Gold Coast Insider

RDA Gold Coast

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UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to Gold Coast Insider, where we bring you business insights, stories, opportunities and forecasts from movers and shakers across the Gold Coast.

JUN 1

Prof James St John - A world-first clinical trial to treat chronic spinal cord injuries

Interview with Professor James St John, Head of the Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research at Griffith University’s Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics Every day, one Australian suffers a spinal cord injury — often with lifelong consequences. But what if the key to healing lies... in your nose? This week on the Gold Coast Insider Podcast, we dive into revolutionary research that’s turning heads worldwide. Our guest, Professor James St John, is leading a world-first clinical trial at Gold Coast University Hospital that aims to regrow damaged spinal nerves using olfactory cells (yes, the ones that detect smell!) to create neural bridges and spark regeneration. It’s bold. It’s ground-breaking. And it’s happening right here on the Gold Coast. From spinal repair to early detection of Alzheimer’s and dementia, this episode is a deep dive into radical science, brilliant minds and hope for millions. Tune in now – this is one episode you won’t want to miss. (00:00) Introduction (01:35) Journey into Neuroscience (04:20) Olfactory System & Regeneration (06:54) Breakthrough Spinal Cord Therapy (09:58) Clinical Trials & Challenges (16:58) Previous CIinical Trial Attempts (20:28) Long-term Intensive Rehabilitation to Therapy Success (22:46) Impact of Spinal Cord Injury (26:16) Clinical Trial Goals & Designs (33:01) Power of Philanthropy & Community Support (37:21) Alzheimer's & Smell Loss Link (44:59) Building a Legacy of Innovation (47:39) Closing comments About Prof St John Prof James St John is Head of the Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research at Griffith University. Prof St John has been lead investigator on more than $38 million of research projects funded by philanthropy, state and federal government. The major project of the Centre is the translation of a cell transplantation therapy to repair spinal cord injury. The community co-designed therapy uses transplantation of olfactory glial cells within three-dimensional nerve bridges to repair the injury site of chronic spinal cord injury, combined with intensive long-term rehabilitation. This therapy is now progressing to a clinical trial that is commencing in late 2025 in Queensland. Links Griffith University Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics Griffith University Smell Clinic Professor James St John LinkedIn

49 min
MAY 11

Nicole Evans - From awareness to action: Saving young lives with connection

Australia is in the midst of a youth mental health crisis — but there is hope. In this Gold Coast Insider episode, mental health educator Nicole Evans shares how she and Dr. Kylie Armstrong are transforming the way we tackle mental wellbeing through their groundbreaking initiative, ConnectedLE. This award-winning, accredited training company is reshaping best practices in mental health education by empowering everyday people — teachers, coworkers, employers, friends — to become ‘connectors’: those who can recognise the early signs of distress and guide young people (or anyone else) towards support. Discover how blending personal storytelling with science is also helping to reduce stigma and drive early intervention. Plus, we cover some practical, actionable tips to boost your own mental health and wellbeing. This powerful conversation could help you make a life-changing difference in your family, workplace or community, so don’t miss it! About Nicole Nicole Evans is a Co-founder of ConnectedLE. She is a passionate educator, speaker, and connection consultant with over 25 years of experience. She has made it her life’s work to help people feel truly seen, heard, and empowered. During her 19 years at Griffith University’s School of Medicine and Dentistry, she transformed the way future healthcare professionals are trained, pioneering innovative programs that build stronger communication, collaboration and compassion across the health sector. Links ConnectedLE Website ConnectedLE Facebook ConnectedLE Instagram ConnectedLE X ConnectedLE LinkedIn Nicole Evans LinkedIn Dr Kylie Armstrong LinkedIn ConnectLE Evidence-based Helpful Tips (PDF) Join ConnectedLE for the Science of Connection breakfast sessions with co-founder and medical educator Nicole Evans. Nicole will explore the neuroscience behind human connection, share stories, and offer practical tools and tips to help you feel more connected to yourself, and build stronger and authentic relationships – both personally and professionally. For more information contact nicole@connectedle.com

