From the Chapter President!

Dear Members,

We’re nearly at the end of the 2025! The year seems to have passed by so quickly. 

I extend a warm welcome to our new members.  

This time of year, although busy and filled with end of year celebrations, is a good time to reflect on the achievements of you and your team and celebrate the wins. Research tells us that this ritual can help fuel motivation for the planning of the year ahead. 

There is much to celebrate and share in this edition of the newsletter so read on. 

Thank You to Our Queensland Chapter Partners 

Thank you to our 2025 Chapter Partners and Sponsors: advancedlife, Studio Kirby, and MyWorld Jewellery. Their support and services are invaluable to our chapter and our Advancement community, and I encourage you to reach out to them to learn more about their services. 

People & Culture  

The momentum continues to grow in our People & Culture pillar with members from schools and universities across Queensland joining Educate Plus to learn more about the Professional Development opportunities available and to connect with those in similar roles. As we grow this pillar, there is a standing invitation for People & Culture professionals in your institutions to join and engage with our Advancement colleagues. 

Perth Empowering Success International Conference 

The Perth Conference saw 116 attendees from Queensland, with several members and presenters contributing to the program.  We were well represented amongst the 760 delegates, which included welcoming delegates from the People & Culture pillar and from the Asia region for the first time.  You can read a reflection by David Miles, Director of Engagement, Churchie here.  

At the Excellence Awards luncheon, we celebrated with Lourdes Hill College and Scots PGC College as they were recognised for excellence in Admissions Campaigns and Events, respectively.  

Ben Foley received the Outstanding Volunteer Award for his leadership in People & Culture and six Educate Plus Fellowships were awarded to committee members, Lara Pickering, Susan McGinley, Ally Walburn, Nicole de Vries, Penny Bowman and me in acknowledgment of contribution and dedication to advancement.  

2026 International Conference in Brisbane 

In a Bluey themed announcement at the close of the Perth Conference, delegates were excited to hear that the 2026 International Conference will be held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. As the host city for this international event, we are excited to share the best of Brisbane with our national and international colleagues.  

Save the Dates

• QLD Chapter Summit – Monday and Tuesday, 28 and 29 July 2025 – Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (Week 3, Term 3) 

• 2025 SIG & PD dates will be sent your inbox mid-December, so keep an eye out for these!  

Final Word 

Your Queensland Chapter Committee and the Educate Plus Board continue to work hard to ensure that you, our Members, enjoy quality experiences to support you in the development of your profession. 

Planning for 2025 Special Interest Group (SIG) and PD program is being held mid-December, and the Committee is always keen to hear your ideas for speakers and topics , so please get in touch with me directly with any suggestions. 

If there’s anything else we can do to support you in your work or add value to your Membership, please let us know.  

I wish you a successful end to the 2024 year, an enjoyable Christmas with family and loved ones, and a restful break before the start of 2025. 

Kind regards,