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SCHEDULE

A JOURNEY OF
GROWTH & DISCOVERY

In a world of relentless acceleration—where every moment is optimized for productivity, growth, and efficiency—we’re creating: A Space to Breathe.  It’s an intentional pause; inviting you to step back from the relentless pace of modern society, and into a meaningful space for deep, human conversations.  

GROWTH ACADEMY + GARDEN PARTY

Garden of Unearthly Delights
10:30
19:00
About

GROWTH ACADEMY 

We all know the pull of searching for answers online, to fix what needed solving - yesterday. But when it's time to hit the ground running, nothing beats the reassurance of a real voice cheering you on. That's exactly why we've designed Skills Day — a hyper tactical learning environment that fosters peer-to-peer knowledge sharing, to help our community navigate the future together.

Across three stages, you’ll find opportunities for personal and professional growth: the Deal Room for building relationships and exploring new opportunities, the Growth Pavilion to elevate your skills and mindset, and the Imaginarium—a creative space for unleashing bold ideas.

GARDEN PARTY

Join us in the enchanting Garden of Unearthly Delights, where you'll connect, converse, and celebrate after your day of learning together. It will be a warm and welcome embrace that will continue through your _SOUTHSTART experience.

WHAT TO EXPECT
FULL SCHEDULE COMING SOON
Registration
10:30
-
11:30
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Growth Pavilion
11:30
-
17:00
This is where you'll find the skills, strategies, and insights to scale with purpose, precision, and speed. Engage with expert-led sessions on Scaling & Market Expansion, Sales & Customer Acquisition, Strategy & Operations, Marketing & PR, and People & Culture. Whether you're just starting out or fine-tuning your approach, the Growth Pavilion will offer a space to pause, reflect, and learn the smart, intentional moves that lead to lasting success
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Deal Room
11:30
-
17:00
The Deal Room is a unique space designed to demystify the art and science of startup financing. Here, amidst an atmosphere of calm focus, founders can pause, breathe, and gain clarity on their path to capital. Dive into sessions on Investment Fundamentals & Trends, Due Diligence, and intimate Investor AMAs, all aimed at equipping you with the confidence and strategies to succeed.
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Imaginarium
11:30
-
17:00
The IMAGINARIUM stage at our Growth Academy will be a space to awaken the mind, foster connections and fuel innovation. Here, curiosity and creativity blend, sparking fresh insights and reshaping perspectives. Across sessions on Creativity & Ideation, Storytelling & Branding, Future & Tech, Design & Product, Community and Engagement, join us to explore how ideas become a reality.
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Garden Party
17:00
-
19:00
Join us for the official opening of _SOUTHSTART 2025 at the Garden Party! Set in the magical Garden of Unearthly Delights, this event is the perfect way to kick off the festival, offering the first of many opportunities to connect, converse, and share a day of learning together. It will be warm and welcome embrace that will continue through your _SOUTHSTART experience.
Voices :
STAGE:
The Commons
Powered By :

MAIN DAY

Serafino Winery
08:00
21:00
About

We're whisking you away from Lot Fourteen in Adelaide CBD and welcoming you to Serafino Winery in McLaren Vale. Crafted to inspire genuine connections, powerful insights, and moments of renewal, this day offers space to pause, breathe, and explore the "why" behind our work—gaining fresh perspectives across business, creativity, technology, science, and impact.

- Conversations will unfold in every corner—whether through structured formats across our 3 x stages, or spontaneous moments that create lasting bonds.

- Mindfulness activities will offer moments to recharge, clear your mind, and find balance - while forging deeper connections.

- Bookable one-on-one sessions with founders, investors, and industry experts will help you foster strategic discussions and authentic connections.

Whether you’re a quiet observer drawn to deep dialogue, a social butterfly finding your tribe, or balancing work and life - there'll be something for you. When it's time to leave, you’ll carry a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and community—a catalyst for rethinking how we grow, connect, and move forward, together.  

