Schedule

A JOURNEY OF
GROWTH & DISCOVERY

In a world of relentless acceleration—where every moment is optimized for productivity, growth, and efficiency—we’re creating: A Space to Breathe. It’s an intentional pause; inviting you to step back from the relentless pace of modern society, and into a meaningful space for deep, human conversations.

GROWTH ACADEMY

The Garden of Unearthly Delights

10:00

–

17:00

About

When you’re a business leader, considering becoming one, or working alongside one - the pace can feel relentless. Sales need scaling, marketing needs refining, teams need managing, and growth requires constant navigation. Quick online searches can’t replace the practical insights and real-world strategies needed to move fast and get things right.

The Growth Academy is your hands-on guide to thriving at every stage of your business journey. From validating ideas to scaling globally and streamlining with automation, this program delivers expert-led sessions, actionable insights, and real-world strategies tailored to your needs through 4 x Stages:

START: Turning Ideas Into Reality

BUILD: Momentum in Market

SCALE: Your Company Beyond Borders

AUTOMATE: Your Company & Life Systems

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WHAT TO EXPECT

FULL SCHEDULE COMING SOON

Registration

10:30

11:30

Voices :

STAGE:

The Art of Attention: Building A Brand That Breaks Through

13:00

14:00

Your brand is more than just a logo or a tagline.. it’s the story, emotion, and experience you create for your audience. But in a crowded market, how do you craft a brand that not only stands out but becomes unforgettable? This session will take you through the essentials of building a compelling brand identity that resonates deeply with your target audience. From defining your core values and voice to creating visuals that speak louder than words, you’ll learn how to align every aspect of your brand with your vision and market needs. With practical strategies and real-world examples, we’ll show you how to develop a brand that captures attention, builds trust, and leaves a lasting impression.

Voices :

STAGE:

START

Leveraging Expert Talent: When and How to Use Fractional Specialists

14:15

15:15

Scaling a business doesn’t always mean hiring a full-time team from the start. Fractional professionals - such as specialists in sales, marketing, and growth - offer a dynamic way to access expertise without stretching your resources. In this session, explore how to integrate fractional talent into your business to drive results and scale effectively. Learn how to identify when your business is ready for fractional help, choose the right experts, and set clear expectations to maximize impact. Discover actionable steps to create systems and processes that align with your goals, ensuring fractional professionals seamlessly contribute to your growth.

Voices :

STAGE:

BUILD

Free Your Time: Simple Systems to Work Smarter, Not Harder

10:30

11:30

Ever feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day? Learn how to simplify your life by automating repetitive tasks and creating systems that give you back your time. Whether it’s managing your schedule, staying on top of to-dos, or streamlining work processes, discover small, impactful changes that make a big difference.

Voices :

STAGE:

AUTOMATE

Fuelling Your Legal Growth Engine: From Idea to Exit

11:45

12:45

Building and scaling a business is challenging, but failing to get your legal strategy right can lead to costly mistakes that derail growth-or even jeopardize your success altogether. Founders often face hurdles like protecting intellectual property, navigating complex funding agreements, managing employee equity, and preparing for high-stakes exits-all while trying to focus on running their businesses. Consider this your opportunity to get ahead of those challenges. Learn how to avoid the pitfalls that catch many founders off guard, from unclear IP ownership and misaligned contracts to compliance gaps that can sink a deal. Whether you’re just starting or preparing for acquisition, we'll share a clear, actionable framework to build a legally robust and future-ready company.

Voices :

STAGE:

SCALE

GARDEN PARTY

The Garden of Unearthly Delights

17:00

–

19:00

About

Join us in the enchanting Garden of Unearthly Delights, where you'll connect, converse, and celebrate after your day of learning together. It will be a warm and welcome embrace that will continue through your _SOUTHSTART experience.

WHAT TO EXPECT

FULL SCHEDULE COMING SOON

MAIN DAY

Serafino Winery

08:00

–

21:00

About

We're whisking you away from Lot Fourteen in Adelaide CBD and welcoming you to Serafino Winery in McLaren Vale. Crafted to inspire genuine connections, powerful insights, and moments of renewal, this day offers space to pause, breathe, and explore the "why" behind our work—gaining fresh perspectives across business, creativity, technology, science, and impact.

- Conversations will unfold in every corner—whether through structured formats across our 3 x stages, or spontaneous moments that create lasting bonds.

