AUSTRALIA
MELBOURNE
Learn. STRive. Thrive!
10 + 11TH MARCH 2027
GET IN EARLY. PAY LESS.
Early Bird tickets for STRIVE Australia 2027 are NOW LIVE. Secure your place now at a discounted rate before tickets move to full-price general admission on November 30, 2026.
Two days. Big ideas. Real conversations. The people moving the short-term rental industry forward.
Click below to lock in your Early Bird ticket!
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 10th-11th of March 2027 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.
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.
We’re excited to present a carefully curated program designed for short-term rental operators who are serious about growth.
STRIVE to Thrive brings together industry leaders, proven operators, and forward-thinking businesses to share what’s actually working in today’s STR landscape. Across two high-impact days, you’ll gain practical insight into performance, scale, profitability, and the systems required to build a resilient, valuable business.
This is not theory. Every session is designed to deliver actionable insight you can take straight back to your business.
Beyond the content, STRIVE is where the industry connects. From structured networking to our celebration dinner, awards and afterparty, this is where relationships are built and momentum is created.
STRIVE to Thrive is more than a conference. It’s a defining moment in your STR journey.
Event Highlights:
Join us for Day 1, Day 2, or immerse yourself in the full two-day experience. Read more 
Day 1: VIP ACTION MASTERCLASS DAY (MARCH 10th, 2027)
Kick off STRIVE with an intensive, high-energy day designed for operators who want to roll up their sleeves and build. The Masterclass is built around practical, results-driven learning—moving away from traditional lectures into interactive, small-group execution.
What to Expect:
Day 2: MAIN EVENT, SESSIONS, DINNER, AWARDS AND DRINKS (MARCH 11th, 2027)
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, Main Event Day is your chance 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
Coffees, Afternoon Tea: Stay fueled and engaged.
Celebration Dinner, Awards and Afterparty (optional add-on): Indulge in a 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!
The STRIVE Awards are shaped by the people who make this industry what it is. Get involved by nominating someone making a difference, supporting your favourites during public voting, sharing the Awards with your network, or joining us at STRIVE to celebrate the finalists and winners. It's more than recognition. It's a chance to spotlight great work, celebrate fresh ideas and bring our industry together around the people helping short-term rentals STRIVE to THRIVE.
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!
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*Speakers & topics are subject to change*
*awards and dinner attendance depends on ticket purchased*
CEO & Founder, ibooked.online, The Accommodation Show & Strive to Thrive Conference
Bart Sobies is the Founder & CEO of iBooked.Online, Founder & Host of The Accommodation Show, and Creator of the STRIVE to Thrive Conference. A leader in hospitality technology and innovation, he helps accommodation operators build profitable, guest-centric businesses. With deep expertise in digital marketing and hotel tech, Bart specialises in growing direct bookings, strengthening online presence, and simplifying operations. A sought-after speaker, he shares practical insights on guest experience, automation, and the future of direct bookings.
Co-Founder, Trellis
Jan Sahagun is the Co-Founder of Trellis, where he is helping redefine how technology supports the short-term rental industry. With a background as a competitive hockey player, he brought an athlete's mindset into sales, closing more than $2 million in STR technology across four continents in under two years. Fluent in five languages and having lived extensively in short-term rentals around the world, Jan has experienced the industry as a guest, vendor, and trusted partner to hundreds of operators.
At Trellis, Jan is focused on building AI-powered software that adapts to the way property managers operate, giving them more time to deliver exceptional guest experiences and bring hospitality back to the heart of hosting.Owner, The Cohost Company
Patryk Swietek is an operator, author, and speaker who has built one of the most recognized short-term rental businesses in Southern California. As co-owner of The Cohost Company alongside Josh Rudin, he manages ~150 luxury properties and leads the largest STR management company in the Joshua Tree area. Patryk grew The Cohost Company to become the market leader in under three years, combining organic growth with four strategic cohosting acquisitions. Beyond operations, Patryk teaches hosts and investors how to scale their short-term rental businesses. He's the author of The Wealthy Airbnb Superhost, hosts The STR Growth Show podcast, runs coaching programs, and shares his knowledge on social media. He speaks internationally on STR growth, acquisitions, and scaling, and his company's work has been featured on Netflix and in the Wall Street Journal, LA Times, and Condé Nast.
