After experiencing a number of different jobs, from an auxiliary firefighter to working for an airline in New Zealand, Dan Cicero decided it was time to step out of his comfort zone and fulfil his dream of running his own business. What started out as door knocking and offering couch cleaning services quickly grew into Coastal Couch Care – a couch cleaning business focused on using only natural ingredients.
After leading prenatal and mum-and-baby yoga for almost two decades, Adrienne Brooks decided to try something new. This led to a quick trip to Melbourne for teacher training in aerial hammock yoga, and on her return, Elevate Studios NQ was born.
Jayne Philp of COO Consulting works closely with businesses to understand their vision, identify pain points, and develop plans that align with their goals.
Dylan Pappalardo, owner of DebtSet, worked his way through the ranks of an accounting internship and financial planning to owning his own business in finance broking. Dylan not only owns one businesses, but offers consultancy work with PUFT Events and has recently opened a coffee/wine bar in the CBD.
With over 30 years of experience and a PhD in Psychology, Dr Jo Lukins has worked with elite athletes, the Australian Defence Force, and outstanding professionals in the corporate and educational sectors, assisting them to help achieve their goals. Alongside her work, she has also authored four books, sharing her knowledge to a wider audience.
Facilitator of Australia’s longest running council-funded community drum circle, and owner of The Rhythm Connection, Alex Salvador, left his job of 20 years to pursue his passion. Now facilitating drum circles in schools, festivals and special events, as well as team building activities for groups and organisations, he hasn’t looked back and is working on expanding into smaller regions like the Hebert and Burdekin.
Noticing a gap in the local market, Maree O’Shea decided to establish Sweeter than Sugar over 14 years ago, creating joy for Townsville residents though baked goods. More recently, her continued desire to make people smile inspired her recent purchase of local boutique event business, Hello Picnic.
Despite the challenges that come with taking a leap into hospitality and a business that is so well established with limited industry experience, Kaylee Boccalatte considers herself privileged to be continuing the legacy that is Burdekin’s renowned Dal Santo’s Continental Deli.
A passion for making a difference in the lives of the unemployed and underprivileged has led Arthur Burchett to found Equality Education, an initiative specialising in hospitality, leadership and management training.
After serving for almost 12 years in the RAAF, Zac and Katie Solari have chosen Townsville as the perfect place to settle down with their young family, and are excited to see what the future holds after taking over the reins of the CBD’s iconic Mary Who? Bookshop.