Featured Speakers

Lanie Chopping

Lanie Chopping is Director General of the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries and is currently leading the organisation to achieve the State Government’s objectives and commitments for fostering a cohesive, prosperous, vibrant and healthy Western Australian community. She hopes to do this by strengthening the organisation so it can lead the public sector in community focused service delivery.

Prior to her current role, Ms Chopping gained extensive experience in leadership and citizen-focused roles across WA’s public and non-government sectors. This includes Ms Chopping being appointed the Commissioner for Consumer Protection at the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.  

She has also held senior positions at the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, the Economic Regulation Authority, and the West Australian Council of Social Service.

Tim Bray

Tim Bray is the Assistant Coordinator, Strategic and Consumer Policy overseeing Energy Policy WA’s work program on customer and retail policy, contribution to national energy policy, whole-of-government initiatives relating to energy, and the regulation of emerging energy service models. Tim has extensive experience in the energy sector across both the public and private sector. This includes policy, economic regulation, market design, network service provision, energy productivity and the evolving distributed energy space.

Michelle Reynolds

Michelle Reynolds is a well credentialed Chief Executive Officer with extensive experience in government administration. Her career spans more than 30 years over which she has worked in numerous WA Government agencies, departments and committees. Michelle was appointed chief executive of the City of Perth in August 2020. Prior to that appointment, Ms Reynolds had served as chief executive and executive director of Rottnest Island Authority from January 2017. She has held several CEO and executive roles within State Government, including at WorkCover WA and the Department of Premier and Cabinet. Ms Reynolds has a Bachelor of Arts and a Masters of Business Administration.

Rebecca Tomkinson

Rebecca Tomkinson is the Chief Executive Officer of The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia (CME), the peak resources sector representative body in Western Australia. Immediately prior to joining the CME Rebecca was the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Flying Doctor Service in WA. In her early career Rebecca worked in local, state and federal government before transitioning to executive roles in the corporate and community benefit sectors. She is also an active board member with a long standing interest in the development and delivery of governance structures. Raised in regional WA, Rebecca is deeply committed to the social and economic development of the state and the promotion of its unique and critical role nationally and globally.

Darren Mottolini

Darren Mottolini is the Director for Spatial WA, a whole of Government Program to implement a connected advanced spatial digital twin for the State of Western Australia. His career has spanned both private and public sector, providing strategy and consulting services for the implementation of data systems and analytics in mining, transport, asset management, public services, and environmental sectors. He is a board member of the Geospatial Council of Australia and is an active advocate for improving how location data is used as enabler for digital transformation, supporting Government and industry to realise the potential for place-based decision making.

Nicola Brischetto

Nicola Brischetto is the Property Council of Australia’s Western Australian Division’s Executive Director. Nicola is a passionate advocate for the modernisation of WA’s planning system, delivery of more homes and diversification of the state’s economy. Prior to joining the Property Council of Australia, Nicola built an extensive career in government, consulting, education and the media. This experience enables Nicola to skilfully navigate complex policy and regulatory work, making her a powerful advocate for reforms that matter to WA.

Lorissa Kelly

Lorissa is the executive general manager of Strategy, Engagement and Business Development, and is responsible for strategic and business planning, pursuit of new business opportunities, disposal of surplus government assets, advisory services to government and marketing and communication activity.
She has a wealth of experience in a diverse range of areas such as legislation development, property acquisition and operations, public policy, strategic planning, public relations, crisis communications and stakeholder management.
Before joining DevelopmentWA in January 2022, Lorissa spent six years at the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage as an Assistant Director General in Business and Corporate Services, then Strategy and Engagement. Lorissa has previously been seconded from the public service to work as Chief of Staff for the former Minister for Planning, where she had involvement with key projects including the new museum, Perth City Link and Elizabeth Quay.
Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Commerce (First Class Honours) from Curtin University and an Executive Master of Public Administration from the Australia New Zealand School of Government.

Leanne Halliday

Leanne Halliday is a chartered chemical engineer with over 20 years’ experience in the energy sector. Leanne has design, commissioning, project management and sales management experience across the UK, Asian and Australian markets. She has worked for Third Party Assurance provider LRQA for over 12 years, focusing her experience and expertise on helping industry to assure safety and quality across the supply chain. Leanne is currently LRQA’s Global SME for Hydrogen and engaged on Hydrogen projects globally. She is a member of various Australia Standards and ISO Hydroegn related working groups. Leanne is currently based in Western Australia where there is significant potential for the development of a green hydrogen market for export.

