The QLD State Conference on May 20 took place on a fantastic autumn afternoon overlooking the Brisbane River, at family business venue, Moda events Portside.  Our line-up of speakers ensured there was something for everyone in the audience of 80 plus attendees, and from opposition leader Tim Leader to our keynote John Wagner, the conference provided for a thought provoking and entertaining afternoon. A special thank you once again to our partners who help us ensure we can bring you events of this calibre- Cooper Grace Ward, Gold Sponsor, KPMG, National Sponsor, Arthur J. Gallagher (formerly Strathearn Insurance), insurance sponsor, and our in-kind sponsors, Moreton Island Adventures and Ballandean Wines.

Forthcoming events in QLD for July:
July 22: FBA QLD’s 2nd Chairman’s Lunch – Richard Malouf, guest speaker.
Starting his first business in 1962, Richard is still the head of his very successful family business, and I very much look forward to hearing him tell us of his journey.  
July 29: FBA QLD Next Gen Drinks -Do you know the story behind the 2016 young Australians of the year?  Best mates, Nic Marchesi and Lucas Patchett who built a free mobile laundry in their old van to help the homeless will be our special guests at the FBA Next Gen drinks at THE laneway from 5.15pm. Orange Sky Laundry now has over 510 volunteers and is operating in 9 cities across Australia. Nic and Lucas have found a way to treat others the way they want to be treated by restoring respect, raising health standards and reducing the strain on resources.

To register for either of these events, please follow the links above or register at our website:www.fambiz.com.au

National Conference news:
The FBA National Conference is in Melbourne on August 17-19, and the programme is now out.  Our early bird rates end on July 6, so be quick to secure your spot!

We have a bevy of QLD talent on show.  James Beck, Queensland FBA Accredited Adviser will present parallel session Benefits of sound governance structure in family business which will explore the importance of governance in family business and strategies for its implementation.  And Andrew Barter, FBA QLD Accredited adviser and Forum moderator is moderating a session – Diversifying your family business – why & how?

I’m also looking forward to seeing if any QLD families will be represented at the Meeting the Award Winners on Friday Morning. This will be a great opportunity to hear the stories behind the recipients of the 2016 Award for Entrepreneurship, Next Generation Achiever Award and Distinguished Family Business of the Year Award.

Applications for the 2016 Award for Entrepreneurship and Next Generation Achiever Award are now open, click here for more information. If you know a worthy recipient of these Awards encourage them to apply, or let me know and I can follow them up.

Until next month!

Martine Poulain
Queensland State Manager