STRIVE 2025
Learn. STRive. Thrive!
STR HOSTS, JOIN US FOR TWO INCREDIBLE DAYS, ACROSS 2 INCREDIBLE COUNTRIES!
Join us for the most anticipated gathering of short-term rental proprietors, owners, and managers in Australasia. STRive to Thrive returns, bigger and better, spanning two sets of dates: 19th-20th March 2025 in Melbourne and 25th-26th March 2025 in Auckland.
Embark on an Extraordinary Industry Journey
Prepare for a transformative experience that extends across two dynamic cities—Melbourne and Auckland. STRive to Thrive isn’t just a business conference; it’s a pulsating fiesta of knowledge, innovation, and celebration, providing the perfect platform to elevate your rental business to new heights. Experience two days of intensive learning and excitement in each location.
Connect, Learn, and Celebrate
Beyond the intensive learning sessions, STRive to Thrive serves as a vibrant hub for industry professionals to connect, build lasting relationships, and celebrate shared achievements. Each day concludes with a celebratory dinner and afterparty where gourmet dining meets lively entertainment and endless networking opportunities.
Learn about industry trends, marketing strategies, guest experience, property management, and technology advancements. Learn how to scale and THRIVE!
Connect with professionals, build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and collaborate to enhance your business and achieve goals.
Gain knowledge from influential STR industry figures, engaging with pioneers to stay ahead through innovative insights and strategies.
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.
Get ready for an electrifying two-day experience! Click the tabs below to explore session times, topics, and speakers. Dive into powerful insights, game-changing strategies, and cutting-edge tools designed to elevate your success in the STR industry. Connect, learn, and be inspired in an action-packed atmosphere buzzing with innovation and opportunity!
Julie George
Bart Sobies
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
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
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
Paul Matthews
Bart Sobies
Turning spaces into shareable moments and creating experiences that guests love to share online.
Kristie Wolfe
Insights from successful STR operators on scaling profitably and overcoming growth challenges.
Julie George
Will Creedon
Alexandra Ormerod
Sarah Clark
Strategies for dynamic pricing, demand forecasting, and revenue maximization.
Matthias Dybing
Roman Solyanyk
Jeff Baars
Paul Waldschmidt
Understanding the evolving travel landscape and distribution strategies for international markets.
Kristy Malapa
Exploring emerging technologies shaping the STR industry and how to implement them effectively.
Michael Snyman
Jay Ullrich
Ethan Brown
Sam Steel
Yoav Tourel
How Virtual Assistants (VAs) streamline operations, enhance guest experience, and reduce workload.
Ari Eryorulmaz
Kim Steel
Sasha Buac
Bart Sobies
How to leverage viral marketing techniques to create engaging, shareable content that drives bookings.
Taylor Craig
Design tips and tricks to create visually appealing spaces that attract guests and boost reviews.
Amanda Hall
Sharon Burnell
Deanne Bulstrode
Kristie Wolfe
Tiffany Murray
An interactive discussion on overcoming common operational and guest management challenges.
Phil Spyrou
Julie George
Melanie Harding
Lauren Heys
Gear up for two unforgettable days of innovation, strategy, and inspiration! Click the tabs below to explore session times, topics, and speakers. Immerse yourself in expert insights, breakthrough strategies, and the latest tools to stay ahead in the STR industry. Network, learn, and elevate your game in an energy-packed atmosphere designed for success!
Lisa Peterson
Bart Sobies
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
Join Bart Sobies, founder of iBooked.Online, for a hands-on session on leveraging AI in your STR business. Learn how to use ChatGPT and other AI tools to enhance operations, marketing, and guest experience. Bart will also explore upcoming AI innovations to help you streamline processes and stay ahead in 2025.
Bart Sobies
Join Yoav Tourel and industry experts in this session on navigating NZ STRA regulations and taxation. Learn how property managers can adapt to evolving rules while fostering growth. Insights from PwC, Expedia, The Stay Hub, and government reps will address challenges, compliance, advocacy efforts, and future trends.
Yoav Tourel
Catherine Francis
James Rock
Nick Peirce
Join moderator Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies and industry leaders Jennifer Mattlin (HiAtlas) and Rochelle King (Urban Rest) as they discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities for NZ PMCs. Gain insights on scaling operations, bridging knowledge gaps, and adapting to guest expectations to succeed in a competitive market.
Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies
Jennifer Mattlin
Rochelle King
Tracey Foxall
Bart Sobies
Lisa Peterson
How to position your STR business as a leading brand through smart marketing strategies and partnerships.
