2 DAY CONFERENCE PROGRAM
WELCOME TO COUNTRY & OPENING REMARKS
Uncle Allen Madden, respected Gadigal Elder, cultural representative for the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council
MC Lucas Finch, Global Head of Wellbeing, Xero
JOURNEY INTO DREAMTIME
Come on a journey with Aboriginal elder Aunty Munya, into the magical world of Aboriginal Dreamtime and share in the world's oldest living culture - its ancient knowledge and spiritual wisdom. Be guided in discovering your purpose in life and how to walk in the footsteps of our ancestors. Learn what it means to truly belong and be family to everyone and everything.
Aunty Munya Andrews, leading Indigenous Australian thinker, author and barrister; Co-Director, Evolve Communities
STRANGERS IN EDEN: RECONNECTING WITH NATURE TO FIND MEANING IN LIFE
Meaning and purpose seem to be talked about everywhere these days, from corporate boardrooms to youth basketball teams. Meaning and purpose are supposed to fix all that ails us, but what are they? How can we find ways to cultivate meaning that help us flourish? One of the challenges to meaning in modern life is the rupturing of vital connections we once had to the world around us. We will look at connecting with nature as a way of repairing those ancient bonds, and of experiencing greater wellbeing and meaning in our lives.
Professor Michael F Steger, pioneering psychologist and researcher into how leading a meaningful life contributes to wellbeing, USA
SHORT FILM: ROCK POOL GAZING - AN ECOLOGICAL MINDFULNESS PRACTICE
by Bastian Fox Phelan
WHY THE FUTURE ECONOMY HAS TO BE A WELLBEING ECONOMY
What do people and planet really need from the economy? Is the quality of life undermined by the drive for economic growth at all costs? In this provocative talk, Trebeck describes a new challenge: a move from expansion to inclusion.
Katherine Trebeck, political economist, writer and advocate for economic system change; Co-founder Wellbeing Economy Alliance
MEDITATION AND PERSONAL KINDNESS
It is said meditation is the greatest gift you can give to yourself or to someone else. It is also said the discipline required to practice regularly and to receive this gift fully is a personal kindness. For some, meditation might seem like a struggle, an effort, something they “have to do”. Here we explore its kinder aspects and the secrets to satisfying and regular practice.
Dr Ian Gawler OAM, pioneer in popularising meditation and other mind-body techniques in the Western world; Founder, The Gawler Foundation
MORNING COFFEE BREAK
LOVE AND OTHER DRUGS: THE ECONOMICS OF FUN
How important is FUN to a successful business strategy? When all the happy hormones are doing their thing, people don’t need convincing or persuading, they’re in because it feels good and it’s fun. But life isn’t all about fun all the time. It can be damn hard! Lucy will share how she learned to keep fun at heart and push through the hard stuff to find happiness in the long run.
Lucy Bloom, award-winning business leader, consultant and author
PANEL: LIVING AN ETHICAL LIFE: HOW TO MAKE GOOD CHOICES IN THE FACE OF TEMPTATION, CHALLENGES AND UNCERTAINTY
Most of us aspire to leading an ethical life but things are not always black and white. How can we make the best choices possible for our own and others’ wellbeing and happiness? What can we do to resist temptation, navigate challenges and make friends with uncertainty?
Professor Michael F Steger; Aunty Munda Andrews; Katherine Trebeck; Dr Ian Gawler OAM; Dr Shane Clifton
Moderator: Jenny Steadman, Acting National Director, Potential Project
PURPOSE AND MONEY – HOW TO HAVE BOTH IN THE NEW AGE
We all know that financial wellness is part of leading a happy life. So how can you lead a happy, purpose filled life, and take control of your money? This talk opens up the conversation about how being happy and financially secure can change not only your life, but the lives of those around you.
Vanessa Stoykov, inspiring financial educator, best-selling author; Founder and CEO of Evolution Media Group
GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE: UNLEASH YOUR HIDDEN POTENTIAL & CHANGE YOUR DESTINY
For many of us, connecting with strangers is challenging and perhaps a little scary. Kaley will show you how every stranger, every new connection, is a door to opportunities you never thought existed. Her methodology will help you re-evaluate your self-talk, overcome limiting beliefs and move forward into a much more fulfilling life.
