Tag Archive for: inspirational speaker

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


Lessons from a Life in the Spotlight – Staying true to your values while navigating success, challenges, and change.

Join us for an inspiring morning with our Guest Speaker Australian Singer-Songwriter-Guitarist – John Schuman. Few artists have shaped Australia’s musical identity quite like John Schumann. Best known for the searing Vietnam veterans’ anthem “I Was Only 19”, Schumann’s songwriting cuts to the heart of the Australian experience — raw, honest, and unforgettable

A formidable storyteller, Schumann has written far more than that one anthem. Across ten acclaimed albums, his lyrics have chronicled the soul of a nation, earning him virtually every major award the Australian music industry can bestow.

Breakfast at the Next Level | Purpose, Passion, and Leadership

with

Guest Speaker John Schumann – Australian Singer-Songwriter-Guitarist

presented by

Stan Kontos – Entrepreneur, business coach, and speaker, Executive Chairman

and Co-Founder of Star Pharmacy Group and Co-Founder and Director of SOL Results

John Ngatia – Speaker, Peak Performance and Turnaround Coach, an accredited

NLP Master Practitioner, Author and a Hydration Specialist

Wednesday 3 December 2025 | 6.30AM – 9:00AM

(registration & networking from 6.30- 7.00)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

About our guest speaker

John Schumann:

South Australian singer-songwriter, John Schumann, is best known, perhaps, for his Vietnam veterans’ anthem, “I Was Only 19”. He will hasten to assure you that it’s not the only song he’s written.

He has recorded ten albums and is the recipient of almost every award the music industry has to offer.Formerly the lead singer and one of the 2 major songwriters for the legendary Australian folk-rock band, Redgum, John’s new performing and recording entity is John Schumann and The Vagabond Crew. Among his many accolades, John Schumann is a Member of the Order of Australia and is the recipient of a Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Flinders University.John Schumann still lives in Adelaide. He has upset almost everyone in a position of importance both here and interstate. He claims not to care.

John Schumann is has recently stepped down as chair of the Maxima Group. Based in Adelaide with over 500 FTEs and over 50 offices across the country, Maxima is a highly regarded not-for-profit organisation committed to recruitment, employment and training – with a particular focus on finding employment for indigenous Australians and people with a disability.

Described by rock historian Glenn A. Baker as “one of the finest songwriters this country has produced”, John’s songs have been paid the ultimate compliment by becoming the property of the people and the country they were written about. His lyrics are on reading lists in schools, colleges and universities throughout Australia.

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


Insights from the Adelaide 36ers, using sport as a force for connection & inspiration, and Secrets to Real Estate Investment by Grant Kelley

Join us for an inspiring morning with our guest speaker, Grant Kelley, a seasoned and successful leader in private equity, business strategy, real estate investing, and sports management. With over three decades of industry experience, Grant has established himself as a visionary and creative leader, renowned for his relentless commitment to success. Grant is the Chairman of Holdfast Assets, a role he has held since September 2008, which manages and owns key agricultural, sporting and tourism assets in South Australia.

 

Breakfast at the Next Level | Basketball, Business & Real Estate

with

Guest Speaker Grant Kelley – Chairman of Holdfast Assets, Chairman and Owner of Adelaide 36ers

presented by

Stan Kontos – Entrepreneur, business coach, and speaker, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Star Pharmacy Group and Co-Founder and Director of SOL Results

John Ngatia – Speaker, Peak Performance and Turnaround Coach, an accredited NLP Master Practitioner, Author and a Hydration Specialist

 

Wednesday 5 November 2025 | 6.30AM – 9:00AM

(registration & networking from 6.30- 7.00)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

 

About our guest speaker…

Grant has served as the Chairman and Owner of Adelaide Basketball Pty Ltd, holding the licence for four-time NBL champions, the Adelaide 36ers, since 2016. The Adelaide 36ers, one of Australia’s top basketball teams, have flourished under his direction, motivating the following generation of athletes and sports fans.