32 min
JAN 28

Breaking barriers in Biomed: Dr Craig Patch's mission to transform global health

Dr Craig Patch, CEO & Co-founder of Adepa Lifesciences, has had an extraordinary journey that began on the rugby field and led to groundbreaking innovations in biomedical science. In this episode, Dr Patch shares how his experiences in Nepal inspired a mission to combat a fatal disease affecting premature babies in developing countries. We’ll dive into how this remarkable discovery is poised to revolutionize gut health for people of all ages, not just infants. Dr Patch also offers a candid look at the challenges of bringing a global biomedical product to market. Whether you're a startup founder, a scientist, or simply fascinated by the next big breakthrough in health science, this conversation is not to be missed. About Craig Dr Craig Patch, the CEO, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Adepa Lifesciences, is a nutrition innovator with over 30 years of experience improving nutrition, health and wellness. He has extensive experience in value-added supply chains and commercialisation of new products. His research and commercialisation expertise are in Omega-3 and branched-chain fatty acids, targeting the gut-brain-skin axis, and publishing over 70 articles in these areas. Craig has a PhD in biomedical science, MBA and BAppl Science. He is an Australian Institute of Company Directors graduate and an Accredited Practicing Dietitian. Links Dr Craig Patch LinkedIn Adepa Lifesciences LinkedIn Adepa

50 min
11/20/2024

Gareth Richardson - The planning decision that transformed the Gold Coast & is fuelling our new knowledge economy

Two decades ago, securing 200 hectares for the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct laid the foundation for one of the city’s most transformative developments. In this episode we speak with Gareth Richardson, Development Manager for Economic Development Queensland, about how the Precinct - home to Griffith University, the Gold Coast University Hospital, and a thriving innovation ecosystem - has redefined the region’s economy and positioned the Gold Coast as a global leader in knowledge-intensive industries. Gareth shares insights into the bold vision for the city’s future, the need for a 50-year strategic plan, the vital role of collaborative leadership and the opportunities that transformative urban planning can unlock, plus the enduring legacy that town planners can leave in shaping a region’s future. This episode is an invitation to reimagine what’s possible when innovation meets strategic foresight - a testament to the Gold Coast’s ambition to lead on the global stage. About Gareth Gareth Richardson, Development Manager at Economic Development Queensland, brings over two decades of urban development and planning expertise to his role. A QUT graduate, Gareth is part of the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct team with his specific focus on curating private sector investment and driving property solutions for the emerging health and knowledge economy within the Precinct. His passion for the Gold Coast and sustainable urban outcomes drives his commitment to creating transformative spaces for Queensland's future. Links Gareth Richardon LinkedIn Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct Economic Development Queensland

47 min
11/05/2024

Melissa Donnelly - Building consumer trust in a volatile & complex new world (& the seismic impact of AI)

“What do you stand for and why should I care?” According to veteran brand strategist Melissa Donnelly, this is the most fundamental consumer question, and one which should inform every single business communication. But how do we cut through the noise and build consumer trust when we are living in a new ‘VUCA’ world – awash with volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity? Melissa, Director of Affinity Communications and Chair of the newly formed Brand Gold Coast, has a wealth of insightful answers and 'nuts and bolts' examples for us, including a deep dive into AI applications, why they are vital for businesses in 2024, and exactly how they can be used to enhance your relationship with customers. Melissa firmly believes that we have now reached the 'AI inflection point' – ignoring it is simply no longer an option. Expect actionable takeaways for your business as well as a healthy dose of brand inspiration! About Melissa When CEOs and founders are ready to accelerate change and dominate their markets, they turn to Melissa Donnelly – an ambitious brand strategist with over 30 years of experience launching and reigniting global brands. From MTV to Telstra, Melissa has built a reputation for transforming businesses into market leaders, driving growth, and delivering unmatched brand equity. As a LinkedIn Top Voice, keynote speaker, and Chair of the Gold Coast’s Domestic Violence Prevention Centre, Melissa’s influence extends beyond the boardroom, making her a trusted force for innovation and impact. Links Melissa Donnelly LinkedIn Affinity Communications Affinity Communications LinkedIn Brand Gold Coast

1h 15m
10/21/2024

The Hon Rob Borbidge AO - ‘Stay engaged, stay passionate’: A journey of leadership & service

If not for a bold tax reform in the 1970s, the life and career of the Hon Rob Borbidge AO - and the political landscape of Queensland - might have unfolded very differently. Raised on a sheep farm in Victoria, it was the abolition of Queensland's death duties that spurred his family to relocate to the Gold Coast. This move eventually led Rob to be elected as the Member for Surfers Paradise, a position he held with distinction for over 20 years, before becoming Queensland’s 35th Premier in 1996. In this inspiring conversation, Rob reflects on his formative years, the moment that sparked his political career and his extensive community work with LifeFlight Australia and Destination Gold Coast. He shares his thoughts on the essence of leadership, the importance of giving back, and the legacy he has helped shape as one of Queensland’s most respected elder statesmen. About Rob The Hon Robert Borbidge AO was the 35th Premier of Queensland and served as the state member for Surfers Paradise from 1980 to 2001. Since his resignation from the Queensland Parliament in 2001 he has held a number of Board positions. In 2006 he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia and awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Griffith University. He is also former Chair of the Board of Advice for the Institute for Glycomics at Griffith University. From 2013 until 2024, Rob served as Chair of LifeFlight Australia, one of the world's largest not-for-profit aero medical and rescue providers. In July 2023 he was appointed Chair of Experience Gold Coast by Gold Coast City Council. Links LifeFlight Australia Experience Gold Coast

