EVENT SPEAKERS
Bernard Salt AM
Bernard Salt AM is one of Australia’s foremost demographers, futurists, and social commentators, renowned for his incisive analysis of societal trends—especially those shaping regional and rural Australia. As Managing Director of The Demographics Group, best-selling author and columnist for The Australian newspaper, Bernard’s insights extend into how regional communities can thrive.
Cathy McGowan AO
Cathy McGowan is a trailblazer in regional leadership and community empowerment. Best known for her historic win as the independent MP for Indi, Cathy’s grassroots campaign reshaped how politics is done in regional Australia—placing local voices, integrity, and collaboration at the centre of decision-making.
Liz Ritchie
Liz Ritchie is the dynamic CEO of the Regional Australia Institute, and a proud product of country NSW, raised among the rice crops and river red gums of Deniliquin. With over two decades of experience across the corporate, government, and not-for-profit sectors, she brings unparalleled insight.
Ben Finkel
Ben leads the Australian Regional AI Network, a national initiative helping producers, advisors and agribusinesses explore practical, responsible AI. With a background in strategy and innovation across agriculture, logistics and telecoms, he brings a systems lens to technology adoption in regional settings.