WHAT TO EXPECT
FULL SCHEDULE COMING SOON
Main Day Departure Lounge & Bus Adventure
09:00
-
10:00
Gather at Lot Fourteen, the beginning of your MAIN DAY journey! Munch on morning delicacies, regroup and get jazzed about the amazing adventure ahead.
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Welcome & Official Opening
10:00
-
10:30
Join us for the official welcome into your MAIN DAY experience. This will include a welcome to the country where we will gather and celebrate the people who have forged the foundations upon which we are now able to grow.
Voices :
STAGE:
Lake Stage

Marc Randolph

Co-Founder and First CEO
Netflix

Marc Randolph was the co-founder and first CEO of the movie and television streaming service Netflix. Although best known for starting Netflix, Marc’s career as an entrepreneur spans more than four decades. He’s been a founder of more than half a dozen other successful start-ups, a mentor to scores of early stage entrepreneurs, and an investor in numerous successful tech ventures (and an even larger number of unsuccessful ones). He is the author of the internationally best-selling memoir, "That Will Never Work – the birth of Netflix and the amazing life of an idea", host of the top-10 "That Will Never Work" podcast, a star of Entrepreneur Magazine’s "Elevator Pitch" web series, and runs the "Neverland" entrepreneurial community on Discord. Most recently, Marc co-founded analytics software company Looker Data and currently serves as an advisor to multiple other startups, serving variously as a mentor, CEO coach, and/or board member. Marc is charming, handsome and modest; and whenever possible avoids referring to himself in the third person. He lives in Santa Cruz, California.

Powered By :
Health & Wellbeing activities
10:30
-
16:30
With a range of restorative activities—from sound baths and meditation to guided breathwork and mindfulness workshops—we're creating ample space to help you find calm amidst the festival’s dynamic energy. Here, you’ll have time to breathe, reflect, and reset, fostering a balanced mind for sharper thinking and open creativity.
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Conversations
10:30
-
16:30
What does our planet look like in 2050? How did we get there? How did we shape the cultural alignment needed to bring our people together, for the betterment of our collective future on planet earth? Every conversation—whether guided or unexpected— will provide the chance to connect deeply, share bold ideas, and spark new possibilities. The caliber and diversity of our attendees offers a unique opportunity to engage with the thought leaders shaping the future, in an environment that encourages genuine insight sharing & growth.
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Investor Office Hours
10:30
-
16:30
Don’t miss the chance to participate in Investor Office Hours at _SOUTHSTART (limited places 'no application required' offered to the first ticket holders) where you’ll have the unique opportunity to connect one-on-one with top investors. This session offers founders an intimate setting to ask pressing questions, receive personalised feedback, and build meaningful relationships with potential backers. Whether you're looking for funding or seeking guidance, these tailored conversations are designed to help you make the most of your investor connections and elevate your business to the next level
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :

Breathe Easy Overnight

18:00
10:00
About

Elevate your _SOUTHSTART experience with the exclusive Breathe Easy Overnight Package. Join us for a one-night stay in McLaren Vale, following the conclusion of your Serafino experience. With this package, your ticket includes round-trip transportation from Adelaide to Serafino and a seamless overnight stay at the McLaren Vale Motel, just 3 km from the festival.

No need to worry about a thing—our luggage concierge will handle your bags from the moment you leave Adelaide, so you can head straight into the festival stress-free. At the end of the day, a shuttle will whisk you back to the hotel for a restful night, and bring you to your selected summit the next dy. And breathe… everything is taken care of.

Note: This package includes only accommodation and travel coordination—festival sessions, activities, and staff are not included beyond the festival closing at 9pm on March 5th at Serafino.