- Mindfulness activities will offer moments to recharge, clear your mind, and find balance - while forging deeper connections.

‍- Bookable one-on-one sessions with founders, investors, and industry experts will help you foster strategic discussions and authentic connections.

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Whether you’re a quiet observer drawn to deep dialogue, a social butterfly finding your tribe, or balancing work and life - there'll be something for you. When it's time to leave, you’ll carry a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and community—a catalyst for rethinking how we grow, connect, and move forward, together.

WHAT TO EXPECT

FULL SCHEDULE COMING SOON

Main Day Departure Lounge & Bus Adventure

09:00

10:00

Gather at Lot Fourteen, the beginning of your MAIN DAY journey! Munch on morning delicacies, regroup and get jazzed about the amazing adventure ahead.

Voices :

STAGE:

Welcome & Official Opening

10:00

10:30

Join us for the official welcome into your MAIN DAY experience. This will include a welcome to the country where we will gather and celebrate the people who have forged the foundations upon which we are now able to grow.

Voices :

STAGE:

Lake Stage

Health & Wellbeing activities

10:30

16:30

With a range of restorative activities—from sound baths and meditation to guided breathwork and mindfulness workshops—we're creating ample space to help you find calm amidst the festival’s dynamic energy. Here, you’ll have time to breathe, reflect, and reset, fostering a balanced mind for sharper thinking and open creativity.

Voices :

STAGE:

Conversations

10:30

16:30

What does our planet look like in 2050? How did we get there? How did we shape the cultural alignment needed to bring our people together, for the betterment of our collective future on planet earth? Every conversation—whether guided or unexpected— will provide the chance to connect deeply, share bold ideas, and spark new possibilities. The caliber and diversity of our attendees offers a unique opportunity to engage with the thought leaders shaping the future, in an environment that encourages genuine insight sharing & growth.

Voices :

STAGE:

Investor Office Hours

10:30

16:30

Don’t miss the chance to participate in Investor Office Hours at _SOUTHSTART (limited places 'no application required' offered to the first ticket holders) where you’ll have the unique opportunity to connect one-on-one with top investors. This session offers founders an intimate setting to ask pressing questions, receive personalised feedback, and build meaningful relationships with potential backers. Whether you're looking for funding or seeking guidance, these tailored conversations are designed to help you make the most of your investor connections and elevate your business to the next level

Voices :

STAGE:

Breathe Easy Overnight

18:00

–

10:00

About

Elevate your _SOUTHSTART experience with the exclusive Breathe Easy Overnight Package. Join us for a one-night stay in McLaren Vale, following the conclusion of your Serafino experience. With this package, your ticket includes round-trip transportation from Adelaide to Serafino and a seamless overnight stay at the McLaren Vale Motel, just 3 km from the festival.

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No need to worry about a thing—our luggage concierge will handle your bags from the moment you leave Adelaide, so you can head straight into the festival stress-free. At the end of the day, a shuttle will whisk you back to the hotel for a restful night, and bring you to your selected summit the next dy. And breathe… everything is taken care of.

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Note: This package includes only accommodation and travel coordination—festival sessions, activities, and staff are not included beyond the festival closing at 9pm on March 5th at Serafino.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

FULL SCHEDULE COMING SOON

INDUSTRY SUMMITS

Fleurieu Coast

09:00

–

17:00

About

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Fleurieu Peninsula, the Industry Summits offer an unparalleled chance to dive into the topics that drive your industry forward. With carefully curated, community-focused content, these summits are designed for rich dialogue, actionable insights, and industry-specific strategies. You’ll be welcomed into an environment that mirrors the region’s warmth and hospitality, fostering connections that endure and collaborations that thrive long after the event.

WHAT TO EXPECT

FULL SCHEDULE COMING SOON

Departure Lounge & Bus Adventure

09:00

10:00

Gather at Lot Fourteen, the beginning of your journey! Munch on morning delicacies, regroup and get jazzed about the amazing adventure ahead.

Main Day Departure Lounge & Bus Adventure

09:00

10:00

Gather at Lot Fourteen, the beginning of your MAIN DAY journey! Munch on morning delicacies, regroup and get jazzed about the amazing adventure ahead.