Previously, Grant served as Chief Executive Officer at Vicinity Centres from 2018 to 2022 and of City Developments Limited from 2014 to 2017. Prior to that, he served as Co-Head of Asia Pacific at Apollo Global Management for four years, worked at Colony Capital as both Chief Executive Officer and Principal and at Booz Allen Hamilton as Principal, where he commenced his career in 1989. Grant also serves as Councillor to the Asia Society Policy Institute.

Current Directorships, Executive Positions and Advisory Roles:

Chairman – Holdfast Assets

Owner and Chairman – Adelaide 36ers

Councillor – Asia Society Policy Institute

Previous Directorships, Executive Positions and Advisory Roles:

Chief Executive Officer – Vicinity Centres

Chief Executive Officer – City Developments Limited

Co-Head of Asia Pacific – Apollo Global Management

Chief Executive Officer – Colony Capital Asia Pacific

Grant’s enthusiasm for investing in assets that benefit society is evident in the company’s emphasis on industries which are essential to the development and success of local economies.

 

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


Join internationally renowned success coaches Stan Kontos and John Ngatia on Wednesday, 1st October 2025, for an inspiring and practical breakfast masterclass designed to help you unlock your full potential.

Over breakfast, you’ll discover proven strategies to create lasting wealth, achieve personal and professional success, and cultivate true life balance.

Whether you’re looking to elevate your career, grow your business, or simply gain clarity and confidence in your life direction, this breakfast masterclass will equip you with the tools, insights, and mindset to thrive.

Modelling others is the quickest and best way to do well in any area of life. Success does leave clues. Come along and learn some of the secrets to optimising your performance in work, business and life.

Yes, there will always be problems that come up, however, if you play the long game, you can improve your life with increased success, higher levels of wealth and at the same time be aware of continuing to pivot your time and energy so you can enjoy a more balanced life.

Start your day with powerful lessons, fresh perspectives, and the energy to take bold action toward the life you deserve.

Breakfast at the Next Level | Success, Wealth & Life Balance

with

Stan Kontos – Entrepreneur, business coach, and speaker. He is the Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Star Pharmacy Group and Co-Founder and Director of SOL Results.

John Ngatia – Speaker, Peak Performance and Turnaround Coach, an accredited NLP Master Practitioner, Author and a Hydration Specialist.

Wednesday 1 October 2025 | 6.30AM – 9:00AM

(registration & networking from 6.30- 7.00)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

About our guest speakers

Stan Kontos: is an entrepreneur, business coach, and speaker. He is the Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Star Pharmacy Group and Co-Founder and Director of SOL Results. South Australia’s foremost authority on “Peak Life Performance” and “Leadership Psychology”, Stan has a passion for the development of human potential. Stan holds Internationally Accredited Trainer in NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming). Stan is happily married to his wife, Ourania and is blessed with 3 children.

John Ngatia: is a Speaker, Peak Performance and Turnaround Coach, an accredited NLP Master Practitioner, Author and a Hydration Specialist. As a speaker and trainer, he has an endearing and charismatic style that captures his audience’s attention and hearts. John is also a hydration specialist, that helps people enhance their health, sports performance, slow the aging process and reverse degenerative disease. John’s mission is to empower his clients and audiences to awaken their potential and see possibilities available to them.

Join us for breakfast on Wednesday 1 October 2025.

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


We are delighted to welcome David Prescott, Erik Metanomski, and Tim McArthur as our guest speakers at the SOL Results Breakfast at the Next Level on Wednesday 3 September 2025.

David, the founder of Lanyon Asset Management, brings extensive expertise in value investing and disciplined capital management. Erik, one of Australia’s most respected value investors, is known for his exceptional track record as former founder and CIO of MMC Asset Management. Tim, a highly regarded investment professional at Asymmetric Asset Management, offers a sharp, research-driven perspective on markets and opportunities ahead.

Together, they will share valuable insights into navigating markets with discipline, patience, and a long-term focus—equipping you to take your business and investments to the next level.

