The Stories we didn't Expect to Tell

Jocelyn Neumuller, Nicholas Marchesi OAM, in conversation with Dr Sarah Jene Pell

A festival for those creating, investing and inspiring change, South Australia, 4-6 March

Some paths are carefully planned; others unfold in ways we never expected. Jocelyn Neumueller was a national sailing champion before a sudden diagnosis reshaped her future - yet instead of losing her identity as an athlete, she redefined it, becoming a world champion in paracanoe and para surfing. Nicholas Marchesi OAM set out to create a simple laundry service for people experiencing homelessness, only to discover that the real impact of Orange Sky wasn’t just clean clothes - it was human connection. Hosted by Sarah Jane Pell, this conversation explores what happens when the script changes. When we’re forced to rethink what we thought we knew about success, purpose, and possibility. How much of our story is shaped by circumstance, and how much is shaped by choice? And when life rewrites the plan, do we try to reclaim what was lost, or embrace the opportunity to create something new? This session invites you to reflect on the turning points in your own journey and how you navigate what comes next

Jocelyn Neumuller, Nicholas Marchesi OAM, in conversation with Dr Sarah Jene Pell, Studio Salon, Saraphino Winery, SA. 5 March 2025. Photos Emily Harridge.

_SOUTHSTART 2025 usually gathers courageous individuals with a burning curiosity, a passionate drive, and an unwavering tenacity to make a difference in the world. It is known to provide a unique space for dialogue and introspection, uncovering various, often elusive, routes to progress – through deep immersion & conversation. As an alumni speaker, I return to explore industry insights, engage in crucial earth discussions, and empower each other for future strides, across a multi-day journey.

Day 1 | Growth. Lot Fourteen in Adelaide CBD SA, March 4 2025 (not shown here) and Day 2 | Main Day, Serafino Winery in McLaren Vale SA, March 5 2025

Australia’s bio, health, and medtech ecosystem is at the forefront of addressing some of the world’s most pressing health challenges.

A highlight for me this year, was the Health and Biotech Summit that brought together innovators, researchers, and investors who are shaping the future of global healthcare for a luncheon at the picturesque Beresford Estate. Dr Judy Halliday, Dr Michelle Perugingi. Dr Susan Evans, Troy Smithelles, Dr Sam Costello, Michael Lang, Elaine Stead and others navigate an era defined by aging populations, overburdened healthcare systems, and a growing demand for personalized and precision medicine. They dive into the transformative potential of emerging technologies like AI-driven diagnostics, regenerative medicine, and cutting-edge therapeutics. Through real-world success stories, and meaningful conversations, we gained unparalleled insights into the breakthroughs redefining patient care and saving lives.

Day 3 | Summits, Health and Biotech, Beresford Estate, MCLaren Flat SA, March 6 2025

https://www.southstart.co/

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