Alumni Lunch Series 2025 - Lessons in Leadership

Lessons in Leadership: Executives share their path to success

Held in September 2025 at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the Gold Coast, our Lessons in Leadership Alumni Lunch Series brought together inspiring Southern Cross alumni to reflect on their leadership experiences. Through an engaging panel discussion, they shared personal stories, career insights, and valuable lessons from their journeys in leadership and business.

During a panel discussion moderated by Georgina Holt, Will Brook, Marion Chalton and Greg Yong, all shared the insights into the challenges and successes they have experienced across their diverse careers and leadership roles. They reflected on what leadership means to them, how they prioritise their wellbeing while balancing the demands of their work, and encouraged others to recognise the opportunities to lead within their own communities, workplaces and everyday lives.

Panelists — Panellists at the Alumni Lunch and Learn - Lessons in Leadership event

Panellists

Will Brook - CEO of Brookfarm

From packing macadamias as a child, to becoming Brookfarm’s CEO and expanding the brand’s premium health foods to more than 15 countries, Will’s leadership and business skills are exceptional. Earning himself and his family’s business a reputation as champions of regenerative agriculture and sustainability, Brookfarm continues to innovate in business, production and environmentally responsible farming, while contributing to the local community.

Marion Chalton - COO of Queensland Airports Limited

Marion rapidly advanced in her aviation career, now overseeing four of Queensland’s major airports as Chief Operating Officer. Known for her inclusive and strategic leadership, Marion has led transformative infrastructure projects, including the Sydney 2000 Olympics and the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, and is deeply embedded in the Gold Coast community.

Greg Yong - CEO of Gold Coast Holdings

Greg is a values-led leader with more than 20 years’ leadership experience in the leisure and attractions industry, having held responsibility for some of the country's largest properties, including Dreamworld, WhiteWater World and SkyPoint. With experience leading substantial teams over diverse geographic locations, Greg is a huge believer in fostering positive culture and leadership. Greg also holds board positions for the Dreamworld Wildlife Foundation and AALARA, the peak industry body.

Georgina Holt - Director of Co Creative Studios (Moderator)

Georgina is a successful Gen Z entrepreneur, and an outstanding young voice for the Gold Coast community. After graduating from Southern Cross in 2022, Georgina’s making huge strides in her marketing career, having founded her own agency as Director of Co Creative Studios. Georgina’s enthusiastic and strategic approach to business will offer fresh perspectives on leadership in this modern world.