Join us for a full day of inspiration, insight, and action as we shape the future of Byron Bay together. This year’s symposium features an exceptional mix of keynote speakers, expert panels, and interactive sessions designed to spark ideas and drive collaboration.

9:00 am – Morning Momentum

• Welcome to Country
• Strategic overview of Destination Byron
• Panel – Delivery Luxury Travel Experiences
• Fresh insights from regional tourism data
• Keynote - Juggling community, sustainability and corporate citizenship
• Keynote - Brisbane 2032 Olympics opportunity and overview

Lunch & Local Connections

• Working-style lunch designed to foster networking and idea-sharing

Afternoon – Tools for Impact

• Keynote - What does the future look like for Byron
• 200k Regional Night-Time Grant and Winter 2027 festival overview
• Live feedback and Q&A to shape Byron’s next steps

2:50 pm - Symposium concludes
3:00 pm - Networking Drinks
4:30 pm - Event ends

Simon Kuestenmacher * Co-Founder – The Demographics Group

Returning to the Destination Byron Symposium this year, Simon Kuestenmacher from The Demographics Group will share the latest demographic and consumer data shaping Byron Shire, along with insights into the opportunities and challenges the Brisbane 2032 Olympics could bring to the region.

Known for turning complex data into engaging, real-world insights, Simon will explore how changing population trends, visitor behaviour and major events like the 2032 Olympics may impact the future of Byron Shire’s economy, community and visitor experience.

Rebecca Masci * Director of Brand & Digital – Brisbane 2032

Joining the Destination Byron Symposium for the first time this year, Rebecca Masci will share insights into the opportunities and legacy of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and what the Games could mean for regions like Byron Shire and Northern NSW.

As Director of Strategic Engagement, Brand and Marketing Communications for Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Rebecca has been part of the Organising Committee since its inception in 2022 and brings more than 20 years’ experience across major sporting events, infrastructure, transport and communications.

A Brisbane local with a passion for sport and regional growth, Rebecca will explore how Brisbane 2032 has the potential to shape tourism, infrastructure, connectivity and international attention across South-East Queensland and beyond.

Nick Baker * Chief Executive Officer – Reflections Holidays

From global tourism leadership to nature-driven experiences closer to home, welcome Nick Baker, CEO of, to the Destination Byron Symposium.

In his session, Wild At Heart, will explore how one of Australia’s leading nature-based tourism organisations balances sustainability, community and corporate responsibility while continuing to inspire the romance of adventure travel.

With leadership experience spanning Tourism Australia, RedBalloon and CamperMate, Nick brings a unique perspective on the future of regional tourism, destination storytelling and meaningful visitor experiences.

This is a session not to miss.

Paul Hammond – Sales * STR, a CoStar Group company

Destination Byron Symposium will feature Paul Hammond from STR, a CoStar Group company presenting a Byron Shire-specific update on the latest tourism and accommodation data shaping our region.

With 30+ years in global tourism and hospitality, including senior roles with Hyatt, IHG, Booking.com and Expedia Group, Paul brings deep international experience across hotel performance, travel platforms and major global events.

His session will translate STR’s benchmarking data into clear insights on visitation trends, market performance and opportunities for Byron’s visitor economy.

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