In this episode, I sit down with Michelle Howard, respected urban planner, social researcher, facilitator, and Managing Director of Collaborations. Michelle is known for her inclusive and thoughtful approach to public policy and urban development, and she joins us to discuss what First Nations allyship looks like in planning—and how we can all embr…

This is my first solo episode for Season 3! With the federal election only a matter of days away, I step through the Planning Institute of Australia's Federal Election Platform. In this solo chat, I explain: What are the key asks of the planning profession for the next Australian Government? How can the next Australian Government help facilitate mo…

In this episode, I’m joined by Bradley Rasmussen – CEO and founder of Sizztech, the creators of Forecaz, a cutting-edge platform that predicts urban growth and change. Bradley shares how data-driven modelling is transforming the way planners and decision-makers understand land use, infrastructure needs, and future development scenarios. We unpack t…

In this episode of the Hustle and Bustle podcast, host Nicole Bennetts sits down with architect and urbanist Peter Richards to explore the art of urban sketching. With over 40 years of experience in architecture and urban design, Peter shares his passion for the role of drawing in the design process and its significance in shaping our cities. Peter…

Housing affordability and availability are at crisis levels, but why? And what can we do about it? In this episode, we sit down with Riley Flanigan, an urban designer, strategic planner, and city strategist at Urbis, to unpack the forces behind Australia’s housing crisis. Riley has been at the forefront of housing research, policy, and advocacy, in…

In this episode, I'm joined by Laura Harvey, Planning Manager at Queensland Airports, and Haleen Singh, Planning Advisor with Port of Brisbane. We explore the unique world of planning for airports and ports—two critical transport hubs that serve as economic drivers, destinations, and catalysts for urban and regional development. Episode Highlights:…

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Isles, General Manager of Advocacy, Major Projects, and Economic Development at Redland City Council. With over 20 years of experience in planning, economic development, and major projects, Chris is a well-respected leader in the industry. As a member of PIA Qld’s Plan Tech working group, Chris has a strong in…

My guest today is Adam Beck, General Manager of Business & Market Development at Hub Group and Co-Founder of TEMPO Institute. About two weeks ago, the American Planning Association released its fourth Trend Report for Planners, featuring over 100 trends shaping urban planning. You can access the report here 2025-Trend-Report-for-Planners-Screen-Rea…

In this episode, I sit down with Leisa Prowse, a highly regarded engagement specialist. Leisa is qualified in both planning and communications, and has extensive experience helping planners and developers to secure 'social license to operate' for planning and development projects. More about Leisa here About Us - Leisa Prowse Consulting We chat abo…

In this episode, I chat with Julia Miller-Randle, Director of Social Strategy and Engagement at Cred Consulting. We chat about the importance of social and community infrastructure. What is it? Why its important? How its changing? The biggest challenges in funding and delivery of social infrastructure? And some tips and tricks for others interested…

Paul Burton is an Emeritus Professor at Griffith University. Paul was the inaugural Director of the Cities Research Institute at Griffith University, a multi-disciplinary research centre focused on advancing studies and knowledge of cities. Paul is also a member of PIA Qld’s Division Committee and chairs the Education Sub-Committee. Paul and I chat…

A conversation with Ross Elliott and Guy Gibson from Suburban Futures who co-edited the book "The Next Australian City". This book recently was awarded Overall Winner of the PIA Awards for Planning Excellence in Queensland. This interview covers details about the book, what inspired it, who authored the chapters, and how it doesn't shy away from th…

The Hustle and Bustle podcast returns after a 2 year break!! Nicole is excited to kick-start season 3 in this episode. She fills you in on the latest happenings.By Nicole Bennetts

In this episode of the Development Drum, Glen Maidment talks about the journey of starting his business, Maidment Group, its expansion, and the strategic decision to incorporate various in-house services, such as the recent inclusion of multi-unit residential offerings. He discusses the hurdles encountered, particularly in the distinctive regional …

In this episode of the Development Drum, Mike Loney discusses the complexities of navigating the property development landscape amidst a housing crisis, providing insights into the challenges they’ve faced while also offering his perspective on whether housing affordability is achievable. He goes on to tell the story of how he got into this field o…

In this episode of the Development Drum, Tammy Berghofer shares her journey from starting a marketing degree in university, to now working as a legal advisor to the real estate sector as an award-winning Partner at MinterEllison Lawyers. Delve into the intricacies of the regulatory landscape and collaborative efforts with Government, and gain insig…