Alexandra Ormerod
Proven marketing tactics tailored for the NZ market to maximize visibility and guest engagement.
Mandy Clarke
Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies
Savannah Jackson
Revenue management strategies to stay competitive and maximize profits in changing market conditions.
Chris de Closey
Deepanshu Nihalani
Sam Steel
Explore key travel trends, shifting traveller behaviours, and strategic insights to keep your business competitive in the global market.
Bjoern Spreitzer
Strategic leadership approaches for accommodation providers navigating an evolving industry.
Bart Sobies
Les Morgan
A deep dive into the latest tech tools transforming short-term rentals and how to leverage them.
Yoav Tourel
Paul Waldschmidt
Daniel Bridges
Kim Richardson
Exploring the unexpected ROI of incorporating kindness, guest-centric policies, and sustainability into STR businesses.
Ronda Amende
Discover how strategic upsells can enhance guest experiences and increase profits—without the hard sell.
Jacqui Spice
Strategies for scaling STR portfolios while maintaining profitability and operational efficiency.
Daniel White
Will Creedon
Lisa Peterson
Tracey Foxall
A problem-solving session tackling the biggest challenges faced by short-term rental operators.
Lauren Heys
Jacqui Spice
Nick Peirce
Alexandra Ormerod
Managing Director, Luxico
LUXICO Managing Director, Alex Ormerod, excels in scaling luxury guest experiences. Integrating strategic marketing with personalized concierge services, Luxico transforms luxury rentals into memorable experiences. Alex's focus on quality and innovation positions Luxico as a leader, offering insights into elevating guest satisfaction at scale.
CEO & Founder, ibooked.online & The Accommodation Show
CEO, Million Dollar Host
Julie George is the Author of the ‘Million Dollar Host’ which outlines her story and unique STR property management business model that resulted in a portfolio of 130 properties and generated more than $8million income in 3 years. This Australian business woman is now featured in media and on stages globally and is recognised for her contagious energy and enthusiasm.
As one of the most influential names in the Short-Term Rental industry she supports, mentors and inspires thousands of Hosts worldwide. Julie offers consulting, mentoring and facilitates the #1 Global Mastermind Community in the world.
Global Director of Sales and Partnerships, Escapia at Expedia Group
Daniel Bridges, originally from Palmerston North, has built a career rooted in travel, sales, and hospitality. After earning an Honors degree from Massey, he began in the restaurant and travel agency sectors, including time abroad as a travel agent in London. Returning to New Zealand, Daniel held roles with House of Travel and Villa Maria Estate, eventually joining Trade Me in 2007, where he spent a decade managing Travelbug, Bookit, and Holiday Houses.
For the past 8 years, he's specialized in property management software, now serving as Director of Sales and Partnerships at Escapia, focusing on customer acquisition, account management, and API integrations.
Founder & CEO, Extenteam
Ari got into the STR space in 2009 as a property manager. In 2021 he founded Extenteam, which provides staffing and software solutions to STR operators globally. The company serves 200+ businesses with 400+ team members. Ari has spoken at VRMA conferences and served on HomeAway Software's Advisory Board.
Builder, Passion Projects LLC
Kristie Wolfe is an innovative builder and experience designer specializing in unique, off-grid Airbnb properties. As a former judge for Airbnb’s OMG Fund, Kristie’s imaginative stays have earned widespread acclaim, featured on national TV and consistently topping state wish lists.
General Manager APAC, Hospitable
Ethan Brown, General Manager APAC at Hospitable.com, brings over a decade of industry expertise to support short-term rental hosts across Asia-Pacific. An experienced Aussie host, Ethan is dedicated to helping others automate operations, streamline guest interactions, and build exceptional, scalable hospitality experiences.
Industry Relations Manager, Tourism Australia
Joining Tourism Australia in 2017, Kristy acts as the primary link between tourism operators and Tourism Australia. With an extensive background in the youth travel sector, Kristy has previously held roles both domestically and internationally including the management of Hostelworld Group brands for the Oceania region.
Founder and Owner, Moxxi Property
An industry leader in short-term rentals, Lauren Heys scaled the largest agency in Tasmania and expanded into QLD—all while growing a family. Starting her career at Accenture and EY, Lauren founded Moxxi Property in 2018, blending her expertise in property and people performance. Passionate about self-mastery, she empowers audiences to unlock their potential and drive business success.