 

Breakfast at the Next Level | Helping You Build Long-Term Wealth

with

Dave Prescott – Founder and Managing Director of Lanyon

Erik Metanomski – Former Founder & Chief Investment Officer of MMC Asset Management

Tim McArthur – Asymmetric Asset Management Portfolio Manager

 

Wednesday 3 September 2025 | 6.30AM – 9:00AM

(registration & networking from 6.30- 7.00)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

 

About our guest speakers

David Prescott – Founder and Managing Director of Lanyon

David is the founder and Managing Director of Lanyon. He has over 20 years funds management experience working for firms in Australia and the UK. David was previously Head of Equities at institutional fund manager, CP2 (formerly Capital Partners). David has an Economics degree from the University of Adelaide, a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance and Investment from the Securities Institute of Australia (FINSIA) and is a CFA charter holder.

 

Erik Metanomski – Former Founder & Chief Investment Officer of MMC Asset Management

Erik is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most disciplined and successful value investors, accomplished by philanthropist Charlie Munger. As the founder and Chief Investment Officer of MMC Asset Management, he managed the MMC Value Growth Trust from 1993 to 2005, delivering an exceptional average annual compound return of 23% over 12 years. Anchored in an absolute return focus and deep-value investing, Erik prioritized capital preservation while identifying fundamentally strong, undervalued companies with long-term growth potential. His contrarian approach and willingness to hold high cash reserves—sometimes up to 40%—enabled him to manage downside risk while seizing future opportunities. Following MMC, Erik co-founded MMC Contrarian Ltd and later partnered in Lanyon Asset Management, continuing his disciplined, research-driven style. His long-term, risk-aware investment philosophy has influenced a generation of fund managers and remains a benchmark for value-oriented capital management in Australia.

 

Tim McArthur – Asymmetric Asset Management Portfolio Manager

Tim holds a Bachelor of Economics with Honors and boasts over 15 years of experience as an analyst and investor, specializing in small and mid-cap ASX listed industrial companies. Prior to founding Asymmetric Asset Management, Tim operated a private investment vehicle, McArthur Partnership. His extensive background includes working for an independent specialist equities research firm, contributing as a freelance financial journalist to one of Australia’s leading investment guidance websites, and serving as the senior analyst for a boutique funds management company with a mandate from a select group of high-net-worth families.

 

Join us for breakfast on Wednesday 3 September 2025.

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


Join us for an inspiring morning with Sam Weavers, an extraordinary young entrepreneur who turned a childhood dream into a nationally online recognised business.

At just ten years old, Sam officially launched his business—after first sharing his entrepreneurial dream with his parents at the age of nine. Since 2017, he has grown Sam’s Popcorn from a local start-up into a nationally online recognised brand, delivering gourmet-flavoured popcorn to cinema’s, homes, retailers, hotels, and even Adelaide Airport.

Sam’s business journey is marked by determination, creativity, and community spirit. His achievements have earned him the 7NEWS Young Achiever Award, the Minister for Education Award, and recognition as a Fred Hollows Foundation Ambassador and Westfield Local Hero. Beyond business, he gives back through his Kids4Kids initiative, donating 40% of proceeds from special popcorn sales to the Childhood Cancer Association.

This event will explore how early vision, persistence, and social impact can combine to build something truly remarkable—at any age.Hosted by John Ngatia and curated by Stan Kontos, this session is ideal for teenagers, students, professionals, business leaders, and entrepreneurs looking to reignite their drive and think beyond limits.

18 yr old owner of Sam’s Popcorn | Youngest ever winner 7 News Young Achiever Award | 2018 Fred Hollows Ambassador | Minister for Education Award | Westfield Local Hero Award | Dept of Human Services Award

Breakfast at the Next Level | How To Think Big

with Sam Weavers, Starting His Business at the Age of Ten

 

Wednesday 6 August 2025 | 6.30AM – 9:00AM

(registration & networking from 6.30- 7.00)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

About our guest speakers

At just 18 years old, I am the proud founder and owner of Sam’s Popcorn, a successful and growing online and retail business that produces and delivers gourmet- flavoured popcorn to customers across Australia.