All Day Food & Beverage Lounges Open

09:30

20:30

Welcome & Official Opening

10:00

10:30

Transit to Summit

10:00

11:00

Engage in knowledge sharing through catered conversations

10:00

15:30

Registration

10:00

11:00

Welcome to the festival! Registration is your first stop to kick off an incredible experience. Check in, collect your landyard, and get all the information you need to make the most of your day. Our friendly team will be on hand to answer any questions, provide recommendations, and help you navigate the schedule. Take a moment to connect with fellow attendees, grab a coffee, and start immersing yourself in the energy of the event. Whether you’re here to learn, network, or explore new opportunities, your journey begins here.

Sound Bath

10:30

11:30

Office Hours

10:30

11:30

Conversation

10:30

12:00

Conversations

10:30

16:30

Health & Wellbeing activities

10:30

16:30

Experts in Residence

10:30

16:30

Here, you’ll have an opportunity to sit down with industry leaders and seasoned mentors for personalised, one-on-one or small-group conversations. Whether you're seeking advice on scaling your business, navigating legal challenges, refining your strategy, or diving into a specific problem, this session is designed to give you tailored insights and actionable guidance. Get ready to tap into expert knowledge and walk away with valuable recommendations to propel your journey forward.

Investor Office Hours

10:30

16:30

Registration

10:30

11:30

How to build and nurture your business operating system

10:30

11:30

Running a business is tough enough without having to reinvent the wheel every time you face a challenge. In this session, you’ll learn how to design and nurture a business operating system that brings clarity, consistency, and efficiency to your organization. Drawing on over 20 years of experience as a founder and leader, including two successful exits (the most recent in the high seven figures), Mike will share actionable insights into scaling SMBs, building leadership teams, and implementing systems that drive results. Whether you're a founder looking to elevate your leadership or a team aiming to achieve better outcomes, this session will equip you with the tools and frameworks to build a business that thrives even when you're not in the room.

Free Your Time: Simple Systems to Work Smarter, Not Harder

10:30

11:30

You have an idea. Let’s make it a reality!

10:30

11:30

Having a bold vision is exciting, but taking the leap to pursue it can feel daunting. Self-doubt, competing priorities, and a fear of failure often hold people back from turning their ideas into reality. How do you move from dreaming big to confidently taking action? This session is about breaking through those barriers. We’ll explore how to effectively brainstorm, ideate, refine your ideas, and build the confidence to move forward even in the face of uncertainty. Learn how to tackle the BIG questions like: Is this idea worth pursuing? What’s stopping me from taking the first step? And how do I create clarity amidst the chaos? You’ll gain tools to frame your vision realistically, navigate challenges with resilience, and build a mindset that turns hesitation into momentum.

How to be a more effective leader & nurture a high performing team

10:30

11:30

Great leaders inspire, influence, and drive real change. But what sets exceptional leaders apart? It’s their ability to create a compelling vision, foster trust, and empower others to reach their full potential, all while navigating the complexities of growth and uncertainty. Join us to learn how to face tough decisions with courage, guide your team through uncertainty with confidence, and create an environment where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to do their best work.

Sovereign Technologies

11:00

14:40

In a world where technological sovereignty is pivotal, the Sovereign Technologies Summit delves into the frontiers of space, defense, cybersecurity, and quantum innovations. This gathering brings together visionaries shaping Australia’s strategic capabilities, exploring opportunities and challenges that lie at the intersection of cutting-edge tech and national resilience. Engage in thought-provoking conversations over a long lunch with experts and peers driving the future of sovereignty and technology.

Education & Training

11:00

15:00

Join fellow educators, trainers, and thought leaders over an engaging forum to discuss how technology, creativity, and agility are reshaping the educational landscape. From cultivating future-ready skills to integrating innovative teaching methods, this summit is designed to spark inspiration, share best practices, and build connections among those committed to empowering the next generation of learners.

Creative Technologies

11:00

14:40

Where creativity meets technology, the Creative Technologies Summit explores the transformative power of AI, digital media, and cultural innovation. Join artists, technologists, and culture-makers for an inspiring lunch experience that unravels the possibilities of the creative industries. From digital art to immersive experiences, this summit is your gateway to understanding how tech is reshaping the stories we tell and the world we live in.

Climate & Clean Energy

11:00

14:40

Join us for a summit dedicated to those driving the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon future. This event highlights breakthrough innovations in renewable energy, carbon capture, and green metals, showcasing Australia’s role in leading net-zero solutions. With top experts and changemakers, we’ll tackle today’s urgent decarbonization challenges and explore clean energy innovations that are reshaping global markets.