Daniel Jackson

Daniel Jackson is a dedicated leader with significant experience in creating, building and operating multiple business. His extensive background spans both military and civilian sectors, showcasing a strong business acumen and a commitment to excellence. Daniel’s journey on, below, and around the oceans and ports of the world began during his 14-year tenure with the Royal Australian Navy. As a Navy Clearance Diver and member of the Australian Special Forces Commando Regiment, he undertook multiple deployments to active operational areas. During his service, Daniel received commendation for his pivotal role in developing the Navy’s Port Security Planning and conducting detailed surveys for international ports in operational zones. Since 2011, Daniel has excelled in senior management, consulting, and executive roles, specialising in project management, risk, and business resilience strategies. His expertise has been instrumental in various sectors including exploration, mining, construction, heavy industry, training, and technology. In June 2020, Daniel was appointed Chief Operating Officer for Gascoyne Gateway Marine Complex, tasked with delivering the $680 million ‘Green’ deep-water, multi-user facility and renewables hub in Exmouth, Western Australia. In November 2023, Daniel was appointed as CEO to lead the project towards construction and operations. His work reflects a passion for building strong and dynamic teams towards delivering on shareholders interests. Since 2019, Daniel has been a valued member of the Edith Cowan University Quality, Audit, and Risk Committee. He holds an MBA from the University of Newcastle and a Graduate Certificate in Governance and Risk Management from the Governance Institute of Australia. In 2022, Daniel was honoured to be accepted into the American Chamber of Commerce Global Leadership Academy.

Prof. Kate Brooks

Kate is the Head of School for Curtin University School of Electrical Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences (EECMS). Kate is an expert in scoping and delivering projects of strategic importance to business, government and universities. Kate values building relationships and networks and has a knack for connecting interesting people to start conversations that generate new ideas. She is also passionate about STEM and skilling up Australia’s workforce for a digital and sustainable world and has a keen eye for what's on the horizon in terms of new opportunities and challenges. Kate has PhD in astrophysics and spent the first part of her research career in Chile working for the European Southern Observatory and then the University of Chile before moving to Sydney to accept the CSIRO Bolton Research Fellowship. Kate was elected President of the Astronomical Society of Australia for 2011, 2012 and was awarded the CSIRO Chairman's Medal in 2015 for her contribution to Australia's involvement with the SKA telescope. Kate's career roles include State Director for the WA Life Sciences Innovation Hub (a collaboration between federal and state governments); Lead Advisor Research for Murdoch University, Innovation Manager for Wesfarmers (WESCEF); and Deputy Head of Operations for CSIRO Astronomy and Space Science. In her most recent role with the Federal Government's Entrepreneurs' Programme, Kate provided business transformation consultancy to Australian companies with annual revenue up to $100mil. Kate also holds a Grad Cert in Innovation & Commercialisation and is a member of several Advisory Boards for universities and not-for-profit organisations. Kate has also lectured for Murdoch University's MBA Global program.

Patrick Seares

Patrick Seares joined the Westport Program as Managing Director in 2021. Since then, he’s led the planning for the transition of container trade from Fremantle to Kwinana including transport planning, infrastructure design for port road and rail, commercial frameworks and extensive environment, science and community programs. 

Patrick has previously been an executive in the water and environment portfolios working with industry and government to improve sustainability, planning, business improvement and strategy, been the CEO of a complex marine research joint-venture, and as a consultant to the UK government on program management and water planning. 

Dr. Chris Jones

Dr Chris Jones is the current president of the Australian Electric Vehicle Association. Formed in 1973 by a group of scientists and engineers, the AEVA's goal was to advance the case for full electrification of transport in Australia, and continues to serve as a friendly forum for the dissemination of information and knowledge around EVs and adjacent technologies. Driven by a desire to see all Australians benefit from electromobility, Chris views high-quality electric mass transit and dedicated infrastructure for active transport as essential measures for reducing emissions in the transport sector."

Liam Cubbage

MATES in Construction WA CEO - Liam possesses a Bachelor of Psychology with post graduate studies in Health Service Management: Policy, Ethics and Law as well as Executive Management and Leadership. With over 17 years’ experience in the not for profit and community services sector Liam has held operational, leadership and governance roles in suicide prevention and postvention, family support services, youth services, post prison release services, counselling and, drug and alcohol support programs. Having delivered programs across metropolitan and regional Western Australia, including remote First Nations Communities throughout the Pilbara, Liam has attained a strong and diverse understanding of the breadth of challenges faced by WA communities. Liam has been an integral member of the MATES WA team for the past 10 years and in his current role aims to ensure that the psychosocial wellbeing of individuals and families in the WA construction sector remains a key priority for government and industry stakeholders. Liam is passionate about fostering bipartisan and holistic approaches to suicide prevention while ensuring quality and meaningful interventions are available to those in need.