Solutions Consultant - APAC, PriceLabs
Deepanshu is a seasoned professional in the short-term rental (STR) industry with a wealth of experience in Sales and Customer Success. Currently serving as the Solutions Consultant - APAC for PriceLabs, he plays a key role in expanding the company’s presence across the region. His expertise spans establishing a market presence, conducting demos, and hosting educational webinars on dynamic pricing in the STR space. Known as the go-to person for all things APAC, Deepanshu is dedicated to helping clients leverage data and technology to optimize their revenue management strategies.
Founder & Director, L’Abode Accommodation
Lisa Peterson is the founder and driving force behind L’Abode Accommodation, with over 13 years of experience in the property management industry. Known for her passion and dedication, Lisa has built a team that values honesty, quality, and exceptional guest experiences.
L’Abode, which began as a personal project to fill the need for high-quality short-term rentals, has grown under Lisa’s leadership into a prominent, values-driven business. When she’s not immersed in work, Lisa enjoys family time, nature, and culinary adventures.
CEO and Co-Founder, HostBuddy AI
Jay's impact in the STR industry shines through his mission to help hosts save time and money by offering an efficient and effective alternative to traditional guest support. Jay's software, HostBuddy AI, has emerged as the leading AI messaging solution for STR hosts. Jay started a property management business in 2021 and now manages 40 short term rentals in San Diego, CA.
Chief Operating Officer, Hind Management
Les Morgan is the Chief Operating Officer of Hind Management. He has over 30 years of tourism and hotel experience. A European trained sommelier he has broad experience with leading international hotel brands and has gone on to establish a successful career in the New Zealand hospitality industry.
He has been repeatedly recognised with national awards for leadership in business, hotels and tourism and is a recipient of the NZ Ministry of Defence award for Patron Excellence. An advisor to private and government organisations, he holds several governance roles, serves as a sector commentator, industry panellist and awards judge. He was a member of a recent Prime Minister led trade mission to Southeast Asia.
Owner, Publisher and Editor, Accomnews
Co-Owner at Multimedia Pty Ltd, Mandy Clarke has led the company to prominence as a B2B publisher in Australia and New Zealand's accommodation and education sectors. With an engaging editorial style, Mandy drives industry impact through AccomNews, Resort News, School News, and AccomProperties.
CEO, OwnerRez
Paul is the CEO of OwnerRez, a leading software platform for vacation rentals, and has spent the last 15 years pushing for higher standards within the industry. He is routinely interviewed about his business principles, software standards, and the way to build a product and team that stand the test of time.
Managing Director, Bachcare
Tracey Foxall - Managing Director Bachcare has over 20 years experience in the travel sector across New Zealand and Australia and is passionate about driving growth and progress within the short term rental space in NZ.
Co-Owner and Founder, The Holiday Home Girls
Sharon Burnell, Co-Owner and Founder of The Holiday Home Girls, brings over 14 years of experience in short-term rentals. She owns and self-manages six Queensland holiday homes, mastering remote management and team training. Passionate about styling to enhance guest experiences and boost revenue, Sharon helps owners optimise their properties for success.
Founder and Chair, TimeOut Charitable Trust
I am the founder and Chair of TimeOut Charitable Trust. My family and I have experienced firsthand the profound impact of being diagnosed with a terminal illness.
We know how transformative a TimeOut stay in someone’s holiday home can be. It’s more than just a break; it’s a chance to strengthen relationships, create cherished memories, and discover a personal resilience you never knew you had.
Through the generosity of holiday homeowners, TimeOut provides this same opportunity to others facing life’s toughest journeys, offering moments of connection, relief, and hope.
Managing Director, APAC at Guesty and Chair of the Board of Directors at ASTRA
Yoav Tourel is a seasoned executive with a strong track record in scaling global tech companies. Currently leading Guesty APAC and serving as the Chair of the Board of Directors at ASTRA, he leverages over 25 years of experience in customer success, business development, sales, and marketing. Yoav excels in fostering growth and driving success in competitive markets.
Senior Account Executive, Beyond Pricing
As a Senior Account Executive, Roman establishes and manages relationships with Beyond’s key clients, and is driven by his mission to help them maximize the revenue potential of their portfolios and help fuel their growth to new heights. Prior to Beyond, Roman spent years as a Market Manager at Expedia and as an Account Executive at travel tech start-up Impala.
Co-Owner, The Holiday Home Girls
Deanne Bulstrode, Co-Owner of The Holiday Home Girls, is a creative writer and IT expert with extensive hosting experience. From managing local and international properties to refining guest communication and automation, she ensures seamless operations. Dee specialises in systemisation, helping property owners streamline management while maximising bookings.
