Each year at the end of Queensland Small Business Month in May, the Small Business Friendly Conference gathers together members, government, industry, and small business champions. Together, they share innovations, celebrate success, and discover new ideas that help build strong small business ecosystems and vibrant Queensland communities.
The 2026 Small Business Friendly Conference will unite councils from across Queensland for a day of insight, connection and practical strategies that help build stronger, more resilient small business communities.
Anchored in this year’s theme, “Momentum: Local Leadership, Lasting Impact,” the program will delve into how councils drive prosperous business environments through purposeful leadership, innovative thinking and strong local partnerships. Delegates can expect an engaging speaker line up featuring sector expertise, real world case studies and valuable opportunities to learn from peers across the state.
The program will also feature a Ministerial Address from the Hon. Steve Minnikin MP, Minister for Customer Services and Open Data and Minister for Small and Family Business, offering strategic state-level insights that will enrich discussions on the future of small business in Queensland.
Learn from experts about innovative leadership, economic development, and sustainable growth tailored for councils and small business support.
Connect with experienced speakers, council representatives, and business leaders shaping the future of local economies across Queensland.
Hear firsthand how councils and businesses are collaborating to overcome challenges and build vibrant small business communities.
The Conference will be held on Thursday 28 May 2026 at The Frenchville Sports Club, 105 Clifton St, Berserker, Rockhampton, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Whether you’re a council leader, economic development officer, or business advocate, this conference will provide the knowledge and networks needed to create a lasting impact in your region.
Conference participants and speakers are invited to attend the Welcome Function on Wednesday 27 May 2026 at CocoBrew Riverside, 5 East St, Rockhampton, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Guests will be welcomed to the region by Mayor Tony Williams, Rockhampton Regional Council, and Mayor Adam Belot, Livingstone Shire Council, and extend a warm introduction to the Capricorn Coast and broader Central Queensland community.
This is an invite-only, complimentary event. Invited guests included:
Katrina is an experienced economist and strategic advisor with more than 12 years’ leadership across the public and private sectors. She is recognised for her evidence-based insights and her commitment to driving sustainable, future focused regional development as General Manager, Communities at Livingstone Shire Council.
In a previous role with .id (Informed Decisions), she delivered economic and demographic insights to councils, including training on modelling tools that support regional planning and investment decisions. Her broader career spans advisory and leadership positions across government and industry, contributing to community focused economic development
Minister for Customer Services and Open Data and Minister for Small and Family Business
Steve is the Minister responsible for establishing a new Department focussed on delivering Australia’s most customer service focused government, including streamline government services for Queenslanders and small businesses. Steve was first elected to Parliament in 2012 as Member for Chatsworth in Brisbane’s south-east following a successful business career, which included retail property management and the development industry.
Director, Regional Development Australia Central and Western Queensland
Stephen Smith has more than 30 years’ experience across local and Queensland Government, working with industries including manufacturing, agriculture, mining and regional economic development. As Director at RDA, he works with councils, industry and communities to drive regional growth, strengthen local economies, and support opportunities for small business across the region.
Founder, Fourfold Studio
Brooke Williams is the Founder and Director of Fourfold Studio. A recognised placemaking leader with over 14 years’ experience, she specialises in revitalising main streets and precincts by aligning councils, communities and small businesses. Brooke facilitates collaborative processes that unlock local identity, support thriving local economies, and turn underperforming places into vibrant destinations.
Founder of Localis
Robbie Dalton is the Founder of Localis, an intelligence platform designed to help local governments, RTOs, and operators make smarter decisions through actionable insights. By bringing together multiple datasets, Localis provides stakeholders with a clearer, more comprehensive view of the tourism landscape. The company believes that no single data source can fully address the complex challenges of the industry, only by combining diverse information can real solutions emerge.
Director Assistance, Office of the Queensland Small Business Commissioner
Queensland. An award winning executive with over 20 years’ experience, she specialises in industry and regional economic development, investment and business strategy. Former CEO of Whitsunday Economic Development, Denise has secured major funding, opened export markets, and is a passionate advocate for Queensland’s regional businesses.
Founder, Local Economic Impact Advisory
Paul Cranch is a Brisbane based economic development professional, writer, and best-selling author dedicated to helping regions build long term prosperity. With experience across local government, advocacy, and community engagement, he focuses on empowering future leaders and strengthening local economies through strategy, partnerships, and practical insights.
President and co-founder of the Capricornia Chamber of Commerce
Jason strives to bring innovation, experimentation and two decades of experience in digital and online business support, to help businesses create effective branding and promotion. A 'Certified Brand Strategist', Jason works alongside the Chamber's team of dedicated volunteers to help local businesses expand their networks and become more effective.
General Manager, Queensland Operations at Trade and Investment
Queensland. An award winning executive with over 20 years’ experience, she specialises in industry and regional economic development, investment and business strategy. Former CEO of Whitsunday Economic Development, Denise has secured major funding, opened export markets, and is a passionate advocate for Queensland’s regional businesses.
The Small Business Friendly Program Awards honour members who have gone above and beyond in supporting and uplifting small businesses in their local areas and are proudly presented by the Queensland Small Business Commissioner at the SBF Conference.
SBF member representatives are invited to join us the day prior to the Small Business Friendly Conference for a dedicated workshop and hosted regional experience designed specifically for economic development and business-facing council staff.
This exclusive session will focus on strengthening the skills, confidence and approaches that support more effective engagement within council and with small businesses — helping councils build trust, reduce friction and foster stronger local economies. Limited to 50 delegates.
Catherine Molloy is an International Speaker, Author, and Communication Expert, and believes that business success rests on the ability to build real connections at velocity.
Her interactive workshops empower participants to refine the way they communicate across departments and with the business community, helping councils streamline support, reduce friction, and build stronger partnerships.
Catherine’s high energy, mindful approach ensures participants walk away with simple, actionable techniques they can apply immediately to enhance their impact and effectiveness.
To assist with planning, delegates are encouraged to arrange accommodation in Rockhampton, where coach transfers will depart and return in time for the Welcome Reception.
This workshop leads into the Small Business Friendly Conference on Thursday 28 May in Rockhampton.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Capricorn Coast for what promises to be an engaging and energising conference experience.