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 11th-12th of March 2026 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 11th, 2026)
Day 1 is all about action.
This is an intensive, hands-on Masterclass Day designed for operators who want to sharpen performance, strengthen structure, and prepare their business for scale.
You’ll move through three focused sessions that build logically from revenue performance, through applied learning, and into long-term business value.
Session 1 – MASTERCLASS
Winning the OTA Game: The Strategies Behind High-Converting Listings
Presented by Sean Rakidzich
This opening masterclass dives into what actually drives performance on OTAs. Sean breaks down how high-performing operators win on visibility, conversion and revenue, without racing to the bottom on price.
You’ll walk away with practical strategies you can apply immediately to improve listings, optimise performance, and compete more effectively in crowded markets.
Session 2 – STRIVE APPLIED: Knowledge-Sharing Workshops
Facilitated by the STRIVE team and industry specialists
This session is where insight turns into action.
STRIVE APPLIED is a series of expert-facilitated, peer-led workshops designed to surface what’s actually working inside real STR businesses today.
Attendees will take part in three focused workshops, each running for 30 minutes, led by an experienced facilitator. Each workshop is built around open discussion, shared experience, and practical problem-solving, not presentations or sales pitches.
The focus is on real-world application, honest conversation, and learning directly from operators who are actively running and growing STR businesses.
The three workshop themes are:
Technology
What tech operators are actually using, what’s delivering real value, and what’s been abandoned along the way.
Revenue Management Strategies
Practical pricing and revenue insights, including small changes that have delivered measurable results.
Marketing & Sales
Real-world approaches that turn interest into bookings or signed owners, and what’s clearly stopped working.
These workshops are collaborative, practical, and grounded in lived experience. You’ll leave with ideas you can pressure-test immediately and clarity on where to focus next.
Session 3 – MASTERCLASS
Build to Sell: Turning a Good STR Business into a Scalable, Valuable Asset
Presented by Billy Crock
This session is for operators thinking beyond day-to-day operations.
Billy takes attendees inside the structure of a scalable STR business, covering roles and responsibilities, margins, P&Ls, risk, and how value is assessed as businesses grow or prepare for sale.
It’s a practical, numbers-driven look at what separates a business that simply operates from one that is intentionally built to scale or sell.
Throughout the day, you’ll connect with fellow operators, enjoy a curated lunch and afternoon tea, and wrap up with relaxed networking over sparkling wine and canapés.
Time: approx 9:30am – 5:00pm
Networking Opportunities: Connect and engage with fellow STR professionals.
Lunch and Afternoon Tea: Stay energized with gourmet meals and refreshments.
Sparkling and Canape Networking!
1 0am-5:00pm *Topics subject to change*
Day 2: MAIN EVENT, SESSIONS, DINNER, AWARDS AND DRINKS (MARCH 12th, 2026)
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, Awards 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!
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:
Join us for THE MAIN EVENT, THE VIP MASTERCLASS DAY, OR BOTH! Read more
Day 1: VIP ACTION MASTERCLASS DAY (MARCH 11th, 2026)
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 sparkling 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.
Sparkling and Canape Networking!
1 0am-5:00pm *Topics subject to change*
Day 2: MAIN EVENT, SESSIONS, DINNER, AWARDS AND DRINKS (MARCH 12th, 2026)
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, Awards 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!
BE PART OF THIS EXCITING JOURNEY: We encourage you to participate in these awards, either by nominating, voting, or simply spreading the word within your network. This is not just an award; it's a celebration of the passion, innovation, and hard work that defines our industry.
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!
This opening masterclass dives into what actually drives performance on OTAs. Sean breaks down how high-performing operators win on visibility, conversion and revenue, without racing to the bottom on price.
You’ll walk away with practical strategies you can apply immediately to improve listings, optimise performance, and compete more effectively in crowded markets.
Sean Rakidzich
Facilitated by the STRIVE team and industry specialists
This session is where insight turns into action.
