Greater Springfield Business Connect

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, we sit down with Paul Ronis of Periscope Management Consultants, a seasoned strategist who has worked with global companies, government bodies, and local enterprises alike. Paul shares how lessons from high-level boardrooms can translate into practical, people-first strategies for small businesses in Springfield and Ipswich. From overcoming the fear ...

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, we sit down with Tom O’Neil from TAE Aerospace to explore how this advanced manufacturer is driving real workforce growth right here in Ipswich. From investing in apprenticeships and training pathways to maintaining an immaculate, high-standard facility, TAE is setting the benchmark for what local, future-focused employment can look like. Tom shares ...

In this episode of the GSBC podcast, we sit down with the founder of Kickstart Your Wellness, Marcia Davidson. Marcia opens up about the personal inspiration behind her business and why creating long-term, sustainable change matters more than chasing quick fixes.

She reflects on what wellness means to her and how she helps people reconnect with their health goals through simple, tailored support. From na...

In this episode of the GSBC podcast, we sit down with Wendy Jimenez, founder of Wendy Super Accounting, to talk all things clarity, compliance, and confidence when it comes to managing your finances. Wendy shares her journey from number-lover to small business champion, and why her approach to accounting is anything but boring. From breaking down superannuation myths to the power of financial literacy for growing businesses, Wendy ...

In the final episode of our special GSBC Awards Series, we chat with Tony Gilbertson, owner of The Little Guy Pest Control and winner of the 2025 Real Estate & Property Maintenance Award. Tony shares his journey from getting into pest control to building a trusted local business rooted in reliability, personal service, and community values.

We dive into the story behind the “Little Guy” name, the val...

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington welcomes Luke Frederick from Quest Springfield Central, the proud recipient of the 2025 Hospitality Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Luke shares his journey into the hospitality industry and what makes the Springfield Central location such a standout destination for both business travellers and families...

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington chats with Martin von Stein, founder of BizGuard, the 2025 recipient of the Media & IT Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Martin shares his journey from a passion for technology to building one of Springfield’s most trusted names in cybersecurity. With a clear mission to protect small and medium-sized...

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, host Matt Taylor-Farrington speaks with Mark Owens from Western Spirit Football Club, proud recipient of the 2025 Lifestyle Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Mark shares his personal journey with the club, how Western Spirit became a cornerstone of the Springfield community, and why sport is so much more than just competition — it’s about health, connect...

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington is joined by Bec Evans, Deputy Principal at Springfield Central State High School, which was recognised with the 2025 Education & Training Award at this year’s Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Bec shares her personal journey into education, from early inspiration to leadership in one of the region’s most dynamic...

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington chats with Charlene Rapa, owner of apaR Hair Studio, who took home the Best Customer Service Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for the second year in a row.

Charlene shares what it was like to hear her name called again, and what back-to-back recognition says about her team’s unwavering focus on genuine c...

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Katherine Manby, founder of VM Family Law and winner of the 2025 Professional Services Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Katherine shares the story behind her decision to specialise in family law, a field that demands compassion, strength, and a deep sense of purpose. We discuss the culture she’s built at VM Family L...

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Melissa Wright, founder of Zest Mortgage Solutions, who took home two major awards at the 2025 Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards: the Outstanding Small Business Award and the Financial Services Award. Melissa reflects on what it meant to be recognised not just for Zest’s business growth, but also for its standout client experience...

We’re kicking off the 2025 GSBC Awards Series with a double win!

This week, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Jo Steel, founder of Farfalla Interiors & Events, who walked away with both the Members’ Choice Award and the prestigious President’s Award at this year’s Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Jo shares her emotional reaction to hearing her name called twi...

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington chats with Neil Coupland, Principal of First National Real Estate Springfield and one of the original pioneers of the local property market.

Neil takes us back to 1999, when he opened the very first real estate office in Greater Springfield, and reflects on the remarkable growth and transformation he’s witnessed a...

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Wahied Kannemeyer, founder of Ignite Fitouts, to talk about transforming commercial spaces into environments that are not only functional, but genuinely inspiring. With more than 25 years of experience behind him, Wahied shares what sparked his passion for workplace design and how Ignite has built a reputation ba...

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with the high-energy, no-nonsense force that is Loz Antonenko from Loz Life. Loz unpacks the motivation behind her boldly titled new book Get the F*** Unstuck, and how she turned years of life challenges, trauma, and hustle into a blueprint for real, lasting transformation. With a background in coaching, science-backed strategies, ...

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington welcomes Jomar Nieva from the Philippines-Australia Multicultural Association (PAMA) to discuss one of the region’s most loved events: SpringFest.

With SpringFest 2025 set to be the biggest yet featuring traditional dance, live music, food stalls, and a multicultural dance party, Jomar takes us behind the scenes o...

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington speaks with Dolores Goodey, founder of Aspirations United, about her remarkable journey from chef and teacher to life and mindset coach. Through programs like Reconnect to Your Goddess Within and Rapid Results, Dolores empowers clients to reclaim their confidence, clarity, and inner strength. Whether you’re navigating change, seeking purpose...

In this episode of the GSBC Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Jo Steel, founder of Farfalla Interiors and Events, to explore how thoughtful design can transform not just spaces — but experiences.

Jo shares her journey from a lifelong love of design to launching a business that blends interior styling with event curation, offering clients a deeply personal and tailored approach. Whether it’s ...