The 2021 Hinkler Innovation Series is set to kick off in July, with keynote speakers from the region and beyond coming together to drive discussion around regional innovation.
The theme of the upcoming bi-annual event is Innovation Through Adversity, which Mayor Jack Dempsey said acknowledged how society was able to adapt, innovate and overcome through times of hardship and complication.
“This is such a relevant topic given what the region and the world has been going through with COVID and the serious impacts felt by many businesses during this uncertain time,” he said.
“Participants of the Hinkler Innovation Series will get to hear from local and national entrepreneurs about their own experiences and how they have adapted to continue to make contributions to innovation.”
Hinkler Innovation is a Bundaberg community-led collaboration to support, recognise, and foster Australian entrepreneurs.
The July series will feature a range of speakers recognised in their respective fields including John McLean, CEO of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks and Katherine Reid, CEO of Bundaberg Tourism.
Local entrepreneurs in the spotlight at Hinkler Innovation
Bundaberg Region Tourism general manager Katherine Reid. 
John Mclean from Bundaberg Brewed Drinks.
Bundaberg Brewed Drinks has gone through an extraordinary transformation under John's leadership, with the local brews now available in over 60 countries.
He heads the Bundaberg-based, fourth-generation family business which has been home to the household favourite, Bundaberg Ginger Beer, for over 50 years.
The business employs over 230 people across Australia, New Zealand, America and the United Kingdom.
Katherine is the second local face to speak at the Hinkler Innovation Series and brings her wealth of knowledge of the tourism industry.
The CEO of Bundaberg Tourism has been in the role for the past six years and has an in-depth knowledge of the needs of tourism businesses and the broader economic impacts tourism can have on a community.
HSG at the Gardens owner Dion Taylor will also feature at the event as a panellist.
Dion is a trade qualified chef and has a diverse background within the food, property and personal development industries.
Keynote speaker Mark McCrindle, who is the Founder and Principal of McCrindle Research, will headline the event.
Mark is a social researcher with an international following and is recognised as a leader in tracking emerging issues and researching social trends.
A best selling-author and TEDx speaker, Mark leads his advisory, communications and research business which supports more than 100 of Australia’s largest companies and leading international brands.
The Hinkler Innovation Series will be held at the Bundaberg Multiplex, 1 Civic Avenue, on Thursday, 15 July from 6.45am to 9am.
Tickets include breakfast and can be purchased here.