WHAT TO EXPECT
FULL SCHEDULE COMING SOON
Hourly Shuttle to McLaren Vale Motel
18:00
-
21:00
We'll be offering an hourly service to McLaren Vale Motel - just 3 minutes away from Serafino.
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Rest, Recharge, and Refresh
21:00
-
10:00
Enjoy a restful night, and ease into your day 3 with a leisurely breakfast amidst peaceful surroundings. Take this time to explore the area at your own pace—perhaps a morning walk to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the scenic views, setting a calm, refreshing tone for the day. When you’re ready, we’ll pick you up and whisk you away to your summit adventure, fully recharged and ready for the inspiring experiences ahead!
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :

INDUSTRY SUMMITS

Fleurieu Coast
09:00
17:00
About

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Fleurieu Peninsula, the Industry Summits offer an unparalleled chance to dive into the topics that drive your industry forward. With carefully curated, community-focused content, these summits are designed for rich dialogue, actionable insights, and industry-specific strategies. You’ll be welcomed into an environment that mirrors the region’s warmth and hospitality, fostering connections that endure and collaborations that thrive long after the event.

WHAT TO EXPECT
FULL SCHEDULE COMING SOON
Departure Lounge & Bus Adventure
09:00
-
10:00
Gather at Lot Fourteen, the beginning of your journey! Munch on morning delicacies, regroup and get jazzed about the amazing adventure ahead.
Voices :
STAGE:
Lot Fourteen
Powered By :
Transit to Summit
10:00
-
11:00
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Education & Training
11:00
-
15:00
Join fellow educators, trainers, and thought leaders over an engaging forum to discuss how technology, creativity, and agility are reshaping the educational landscape. From cultivating future-ready skills to integrating innovative teaching methods, this summit is designed to spark inspiration, share best practices, and build connections among those committed to empowering the next generation of learners.
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Sovereign Technologies
11:00
-
14:40
In a world where technological sovereignty is pivotal, the Sovereign Technologies Summit delves into the frontiers of space, defense, cybersecurity, and quantum innovations. This gathering brings together visionaries shaping Australia’s strategic capabilities, exploring opportunities and challenges that lie at the intersection of cutting-edge tech and national resilience. Engage in thought-provoking conversations over a long lunch with experts and peers driving the future of sovereignty and technology.
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Creative Technologies
11:00
-
14:40
Where creativity meets technology, the Creative Technologies Summit explores the transformative power of AI, digital media, and cultural innovation. Join artists, technologists, and culture-makers for an inspiring lunch experience that unravels the possibilities of the creative industries. From digital art to immersive experiences, this summit is your gateway to understanding how tech is reshaping the stories we tell and the world we live in.
Voices :
STAGE:
Powered By :
Departure Lounge & Bus Adventure
09:00
-
10:00
Gather at Lot Fourteen, the beginning of your journey! Munch on morning delicacies, regroup and get jazzed about the amazing adventure ahead.
Main Day Departure Lounge & Bus Adventure
09:00
-
10:00
Gather at Lot Fourteen, the beginning of your MAIN DAY journey! Munch on morning delicacies, regroup and get jazzed about the amazing adventure ahead.
All Day Food & Beverage Lounges Open
09:30
-
20:30
Welcome & Official Opening
10:00
-
10:30
Join us for the official welcome into your MAIN DAY experience. This will include a welcome to the country where we will gather and celebrate the people who have forged the foundations upon which we are now able to grow.
Transit to Summit
10:00
-
11:00
Sound Bath
10:30
-
11:30
Office Hours
10:30
-
11:30
Conversation
10:30
-
12:00
Conversations
10:30
-
16:30
What does our planet look like in 2050? How did we get there? How did we shape the cultural alignment needed to bring our people together, for the betterment of our collective future on planet earth? Every conversation—whether guided or unexpected— will provide the chance to connect deeply, share bold ideas, and spark new possibilities. The caliber and diversity of our attendees offers a unique opportunity to engage with the thought leaders shaping the future, in an environment that encourages genuine insight sharing & growth.
