Australia’s fastest-growing communities won't be shaped by chance - they will be shaped by the decisions we make today. But who should make them?

Using UniSQ Springfield as a living case study, this UniSQ Thought Leadership Series event will explore how leadership, innovation and collaboration can help build the next generation of connected, resilient and prosperous communities.
The panel discussion will challenge conventional thinking about the role of universities, industry, government, and the community in shaping places where people don't just live but thrive.

After the discussion, stay for light refreshments and networking. Register now to secure your place at this free event.  

Event Details

RSVP: Please RSVP below by Wednesday 30 September 2026 (bookings are essential)
Date: Wednesday 07 October 2026
Time: Doors open at 5.30pm for a 6.00pm start
Food, drinks and networking from 7.00pm to 8.00pm
Location: UniSQ Springfield Campus, 37 Sinnathamby Blvd | Executive Balcony, Level 6, A Block

Panellists & Moderator

Professor Paul Mazerolle – UniSQ Vice-Chancellor and President
Professor Paul Mazerolle is Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ). An internationally recognised academic leader, he has held senior leadership roles in Australia and Canada, including as President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of New Brunswick. Professor Mazerolle brings a strong focus on aligning education and research with workforce and community needs, and on strengthening the role of universities in driving regional growth and impact. 

Bob Sharpless – Deputy Chairman Springfield City Group
Bob Sharpless is Deputy Chairman of Springfield City Group, the master developer behind Greater Springfield, Australia's fastest-growing city. A civil engineer with more than 40 years' experience in property development, he has helped shape one of the nation's most ambitious master-planned communities. Working alongside founder Maha Sinnathamby, Bob has led major residential, commercial, education, health, technology and sporting developments. He is a former Chairman of the Brisbane Lions. 

Julia Strickland-Bellamy – CEO Mater Group
Julia Strickland-Bellamy is the Mater Group Chief Executive Officer, bringing more than 25 years of leadership experience across Australia’s healthcare and aged care sectors. She leads Mater’s integrated portfolio of health, education, research and foundation services across Queensland. Since joining Mater, Julia has reset the Group Strategy, launched a significant growth agenda, overseen the acquisition of Gold Coast Private Hospital, and increased bed capacity by 25 per cent. Previously, she was Australian CEO and Director of Aurora Healthcare and has held a range of executive and non-executive governance roles across the health, aged care and community sectors. 

Charis Mullen – State Member for Jordan
First elected to the Queensland Parliament in 2017 as the inaugural Member for Jordan, Charis Mullen MP represents one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions, encompassing Greater Springfield and surrounding communities. Before entering Parliament, Charis spent more than 20 years across the public and private sectors, working in government affairs, public policy, advocacy, stakeholder engagement and communications across industries including planning and development, transport, infrastructure and tourism. A long-time Greater Springfield resident, Charis has advocated for major investment in local health, transport, education and community infrastructure and helped establish Greater Springfield Regional Connect, bringing together government agencies, community organizations, schools and charities to support the region’s growing community. 

Moderator
Rohan Richardson - Managing Director of Future Forgeworks
Rohan Richardson is Managing Director of Future Forgeworks, leading the development of Queensland's first circular economy-focused green steel mill at Swanbank. With more than 20 years of experience delivering major industrial and infrastructure projects, he is driving one of the state's most significant advanced manufacturing investments. Rohan is Chair of the Springfield Regional Jobs Committee, helping strengthen local workforce capability and employment pathways, and is a proud UniSQ alumnus.