In this episode of the Development Drum, Amanda Yeates discusses her career trajectory, from her roles in State Government and Transport and Main Roads to her current position as CEO at SunCentral. Amanda expresses her enthusiasm for the industry, highlighting the aspects that excite her most, and sharing the challenges she has encountered over the…

In this episode of the Development Drum, Mark Creevey and Tony Williams, Directors at Ray White Special Projects (QLD), share invaluable insight into market intricacies, supply and demand, and the nature of the industry. Mark and Tony discuss their collaborative approach towards co-directing the business and how they ensure combined goals are achie…

In this episode of the Development Drum, David Laner delves into the intricacies of his role, exploring both its challenges and highlights as he navigates projects from inception to completion. David also shares invaluable advice to industry peers and newcomers alike, emphasising the significance of active participation in industry organisations an…

In this episode of the Development Drum, Bruce Harper delves into his experiences and the lessons he learned when navigating the challenges inflicted by the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. He also shares insight into his approach to managing change, the importance of team culture, and offers his advice on the four key attributes …

In this episode of the Development Drum, Tess Pickering speaks candidly about what it’s like working in the planning sector, the truth behind public perceptions, and the differences between her role in Queensland opposed to Victoria. She also discusses the difficult balance of juggling a demanding job and spending time with her loved ones. Links fr…

In this episode of the Development Drum, Jack Hutchinson provides a glimpse into the reality of working within a family business and reflects on the journey he took to get to where he is today. Gain insight into Jack’s perspectives on increasing skilled labour, productivity issues, and current trends in the industry, along with his thoughts on how …

In this episode of the Development Drum, David Hansen shares the intricacies of his current role, and the previous experiences and knowledge he has garnered over his career. Hear his perspectives on the relationship between local Government and community, his approach towards stakeholder collaboration, and his insight on managing organisational cul…

In this episode In the final episode of season three, Kirsty speaks to Leah Lang - who is an award-winning architect for the Queensland Government. With over two decades of experience in the design space, Leah provides fascinating insight on the importance of design in the next stage of its evolution. She also reflects on her career, the housing cr…

In this episode of the Development Drum, Kirsty sat down with Sarah Macoun, one of our very own board members and a leading environment and heritage, and planning and development lawyer in Queensland. Sarah generously shares her thoughts on the multitude of issues that face the market, and why the process of change is still one of the biggest chall…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Paul Melville & Bevan Geissmann from Larst Pty Ltd / Halcyon. They discuss what prompted them to identify senior housing as a business opportunity and share the critical ingredients to Halycon’s success. About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UDIA Queensland. About Paul and Bevan: Ki…

In this episode Kirsty interviews Debra Robinson – a group executive at Sunshine Coast Regional Council. Deb has had an astonishing career, and it’s a delight to hear her explain her role, her goals, and her pivotal moments across her time in town planning, and the building and construction industry. She also explains the challenges the council fac…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Raynuha Sinnathamby identifying some lessons from Springfield that can be used to inform a better and more integrated approach to masterplanning, growth, and delivery. Links from this episode: Springfield City Group (amgc.org.au) About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UDIA Queensland…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Beth Toon who shares the challenges she faced in navigating the business through COVID-related changes across multiple countries and states. Beth also tells us how she manages to stay connected to a large team of multidisciplinary and technical experts. Links from this episode: Home - Place Design…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Scott Ullman about the focus on people and culture at Frasers. Scott also compares his experience as General Manager with his previous role as Development Director. Links from this episode: Property Developer in Australia | Frasers Property About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UDIA…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Mike Hurley about the rewards and challenges he has found in the property industry plus his vision for property in Queensland. Links from this episode: Aria Property Group About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UDIA Queensland. About Mike: Mike Hurley is one of the founders of ARIA a…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Michael McNab about his long standing association with the UDIA Queensland and the importance he places on growing, developing and supporting people in a team with over 300 people across South East Queensland. Links from this episode: McNab About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UDIA…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Brook Monahan about his decision to move from Agribusiness to property, and the successes and challenges he has experienced in the industry. He shares his approach to leading teams and community engagement.Links from this episode: Mosaic (mosaicproperty.com.au)About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brow…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Warwick Bible from Mirvac about his background in property and development, the importance of the work that the UDIA Queensland performs, and his proudest achievements as President of the UDIA Queensland. Links from this episode: https://www.mirvac.com/ https://www.udiaqld.com.au/ About your host:…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Rebecca Oelkers from BHC about her advocacy for affordable housing and social justice, the current housing crisis, the importance of design when developing affordable housing and the future of BHC. Links from the episode: https://bhcl.com.au/ About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UD…

