an inspiring keynote on the transformative potential of AI – and why curiosity is key to harnessing it.
Stephen opened with a deeply personal reflection on his own journey, from his father’s real estate business in Buffalo, New York, to hitchhiking across continents, and eventually leading Facebook Australia and New Zealand. These formative experiences shaped his values, his drive, and his deep appreciation for the resilience of family businesses.
He spoke candidly about the evolution of Facebook into one of the world’s most powerful AI companies, and how this inspired his own path into health tech innovation.
Today, as CEO of Omniscient, Stephen leads this groundbreaking company using AI to decode the human brain and revolutionise mental health through a field known as connectomics.
Blending personal anecdotes with innovative insights, Stephen discussed the practical uses of AI in business, from time-saving tools that manage emails and meetings to sales optimisation and smarter decision-making. But he also acknowledged the limitations: AI excels at defined tasks but still struggles with moral reasoning and long-horizon planning, areas where human judgement remains irreplaceable.
Most importantly, Stephen urged family business leaders to reawaken their curiosity. “The two most important superpowers you have are attention and focus, and curiosity,” he said. “As we get successful, we tend to turn our curiosity off. But AI is changing the rules of success. You need to turn it back on.”
He reminded us that the future of business belongs to those willing to stay curious, embrace change, and lead with purpose.
Cheers to a Big Finish
Across two energising days, attendees shared stories, explored bold ideas, and strengthened bonds that go beyond business. From navigating change and embracing innovation to honouring heritage and values, the conference was a celebration of what makes family business unique and powerful.
As glasses clinked at the final networking drinks, the mood was one of connection, clarity, and renewed confidence to navigate change. Inspired by shared experiences and equipped with fresh insights, Australia and New Zealand’s family businesses are stepping boldly into the future – together.
Gratitude for our Supporters
Thank you to all our sponsors and supporters who have helped bring the Family Business Conference 2025: Asia-Pacific to life! Your generosity plays a vital role in making this event exceptional, enabling us to host inspiring speakers and deliver valuable experiences to our family business community.
A special thank you to our Gold Sponsors – Pronto Software and Citation Group.
We also extend our gratitude to all our conference sponsors: KPMG Australia, ANZ, EWM Group, Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Adina Watches, Zadro Agency, Quickmail, Australian Made Corp, IT Emerald, Finlease, Hyphen Integrated OS, Ocean Dunes (King Island, Tasmania), The End Game, Platinum People Solutions, The McGinn Partnership, ActronAir, A.H. Beard, Garlo’s Pies, Kennards Hire, Mongrel Boots, and Scenic World Blue Mountains.
And a big thank you to our conference supporters: Brookfarm and Bundaberg Brewed Drinks.