Kaley Chu, confidence coach who inspires people to transform their lives; author, 100 Lunches with Strangers
LUNCH BREAK
TWO MINUTE MOVES ENERGISER
We all know that we should be moving more, but sometimes that first step is the most difficult to take. Join Lizzie as she turns that first step into a leap and makes it feel easy! By stopping the excuses, we can reap the benefits of a happier, healthier more energised life. It starts with just two minutes.
Lizzie Williamson, Conference and Workplace Energiser, author of Two Minute Moves
WHAT MAKES YOU STRONGER: HOW TO THRIVE IN THE FACE OF CHANGE AND UNCERTAINTY
Our world is constant, often unwanted change. We are confronted with a choice: adapt and grow stronger or perish. Learn cutting edge, evidence-based strategies for managing uncertainty, harnessing change for growth, and reducing overwhelm when things feel out of control.
Professor Joseph Ciarrochi, one of the most cited scientists is the world for his revolutionary work on wellbeing, Institute of Positive Psychology and Education, ACU
Dr Louise Hayes, clinical psychologist, academic, author and trainer in acceptance, mindfulness and positive therapeutic approaches
ACTIVATING A CULTURE OF MINDFUL OBSERVATION AND CREATIVITY
Through conscious engagement with the environment and the self, using processes such as guided walks and drawing, we can all connect with and release our creative potential. Hear how diverse sensory experiences are fundamental to mindful observation practices, breaking down our perceived limitations, and leading to joy, connection, wonder and transformation.
Vicky Shukuroglou, artist and researcher dedicated to deepening our care and
understanding of the Earth
MUSIC AND THE BRAIN
Music can raise our spirits, soothe our pain, help us to learn, and bring us together. Listening to and playing music provides a total brain workout with numerous cognitive, social and emotional benefits throughout the lifespan. Enjoy exploring how and why music is so good for us!
Carlin McLellan, Registered Music Therapist, music technologist, Founder of Play Anything Music Therapy
IN CONVERSATION: HOW TO BE BETWEEN
Young women’s bodies are relentlessly scrutinised and judged, so for most, the appearance of facial hair is a traumatic experience – unnatural, unfeminine, unwanted. But what happens when a female-assigned person decides to embrace their facial hair? Discover how an exploration of something as seemingly trivial as facial hair can act as a catalyst for a never-ending series of questions about the self.
Bastian Fox Phelan, writer, zinemaker, musician, citizen scientist and keen rockpooler; author How to Be Between
Moderator: Jenny Steadman, Acting National Director, Potential Project
AFTERNOON COFFEE BREAK
HOW TO STOP WRITING CHEQUES YOUR BODY CAN’T CASH
From sitting in silent meditation for 6 months, competing in Brazilian Jujitsu, having an internship in China's largest hospital, to running wellbeing programs at multiple organisations, Lucas Finch has had a unique career. Learn the principles of managing energy as Lucas distills his experiences and insights into an actionable framework suitable for individuals, teams and organisations.
Lucas Finch, Global Head of Wellbeing, Xero
HARNESS YOUR FORCE TO FIND YOUR GOLD MEDAL MOMENT
Be challenged to embrace adversity and change in your life by a 3-time Paralympian who is an expert in overcoming adversity and change. Learn the 5 Steps to Harness the Force within yourself and find your own Gold Medal Moment.
Carol Cooke AM PLY, Australian Paralympic Gold Medallist in cycling, sports fanatic, workaholic, former undercover police officer and Multiple Sclerosis advocate
SHORT FILM: REGENERATING AUSTRALIA
What would Australia look like in 2030 if we simply listened to the needs of its people? How can we help to accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy that values Australia’s greatest assets - First Nations' wisdom, our unique natural environment and our sense of community? Regenerating Australia is the latest film from Damon Gameau, the award-winning director of 2040 and That Sugar Film.
by Damon Gameau
REWILDING OUR BACKYARDS AND GARDENS
Be inspired to put out the welcome mat for native birds, animals and insects by rewilding your backyard, garden or city balcony. Learn some simple tips on the steps you can take to create a habitat that is a joyful contribution to our collective home – planet Earth.
