Good morning,
We are pleased to announce Queensland Small Business Month will kick off with the annual Sunshine Coast Business Awards Breakfast and this year, given the climate for businesses, we welcome leading economist Warren Hogan to speak at the event.
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Cheers,
Heather
Leading economist Warren Hogan to headline Sunshine Coast launch of Queensland Small Business Month
7 April 2026: As small businesses navigate rising fuel prices, increasing operating costs and ongoing economic uncertainty, leading Australian economist Warren Hogan has been announced as keynote speaker for the Sunshine Coast launch of Queensland Small Business Month.
Mr Hogan, Judo Bank’s Chief Economic Advisor and Managing Director and Founder of EQ Economics, is one of the country’s most recognised economic commentators. A regular in national media and columnist for the Australian Financial Review, he brings deep expertise on the Australian economy and a strong focus on supporting business decision making.
His keynote comes at a critical time for small to medium businesses, with many operators working to understand what shifting economic conditions mean for growth, investment and day-to-day operations.
The announcement headlines the annual Sunshine Coast Business Awards Breakfast, which will once again officially launch Queensland Small Business Month and mark the opening of entries for the 2026 Sunshine Coast Business Awards.
Sunshine Coast Business Awards Chair Jennifer Swaine said securing Mr Hogan reflects the need for clear, credible economic insight in the current climate.
“Businesses across the Sunshine Coast are operating in a very different environment to even 12 months ago, with fuel prices, supply chain pressures and the rising cost of doing business all impacting decision making,” Swaine said.
“Warren brings a national perspective with a practical lens on what it means for business, which is incredibly valuable for our local operators right now.”
“Importantly, it’s not just about understanding the challenges – it’s about identifying where the opportunities are and how businesses can respond with confidence.”
The breakfast will bring together business leaders from across the region, combining economic insight with real-world experience from local success stories.
Speakers include:
- Tim Kelly, Managing Director of the Manufacturing Excellence Forum, an experienced aeronautical engineer who has worked on global aerospace programs including the F-35, Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, now focused on strengthening the Sunshine Coast’s advanced manufacturing sector and future workforce.
- Teneille Newton, Co-Founder of Noosa Black Garlic and 2025 Sunshine Coast Business of the Year winner, who has grown the business into Australia’s largest and most awarded black garlic producer.
- Jonny Giles, Managing Director of The Beach Bars, who has expanded the business into a multi-venue hospitality group employing more than 100 staff.
Together, the speakers will explore the realities facing small to medium businesses, from rising costs to the opportunities emerging across the Sunshine Coast’s growing economy.
Attendees will also hear from Chris Mills, CEO of Sunshine Coast Airport, who will provide an update on major development underway and its role in strengthening regional connectivity and economic growth.
Swaine said the event sets the tone for both Queensland Small Business Month and the Sunshine Coast Business Awards program.
“Queensland Small Business Month is an opportunity to recognise the critical role small businesses play in our economy and our communities,” she said.
“Launching the Awards at the same time creates a natural moment for businesses to reflect, engage and step forward.”
“Each year we see extraordinary businesses emerge through the program – businesses that are innovating, growing and helping shape the future of our region.”
For three decades, the Sunshine Coast Business Awards have celebrated the resilience, innovation and excellence of the region’s business community, highlighting the strength and diversity of the local economy.
Entries for the 2026 Sunshine Coast Business Awards open following the launch event.
Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1531973
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