STRIVE 2025

AUSTRALIA

MELBOURNE

Learn. STRive. Thrive!!

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19 + 20TH MARCH 2025

STRIVE TO THRIVE!

WE ARE BACK for an Unforgettable Two Days!

Join us for Australia’s most anticipated gathering of short-term rental proprietors, owners, and managers. Back, bigger, and better, STRive to Thrive returns with a two-day edition on 19th-20th of March 2025 in the heart of Melbourne.

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey to the heart of Melbourne for STRive to Thrive, Australia’s premier event in the short-term rental industry! More than just a business conference, STRive to Thrive is a pulsating two-day fiesta of knowledge, innovation, and celebration. It’s where learning meets excitement, providing a platform to elevate your rental business to new heights.

But STRive to Thrive is not only about intense learning. It’s a place to connect with fellow industry professionals, build lasting relationships, and celebrate shared achievements. As day turns to night, unwind at our celebratory dinner and afterparty, where gourmet dining meets lively entertainment and endless networking opportunities.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

Engaging Sessions

Learn about industry trends, marketing strategies, guest experience, property management, and technology advancements. Learn how to scale and THRIVE!

Networking Opportunities

Connect with professionals, build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and collaborate to enhance your business and achieve goals.

Expert & International Speakers

Gain knowledge from influential STR industry figures, engaging with pioneers to stay ahead through innovative insights and strategies.

Drinks & Entertainment

Kick back and relax with a sumptuous food, refreshing drinks, and an exhilarating afterparty after the main event that keeps the networking going late into the night.

EVENT DETAILS

We are excited to present a carefully curated lineup of industry leaders who will share their expertise and experiences. Our sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including market trends, marketing strategies, guest experience, legal considerations, property management, and technological advancements. Each session is designed to equip you with actionable insights to apply to your business.

Beyond the sessions, STRive to Thrive offers numerous opportunities to connect with fellow STR professionals, build relationships, and celebrate together. Our evening events include a gala dinner and an afterparty, offering the perfect setting for networking and unwinding after a day of learning.

STRive to Thrive isn’t merely an event; it’s a defining moment in your STR journey, filled with learning, collaboration, and joyful celebration. Mark your calendars, fasten your seat belts, and get ready for a memorable two-day adventure that promises to inspire and delight!

Highlights of the event include:

  • Expert-led conference sessions.
  • Gourmet meals and refreshments.
  • Industry advocacy get-to-gether
  • A celebratory dinner, awards and afterparty.

Join us for THE MAIN EVENT, THE VIP MASTERCLASS DAY, OR BOTH! Read more 👇

Day 1: VIP ACTION MASTERCLASS DAY (MARCH 19th, 2025)

Immerse yourself in the exclusive ACTION day, a comprehensive day of Masterclasses designed to provide you with hands-on training and insights from industry experts. Dive deep into specialized sessions that focus on innovative strategies, actionable tools, and practical solutions to enhance your STR business.

Whether you’re a seasoned expert or new to the STR scene, this Masterclass is tailored to empower you with knowledge that translates to action.

What to Expect: Intensive Workshops: 3 x Sharp, INTENSE – Learn from the best in the business in focused sessions that provide actionable insights.

SCALING MASTERCLASS: Learn how to expand your STR business effectively.
MARKETING ON THE SMELL OF AN OILY RAG: Discover budget-friendly marketing strategies.
SURPRISE SESSION: An exciting, undisclosed topic that will provide unique insights.

Network with other professionals, enjoy a delicious lunch and afternoon tea, and cap off the day with champagne and canape networking. The Masterclass day runs from 10am to 5:00pm

These masterclasses are part of the exclusive VIP ACTION MASTERCLASS DAY and are carefully crafted to provide actionable insights, tools, and strategies to enhance your short-term rental business. Whether you choose one or all of these sessions, be prepared for an intensive learning experience that translates to real-world success.

Networking Opportunities: Connect and engage with fellow STR professionals.
Lunch and Afternoon Tea: Stay energized with gourmet meals and refreshments.
Champagne and Canape Networking!

1 0am-5:00pm *Topics subject to change*

Day 2: MAIN EVENT, SESSIONS, DINNER AND DRINKS (MARCH 20th, 2025)

Dive into a full day of engaging sessions that cover every aspect of the STR industry. From market trends to guest experiences, legal compliance to technological innovations, the Main Event day is your opportunity to gain comprehensive knowledge and insights.

