We’re shining a light on promising innovators all around Australia.

Steve Baxter, a proud Queenslander, left school at 15 to join the Army’s apprenticeship program. His expertise in electronics, telecoms, and guided weapon systems led him to found SE Net, an internet service provider, which was acquired by Ozemail/UUNet. In 2001, he launched PIPE Networks, selling it for $373 million in 2005. Known for his role on Shark Tank Australia, he was appointed ‘Queensland’s Chief Entrepreneur’ in 2018. Presently, he serves as Co-founder and Executive Chairman of TEN13, and Founder and Lead Investor of Beaten Zone Venture Partners.

Alex is a passionate innovator and collaborator, and a globally experienced public and private sector executive. Alex has a passion for fresh thinking, driving innovation in approach and opportunity from both private and public roles. Her roles have included sustainability, government policy and regulation, ecosystem growth, and technical leadership. She is an experienced Board member and was the first woman named Environmental Practitioner of the Year by the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand.

Anne-Marie is a leader in the innovation, entrepreneur, start-up and tech ecosystem and a two-time TedX speaker. She preaches the gospel of disrupting the status quo and believes tipping point problems can be solved through social innovation and entrepreneurship. A respected and trusted adviser across government, NGO, industry and academia, Anne-Marie has previously been a  senior policy adviser to state and federal government ministers.

Co-Founder and Director of STEM Punks, Fiona Holmstrom, believes STEM Education should be accessible for everyone, and helping children develop skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics will prepare them for a future where they can make a difference. STEM Punks’ mission is to “Inspire Tomorrow’s Innovators” and teach children 21st century skills by enabling a mindset of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship, especially attracting more girls to STEM career paths.

Arron Wood AM is an expert in sustainability, previously serving as the Deputy Lord Mayor of the City of Melbourne. In 2020, he was awarded Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant contribution to local government, the environment and the community. Arron is Chief Policy and Impact Officer at the Clean Energy Council, where he has national responsibility for renewable energy advocacy, policy and impact for Australia.