Costa Georgiadis, much loved host of ABC TV’s Gardening Australia with an all- consuming passion for plants and people, ABC TV
CLOSING REMARKS
OPENING REMARKS
MC: Jocelyn Brewer, Registered Psychologist, digital wellbeing specialist, media commentator, Founder of Digital Nutrition
LIVING THE LIFE YOU WERE MEANT TO LIVE
It’s when we’re faced with our suffering that we often question the meaning and purpose of our lives or, at the very least, we question how we’ll embrace our challenges. We know that we’re not ‘going back’ to how things were in 2019 and yet, we may feel unsure about how to ‘go forward’ enriched and enlivened by our experiences. The events of the past three years, including the pandemic, bushfires, and lockdowns, have caused us to question: Who am I? What am I doing on the planet? Am I living the life I came here to live? If not? Why not? And what am I going to do about it?
Petrea King, leading wellness educator, well-known cancer survivor, mind-body healing pioneer; CEO & Founder, Quest for Life Foundation
THE POWER OF POSITIVE RITUALS & POSITIVE ENERGY MANAGEMENT FOR PERFORMANCE & WELLBEING
Energy management is foundational to resilience, wellbeing and performance. Explore the key components of energy management, strategies for enhancement of energy including meditation, exercise, diet and sleep, and the importance of the creation of daily and weekly positive rituals. Make a difference in your life by committing to one action that will enhance positive energy.
Dr Suzy Green, leader in the fields of Coaching Psychology and Positive Psychology; CEO & Founder, The Positivity Institute
THE NEUROBIOLOGY OF MENTAL FITNESS
We are facing an epidemic of mental illness, yet life has never been so good – so clearly something is wrong with modern life. Learn about the neurobiological underpinnings of good mental fitness and discover a range of practical, actionable strategies that we can all implement each day. Be inspired to live more in harmony with our ancient genome and move up the mental fitness continuum.
Paul Taylor, former British Royal Navy Aircrew Officer; Neuroscientist, Exercise Physiologist and Nutritionist
CARING FOR THE MENTAL HEALTH OF OURSELVES AND OTHERS
As individuals, we generally aspire in life to undertake a journey in pursuit of happiness. We strive to achieve this by focussing on ourselves and making choices that attest to our own goals and aspirations. In this talk, we will encourage a collective view of happiness, and the need to ensure other people are aptly involved in your individual pursuit of happiness.
Professor Jioji Ravulo, Chair of Social Work and Policy Studies, The University of Sydney
PERSONAL STORY: THE UNCAGED SKY - MY 804 DAYS IN AN IRANIAN PRISON
Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert was falsely charged with espionage and imprisoned in Iran from September 2018 to November 2020 before being released in a prisoner exchange deal negotiated by the Australian government. Held in a filthy solitary confinement cell for months, and subjected to relentless interrogation, Kylie was pushed to the limits of her endurance by extreme physical and psychological deprivation. Be moved and uplifted by her remarkable story of courage and resilience - a powerful meditation on hope, solidarity and what it means to be free.
Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert, scholar of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies; falsely imprisoned for espionage in Iran; Best-selling author, The Uncaged Sky: Imprisoned in Iran for 804 days
MODERATOR: Sophie Scott, award winning medical reporter, ABC
MORNING COFFEE BREAK
DARE TO LEAD LIKE A GIRL
“If you were told that you ‘run like a girl’, would you take it as a compliment or an
Insult?" This was the question asked in one of the most awarded ad campaigns (Forbes best campaigns of the decade) #AlwaysLikeAGirl, lauded for busting negative
stereotypes about women. Now, what if you were told that you LEAD Like a Girl? Dalia Feldheim, wants us to reclaim the phrase “Like a Girl” once again, this
time in the world of leadership. Be invited to shift the paradigms of contemporary leadership provoking us all, men and women, to connect to our more feminine traits and dare to lead from the heart - with purpose, perspective, people, and positivity - #Dare to Lead Like a Girl.