STRIVE APPLIED is a series of expert-facilitated, peer-led workshops designed to surface what’s actually working inside real STR businesses today.
Attendees will take part in three focused workshops, each running for 30 minutes, led by an experienced facilitator. Each workshop is built around open discussion, shared experience, and practical problem-solving, not presentations or sales pitches.
The focus is on real-world application, honest conversation, and learning directly from operators who are actively running and growing STR businesses.
The three workshop themes are:
Technology
What tech operators are actually using, what’s delivering real value, and what’s been abandoned along the way.
Revenue Management Strategies
Practical pricing and revenue insights, including small changes that have delivered measurable results.
Marketing & Sales
Real-world approaches that turn interest into bookings or signed owners, and what’s clearly stopped working.
These workshops are collaborative, practical, and grounded in lived experience. You’ll leave with ideas you can pressure-test immediately and clarity on where to focus next.
Steve Schwab
Julie George
This session is for operators thinking beyond day-to-day operations.
Billy takes attendees inside the structure of a scalable STR business, covering roles and responsibilities, margins, P&Ls, risk, and how value is assessed as businesses grow or prepare for sale.
It’s a practical, numbers-driven look at what separates a business that simply operates from one that is intentionally built to scale or sell.
Billy Crock
Session
Session
Session
Session
Session
Session
Session
Session
Session
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.
Founder, Hunter Holidays
Georgia Smith is the Founder of Hunter Holidays, a boutique short-term rental brand built on a people-first philosophy and trusted owner partnerships. With deep end-to-end STR expertise, she has led growth across marketing, revenue, operations and strategy, scaling portfolios from 100 to 260 listings. Today, Georgia combines data, technology and local insight to build sustainable, high-performing businesses without compromising service, trust or brand values.
Co-Founder, Luxico & StayLonger
Tom Ormerod is the Co-Founder of Luxico, Australia’s leading platform for luxury short stays, and Staylonger, a new flexible-living brand offering furnished homes, apartments, and boutique hotels for 30+ night stays. He focuses on creating elevated, seamless living and travel experiences that blend hotel-level service with the comfort and freedom of home.
Head of Operations, Sales & Business Development, CanBnB
Sarah Clark is the Chief of Sales & Operations at Canbnb, with 7+ years in the STR sector and a 2025 ASTRA Award. A proven leader in growth, operations, and process optimisation, she has overseen 350+ property onboardings and elevated service standards across Canberra, Perth, and Regional NSW. Known for her resilience, strategic focus, and operational excellence, Sarah drives consistency, quality, and trust across the entire organisation.
CEO, Hometime
Billy Crock is the CEO of Hometime and a long-time hospitality professional. He leads one of Australia’s largest short-term rental management companies, combining strong local partnerships with the capability of a national brand. Billy is committed to improving short-term rentals for guests, owners, and communities through trusted local management, five-star service, and professional end-to-end support.
CEO, Million Dollar Host
Julie George is a global STR leader, bestselling author, and founder of Million Dollar Host. She scaled her Airbnb business to 130 properties and $8M in under three years before successfully exiting. Today, she mentors hosts worldwide through her top-ranked mastermind, speaks on international stages, and advises leading hospitality tech companies, empowering operators to scale with confidence.
CEO & Co-Founder, Villa Finder
Daniel Rouquette is the CEO and Co-Founder of Villa Finder, Asia’s leading curator of villa experiences. A data-driven leader and strong advocate for responsible tourism, he blends high-touch service with smart technology to elevate both guest and team experiences. Under his guidance, Villa Finder has expanded across Asia and achieved B Corp certification, reflecting his commitment to sustainability and quality.
CEO & Founder, L’Abode Accommodation
Lisa Peterson is the Founder & CEO of L’Abode Accommodation, one of Australia’s leading luxury property management brands. Starting from her bedroom after moving from New Zealand, she identified a need for quality short-term stays and built a trusted, guest-focused company. Guided by integrity, innovation, and care, Lisa is a recognised industry leader dedicated to creating exceptional experiences and nurturing meaningful partnerships.