My journey as an entrepreneur began at the age of nine, when I first told my parents I wanted to start my own business. After years of persistence, I eventually launched Sam’s Popcorn—turning a simple idea into a thriving enterprise.

I began developing my popcorn recipes and business model at age nine and officially registered as a sole trader at just ten years old. In March 2023, I rebranded and trademarked a new logo, and—with the help of a graphic designer—created updated packaging designs for my popcorn bags and boxes. Shortly after, in June, I incorporated the business as Sam’s Popcorn Pty Ltd, with my mum listed as Director, as I was not yet old enough to hold that role. Now that I’ve turned 18, I’ve begun the process of transferring the company into my name.

Today, Sam’s Popcorn products are available nationwide via our online store, as well as in select service stations, hotels, and even at Adelaide Airport. In addition to running my business, I am passionate about giving back. Through my fundraising initiative, Kids4Kids, I donate 40% of the retail sale price from every special popcorn pail sold to the Childhood Cancer Association—an organisation close to my heart.

Beyond popcorn, I share my story with audiences around Australia and internationally, presenting at conferences, schools, business groups, rotary clubs, and workshops—hoping to inspire others, young and old, to follow their passions and make a difference.

 

Join us for breakfast on Wednesday 6 August 2025.

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


We are thrilled to welcome three distinguished leaders to our upcoming SOL Results – Breakfast at the Next Level on Wednesday 2 JULY 2025.

Joining us are Craig Holden, Chair of the South Australian State Planning Commission and Director of Forme Projex, bringing a wealth of expertise in urban development and planning;

George Skrembos, Director of Eastern Building Group and Stepping Stone Childcare, a visionary in early learning infrastructure and childcare services; and Ben Heritage, Founder of Broadway Property and a seasoned commercial real estate expert with over $800 million in transactions.

These accomplished professionals will share their insights, experiences, and lessons from their journeys in business, leadership, and growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable perspectives from three of South Australia’s most dynamic entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

Breakfast at the Next Level | What’s Next for Property Markets

with Property Panel Experts:

Craig Holden – Owner of Forme Projex

George Skrembos – Director, Eastern Building Group and Stepping Stone Childcare

Ben Heritage – Managing Director, Broadway Property

Wednesday 2 July 2025 | 6.30AM – 9:00AM

(registration & networking from 6.30- 7.00)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

About our guest speakers

Craig Holden:

Craig currently serves as Chair of the South Australian State Planning Commission and holds board positions with the ACH Group and the South Australian Housing Trust.

He is the founder and principal of Forme Projex, a company renowned for its expertise in the development of high-quality urban residential apartments. Craig is an active member of several key industry bodies, including the Urban Development Institute of Australia (SA), the Master Builders Association of South Australia, Business SA, and the Real Estate Institute of South Australia.

Craig holds a Bachelor of Architecture (Honours) from the University of Adelaide and a Graduate Diploma in Building Project Management from the South Australian Institute of Technology.

He also holds a General Builder’s Licence, is a registered Land Agent, and is recognised as an Accredited Professional Planner (Level 2).

George Skrembos:

George is the Director of both Eastern Building Group and Stepping Stone Childcare. He holds a Bachelor of Architectural Studies from the University of Adelaide and established Eastern Building Group in 1998.

With a strong focus on early childhood infrastructure, George has designed and constructed over 40 Early Learning facilities across South Australia. He currently oversees the operation of 25 Stepping Stone Childcare and Early Learning Centers, employing more than 600 staff members.

George contributes to sector development as a Reference Committee member for the Education and Early Childhood Services Registration and Standards Board, helping to shape guidance and best practices for the industry.

He also serves as Vice President of the Australian Childcare Alliance and is an active member of both the Housing Industry Association and the Master Builders Association.

Ben Heritage:

Ben has been at the forefront of the commercial real estate industry for over a decade, with involvement in property transactions exceeding $800 million.

Before founding Broadway Property, Ben held a senior role at a leading international commercial real estate services and investment firm. During this time, he led South Australia’s metropolitan investment sales team and served as the firm’s senior auctioneer.