Health & Wellbeing activities
10:30
-
16:30
With a range of restorative activities—from sound baths and meditation to guided breathwork and mindfulness workshops—we're creating ample space to help you find calm amidst the festival’s dynamic energy. Here, you’ll have time to breathe, reflect, and reset, fostering a balanced mind for sharper thinking and open creativity.
Experts in Residence
10:30
-
16:30
Here, you’ll have an opportunity to sit down with industry leaders and seasoned mentors for personalised, one-on-one or small-group conversations. Whether you're seeking advice on scaling your business, navigating legal challenges, refining your strategy, or diving into a specific problem, this session is designed to give you tailored insights and actionable guidance. Get ready to tap into expert knowledge and walk away with valuable recommendations to propel your journey forward.
Investor Office Hours
10:30
-
16:30
Don’t miss the chance to participate in Investor Office Hours at _SOUTHSTART (limited places 'no application required' offered to the first ticket holders) where you’ll have the unique opportunity to connect one-on-one with top investors. This session offers founders an intimate setting to ask pressing questions, receive personalised feedback, and build meaningful relationships with potential backers. Whether you're looking for funding or seeking guidance, these tailored conversations are designed to help you make the most of your investor connections and elevate your business to the next level
Registration
10:30
-
11:30
Sovereign Technologies
11:00
-
14:40
In a world where technological sovereignty is pivotal, the Sovereign Technologies Summit delves into the frontiers of space, defense, cybersecurity, and quantum innovations. This gathering brings together visionaries shaping Australia’s strategic capabilities, exploring opportunities and challenges that lie at the intersection of cutting-edge tech and national resilience. Engage in thought-provoking conversations over a long lunch with experts and peers driving the future of sovereignty and technology.
Education & Training
11:00
-
15:00
Join fellow educators, trainers, and thought leaders over an engaging forum to discuss how technology, creativity, and agility are reshaping the educational landscape. From cultivating future-ready skills to integrating innovative teaching methods, this summit is designed to spark inspiration, share best practices, and build connections among those committed to empowering the next generation of learners.
Creative Technologies
11:00
-
14:40
Where creativity meets technology, the Creative Technologies Summit explores the transformative power of AI, digital media, and cultural innovation. Join artists, technologists, and culture-makers for an inspiring lunch experience that unravels the possibilities of the creative industries. From digital art to immersive experiences, this summit is your gateway to understanding how tech is reshaping the stories we tell and the world we live in.
Climate & Clean Energy
11:00
-
14:40
Join us for a summit dedicated to those driving the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon future. This event highlights breakthrough innovations in renewable energy, carbon capture, and green metals, showcasing Australia’s role in leading net-zero solutions. With top experts and changemakers, we’ll tackle today’s urgent decarbonization challenges and explore clean energy innovations that are reshaping global markets.
Agritech & Food Systems
11:00
-
14:40
Focusing on the future of sustainable agriculture and food production, this forum will explore cutting-edge innovations in precision farming, synthetic biology, and methods that enhance global food security. It will tackle the challenges posed by climate change, resource constraints, and population growth, offering solutions to create a resilient agricultural sector capable of sustaining future demands.
Health & BioTech
11:00
-
14:40
The future of health is here. Come and explore the breakthroughs shaping life sciences, from medical devices to cutting-edge biotech and personalized health solutions. Enjoy conversations with experts pushing the boundaries of healthcare innovation, and network with those committed to transforming the future of human health and well-being over a curated lunch experience.