But it’s not just about intense learning! When the sun dips beneath the horizon, let your hair down at our celebration dinner and afterparty.

What to Expect:

Engaging Sessions: Industry trends, marketing strategies, guest experience, and more!
Expert Speakers: 
Influential figures in the STR industry.
Meet sponsors: 
Leading tech companies and suppliers in the STR industry
Networking: 
Meet fellow hosts from all over Melbourne and beyond, from big to small.
Lunch: 
Savor a deliciously light lunch crafted by the culinary team of Sudima.
Coffees, Afternoon Tea: 
Stay fueled and engaged.

Celebration Dinner and Afterparty: Indulge in delightful dinner, refreshments, and entertainment.

9:30am – late

Book both days – or pick the one that you want to go to. You choose

Join us for both the Masterclass – ACTION Day and the Main Event to enjoy a comprehensive two-day experience that combines education, celebration, and connection. Immerse yourself in the full spectrum of the STR industry, learn from experts, network with like-minded professionals, and celebrate your journey in style.

STRIVE to Thrive is not just an event; it’s a milestone on your journey in the STR industry, a moment of learning, collaboration, and celebration that you’ll cherish forever. So gear up, buckle in, and get ready for an unforgettable ride!

 

WHAT TO EXPECT

MELBOURNE SCHEDULE

Schedule details INFORMATION OF EVENT SCHEDULES

On March 19-20, 2025, dive into an electrifying mix of insights, strategies, and cutting-edge tools tailored for the competitive STR industry. This dynamic event offers an unparalleled experience, blending education, celebration, and industry expertise in a vibrant setting.

9:30 - 10:15 AM

Registration

10:15 - 10:30 AM

Opening Remarks

10:30 - 12:00 PM

Think Big, Scale Smart: Mastering Scaling and Learning from Mistakes

Scaling a rental business isn’t just about adding properties—it’s about doing it smartly. Lauren Heys, Founder of Moxxi Property, shares her journey, revealing wins, missteps, and strategies for growth. Learn how to scale sustainably, manage teams, and maintain quality in this session packed with real-world insights and practical advice.

Lauren Heys

12:00 - 1:00 PM

Lunch

01:00 - 02:30 PM

Win More Guests, Win More Owners: What are your peers doing?

Success in short-term rentals goes beyond listing properties—it’s about mastering direct bookings and fostering strong owner relationships. Join this peer-led workshop with Bart Sobies to share proven strategies for increasing direct bookings and acquiring new owners, helping your business thrive in a competitive market.

Bart Sobies

02:30 - 03:00 PM

Afternoon Canapes

03:00 - 04:30 PM

Become a Market Leading Brand: The Smart Path to Marketing Success in 2025

Join Alexandra Ormerod, Co-Founder of Luxico, in this STRIVE 2025 session as she shares insights on building a market-leading brand. Learn key strategies for balancing brand identity with growth, forming impactful partnerships, and adapting to market changes. Gain practical tips to create a brand that inspires trust and loyalty.

Alexandra Ormerod

04:30 - 04:40 PM

Closing Remarks

04:40 - 05:30 PM

Drinks

9:30 - 10:00 AM

Registration

10:00 - 10:15 AM

Opening Remarks

10:15 - 10:50 AM

Experience Design in the Social Era: Turning Spaces into Shareable Moments

Kristie Wolfe

10:50 - 11:25 AM

The Road to Growth: Building and Scaling a Profitable STR Portfolio (Panel)

Julie George

Will Creedon

Daniel White

Alexandra Ormerod

11:25 - 12:00 PM

Optimising Your STR Rates: How to Stay Competitive and Profitable (Panel)

Matthias Dybing

Roman Solyanyk

Paul Waldschmidt

12:00 - 1:00 PM

Lunch

1:00 - 1:35 PM

Global Travel Trends: International Market Update and Distribution Strategies

Kristy Malapa

1:35 - 2:10 PM

Tech of the Future: Experts Discuss the Tools Reshaping Short Term Rentals (Panel)

Michael Snyman

Jay Ullrich

Ethan Brown

Sam Steel

Yoav Tourel

2:10 - 2:45 PM

I Couldn’t Do It Without Them: VA's, The Hidden Heroes Behind Successful STRs (Panel)