Founder, Ex-Weekenda
Since saying goodbye to Corporate Australia after 21 years Weekenda is thriving and growing year on year. We had spent 10 years quietly building this up from a single cabin in Kangaroo Valley to now managing over 170 properties in the Hunter Valley Vineyards, Central Coast, Lake Macquarie and Newcastle.
Founder and CEO, Moxxi Property
Lauren Heys is the Founder and CEO of Moxxi Property, a Tasmanian-based short-term rental management agency known for smart systems, strong service, and genuine care for owners and guests. With a background at Accenture and EY, Lauren blends corporate rigour with entrepreneurial creativity to build scalable, people-first businesses. Passionate about leadership, technology, and sustainable growth, she helps operators move from overwhelm to clarity through better teams, smarter automation, and clear performance metrics, proving success doesn’t have to come at the cost of life.
CEO & Founder, MaisonNets
Mark Hodge is the CEO & Founder of MaisonNets, a premium short-term rental management and advisory brand focused on unlocking hidden income potential in residential property. With 10+ years in the short-stay sector and a background spanning performing arts, real estate, and mortgage broking, Mark brings a rare end-to-end perspective. He is known for transforming underperforming homes into high-yield assets through strategic positioning, presentation, and performance optimisation, delivering sustainable cash-flow and long-term value.
Senior Account Manager, Stayz/Vrbo - Expedia Group
Antoinette Guerrera is a Senior Account Manager at Expedia Group with over 11 years of experience supporting holiday rental and real estate partners through Stayz/Vrbo. A people-first leader, trainer, and qualified health, wellnes,s and executive coach, she is known for building trusted relationships, driving performance, and empowering individuals and teams to lead with confidence, resilience, and purpose.
Co-Founder, Moxxi Property
Dan de Witte is Co-Founder of Moxxi, 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 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 & Managing Director, L’Abode Accommodation
Georgia McAleer is an experienced accommodation and property management leader with over a decade in the hospitality sector, currently serving as Business Manager at L’Abode Accommodation in Sydney, Australia. She excels in operational leadership, guest experience, revenue optimisation and strategic growth across diverse property portfolios. Georgia’s practical insights and hands‑on expertise help operators enhance performance, streamline processes, and deliver standout stays in competitive markets.
Founder, Million Dollar Renter
Sean Rakidzich is the founder of Million Dollar Renter and a leading educator in the short-term rental space. With over 155 Airbnb properties across 8 cities, he built and fully automated his business - even taking a year off while it continued to scale. He teaches his proven arbitrage and automation model through courses, coaching programs, and data-driven 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 Hotel Solutions
Chris de Closey is an accommodation industry leader and 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.
Chief Revenue Officer, Guesty
Yair Holtzer is Chief Revenue Officer at Guesty, a leading property management platform for short‑term and vacation rentals, where he drives revenue growth, strategic partnerships and market expansion. With deep experience in business development, strategy and technology, Yair has held senior roles across global tech and hospitality sectors and co‑founded early‑stage ventures. He brings practical insights on scaling revenue, innovation and operational excellence in today’s accommodation landscape.
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.
*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.
Bringing unstoppable energy and electrifying beats, Jay B Bandicoot is set to turn Strive to Thrive 2025 into an unforgettable experience! This dancefloor maestro is known for his seamless blends of house, disco, and electronic grooves that keep the crowd moving all night long. Whether it’s setting the perfect vibe during networking sessions or dropping high-energy anthems at the after-party, Jay B Bandicoot knows how to ignite the room and keep the energy soaring. Get ready to dance, connect, and celebrate like never before!
Speaker Expression Of Interest
If you’re interested in presenting at our 2026 Strive to Thrive Conference in Australia on 11-12 March, 17-18 March in New Zealand and Bali on 10 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 2026 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