Co-Founder, Moxxi Property
Dan de Witte is Co-Founder of Moxxi Property, one of Tasmania’s leading short-term rental management companies, and an Industry Innovation Award winner. A builder by trade, Dan brings a systems-thinking mindset to professionalising the accommodation industry. Alongside his wife Lauren, he has scaled Moxxi to 180+ homes across Tasmania, delivering exceptional hospitality through smart automation, AI, and sustainable operations. Passionate about proving that profitability and environmental responsibility can coexist, Dan is building a future-ready model where guest experience, operational excellence, and impact go hand in hand.
General Manager, L’Abode Accommodation
Georgia McAleer is the General Manager of L’Abode Accommodation, a premium short-stay and property management business operating across Australia. She leads teams across operations, guest experience, and property management with a focus on clarity, accountability, and strong systems. Known for her calm, solutions-focused leadership, Georgia champions practical processes, team well-being, and adaptable frameworks that drive sustainable growth and exceptional outcomes for owners and guests.
CEO & Founder, Million Dollar Renter
Sean Rakidzich is the CEO and Founder of Million Dollar Renter and a pioneer in the short-term rental industry with over 11 years of experience. He has built and scaled a multi-city portfolio of 155 Airbnb properties across 8 cities, fully automating operations in 2021 and stepping away for a year while the business continued to grow. Sean now teaches operators how to build scalable, systems-driven STR businesses through education, coaching, and data-led strategies.
Co-CEO & Co-Founder, MadeComfy
Quirin Schwaighofer is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of MadeComfy, which he built with co-founder Sabrina into one of the world’s most innovative short-term rental management and technology platforms. Growing from a start-up to a national network managing 1,400+ properties and over $60M in annual bookings, MadeComfy was acquired by PRISM. At STRIVE, Quirin shares real-world insights on scaling, partnerships, technology, and exiting a high-growth accommodation business.
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.
Founder & CEO, Alloggio
Will Creedon is the Founder & CEO of the Alloggio Group, bringing over 30 years of global experience across hospitality and tourism. Originally from Ireland, Will relocated to Australia over 20 years ago, where he led major hospitality developments, including Harrigan’s Irish Pub portfolio and Hunter Valley Gardens. A respected industry leader, he has helped shape iconic venues, major events, and tourism growth, and currently serves on the Business NSW Tourism Industry Council.
Director, Switch Solutions
Chris de Closey is an accommodation industry leader and the founder of Coastal Letting Group and Switch Solutions. He oversees 575+ short-term rentals and 125+ hotels, driving growth through modern revenue, marketing, and operational strategies. Known for his sharp commercial mindset and innovative approach, Chris is shaping the future of Australia’s accommodation sector.
Founder & CEO, Casago
Steve Schwab is the Founder & CEO of Casago, a leading vacation rental and property management company. With decades of industry experience, he has built Casago into a trusted brand operating across the U.S. and Mexico. A visionary leader, Steve focuses on innovation, owner success, and exceptional guest experiences. His expertise in scaling businesses and fostering community-driven hospitality has positioned Casago as a top choice for property owners and travellers alike.
Interim CEO, Homhero
Craig McIntosh has been Interim CEO of Homhero since June 2025 and brings over 12 years of hands-on experience in the short-term rental industry. He is also a Director of The Holidays Collection, a top-five Homhero client since 2020 with a portfolio of 300 properties. A Chartered Accountant, Craig has held CFO and CEO roles across travel, funds management, investment banking, and wildlife conservation.
CEO & Founder, Hostify
Chavdar Marinov is the Founder & CEO of Hostify, a global property management software that helps vacation rental and short-term rental businesses manage listings, bookings, channels, and automation from one platform. With deep expertise in SaaS, technology, and rental operations, Chavdar leads Hostify’s mission to simplify property management and empower hosts and managers to grow efficiently in a competitive market. He is an industry speaker on rental tech trends and innovation.
Enterprise Account Executive, Beyond
Roman Solyanyk is an Enterprise Account Executive at Beyond, where he partners with key clients to unlock revenue growth at scale and maximise portfolio performance. With a background at Expedia and travel tech start-up Impala, Roman brings deep expertise in distribution, pricing, and strategic account management. A passionate traveller who’s explored 40 countries, he’s equally driven by great food and his French bulldog, Rocky.
