Eli Court is the CEO at Soils for Life, an organisation that works to support Australian farmers to regenerate soils and landscapes. Eli has over a decade of experience in the non-profit sector working on climate and sustainability research, policy and engagement.

Sarah Rees has twenty-three years in forest and conservation work from founding groups such as Beyond Zero Emissions to serving on the Board of The Wilderness Society Vic and Forest Stewardship Council Australia for 9 years. She currently represents the Australian Forest and Climate Alliance and is the acting spokesperson for the Great Forest National Park initiative. A powerhouse of experience and expertise.

Tim is a proud Aboriginal man, a descendent of the Wotjobauluk people of Western Victoria and Executive Director, Aboriginal Engagement and Partnerships, at Parks Victoria. He has also been Executive Director of First Peoples Self Determination and Reform at the Department of Transport and Planning and Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Barengi Gadjin Land Council (BGLC). He has held Ministerial appointed positions as a member of the Victorian Aboriginal Economic Council and the Agriculture and Climate Change Council and we are thrilled to include him as a speaker at the festival this year.

The director & founder of STEM Landscape Architecture & Design, Em believes that every answer can be delivered when you look into nature. Em will present an holistic approach to plants, people, and wildlife, showing how simple conscious choices, such as thoughtful plant selection, can positively influence biodiversity at all scales.  

Hugo Leschen, Chief Executive Officer at Golden Dragon Museum, has a strong connection to sustainability and the theme of ‘home’: “By understanding our past, we can learn more about the present, and perhaps even make decisions that lead to a better future.”

Dr Grinter is the Plains Wanderer Project Officer at Zoos Victoria and an ecologist with an interest across flora, fauna, and ecological communities. With his PhD research focusing on big picture, hierarchical ecological systems and their function, he approaches the conservation of threatened species in their entire context and is thrilled to be a speaker at our 2026 festival.

Dr Moira Junge is the inaugural CEO of the Sleep Health Foundation. Did you know that in your efforts to be more sustainable in your home, that actions such as turning off the lights can help with your quest for better sleep, better health, increased personal energy and improved personal sustainability?

Bailey is a leading consultant on sustainability and climate at Deloitte. Enthusiastic about building a sustainable future through business strategy, he works with dynamic and diverse teams to combat climate change alongside other challenges.

‘Raggi’ is Head Chef at Fowles Wine in Bendigo, passionate about creating memorable dining experiences that balance creativity, sustainability, and precision. His career has been built on a foundation of sustainable food practices, strong leadership, and meticulous HACCP implementation to ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality. Can’t wait to hear him talk about food and sustainability.