Director & Co-Founder, STR Portals
Sasha Buac is a tech entrepreneur with 30+ years in IT. As director and co-founder of Comworks Media, STR Portals, and Smart Compendiums, his company creates digital solutions for the accommodation industry. He has worked with major corporations and government sectors. Sasha leads a global tech team passionate about personal development, well-being, and fine wine.
Founder, ROOM
Tiffany Murray is a visionary entrepreneur with 30+ years of experience. She founded Dressed for Sale, transforming real estate staging before selling it to an ASX-listed company in 2019. A winner of Richard Branson’s UBERpitch, she was also a finalist in the EY and Telstra awards. She later founded ROOM, a national FF&E leader, ranking 5th in SA’s BDO Fast Movers in 2024. A mother of four, Tiffany is known for her innovation, strategic vision, and impact-driven leadership.
Managing Director, HiAtlas Wellington / HiAtlas Auckland
Jennifer Mattlin is the Managing Director at HiAtlas, a company specialising in connecting executive tenants with premium, fully furnished rental properties. With extensive experience in Property Management, Jennifer is passionate about creating flexible housing solutions that meet the needs of high-level professionals across New Zealand.
Director, Switch Hotel Solutions & Coastal Letting Group
Chris possesses almost 20 years industry experience at such a young age.
Developing a consultancy firm (Switch Hotel Solutions) and a letting company (Coastal Letting Group) along side each other, both business have grown into industry leaders in the short space of 5 years.
Coastal Letting Group is the largest short term rental operator on the Gold and Tweed Coast, offering over 450 properties for guests to enjoy.
Switch Hotel Solutions offers consulting support for hotels, motels, resorts and STR businesses - harnessing Chris' and his teams vast knowledge to get the best results for clients.
Partner, PwC New Zealand
Catherine Francis, a Partner at PwC New Zealand, specialises in GST, with deep expertise in property and cross-border transactions. Before joining PwC in 2017, she worked in top-tier tax law teams in New Zealand and the UK. Catherine played a key role in developing and implementing the "app tax" (GST on short-stay accommodation via digital platforms), guiding clients through the new rules and shaping policy. Her extensive experience makes her a trusted advisor in the field.
Head of Revenue Generation, The Stay Hub
Nick Peirce has over 20 years of experience in revenue management across airlines and short-term rentals, specialising in driving growth through data-driven strategies, innovation, and leadership. As Head of Revenue Generation at The Stay Hub, Nick has boosted occupancy and revenue since 2023 by optimising pricing, refining budgets, and enhancing reporting.
Previously, at Bachcare, Nick led ADR growth for four years, built a high-performing team, and championed industry regulations. His career includes key roles at Air New Zealand and other major airlines, delivering profitability and forging strategic partnerships. Proficient in analytics tools and industry platforms, Nick is committed to innovation and value creation.
Country General Manager, Urban Rest
With 20 years in tourism and property, Rochelle has led teams, scaled businesses, and delivered results for companies including Air New Zealand and Forge Holiday Group. As GM of Urban Rest NZ, she’s leveraging this experience to replicate the brand’s global success locally.
Senior Account Manager, ANZ, Partner Success, Holiday Rentals - Expedia
With 7+ years at Expedia Group, James Rock partners with Vrbo property managers to drive growth through data insights, marketing, distribution, and revenue tools. Based in Auckland, he collaborates with top holiday rental managers across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, optimising performance on Vrbo, Bookabach, and Stayz. Passionate about strategic partnerships, James helps maximise success in the short-term rental market.
Founder and Director, Property Mums
Kim Steel is a passionate entrepreneur, real estate investor, and advocate for empowering mothers. She bought her first investment property at 23 and built a portfolio of 11 homes before entering the holiday rental market. In 2019, she founded Property Mums, creating flexible income opportunities for mothers. With 160+ homes and a 4.9-star rating, she blends design and hospitality to maximize returns. Kim’s mission is to elevate short-term rentals while supporting women in business.
Founder, Delish Digital
Taylor is the founder of Delish Digital who partners with Foodie Coaches to provide their members with effective social media and marketing strategies tailored to the hospitality industry. With over 17 years of experience, Taylor has worked with hundreds of venues, helping them grow their revenue through strategic marketing activations. Known for a practical and results-driven approach, Taylor is passionate about supporting hospitality businesses to achieve long-term success in their marketing.
GM New Zealand and Business Events, Tourism New Zealand
Bjoern has a strong background in commercial partnerships, business events, and tourism. His career at Tourism New Zealand spans multiple leadership roles, including GM Domestic, GM Americas & Europe, and now GM New Zealand & Business Events. Originally from Germany, he has worked across global markets. Based in Titirangi, West Auckland, he enjoys West Coast beaches, supporting his kids' sports, and exploring Aotearoa New Zealand.
