Thursday 4 September 2025
Novotel Melbourne Preston
Co-sponsored by:
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September Host Councils:
Guest Speakers
Topic: Reading the political tea leaves – reflections on the 2025 Federal Election and the forthcoming 2026 State Election
Kosmos Samaras, Director of Strategy and Campaigns at RedBridge Group
Kos Samaras is a leading authority on political strategy, public sentiment, and behavioural research. With over 25 years of experience in government, campaigning, and policy advising, including as a senior figure within Victorian Labor, Kos has helped shape major initiatives across infrastructure, health, and energy. His expertise lies in translating community attitudes into actionable strategy, particularly in diverse and fast-changing environments. Kos regularly advises clients on how to align their work with evolving public expectations and political priorities.
Tony Barry, Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications at RedBridge Group
Tony Barry is a seasoned strategist with more than two decades of experience in public affairs, campaign strategy, and political risk management. He has advised governments, corporations, and media across Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Tony specialises in helping clients navigate reputational challenges, build influence, and engage with decision-makers in complex political landscapes. A veteran of more than 50 political and corporate campaigns, his insights are grounded in a deep understanding of public opinion, stakeholder pressure points, and the modern media cycle.
Nominees
City of Darebin Council
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Anastasia Sarikizis - New Plumbing Solutions
Young Business Achiever
Hume City Council
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Venue
We are excited to be hosting our NBAA Breakfast at Novotel Melbourne Preston!
Located at 215 Bell Street, Preston, 3072.
All guests will receive complimentary parking (excluding overnight parking for accommodation guests) in the Novotel Melbourne Preston underground parking area accessed via Hotham Street. You will need to register your vehicle through a QR code, which will be available in the function space during the event. It is an automated system, so no tickets are required. When you are leaving, the system will scan your number plate, and the gate will open.
Please note that the QR code is valid for Novotel Preston Underground parking only, and vehicles parked in any other area will incur standard charges. The function room is called ‘The Market Ballroom’ and is located on level 1, accessible via the lifts from this underground car park.
To view nearby parking and public transport, click here.
Breakfast Program
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Introduction by MC - Mary Agostino
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Welcome - Frances Coppolillo, Acting Chair, NORTH Link
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Guest Speaker - Kosmos Samaras, Director of Strategy and Campaigns, and Tony Barry, Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications at RedBridge Group
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Young Business Achievers Introductions
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City of Darebin and Hume City Council Business Nominee Panel
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Thank you, and close
Menu
Australian Breakfast: creamy scrambled eggs, smoked streaky bacon, thyme roasted tomato, sautéed mushrooms, chicken & thyme chipolata, buttered Sourdough.
Gluten-free and vegetarian substitutes are available.
Fruit Platters
Freshly brewed coffee, tea and cold juice selection
2025 NBAA Award Category Sponsors
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Best Start-Up or Microbusiness Business Award sponsored by New Epping
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Business of the Year Award sponsored by Victorian Government, Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions
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Customer Service Award sponsor to be determined
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Philanthropy and Customer Service Award sponsored by Inner North Community Foundation
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Exporter of the Year Award sponsored by Pitcher Partners
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Human Resources Award sponsored by Macpherson Kelley
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Industry Education Engagement Award sponsored by Kangan Institute
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Innovation and Enterprise Award sponsored by The Fair Co.
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Outstanding Initiative in Manufacturing Award sponsor to be determined
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Philanthropy and Community Service Award sponsored by Inner North Community Foundation
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Sustainability and Environment Award sponsored by Yarra Valley Water
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Technology Award sponsor to be determined
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Workplace Diversity Award sponsored by Melbourne Polytechnic
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Young Business Achiever Award sponsored by La Trobe Business School
NAMING RIGHTS SPONSORS AND PARTNERS