Dalia Feldheim, creator of Dare to Lead Like a Girl campaign; organisational psychologist; Adjunct Professor, Singapore Management University, Singapore
IT’S TIME TO REWRITE THE NARRATIVE ON DISABILITY
Janine Shepherd spent most of her adult life trying to be ‘normal’ to better fit into the able-bodied world, to try to avoid being judged by her disability. However, she found that when we try to ‘fit in,’ we lose touch with the things that make us unique, depriving society of the richness that comes from the diversity and inclusion that’s a part of living with a disability. And this is true not just in disability but in race, ethnicity, gender diversity and orientation, age, religion or any other ideology. Our differences, in addition to our homogeneity, connect us to the larger human story, opening our hearts to compassion and thus true happiness.
Janine Shepherd AM, disability advocate, aerobatics pilot, author and former Australian national champion cross-country skier
PANEL: ARE DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION GOOD FOR YOUR WELLBEING?
Diversity and inclusion are recognised to have many benefits for society such as reducing racism and discrimination, increasing productivity at work, and providing a balance of views and opinions. However, are diversity and inclusion also good for your personal wellbeing?
Petrea King; Professor Jioji Ravulo; Dalia Feldheim; Janine Shepherd AM; Dr Shane Clifton
MODERATOR: Jenny Steadman, Acting National Director, Potential Project
IN CONVERSATION: THE SPACE BETWEEN THE STARS
Be moved by Indira Naidoo’s heart-rending, at times funny, and uplifting tribute to love and our innate need to connect to the natural world. After her younger sister died suddenly, Indira began to explore how nature - whatever bits of nature are within reach - can heal us during life's darker chapters, whether nursing a broken heart or an anxious mind. Her story is a celebration of the reassuring cycle of renewal that sustains and nourishes us all.
Indira Naidoo, one of Australia’s most popular broadcasters and authors; host of ABC Radio’s Weekend Nightlife, ABC
MODERATOR: Sophie Scott, award winning medical reporter, ABC
LUNCH BREAK
TWO MINUTE MOVES ENERGISER
We all know that we should be moving more, but sometimes that first step is the most difficult to take. Join Lizzie as she turns that first step into a leap and makes it feel easy! By stopping the excuses, we can reap the benefits of a happier, healthier more energised life. It starts with just two minutes.
Lizzie Williamson, Conference and Workplace Energiser, author of Two Minute Moves
UNHAPPINESS & ITS CAUSES
There are three “Cs” that are central to human flourishing. But we completely underestimate their importance. Unprecedented changes in these three Cs over the last few decades explain the extraordinary increases in anxiety, stress, emptiness and depression across society. The three Cs of Community, Comparison and Contribution are embedded in us all from our deep, evolutionary past. We must take action on these three Cs now if humanity is to thrive in the future.
Dr Darren Coppin, Chief Behavioural Scientist, Azurum
THE NEW EPIDEMIC: HOW TO COMBAT LONELINESS
Loneliness is the next public health epidemic. It is as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It brings heart disease, and significant mental health issues. Explore the root causes of loneliness and the ways we can make our way back to belonging: it is about connection - the way we connect within, with each other and with the environment.
Christine Yeung, psychologist and CEO & Founder, Beyond Story
SELF-AWARENESS AND MAKING CHOICES THAT WILL PROMOTE OUR WELLBEING
We need to access a wide range of important considerations when making choices that will promote our wellbeing – self-awareness is key. Explore how to increase self-awareness using psychological skills such as relaxation, mindfulness, goal setting, self-talk, and visualization. Connect with your inner values and learn how to develop an Action Plan as you navigate your life journey.
Dr Vijay Kumar, Senior Wellbeing Advisor, Registered Psychologist, NSW Department of Education and Training
Catherine MacLaurin, Senior Wellbeing Advisor, Registered Psychologist, NSW Department of Education and Training
TOO MUCH INFORMATION: HOW DIGITAL OVER CONSUMPTION IS SHAPING OUR MENTAL HEALTH
Modern humans have ancient cognitive operating systems, yet are consuming more information on a daily basis than our Tudor era ancestors did in their entire lives. What impact is having access to so much information, so many opinions and channels of communication having on our mental health and wellbeing and how do we shape these positively without ditching our devices? Cyberpsychologist Jocelyn Brewer will outline strategies to prevent 'infobesity', manage your digital data consumption and be well, connected.
