On Monday, February 24, business owners, tourism professionals, and industry leaders gathered at Lakeside Hotel, Bendigo for the Bendigo NEXT Conference 2025. This event, presented by Be.Bendigo in partnership with the City of Greater Bendigo, nbn, and Bendigo Tourism, provided attendees with expert insights, interactive workshops, and invaluable networking opportunities.
Key Highlights from the Day
AI, Digital Innovation & Tourism Growth
The day kicked off with Despina Karatzias from VTIC, delivering key updates on AI and the future of business.
Upgrading Bendigo’s Connectivity
Emily Peel, Head of nbn Local – Vic/Tas, provided insights on upcoming network upgrades and how businesses can leverage them.
Workforce 2025: Challenges & Opportunities
Martin Collins from the Victorian Skills Authority explored emerging workforce trends and strategies for businesses to stay ahead.
Attracting Multicultural Visitors to Bendigo
James Reade, CEO of Bendigo Heritage Attractions, shared insights on brand strategy and attracting diverse audiences.
Creating Accessible Content for Business Success
Ange McKinley from the City of Greater Bendigo presented practical tips on making business content inclusive and accessible.
2025 Bendigo Business & Tourism Outlook
A panel discussion featuring Lauren Ellis, Julie Amos, Nicole McNamara, and Glenn Harvey explored opportunities for growth and innovation in Bendigo over the next year.
Interactive Workshops
Attendees had the opportunity to choose two of three practical workshops, each designed to provide actionable takeaways:
The AI Advantage: 5 Powerful Tools to Take Your Small Business to the NEXT Level by Despina Karatzias
Introduction to Customer Service & Salesmanship by Finn Vedelsby, Director at The Dispensary Bendigo Bar & Diner
Seasonal Cash Flow Management for Tourism and Small Business – Regan Smith, Partner at AFS & Associates
Exhibitors & Networking
Throughout the day, attendees engaged with exhibitors from Bendigo Heritage Attractions, nbn, Bendigo Climate Collaboration Group, and Bendigo TAFE, gaining valuable resources and connections.
The conference concluded with the Bendigo Tourism Networking Drinks, giving attendees the opportunity to unwind and forge new business relationships.
Thank You to Our Partners & Speakers
A huge thank you to our event partners, Be.Bendigo, City of Greater Bendigo, nbn, and Bendigo Tourism, as well as the Lakeside Hotel for hosting us. Special thanks to our MC, Kath Bolitho, for guiding us through the day and to all our speakers, exhibitors, and attendees for making this event a success.