Sarah Hussein

Sarah Hussein is a passionate and visionary entrepreneur, co-founder of Industrial Metaverse, a virtual reality (VR) workplace training company based in Perth WA , specialising in simulated ‘difficult conversations’ in topics such as Suicide Prevention, Sexual Harassment Intervention, Domestic Violence, Psychological Safety, Emotional Intelligence & Mental Wellness. Her diverse career spans roles such as Biosecurity Detector Dog Handler, Drone Pilot and Head of People & Operations, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to excellence. As a Certified Metaverse Expert, Sarah is committed to revolutionizing workplace training through the use of VR technology. In addition, her training as a Mental Health First Aider reflects her dedication to creating not only innovative solutions but also supportive, resilient work environments. Combining technical expertise, leadership, and empathy, Sarah is a driving force in the training and VR industries, propelling Industrial Metaverse to new heights of innovation and impact.

Rick Brooks

Rick has an accomplished track record spanning three decades, having spearheaded transformative initiatives in People, Process, and System management, navigating complex corporate, political, and industrial landscapes. His expertise spans diverse sectors, including Government, Resources, Energy, Utilities, Defence, Manufacturing, Construction, and Community Service. He is adept at rallying teams towards shared objectives, cultivating and perpetuating cutting-edge practices and cultures within both established and emerging organisations on a national and global scale. Rick’s influence has played a pivotal role in reshaping organisational, community, and governmental perspectives on innovation and change. Leveraging data-driven decision-making methodologies, He has achieved substantial shifts in the mindset, behaviour, and actions of individuals and groups. Currently Regional Manager - Southern Perth, Goldfields and Esperance with AusIndustry, Rick is also the Chair of Sexual Health Quarters and has been an Independent Director with Derbarl Yerrigan Aboriginal Health Services.

Dr. Michael Page

Dr Michael Page is President of the Australian Medical Association (WA), the peak body for representing the views of Western Australia’s doctors and the leading voice in advocating for better healthcare for Western Australians. Dilapidated and inadequate health infrastructure and a need for improved health workforce planning are the two biggest obstacles to maintaining Western Australia’s claim to a world-class health system, and are key focuses for AMA (WA)’s advocacy. Michael is a Chemical Pathologist and serves as Chief Executive Officer of Clinipath Pathology, a Sonic Healthcare practice.

Steven Harding

Steve is CEO of the largest local government area in Australia, Shire of East Pilbara. After completing his engineering degree at Monash University, Steve began his career as a Structural Engineer in private practice, designing the buildings that today form Melbourne’s skyline, having also run his own bio-gas company with projects in Australia and Asia. Steve has held several rolesacross different local government areas in NSW, Victoria, and Western Australia. He has served on State Government advisory committees. He has led or been involved in the following projects including bridges, sewage plants, town water supplies, CASA airport runways, airport terminals, youth hubs, biogas to energy projects (mitigating 880,000 tonnes CO2 per annum), subdivisions, sports facilities and precincts.

Keith Wilks

Keith Wilks is Chief Executive Officer of Southern Ports, where he oversees the management of Western Australia’s three southern regional ports at Albany, Bunbury and Esperance which together facilitate more than 35 million tonnes of trade. With almost three decades’ experience in the port and maritime sectors, Keith offers valuable operational experience in leading complex port operations, backed by strategic expertise in port development, capital renewal and infrastructure planning to support global trade. Under his leadership, the regional port authority is delivering a record $62 million capital works program with major infrastructure upgrades, managed under its newly accredited world class asset management system.

Craig Doyle

Across multiple industries in northern Australia, Craig Doyle has extensive executive, operational, and project funding experience. He served as CEO of Gladstone Ports Corporation between 2013 and 2016 and as Executive General Manager of Australia’s largest sugar producer, Wilmar. Craig was also the Global Technical Head for Wilmar’s international sugar operations. Former CEO of Mackay Regional Council for nearly five years, Craig understands the needs of regional communities and key infrastructure requirements. Based in Cairns, Craig commenced in the role in June 2022.

Jason Kuchel

Dr Nicholas Fearnley

Dr Nicholas Fearnley is Head of Global Construction Forecasting at Oxford Economics. Nicholas oversees the teams that produce the various global construction services, and also the Australian mining and maintenance outlooks. He works over the full construction spectrum, and has experience forecasting cost escalation and material demand. Nicholas has a PhD in economics from the University of Sydney, and regularly presents and provides commentary for the construction industry.

Ben Byrnes

Ben is a highly experienced professional with 30 years of expertise in design drafting and modelling for the Built Environment. He has worked with leading consultancies such as ARUP, SMEC, and Aurecon, as well as boutique firms and major enterprise design and construction companies, driving improvements in coordinated design processes. Recognising the need for greater efficiency in construction and design, Ben specialises in optimising workflows, coordination, and automation to enhance project delivery. His expertise spans traditional CAD tools and cutting-edge BIM technologies, ensuring seamless integration of digital methodologies.