Bart Sobies

Daniel White

Kim Steel

2:45 - 3:15 PM

Afternoon Canapes

3:15 - 3:50 PM

Contagious Content: How to Tap into Viral Trends and Make Them Work for You

Taylor Craig

3:50 - 4:25 PM

Styling That Sells: Creating Spaces That Drive Bookings and Reviews (Panel)

Amanda Hall

Sharon Burnell

Deanne Bulstrode

Kristie Wolfe

Tiffany Murray

4:25 - 5:00 PM

Your Top STR Problems, Solved: Overcoming Key Challenges (Panel)

Daniel White

Alexandra Ormerod

Julie George

5:00 - 5:15 PM

Closing Remarks

5:15 - 6:00 PM

Networking Drinks

6:00 - 10:00 PM

Celebration/Awards/Networking

CONFIRMED 2025 SPEAKERS

Alexandra Ormerod

Managing Director, Luxico

Bart Sobies

CEO & Founder, ibooked.online & The Accommodation Show

Lauren Heys

Founder and Owner, Moxxi Property

Ethan Brown

General Manager APAC, Hospitable

Kristie Wolfe

Builder, Passion Projects LLC

Paul Waldschmidt

CEO, OwnerRez

Julie George

CEO, Million Dollar Host

Roman Solyanyk

Senior Account Executive, Beyond Pricing

Kristy Malapa

Industry Relations Manager, Tourism Australia

Will Creedon

Founder & CEO, Alloggio

Sharon Burnell

Co-Owner and Founder, The Holiday Home Girls

Jay Ullrich

CEO and Co-Founder, HostBuddy AI

Yoav Tourel

Managing Director, APAC at Guesty and Chair of the Board of Directors at ASTRA

Deanne Bulstrode

Co-Owner, The Holiday Home Girls

Pete Smith

CEO & Founder, Weekenda and Hunter Valley Villa

Tiffany Murray

Founder, ROOM

Sam Steel

Co-Founder, Resly

Taylor Craig

Founder, Delish Digital

Michael Snyman

CFO, Alloggio

Kim Steel

Founder and Director, Property Mums

Amanda Hall

APAC Sales Rep, Escapia Software

Daniel White

Director, CanBnB

Matthias Dybing

Co-Founder & COO, Nuvho

Kim Steel

Founder and Director, Property Mums

STRIVE GOLD PARTNERS

STRIVE SILVER PARTNERS

STRIVE BRONZE PARTNERS

STRIVE INDUSTRY PARTNERS

AUSTRALIA VENUE

EVENT LOCATION Welcome to Thornbury

Address:
520 High Street, Northcote VIC, Australia 3070

Phone:
+61 3 9020 7940

Email:
info@welcometothornbury.com

ACCOMMODATION PARTNER

STRive attendees can enjoy an exclusive discount at Novotel Melbourne Preston.

Located in vibrant Preston, Victoria, Australia, Novotel Melbourne Preston offers contemporary comfort and exceptional convenience for both business and leisure travelers. Just a short drive from Melbourne’s CBD, the hotel features modern rooms, versatile event spaces, and premium amenities, including an on-site restaurant and fitness center.

Novotel Melbourne Preston in collaboration with ibooked online is offering an exclusive accomodation rate for STRIVE Conference:

Early Bird Special Book prior to 10th March 2025

Standard Double Room
$179.00 Room only (maximum 2 people – 1 double bed)
Deluxe Queen Room
$199.00 Room only (maximum 2 people – 1 Queen bed)

Rates are priced per room per night in AUD and inclusive of GST.

INTERESTED IN BEING A SPEAKER?

Speaker Expression Of Interest

If you’re interested in presenting at our 2025 Strive to Thrive Conference in Melbourne on 19-20 March & Auckland on 25-26 March, Please click the form below.

We would like to hear your suggestions for topics or areas of interest which we could include on the 2025 programme. We cannot guarantee that we will include every topic suggested.

19 + 20 OF MARCH 2025 MELBOURNE

HURRY UP! BOOK YOUR SEAT

INTERESTED IN BEING A SPEAKER?

Speaker Expression Of Interest

If you're interested in presenting at our 2025 Strive to Thrive Conference in Melbourne on 19-20 March & Auckland on 25-26 March, Please click the form below.

We would like to hear your suggestions for topics or areas of interest which we could include on the 2025 programme. We cannot guarantee that we will include every topic suggested.