A qualified Valuer, Ben brings deep expertise across commercial, retail, and industrial property sectors. His client portfolio spans from local private investors to large international corporations.

Ben combines his extensive industry knowledge with strong communication and negotiation skills to consistently deliver exceptional outcomes for Broadway Property’s clients.

Join us for breakfast on Wednesday 2 July 2025.

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


At our June Breakfast at the Next Level, we’re joined by Grant Stevens APM LEM, Commissioner of South Australia Police. Since 2015, Commissioner Stevens has overseen the safety and security of 1.8 million South Australians, leading over 6,000 staff and managing a $1 billion budget. His work has driven significant organisational reform and delivered on a long-term vision for safer, more resilient communities across the state.

In this breakfast hosted by Stan Kontos, Commissioner Stevens will reflect on the challenges and responsibilities of leading through complex times—including SAPOL’s COVID-19 response, operational transformation, and cultural reform. He will also share thoughts on modern leadership in public service, and the role of strong values in shaping long-term outcomes.

Sometimes the most valuable insights come from outside our usual circles. This is a chance to learn from a leader who’s had to navigate real-world impact, and to consider how our own leadership can help shape stronger communities.

Breakfast at the Next Level | Leadership and Strengthening the Community

with South Australian Police Commissioner Grant Stevens APM LEM

Wednesday 4 June 2025 | 6.30AM – 9:00AM

(registration & networking from 6.30- 7.00)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

About our guest speaker Grant Stevens

Grant Stevens APM LEM, Commissioner of Police since 2015, leads South Australia Police, the government agency responsible for the safety and security of 1.8 million South Australians, across an area of over one million square kilometres.

He is responsible for a budget of over $1 Billion, leading more than 6,000 police officers and staff in achieving the Vision he set in SAPOL 2030 for Safer Communities.

Commissioner Stevens has developed and delivered many of SAPOL’s most significant operational and strategic policing and business reform initiatives. These include the most significant restructure to SAPOL’s operational frontline policing model; and wide reaching cultural reform aimed at achieving gender equity and eliminating discrimination and harassment in the workplace.

Commissioner Stevens is committed to technological transformation across all aspects of police service delivery, supports legislative reform to improve public safety; and has well established credentials in state and national leadership roles addressing organised crime, terrorism, cybercrime, family and domestic violence, sexual crime (including child exploitation), and road safety. He is a member of national policing boards and is the Chair of the Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency.

In the extra-ordinary times of COVID-19 during 2020 and 2021, Commissioner Stevens as the State Co-ordinator under the Emergency Management Act 2004 was the principle decision maker for the management of the COVID-19 response for South Australia. This additional responsibility was undertaken while continuing to lead SAPOL in providing effective police services across the state.

A well-respected community leader; Commissioner Stevens is a volunteer Board member on the Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation and Operation Flinders Foundation, Patron of the South Australia Police Legacy, South Australia Police Historical Society, Patron of the Adelaide Football League; and he has a long standing personal commitment to supporting cancer research, prevention and treatment.

Join us for breakfast on Wednesday 4 June 2025.

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


Join SOL Results Master Coaches, Stan Kontos and John Ngatia, on Wednesday, 14 May 2025, for a transformative breakfast where you will discover that awareness is the first step to success. Learn how shifting your mindset can unlock new opportunities, elevate your personal and professional journey, and empower you to take control of your future. By embracing the mindset of being at cause, you gain the ability to shape your outcomes and harness the power of the creation process.

The Success Formula begins with recognising what holds you back—limiting beliefs and a lack of personal accountability. Once you overcome these barriers, you can cultivate greater energy, improved health, increased wealth, and more time for what truly matters. Enhancing your communication skills will also help you build stronger relationships and open doors to exciting new possibilities.

Consider the area of your life where you feel most challenged. What will it cost you if you don’t make a change? More importantly, what will you gain once you take action? The choice is yours, and the rewards are limitless. Join us and take the first step towards your transformation!