39 min
08/26/2024

Catherine Craig - Navigating the new workplace reforms: Future-proof your business

With sweeping workplace relations reforms introduced on 1 July, and even more coming into effect this earlier week (from 26 August), our podcast guest Catherine Craig is here to help us understand and navigate the changes. Catherine, the founder of Gold Coast company NEXUS Human Resources, walks us through a raft of new regulations regarding maternity leave, the right to request flexible working arrangements, casual employee definitions, same job/same pay for labour hire contractors, the right to disconnect, parental leave and psychosocial hazards. We also discuss trends such as the rise of hybrid workplaces, DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) and personalised learning and development. If you want to future-proof your small business and minimise risk, or you are an employee wanting to know your new rights, this episode is a must! About Catherine Catherine is a seasoned HR executive with a strong background in strategic Human Resources management. As a Board Member and Non-Executive Director at Transcord Community Transport Inc, she brings her expertise in HR, sales and marketing, and P&L oversight to drive the organization's strategic direction. With a master's in strategic HRM, Catherine has successfully led projects in employee relations, business restructures, and change management. She was a 2015 Telstra Businesswoman of the Year nominee and is the Managing Director and Founder of NEXUS Human Resources, an HR organisation that delivers strategic Human Resources solutions to clients across various industries. Links Catherine Craig LinkedIn NEXUS Human Resources NEXUS Human Resources LinkedIn Industrial Relations Changes 2024 (PDF) Psychosocial Hazards (PDF)

44 min
08/13/2024

Patrick Hefferan - Solving the Gold Coast housing crisis: an urban planning perspective

A seasoned urban planner with over 20 years’ experience, this week’s podcast guest Patrick Hefferan provides an expert and nuanced perspective on how to address one of the Gold Coast’s most pressing issues: housing supply. Paradoxically, Patrick believes our housing crisis is actually a good problem to have – it means people are wanting to live, work and play on the Gold Coast, and the economy is accelerating.But where do we go from here? In a free-ranging conversation, we talk about issues such as the need for non-traditional housing types and purpose-built student accommodation, ‘build to rent’ development and how it works, incentivisation for developers, and how transport and sustainability issues impact housing design. This is also a great episode for aspiring urban planners; learn how this multi-disciplinary calling is shaping the city, the economy and our future. About Patrick Patrick Hefferan, a Director at Urbis, is a town planner with over twenty years of experience in state government, local government and private consultancy. Known for his expert knowledge, he has served as an expert witness in the Planning and Environment Court (Qld) and the Supreme Court (NSW). Patrick builds strong client and government relationships, delivering timely, cost-effective outcomes for various planning projects. He has led major development applications in Southeast Queensland and contributed to drafting planning instruments. Specializing in market analysis and residential trend forecasting, Patrick optimises large commercial assets to meet market demands. Links Patrick Hefferan LinkedIn Urbis Urbis LinkedIn Urbis Instagram Urbis X

50 min

See All (45)

Welcome to Gold Coast Insider, where we bring you business insights, stories, opportunities and forecasts from movers and shakers across the Gold Coast.

Creator

RDA Gold Coast
Years Active

2023 - 2025
Episodes

45
Rating

Clean
Show Website

Gold Coast Insider

Gold Coast Insider

Episodes

Prof James St John - A world-first clinical trial to treat chronic spinal cord injuries

Nicole Evans - From awareness to action: Saving young lives with connection

Breaking barriers in Biomed: Dr Craig Patch's mission to transform global health

Gareth Richardson - The planning decision that transformed the Gold Coast & is fuelling our new knowledge economy

Melissa Donnelly - Building consumer trust in a volatile & complex new world (& the seismic impact of AI)

The Hon Rob Borbidge AO - ‘Stay engaged, stay passionate’: A journey of leadership & service

Catherine Craig - Navigating the new workplace reforms: Future-proof your business

Patrick Hefferan - Solving the Gold Coast housing crisis: an urban planning perspective

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