Jocelyn Brewer, Registered Psychologist, digital wellbeing specialist, media commentator, Founder of Digital Nutrition
AFTERNOON COFFEE BREAK
INDOOR PLANTS, OUR ENVIRONMENT AND HAPPINESS
Studies have also shown that indoor plants can improve concentration and productivity, reduce stress levels and boost your mood - making them perfect for not just your home but your workspace as well. Learn more about the link between plants, wellbeing and happiness and be inspired to create your own plant sanctuary.
Associate Professor Fraser Torpy, Director of the Plants and Environmental Quality Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney
PERSONAL STORY: FINDING JOY WHEN YOUR BODY FAILS YOU
In 2010 Shane had an accident that left him with quadriplegia. In the decades since he has navigated pain, disability, and dependency, and struggled with happiness. Yet life has proved richer than he once thought possible. Be encouraged and uplifted as we explore the pursuit of happiness in the context of our embodied limits.
Dr Shane Clifton, professor of theology and ethics, honorary associate at the Centre for Disability Research and Policy at the University of Sydney, and currently works at the Disability Royal commission
THANKING & CELEBRATING BETH PHELAN
RISING FALLS: THE JOY OF DANCE
Contact Improvisation is a mindfulness-based movement practice that encourages the development of embodied presence. Be entranced by the beauty of this improvisational dance form, as the dancers explore their bodies in relation to each other's through sharing weight, touch, and movement awareness.
Kieran Mitchell, dancer, Contact Improvisation facilitator, movement enthusiast
Phil Marciniak, Contact Improvisation practitioner; investigating how the physiology of smiling impacts movement
Maria Paz, trained in circus, theatre, aerial dance & Yoga; interested in cultivating body awareness through the practice of Contact Improvisation; Dance is her medicine
PRE & POST CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS
CRAFTING PURPOSE IN YOUR LIFE
with Professor Michael F Steger, pioneering psychologist and researcher into how leading a meaningful life contributes to wellbeing, USA
Workshop Outline
In this workshop we will explore the building blocks of purpose in life and you will be guided to write your own, personal purpose in life statement. You will learn about some of the research and theory behind meaning and purpose in life and put it into application right away. We will examine strengths, values, elements of mindfulness, and the science of meaning, with activities and tools for each element to help you craft more purpose in your life.
Outcomes:
A. Participants will learn about the best that is within themselves and other participants
B. Participants will learn how to create a dynamic personal purpose statement that captures their vision of a worthy life
C. Participants will learn how to use their personal purpose statements to infuse everyday life with meaning.
D. Participants will participate in numerous reflective and constructive practices to learn more about themselves and to activate purpose
WORKSHOP 1: BEING BOSS OF YOUR BRAIN!
with Petrea King, leading wellness educator, well-known cancer survivor, mind-body healing pioneer; CEO & Founder, Quest for Life Foundation
Workshop Outline
There are two networks in the brain. The Default Mode Network (DMN) and the Task Positive Network (TPN). One keeps us trapped in repeating the past; the other is the bridge to our creativity, insight, compassion and wisdom.
Suffering enlivens our fears, frustrations, judgements, regrets and resentments. These beliefs and judgements are held in the Default Mode Network along with the, “I’ll be happy when….” stories. We can liberate ourselves from all suffering and live a meaningful life by engaging our Task Positive Network, our executive functioning brain. In this workshop we’ll explore the growth and joy that comes by embracing our challenges and harnessing our focused attention.
What you will get out of this workshop:
The brain makes a marvellous servant but a shocker of a master! If you find quietening your brain a challenge, then this workshop will help you understand, harness and manage your brain. Once you are the boss of your brain, you can contribute to life in a way that is unique in the world, and deeply meaningful to you.