Agritech & Food Systems

11:00

14:40

Focusing on the future of sustainable agriculture and food production, this forum will explore cutting-edge innovations in precision farming, synthetic biology, and methods that enhance global food security. It will tackle the challenges posed by climate change, resource constraints, and population growth, offering solutions to create a resilient agricultural sector capable of sustaining future demands.

Health & BioTech

11:00

14:40

The future of health is here. Come and explore the breakthroughs shaping life sciences, from medical devices to cutting-edge biotech and personalized health solutions. Enjoy conversations with experts pushing the boundaries of healthcare innovation, and network with those committed to transforming the future of human health and well-being over a curated lunch experience.

Ecosystem & Community

11:00

14:40

For those who are curious, open-minded, or simply looking to unwind, the Community Summit offers a refreshing escape by the beach. If you're sector-agnostic or eager to explore outside traditional boundaries, this summit provides an open and relaxed atmosphere to connect, reflect, and engage in free-spirited conversations about the ideas that matter to you—all while enjoying a laid-back coastal lunch.

Conversation

11:30

13:00

Conversation

11:30

12:30

From Leads to Loyal Customers: The Sales Playbook for Early-Stage Growth

11:45

12:45

Closing a sale is more than just sealing the deal.. it’s about building trust, creating value, and fostering relationships that last. Yet, many founders and professionals struggle with understanding their customers' true needs, overcoming objections, and creating proposals that convert. Come and dive into the psychology, strategy, and techniques behind effective selling. You’ll learn how to approach conversations with confidence, frame your value proposition in a way that resonates, and navigate objections with ease. From identifying the right leads to crafting a winning close, we’ll share actionable tips to help you consistently secure deals that stick. Whether you’re selling to your first customer or negotiating high-stakes contracts, this session will equip you with the tools to win deals and build long-term partnerships.

Effortless Workflows: Connecting Tools for a Unified System

11:45

12:45

Juggling too many apps or systems? Find out how to connect the tools you already use - like calendars, email, and task managers - into seamless workflows that cut out manual work and keep everything running smoothly.

Fuelling Your Legal Growth Engine: From Idea to Exit

11:45

12:45

Hyper Validation 2.0. Test, Iterate, Grow, Repeat.

11:45

12:45

You've jumped into making your idea a reality .. but how do you know it's the right one? Validation is your ultimate shortcut to discovering whether your concept has legs-before you sink time and money into it. This session dives straight into practical, low-cost methods to test your assumptions, uncover customer needs, and refine your idea. The session will also explore the capabilities of AI and how synthetic data can be leveraged to model out and validate ideas into market ready concepts.

Office Hours

12:30

13:30

Meditation

12:30

13:30

Beyond Bots: Using AI to Make Life Easier

13:00

14:00

Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool reshaping how businesses operate and compete. But how can you integrate A.I. into your business without losing the human touch? This session explores practical and innovative ways you can leverage A.I. to streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and deliver personalized customer experiences. Whether you’re an early adopter or just starting to explore A.I., we'll help you bridge the gap between human potential and technological power.

Mastering the Market: Global Expansion & Rapid Growth Strategies That Work

13:00

16:30

Scaling your business can be as challenging as it is rewarding. In this session, hear from founders and industry leaders who have successfully navigated rapid growth and global expansion. Through real-world case studies, learn how to overcome scaling challenges such as maintaining culture, managing team dynamics, and balancing operational demands. Get tactical advice on aligning resources with growth, adapting to market demands, and identifying when and how to pivot during critical growth stages. Walk away with actionable insights to confidently navigate the complexities of scaling and position your business for long-term success.

The Art of Attention: Building A Brand That Breaks Through

13:00

14:00

Marketing Tactics to Gain Traction at Rapid Pace

13:00

14:00

In today’s noisy world, how do you make your message stand out and connect with the right people? This session dives deep into the essential elements of a winning marketing strategy—no fluff, just actionable insights. Learn how to identify the best channels for your audience, craft messages that not only convert but resonate, and discover how to do it all without a huge budget. We’ll also explore game-changing low-cost AI tools that can streamline your campaigns, optimize your efforts, and help you punch above your weight. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to sharpen your approach, this session equips you with the frameworks and tools to attract attention, build trust, and grow your brand.