At Arkance, Ben plays a pivotal role in advancing BIM adoption and maximising the impact of digital tools across diverse organisations. He provides strategic guidance, successfully implementing technology solutions that streamline operations and improve collaboration. As an Autodesk Certified Instructor, he delivers targeted training programs that track, measure, and enhance professional development, leading to tangible skill advancements and operational efficiencies.

Darcy Myring

Darcy Myring is a Prompt Engineer at AutogenAI, where he develops AI-driven tools that help bid teams craft high-scoring responses and win more work. AutogenAI streamlines the bid-writing process by transforming past company knowledge into powerful, reusable content. With a background in computer science and past experience working on the front line in bid teams, Darcy specialises in applying cutting-edge AI to real-world challenges faced by everyday bid professionals. He is particularly passionate about minimising the tedious aspects of bid writing—such as tracking down case studies and refining word counts—so that bid teams can focus on high-value work like developing win themes and crafting compelling narratives. He is excited about the future of this technology and is optimistic about the opportunities it will create in the procurement space.

Nick Dawe

Mr Dawe joined Pilbara Ports as Principal Engineer in November 2013 and has held a range of engineering and project management roles during his time at Pilbara Ports. Most recently including the project leadership of Port Hedland’s Spoilbank Marina development, Project Sponsor for the Lumsden Project, and asset management roles. Before Joining Pilbara Ports, Mr Dawe held several roles as an engineering consultant including regional manager, Marine Project Manager and Coastal Engineer. He holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Ocean Science, Oceanography and Hydrographic Survey, and a Diploma of Project Management.

Sam Pearce

Sam was appointed as Collgar Renewables CEO in July 2024. He has over 30 years of experience in the energy and utilities sectors, specialising in operations, investment management, corporate development, strategy, and transaction execution. His expertise spans merchant energy, gas distribution, power generation (both gas and renewables), and electricity and gas transmission in Australia and New Zealand. Before joining Collgar Renewables, Sam held senior roles at QIC Infrastructure, APA Group, Stockland, and AGL. Sam has a diverse range of skills across greenfield energy developments in gas transmission and power generation (renewables and gas), public market M&A as well as multiple trade sales of assets across the energy value chain.

Raquel Carter

Raquel Carter is Head of Western Australia and Environment at Energise Renewables. Raquel is an environmental scientist (MSc), regulatory specialist and environmental impact assessment practitioner specialising in coastal and marine development sectors. Raquel current provides and oversees services across renewable energy, hydrogen/ammonia and carbon storage infrastructure projects. Raquel has worked in Australia’s offshore energy regulator (NOPSEMA) for over a decade and has held several roles including NOPSEMA’s Chief Environmental Scientist, Environment Manager, NOPSEMA Inspector and Environmental Specialist. Raquel has also led NOPSEMA’s strategy on First Nations consultation and cultural heritage protection. Prior to working for the federal government, Raquel was employed in the WA State government (including in regional areas) and Natural Resource Management groups which culminated in a deep understanding of WA's legislative, regulatory and stakeholder context . Raquel also has over six years working in the NGO sector building and strengthening partnerships between government, community, and industry to deliver projects that have multiple benefits across a range of stakeholders. Raquel’s career focus is to drive cross sectoral collaborations and innovative cultural-ecological frameworks that facilitate responsible energy transition and decarbonisation.

Gerry Lockard

Gerry Lockard is an engineer with over 20 years’ experience in design and construction. His international project experience includes major infrastructure across transport, aviation and defence sectors in WA and the UK. Gerry excels in creating frameworks for projects that integrate the latest technology, leading to enhanced communication, coordination, and innovation, while ensuring sustainable outcomes for all stakeholders. Gerrys’ expertise spans the digital construction ecosystem from BIM/Digital Engineering, management planning, IoT deployment, predictive analytics and digital twins. His approach emphasizes practicality alongside innovation, ensuring teams have the digital tools to solve real construction challenges while delivering measurable ROI. As WA&NT Digital Practice Leader with Aurecon, Gerry plays a key role in working with our clients across the public and private sector to understand their digital landscape, digital horizon and develop comprehensive digital strategies.

Peter Dombkins

Peter has led transformation programs for some of Australia’s largest in-house legal teams, government legal departments and law firms, and is an award-winning specialist in legal operations and contracting technologies. Peter is an Adjunct Associate Professor with UNSW Faculty of Law & Justice, a national assessor for the Australian Institute of Project Management, and holds a Masters degree in Complex Project Management. Currently a Director at PwC, Peter has previously led transformation teams for large national and international law firms; and prior to that, was a commercial lawyer and policy specialist in relational contracting and public-private partnerships (PPPs) working across Australia, Asia, the Middle East and the UK.