This is the final ep for 2022. Thank you for tuning into this podcast - whether you listen to each episode or whether you have only listened to 1 episode - it really is appreciated! In this episode, I recap my top 5 topics for planning in Queensland: 1. Climate Change 2. Designing with Country 3. Housing crisis 4. Census 2021 5. Olympics 2032 I men…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Michelle Wooldridge about the different challenges that exist between urban regeneration projects and Greenfield projects, how she navigated the complex landscape of the previous year and learn all about her new dog-friendly office. Links from this episode: https://www.cedarwoods.com.au/ About you…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Max about his thoughts on what role the Federal Government could play in unlocking supply, and how saying ‘yes’ from early in his career led him to managing a forensic and safety engineering consultancy before joining Intrapac. Links from this episode: https://intrapac.com.au/ About your host: Kir…

In this episode of the Development Drum we talk to Tanya about the parts of her job she find most rewarding and which job, in her early career she considers where she had the most fun, but probably did the least for her career! She shares her thoughts about how important community education and communication is around the topics of development time…

In this episode of the Development Drum, we talk to Anthony about how his intentions to have a career in finance, actually led him to a fulfilling career in local and international, large-scale property development. We learn about his family’s passion for Cobber dogs and which sport he follows in his downtime. Links from this episode: https://avid.…

In this episode of the Development Drum we talk to Jamisen about adapting to the burgeoning market of build-to-rent, making the leap from marketing into property development, and the piece of leadership advice she’d give to her 20-year-old self. Links from this episode: https://www.frasersproperty.com.au/ About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is t…

Kerry Doss has established a strong reputation as an experienced urban planner and leader during his career. Kerry has in excess of 33 years’ experience in planning & urban development in QLD & NSW. Prior to establishing his own consultancy firm, he was the Qld State Planner for 5 years, heading up the Planning group within the Queensland Governmen…

In this episode of the Development Drum we talk to Harrison about how he stays motivated on long-term projects, lessons learnt from community engagement, and the impact winning the Institute’s Young Leader of the Year award has had on his career. Links from this episode: https://www.sekisuihouse.com.au/ About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the…

Adam is a smart city guru and urbanist who has worked for private sector consultancies and leading global non-government organisations to advance sustainable community outcomes for over 25 years. Adam is the Head of Digital Urbanism at Ene.Hub. He leads the company's efforts to continually consider what's next for connecting, activating and measuri…

In this episode of the Development Drum we hear from Paul about his passion for delivering affordable housing, how he moved his ‘hobby’ in development to a career, and how he finds his networks and mentors. Links from this episode: https://kubunity.com.au/home About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UDIA Queensland. About Paul: Propert…

In this episode of the Development Drum we talk about how Dan stays connected to his team, his experience of going through an acquisition, finding purpose and a work-life balance, plus tips for his 20-year-old self. Links from this episode: https://www.rpsgroup.com About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown is the CEO of UDIA Queensland. About Dan: Dan…

Rachel is a PhD candidate at the University of Queensland. Her research interests include how cities adapt their urban form to changing conditions such as rapid population growth or decline, natural disasters, de-industrialisation and climate change; using GIS to track changes to urban layouts over time, including city blocks, streets and property …

Luke Brannelly is the founder and Managing Director of the V2i Group, which combines his 35 years of experience in the planning industry as an Urban Designer and Master planning Consultant, 20 years within the digital story and visualisation industry, and the past decade of diversifying these skills into a variety of other industries, including: he…

A once-in-a-decade report from CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, identifies seven global megatrends that hold the key to the challenges and opportunities ahead. The report is called Our Future World 2042. A lead author of this publication, Dr Stefan Hajkowicz, joins me on the podcast this week to discuss the 7 megatrends. The seven global…

Upendo is a Chagga woman from the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Her diverse upbringing across many countries has nurtured her passion for and proficiency in three languages, as well as her particular interest in how built environments can support cohesive, equitable and productive communities. Upendo has a Bachelor of Urban and Enviro…