Founder & Managing Director, Hello Queenstown
Savannah Jackson is the founder and director of Hello Queenstown, the largest short-term rental management company in Queenstown, NZ, overseeing 140+ properties worth over $200M. With 35+ years in business, she previously owned a real estate agency and founded a leading trading academy. A sought-after speaker, she has shared stages with Tony Robbins and Sir Richard Branson. Now also a property developer, she’s engaged to Ash, a proud mum, and a triathlon enthusiast.
Director, Homhero
Kim Richardson is the Director at Homhero, a short-term rental property management system based in the Gold Coast, Queensland. As the first developer of Homhero, Kim has played a key role in shaping its technology. With over 25 years of experience in web application development across various industries, Kim brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.
CFO, Alloggio
Mike, CFO at Alloggio, leads Finance, Sales, Marketing, Revenue, Distribution, and People & Culture. With experience in FMCG, Travel, and Aviation, he has worked alongside top CEOs, shaping his strategic mindset. Passionate about leadership, he drives growth and innovation through a collaborative approach.
APAC Sales Representative, Escapia Software
With 20 years in real estate, I’ve navigated property management, sales, and tech. I’m passionate about empowering customers in the short-term rental space with tailored software solutions. I believe the right tools can elevate businesses and enhance guest experiences. Let's connect and transform your rental journey!
Co-Founder & COO, Nuvho
Matthias is a revenue and distribution expert, regularly speaking at industry events. With a career spanning major brands like Voyages, Accor, Event Hospitality, and WorldHotels, he has led revenue and distribution strategies for top properties. He co-founded 80 Twenty Hotel Media, Revmandis, Nuvho, and Herobe. Holding an MBA, he also serves on advisory boards across the hospitality sector.
Owner, Coconut Comms and Kaihanu Lodge
Kate has worked in holiday rentals since 2006, helping to grow Holiday Lettings and then TripAdvisor’s vacation rental offering. She was also a travel industry pundit for the BBC. A seeker of memorable guest experiences with a love of hospitality she's previously run restaurants & ridden pillion across Europe with just pannier to pack! She recently emigrated from the UK to NZ.
CEO and Founder, Touch of Spice
Founded by Jacqui Spice in 2005, Touch of Spice is a premier luxury travel company specialising in bespoke New Zealand experiences. We curate exceptional stays, exclusive activities, and hidden gems, crafting once-in-a-lifetime adventures tailored to each client. With an unrivalled portfolio of luxury accommodations, rich culture, and world-class food and wine, we leave no stone unturned—delivering VIP treatment and redefining luxury travel in New Zealand.
Owner, VE Tourism
Meet Paul, a tourism enthusiast with over 30 years in the industry including senior roles at Visit Victoria. He now runs his own tourism consultancy, VE Tourism helping organisations with touristy stuff and is a repeat speaker at various tourism events (including a memorable stint as a singing MC). Paul is never short on inspiring ideas and dad jokes.
General Manager, Welcome Ready
Melanie Harding is a dynamic business leader with a proven track record in consultative strategy, change management, business systematisation, project management, brand development, and business growth. Starting as a Co-founder of Welcome Ready in 2019, she was fundamental in growing this business from 10 properties to $10M+ in GBV through to acquisition in 2024.
Chief Commercial Officer, Urban Rest
Jeff Baars is a hospitality leader and Chief Commercial Officer at Urban Rest, driving commercial operations across Australia, Ireland, and the UK. He previously served as CMO at Quest Apartment Hotels and held senior roles at GLH Hotels and IHG, focusing on brand strategy and guest experience. A board member of NCCA since 2022, Jeff also advised hospitality firms on digital transformation. His expertise blends strategy and innovation to elevate brands and enhance customer engagement.
Managing Director, Swainson
Phil Spyrou started his career as a registered pharmacist before transitioning into the short-term rental industry as Managing Director of Swainson, providing quality accommodation in Adelaide for the past nine years. With five years on the ASTRA Board, he has played a key role in shaping the organisation into the industry’s peak body, advocating for its growth and sustainability. Passionate about business development, Phil thrives on the challenges of entrepreneurship and personal growth.
Head of Operations, Sales & Business Development, CanBnB
Sarah is a dedicated operations and sales leader with expertise in short-term rental management. Skilled in overseeing daily operations, driving sales growth, and optimising business processes. Strong communicator with a hands-on approach to stakeholder management. Passionate about innovation and delivering exceptional results as Head of Operations and Sales at Canbnb.
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.
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.
