Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2
The region’s biggest tourism conference, Bendigo NEXT, returns with an exciting program tailored for tourism professionals and businesses to thrive in Greater Bendigo.
Presented by Be.Bendigo in partnership with the City of Greater Bendigo and the Bendigo Tourism Board, Bendigo NEXT’s one-day showcase is from 10am to 4pm on Monday February 24 at the Quality Lakeside Hotel.
City Manager Economy & Experience James Myatt said Bendigo NEXT was a must-attend event for businesses eager to drive innovation, growth, and success in Bendigo and beyond.
“This year’s Bendigo NEXT conference builds on its tourism-focused roots whilst incorporating dynamic business training seminars designed to appeal to a broader audience in the business community,” Mr Myatt said.
“From the latest trends to practical tools for growth, this event is packed with insightful presentations, interactive workshops, strategies, and a networking session to connect and build new partnerships.
The MC for the day’s event is Bendigo Tourism Chair Kath Bolitho and the conference features an impressive program to inspire including:
- Victorian Tourism Industry and Council Updates & the Future of Business with AI with Despina Karatzias
- Upgrading nbn across the Bendigo region in 2025 with Emy Peel, Head of nbn Local – Victoria/Tasmania
- Workforce Requirements and Opportunities with Martin Collins from the Victorian Skills Authority
- Attracting Multicultural Visitors to Bendigo with Bendigo Heritage Attractions
- Accessible Content for Businesses with City of Greater Bendigo Community Engagement Officer Angela McKinley
- 2025 Highlights and Opportunities in Bendigo with Bendigo Art Gallery Curator Lauren Ellis, Manager Bendigo Venues & Events Julie Amos, Manager Major Events Nicole McNamara and Manager Destination and Experience Glenn Harvey
Be.Bendigo incoming CEO Hayley Tibbett said the program offered something for everyone.
“We’re really excited to be partnering with the City of Greater Bendigo to deliver the 2025 Bendigo NEXT Conference,” Ms Tibbett said.
“This is a dynamic and forward-thinking event that builds on its tourism-focused expertise with new elements to support small business owners and entrepreneurs.
“The program will deliver a wide of range of topics from expert-led presentations on critical topics like AI, workforce development, multicultural tourism, to interactive workshops on finance, marketing, and customer service tailored to your business needs.
“The conference is more accessible than ever, designed to deliver practical insights and meaningful connections that will help businesses thrive. We encourage tourism professionals, small business owners, and innovators across all industries to join us for a day of learning, inspiration, and networking.”
Bendigo NEXT stands for Networking, Emerging trends, eXperiences, and Technology.
To register, visit: