Summit program 2026


Thursday August 27

Welcome to Wellness Evening

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In Conversation

5:15 pm

The Business of Wellness

An Investor's View of the Future

Radek Sali - Light Warrior


Friday August 28

Conference Program

Morning

9:00 am

Casey Beros - MC, Health Journalist, Author

Welcome!


Ancient Wisdom, Enduring Wellbeing

Exploring the connection between Country, culture and wellbeing.

Delta Kay – Explore Byron Bay


The Wellness Economy in Motion: What Tourism Leaders Need to Know

The latest global wellness tourism trends and market insights shaping the future of travel.

Katherine Droga  - Global Wellness Institute’s Wellness Tourism Initiative, Well Traveller  & Wellness Tourism Summit


The Science of Ageing Well: Why Healthspan is Reshaping Travel

Discover how healthy ageing, preventative wellbeing and longevity are influencing traveller behaviour and creating new opportunities across tourism.

Dr Stacy Sims – Global Female Sports Physiologist & Nutrition Scientist


Beyond Relaxation: What Today's Wellness Retreat Travellers Really Want

Gain insights into the motivations and evolving expectations of travellers seeking transformative wellness experiences.

Janine Cottle – Escape Haven, Melanie James – Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Cassandra Carey – Investable Wellness


Morning Tea

Turning Interest into Bookings: How to Convert Wellness Demand into Business Growth

Liliana Lopez – WeTravel, Jemima Miller - Pexel Primed


The Return of Ritual: Reimagining Spa and Wellness Experiences

Discover how rituals, sensory experiences and intentional design are reshaping modern wellness and deeper guest engagement.

Megan Larsen - Sodashi


Wellness for Everyone: Simple Ways Every Tourism Business Can Respond to Demand

Discover practical ideas and wellness touchpoints that businesses can implement regardless of size, location or budget.

Sandy Wilkinson - Destination New South Wales, Trudy Jenkins - Crystal Castle, Tiffany Horton - The Farm Byron Bay


Lunch

Nature as Medicine: Creating Experiences that Restore and Reconnect

Explore how nature can create meaningful wellbeing journeys and deeper visitor connections.

Elle Halliwell – Journalist, Kate Gibson – The Hike Collective, Tim Jack Adams – Green X7


Growing Wellness Demand: How to Reach Today's Wellness Traveller

Discover the marketing strategies, partnerships and channels that are helping wellness businesses attract the right visitors, build stronger brands and drive sustainable growth.

Neil O’Sullivan – Nimbus Co.,  Kate Duncan - Wellbeing Magazine


The Sound of Wellbeing

Discover how music, sound and vibration can reduce stress, deepen connection and create memorable wellness experiences.

Lizzy Dayne Morrissey - MissusM Creative, Dr Sandra Garrido - School of Psychology


Afternoon Tea

Move to Think: Brain-Changing Movement

Discover and experience how brain-changing movement can boost focus, energy and mental clarity using simple, interactive techniques grounded in functional neurology.

Ellice De Giovanni -  Eligned


Building More Than a Bathhouse: Lessons in Community, Connection and Growth

Explore the rise of social wellness and what tourism businesses can learn from experiences that foster belonging, connection and loyal communities.

Russ & Shae Raven, Sol Elements Bathhouse


Closing Reflections: Key Takeaways & Future Opportunities

Join our speakers as they reflect on the day's key insights, emerging opportunities and the future of wellness tourism, leaving you inspired and equipped to take the next step in your business, destination or community.

Wellness Prize Giveaways


Wrap Up