Co-Founder, Resly
Samuel Steel is the Co-Founder of Resly, a leading property management and booking platform serving accommodation providers across Australia and New Zealand. With deep experience in the travel and hospitality sector, Sam has worked closely with hotels, resorts, and management rights businesses to streamline operations and enhance guest experiences. He now leads Resly’s mission to modernise property management through intuitive, customer-centric technology that drives efficiency, growth, and long-term success.
Head of Sales & Marketing, BoxBrownie
Dave McGree, a Head of Sales & Marketing at BoxBrownie, is also a globally recognised short-term rental and real estate expert with over 20 years’ experience in marketing and commercial strategy. He helps property businesses stand out through clear positioning, compelling storytelling, and strategies that convert attention into bookings. A seasoned international speaker across Europe, North America, and Australia, Dave is known for turning complexity into clarity, delivering practical insights with a relaxed style and sharp sense of humour that keeps audiences engaged and ready to act.
CEO & Founder, BNB Made Easy
Tim Mortimer is the Founder & CEO of BNB Made Easy, a professional short-term rental management company operating across regional Australia. Launched in 2018 from his garage, the business has grown into a multi-market hospitality brand managing hundreds of properties. With a background spanning education, farming, wine, and sport, Tim focuses on values-led growth, strong systems, and people development. He is passionate about boutique hospitality at scale, locally empowered teams, and using technology to support great guest experiences, not replace them.
Founder & CEO, Puri Asia
Agung Juliarta is the Founder & CEO of Puri Asia, a Bali-based luxury villa agency with a portfolio of 1,600+ villas across Indonesia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. With 16+ years of experience in hospitality, he has scaled Puri Asia from its international roots into a balanced B2C and B2B business, with Indonesia now representing 65% of the company’s revenue. Agung also serves as Founder & Vice Chairman of BVRMA, where he champions industry development, international collaboration, and cross-border partnerships. Alongside his professional leadership, Agung is currently pursuing a Doctoral degree, focusing his research on Short-Term Villa Rentals (STR), particularly the development, governance, and sustainability of villa rentals in Bali. His academic work explores how Bali’s growing short-term rental sector can create stronger economic value for local communities while supporting responsible and sustainable tourism development.
Co-Founder, Resly
Samuel Steel is the Co-Founder of Resly, a leading property management and booking platform serving accommodation providers across Australia and New Zealand. With deep experience in the travel and hospitality sector, Sam has worked closely with hotels, resorts, and management rights businesses to streamline operations and enhance guest experiences. He now leads Resly’s mission to modernise property management through intuitive, customer-centric technology that drives efficiency, growth, and long-term success.
*Speakers & topics are subject to change*
Kirsty has spent the past 12 years touring Australia with her sharp, cheerful and highly relatable comedy. A festival favourite, she’s performed everywhere from Hamer Hall and The Enmore Theatre to the Darwin Entertainment Centre. A regular on Question Everything and the Comedy Festival Galas, she also broke records winning six episodes of Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. Kirsty brings the laughs to STRIVE Melbourne 2026, guaranteeing a memorable night of entertainment.
Hot Potato Band is a larger-than-life brass collective delivering explosive, interactive performances that blur the line between stage and audience. Born from a 10-piece Sydney festival band, they champion organic, high-energy live music with a fun-loving, quirky edge. After 15 years touring Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the Middle East, they’ve reinvented the brass band as a modern dance machine and visual spectacle. Hot Potato Band will perform at the STRIVE Conference in Melbourne, guaranteeing an unforgettable live experience.
Jordan, aka onelove.child, is a Melbourne-based DJ, writer and sound engineer immersed in the city’s thriving sound system culture. Passionate about preserving and documenting its rich history, he also pushes it forward through his collaborative project villagesound. Known for deep cuts, heavyweight grooves and genre-blurring selections, Jordan brings his eclectic, high-energy sound to STRIVE Melbourne, setting the tone and igniting the night with a dancefloor experience to remember.
Speaker Expression Of Interest
If you’re interested in presenting at our 2027 Strive to Thrive Conference in Australia on 10-11 March, 16-17 March in New Zealand, and Indonesia on 8-9 September, please click the form below.
We would like to hear your suggestions for topics or areas of interest which we could include on the 2027 programme. We cannot guarantee that we will include every topic suggested.
Address:
520 High Street, Northcote VIC, Australia 3070
Phone:
+61 3 9020 7940
Email:
info@welcometothornbury.com
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