Breakfast at the Next Level | Developing A Success Mindset

with Stan Kontos, Entrepreneur, business coach and speaker and John Ngatia Speaker, Peak Performance and Turnaround Coach

 

Wednesday 14 Mayl 2025 | 6.30AM – 9:00AM

(registration & networking from 6.30- 7.00)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

 

About our guest speakers

Stan Kontos

Stan Kontos is a South Australian business leader, author, mentor, coach and inspirational speaker who enjoys sharing wisdom on living successfully, being positive, and achieving a better balanced life.

His passion is to expand his personal, professional and spiritual development and is an accredited NLP Trainer.

His areas of passion include:

1. Coaching & Mentoring leaders, business owners, and management teams in creating more success for themselves & their clients

2. How to overcome stress and lead a more peaceful & fulfilling life

3. Time management mastery

Stan is an entrepreneur with various businesses around Australia.

Stan focuses on continuous self-improvement of himself and of others – his desire is to expand people’s lives by expanding their mind and helping them grow their entrepreneurial spirit and then to give back to humanity.

Stan is considered one’s ultimate life & business coach.

John Ngatia

John is a Speaker, Peak Performance and Turnaround Coach, an accredited NLP Master Practitioner and a Hydration Specialist. As a speaker/trainer he has an endearing and charismatic style that captures his audience’s attention and hearts.

John’s mission is to inspire millions of people worldwide to live a life of joy, great health and financial abundance.

He is a business and personal development consultant, a peak performance and turn around coach, a dynamic and compelling speaker whose passion is to inspire, motivate and help people to personally enhance and enrich the quality of their life, physically, mentally and financially. John’s qualifications include Certified Master Practitioner of Neuro Linguistics Programming.

He has empowered thousands of clients from all walks of life to not only dream big but live life by design. He is the author of “One Plus One Equals Four-The Keys to Success”-a powerful and practical formula to self-transformation.

A qualified accountant of over 15 years, John has had extensive experience and understanding of business and managing large corporations, having worked in both small businesses and large multinational organisations. This experience can assist you in understanding strategies to apply in your own business and at work.

He has successfully coached and mentored high profile business owners, executives, doctors, surgeons and sports personalities. Some past clients include Kimberly Clarke International, Australia Post, Crown Equipment, Motorola, Star Pharmacy Group, BAE Systems to name but a few.

Join us for breakfast on Wednesday 14 May 2025.

 

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


Join Stan Kontos and SOL Results on Wednesday, 2 April 2025, for an inspiring breakfast with Professor Steve Birrell, a distinguished surgical oncologist and biotech entrepreneur dedicated to reducing cancer risk and transforming women’s health.

With an extensive career in breast cancer research, hormone therapy, and biotech innovation, Professor Birrell has led groundbreaking initiatives, including founding three biotech companies, advancing cancer prevention, and expanding global clinical trials.

Professor Stephen Birrell is a surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the hormonal management of perimenopausal dysfunction. Over his long and diverse career, he has engaged in many entrepreneurial ventures, including founding three biotech companies. One of these companies has recently expanded into the U.S. and is currently conducting a critical trial in early-stage breast cancer based on one of his inventions.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insightful knowledge, network with like-minded professionals, and hear some of the latest advancements in women’s health.

Breakfast at the Next Level | Professor Steve Birrell Reducing Cancer Risk
Leading the Way in Women’s Health

with Professor Steve Birrell – Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and a Chief Medical Officer at HAVAH Therapeutics, a women’s health biopharmaceutical company

 

Wednesday 2 April 2025 | 6.30AM – 9:00AM

(registration & networking from 6.30- 7.00)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

 

About our guest speaker

Professor Stephen Birrell is a surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the hormonal management of perimenopausal dysfunction. Over his long and diverse career, he has engaged in many entrepreneurial ventures, including founding three biotech companies. One of these companies has recently expanded into the U.S. and is currently conducting a critical trial in early-stage breast cancer based on one of his inventions.

He has established both public and private multidisciplinary breast cancer clinics, as well as an internationally recognized lymphedema clinic. His expertise in this field led him to treat members of the Royal Bedouin families of the UAE for silicon sand-induced lymphedema in their legs.