Ecosystem & Community
11:00
-
14:40
For those who are curious, open-minded, or simply looking to unwind, the Community Summit offers a refreshing escape by the beach. If you're sector-agnostic or eager to explore outside traditional boundaries, this summit provides an open and relaxed atmosphere to connect, reflect, and engage in free-spirited conversations about the ideas that matter to you—all while enjoying a laid-back coastal lunch.
Conversation
11:30
-
13:00
Conversation
11:30
-
12:30
Growth Pavilion
11:30
-
17:00
This is where you'll find the skills, strategies, and insights to scale with purpose, precision, and speed. Engage with expert-led sessions on Scaling & Market Expansion, Sales & Customer Acquisition, Strategy & Operations, Marketing & PR, and People & Culture. Whether you're just starting out or fine-tuning your approach, the Growth Pavilion will offer a space to pause, reflect, and learn the smart, intentional moves that lead to lasting success
Deal Room
11:30
-
17:00
The Deal Room is a unique space designed to demystify the art and science of startup financing. Here, amidst an atmosphere of calm focus, founders can pause, breathe, and gain clarity on their path to capital. Dive into sessions on Investment Fundamentals & Trends, Due Diligence, and intimate Investor AMAs, all aimed at equipping you with the confidence and strategies to succeed.
Imaginarium
11:30
-
17:00
The IMAGINARIUM stage at our Growth Academy will be a space to awaken the mind, foster connections and fuel innovation. Here, curiosity and creativity blend, sparking fresh insights and reshaping perspectives. Across sessions on Creativity & Ideation, Storytelling & Branding, Future & Tech, Design & Product, Community and Engagement, join us to explore how ideas become a reality.
Office Hours
12:30
-
13:30
Meditation
12:30
-
13:30
Conversation
13:30
-
15:00
Conversation
13:30
-
15:00
Conversation
13:30
-
14:30
Breathwork
14:00
-
15:00
Office Hours
14:30
-
15:30
Transit to Chalk Hill
14:40
-
15:00
As the festival's culminating event, this is where the energy of each summit comes together. Nestled amidst the vineyards with sweeping views, this final gathering offers an opportunity to unwind, reflect, and celebrate the week’s insights and connections with a lively blend of music, local food, and wine. Join fellow attendees, speakers, and innovators from every summit to share stories, forge new collaborations, and toast to a future driven by creativity, technology, and a shared passion for progress.
Salon
15:00
-
14:30
Closing
15:00
-
17:00
As the festival's culminating event, this is where the energy of each summit comes together. Nestled amidst the vineyards with sweeping views, this final gathering offers an opportunity to unwind, reflect, and celebrate the week’s insights and connections with a lively blend of music, local food, and wine. Join fellow attendees, speakers, and innovators from every summit to share stories, forge new collaborations, and toast to a future driven by creativity, technology, and a shared passion for progress.
Conversation
15:30
-
17:00
Conversation
15:30
-
16:30
Conversation - COMING SOON
15:30
-
17:00
Office Hours
16:30
-
17:30
Sound Bath
16:30
-
17:30
Sundowners and Entertainment
16:30
-
18:00
Garden Party
17:00
-
19:00
Join us for the official opening of _SOUTHSTART 2025 at the Garden Party! Set in the magical Garden of Unearthly Delights, this event is the perfect way to kick off the festival, offering the first of many opportunities to connect, converse, and share a day of learning together. It will be warm and welcome embrace that will continue through your _SOUTHSTART experience.
Departure
17:00
-
18:00
Pitch Showcase
17:30
-
18:30
Rolling Departure
18:00
-
21:00
We'll be operating an hourly coach service taking you back to Adelaide CBD. If you need to travel to the airport, please organise a taxi in advance.
Hourly Shuttle to McLaren Vale Motel
18:00
-
21:00
We'll be offering an hourly service to McLaren Vale Motel - just 3 minutes away from Serafino.
Rest, Recharge, and Refresh
21:00
-
10:00
Enjoy a restful night, and ease into your day 3 with a leisurely breakfast amidst peaceful surroundings. Take this time to explore the area at your own pace—perhaps a morning walk to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the scenic views, setting a calm, refreshing tone for the day. When you’re ready, we’ll pick you up and whisk you away to your summit adventure, fully recharged and ready for the inspiring experiences ahead!