WORKSHOP 2: THE SCIENCE AND ART OF FINDING JOY IN EVERYDAY LIFE
with Dr Suzy Green, leader in the fields of Coaching Psychology and Positive Psychology; CEO & Founder, The Positivity Institute
Workshop Outline
“Know that joy is rarer, more difficult, and more beautiful than sadness. Once you make this all-important discovery, you must embrace joy as a moral obligation.” André Gide
This workshop will provide an overview of the science behind the positive emotion of joy including the psychological benefits of consciously cultivating joy, sharing joy in other’s successes and the potential dark side of too much joy. A highly informative and experiential session that will help you spark joy at work and in life.
Content:
- What is joy? Scientifically speaking. Joy as a Positive Emotion - one of Fredrickson’s 10 positive emotions
- Why the conscious cultivation of joy? eg overcoming the negativity bias, creating a healthy mood
- Joy and Mindfulness - A snapshot of savouring & gratitude
- Joy and Others? Sympathetic Joy and Active Constructive Responding - taking joy in others joy/happiness - freudefraude rather than schadenfreude
- The dark and intense side of joy and acedia - the ultimate protection against vulnerability - and joy!
- Sparking Joy - Creating a joy portfolio - reference to “bringing joy into focus” eg joy and photography
WORKSHOP 3: PERENNIAL WISDOM, MEDITATION & HAPPINESS
with Dr Ian Gawler OAM,pioneer in popularising meditation and other mind-body techniques in the Western world; Founder, The Gawler Foundation
Workshop Outline
These days meditation is often used in a manner somewhat akin to a drug. Many take it short-term, like a medicine, when they have a particular health need; others use it more like a steroid to enhance performance. While there is evidence this works to a degree, traditionally meditation did not exist within a vacuum. It was always an integral component of the spiritual path and was accompanied by wisdom teachings.
In this highly experiential workshop, we will explore the Perennial Wisdom common to all the great traditions, how that wisdom informs the practice of meditation, and how wisdom and meditation combine to build lasting happiness. The workshop will include information sharing, plenty of discussion and interaction, good time for questions and answers and solid meditation practice sessions led by the speaker.
We will examine:
- What helps individuals to develop a satisfying and regular meditation practice?
- Meditation practices relevant and appropriate for those seeking healing, to enhance performance and/or for those on the spiritual path
- What is “Perennial Wisdom”; what is common to all the great traditions and what are some of the key differences?
- How does Perennial Wisdom inform meditation practice, and provide a more realistic view of life?
- Learning the key components of Perennial Wisdom
- Deepening your understanding and experience of meditation
- Understanding how Perennial Wisdom combines with meditation to enhance satisfaction with practice and lead to increased levels of long-term happiness
- Appreciating how and why different meditation techniques are suitable for different purposes
WORKSHOP 4: CREATING HOPE EVEN AS OUR WORLD CHANGES BY USING ACCEPTANCE AND COMMITMENT PRACTICES
with Dr Louise Hayes, clinical psychologist, academic, author and trainer in acceptance, mindfulness and positive therapeutic approaches
Workshop Outline
We are living with a growing list of challenges, both social (climate, politics, wars, economics etc) and personal (relationships, careers, health etc.). The research on how we change shows that we survive well when we are connected to our deepest sense of meaning and take purposive action. This is called psychological flexibility. Research shows that if we build psychological flexibility, we will maximise our capacity to cope and thrive, and it accounts for a whopping 40% of the variability in behaviour change.
But how does one learn or teach others to be psychologically flexible? This workshop will introduce you to a cutting-edge framework of DNA-V based on evolution and contextual behavioural sciences, which allows everyone to learn psychological flexibility quickly and use it daily. With this approach, you can use your energy to live with vitality while also having the skills to manage difficult thoughts and feelings. You can build relationships while also learning how your history triggers you. You can face external challenges such as climate change instead of turning away.
What you will get out of this workshop:
- Learn the key aspects of psychological flexibility
- Apply these key steps to a wicked problem such as our changing world
- Deepen your understanding of value and vitality
- Learn key steps to build flexible thinking
- Learn key steps to help with emotions