However, his primary focus has always been breast cancer prevention rather than treatment—a commendable yet challenging pursuit. To this end, alongside his long-term scientific colleague, Professor Wayne Tilley, he co-founded the Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories at the University of Adelaide. This institution has conducted pivotal research into the molecular endocrinology of breast cancer formation, resulting in seminal publications in high-impact journals such as *Nature* and *Nature Medicine*.

Currently, Professor Birrell is involved in two major initiatives generating significant interest:

Estrenue Pty Ltd and Audrey Health Pty Ltd. – **Estrenue** is a biotech company commercializing a micro-silicon particle licensed from the University of South Australia, designed to deliver high concentrations of natural hormones such as estrogen into the skin for cosmetic purposes.

– **Audrey Health** aligns with his long-term commitment to addressing the rising incidence of breast cancer among ethnic Chinese women, particularly in mainland China. The combination of high mammographic breast density and distinct hormonal profiles has led to a dramatic increase in breast cancer cases over the past decade, with the average age of onset now at 41 years. To combat this, Professor Birrell has partnered with influential Victorian and Hong Kong-based Chinese entrepreneurs to establish a screening and prevention model in Melbourne, with plans for expansion into the Bay Area of Hong Kong. With over one billion ethnic Chinese women worldwide, Professor Birrell believes this initiative represents one of the most impactful applications of his research in the fight against breast cancer-related mortality.

Join us for breakfast on Wednesday 2 April 2025.

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL

On the first Wednesday of the month, some of South Australia’s most successful and motivated people get together over breakfast to discuss, learn, share and grow – personally and professionally.


On Wednesday, 5 March 2025, we are honoured to welcome Kate Croser, Chief Executive Officer of the South Australian Film Corporation and an Emmy award-winning film and television producer. With a career spanning acclaimed feature films and television productions, Kate’s work has been nominated for and won Australian Academy Awards and has screened at the world’s most prestigious international film festivals.

Beyond her cinematic achievements, Kate has founded and led successful independent production companies, including Hedone Productions, which was nominated for Australian Screen Business of the Year. She has played a key role in shaping South Australia’s film industry and continues to drive its growth on both national and international stages.

Recognised as one of South Australia’s top 50 most influential people, she is a true visionary in both the creative and business worlds.

Hosted by Stan Kontos, this event is a must-attend for professionals seeking insights into leadership, creativity, and the business of storytelling. Start your morning with insight, inspiration, and valuable connections at Breakfast at the Next Level.

Breakfast at the Next Level | Kate Croser SA Top 50 Most Influential People

Emmy and AACTA award-winning film and television producer

with Kate Croser- CEO of South Australian Film Corporation

Wednesday 5 March 2025 | 7:00AM – 9:00AM

(networking from 6.30)

Adelaide Pavilion | Veale Gardens, cnr South Terrace & Peacock Road, Adelaide

About our guest speaker

Kate Croser is the Chief Executive Officer of the South Australian Film Corporation and an Emmy award-winning film and television producer. Kate’s work has been nominated for and won Australian Academy Awards and screened at the world’s most prestigious international film festivals.

Kate has established a number of successful independent production companies including Hedone Productions, nominated for Australian Screen Business of the Year at the 2015 Screen Producers Australia Awards.

Kate currently serves as a Committee for Economic Development Australia (CEDA) Trustee, SA Chapter Chair for Chief Executive Women (CEW), a member of the SA Leaders for Gender Equity, and serves on Workskil Australia’s Board, and the University of Adelaide’s Creativity and Culture Industry Advisory Board. Kate previously served on the Board of the South Australian Film Corporation, and was a Councillor for Screen Producers Australia, and a member of the Board of Ausfilm.

In 2020, Kate was named by the Advertiser as one of South Australia’s top 50 most influential people and in 2023 Kate was selected as a finalist in The Advertiser Sunday Mail Woman of the Year Awards – Leader of the Year category.

Join us for breakfast on Wednesday 5 March 2025.

1079 Life and SOL Results presents BREAKFAST AT THE NEXT LEVEL