Conversation

13:30

15:00

Conversation

13:30

15:00

Conversation

13:30

14:30

Breathwork

14:00

15:00

Inside the Fundraising Playbook: Investor "Ask me anything"

14:15

15:15

Raising capital can be one of the most exciting-and daunting-challenges for any founder. The fundraising journey is filled with potential pitfalls, from crafting the perfect pitch to negotiating term sheets and aligning with the right investors. Without a clear strategy, it’s easy to lose momentum or miss opportunities to secure the funding your business needs to thrive. Join Radium as we uncover the inside secrets to navigating your fundraising roadmap with confidence. Learn how to identify the right investors, tailor your pitch to stand out, and manage the complexities of funding rounds like a pro.

Leveraging Expert Talent: When and How to Use Fractional Specialists

14:15

15:15

Automation Architecture: Designing Systems That Scale

14:15

16:30

Take a deeper dive into the technical side of automation. Learn how to map your business processes, select the right tools, and design scalable architectures that grow with you.

Office Hours

14:30

15:30

Transit to Chalk Hill

14:40

15:00

As the festival's culminating event, this is where the energy of each summit comes together. Nestled amidst the vineyards with sweeping views, this final gathering offers an opportunity to unwind, reflect, and celebrate the week’s insights and connections with a lively blend of music, local food, and wine. Join fellow attendees, speakers, and innovators from every summit to share stories, forge new collaborations, and toast to a future driven by creativity, technology, and a shared passion for progress.

Salon

15:00

14:30

Travel to Chalk Hill Wines

15:00

15:10

Conversation

15:30

17:00

Conversation

15:30

16:30

Conversation - COMING SOON

15:30

17:00

Closing

15:30

18:00

Building the Right Community Around Your Idea

15:30

16:30

In the journey of building a business or navigating your personal growth, your community can be your greatest asset. But finding the right people to share your vision, offer support, and collaborate meaningfully can feel like an overwhelming task. How do you identify and connect with the people who truly understand your goals and can help you thrive? Join us to explore the art of building authentic relationships and creating a network that fuels both your personal and professional growth. Learn how to identify the communities that align with your values, approach people with confidence, and foster connections that go beyond surface-level interactions. Whether you’re searching for mentors, collaborators, or a supportive group of peers, this session will give you the tools to find and grow your tribe.

Startup Math Decoded: Valuations, ESOPs, and Term Sheets Simplified

15:30

16:30

Fundraising and scaling come with a whirlwind of financial and strategic decisions that can feel overwhelming. From navigating term sheets and understanding valuations to structuring equity and ESOPs (Employee Share Option Plans) to attract and retain top talent, the stakes are high-and getting it wrong can cost you more than just money. In this session, Scendar will break down the complexities of financial strategy and fundraising into clear, actionable insights. Learn how to evaluate term sheets with confidence, structure equity for growth while maintaining control, and design ESOPs that align with your business goals. Whether you’re preparing for your first raise, planning a growth round, or simply looking to better understand the financial backbone of your business, you'll gather the tools and knowledge to make smarter decisions.

Office Hours

16:30

17:30

Sound Bath

16:30

17:30

Sundowners and Entertainment

16:30

18:00

Garden Party

17:00

19:00

Join us for the official opening of _SOUTHSTART 2025 at the Garden Party! Set in the magical Garden of Unearthly Delights, this event is the perfect way to kick off the festival, offering the first of many opportunities to connect, converse, and share a day of learning together. It will be warm and welcome embrace that will continue through your _SOUTHSTART experience.

Departure

17:00

18:00

Pitch Showcase

17:30

18:30

Rolling Departure

18:00

21:00

We'll be operating an hourly coach service taking you back to Adelaide CBD. If you need to travel to the airport, please organise a taxi in advance.

Hourly Shuttle to McLaren Vale Motel

18:00

21:00

We'll be offering an hourly service to McLaren Vale Motel - just 3 minutes away from Serafino.

Rest, Recharge, and Refresh

21:00

10:00

Enjoy a restful night, and ease into your day 3 with a leisurely breakfast amidst peaceful surroundings. Take this time to explore the area at your own pace—perhaps a morning walk to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the scenic views, setting a calm, refreshing tone for the day. When you’re ready, we’ll pick you up and whisk you away to your summit adventure, fully recharged and ready for the inspiring experiences ahead!

A JOURNEY OF GROWTH & DISCOVERY

GROWTH ACADEMY

GARDEN PARTY

MAIN DAY

Breathe Easy Overnight

INDUSTRY SUMMITS

A JOURNEY OF
GROWTH & DISCOVERY