More than 200 truth seekers and story tellers, from across Australia’s media and arts landscape, have gathered on the Gold Coast this September!
From September 2–4, the QT Hotel Gold Coast was once again transformed into a vibrant hub of inspiration, connection, and creative renewal as the Christian Media & Arts community gathered for CONNECT25.
This year’s theme “Think Well. Create Well. Speak Well.” echoed through every session, performance, and conversation, reminding us of the power we hold as truth-seekers and storytellers to shape culture with clarity, compassion, and conviction.
Opening Night: Honouring Excellence
The conference kicked off on Tuesday night with the highly anticipated Excellence in Media Awards, where we celebrated the trailblazers and innovators who continue to elevate Christian media and arts across Australia. The evening was a dazzling mix of heartfelt tributes in the Legacy Awards, along with the striking portrait creation from Matteo Charles, and unforgettable music performances by Tekoa, Lilli, and Ethan Beer, setting the tone for a week of inspired brilliance.
Sessions that Stirred Minds and Moved Hearts
Across Wednesday and Thursday, delegates engaged in worship and enjoyed dynamic session blocks each day, featuring thought leaders, media professionals, and ministry pioneers including:
- Chris Marsh
- Petra Bagust
- Natchi Lazarus
- Valerie Ling
- Craig Bruce
- Robert Fergusson
- Nick Jensen
- Safina Stewart
- Dave Adamson -
- Leio McLaren
- Abe Udy
Topics ranged from:
- A Call to Belonging and Transcendence
- Innovating at the Crossroads of Faith and Modernity
- Leading Creative Teams
- Thinking Well in Noisy Places
- Navigating Algorithms and AI
Panels and a Lunch ‘n’ Learn session offered space for honest dialogue, practical tools that fuelled both personal growth and professional excellence.
A Night to Remember
Wednesday evening’s Stingray Bar Dinner was a standout moment, blending casual connection over dinner and drinks, with musical magic. Tarryn Stokes took to the stage, reminding us why she was the clear winner of the Voice in 2023. Supported by rising star Ethan Beer, their performances demonstrating why music remains one of the most powerful languages of hope.
Reigniting Purpose and Creating Connections
More than just a conference, CONNECT25 was a catalyst - reigniting purpose, deepening relationships, and equipping us to engage our audiences with renewed clarity and conviction. Whether through worship, workshops, or hallway conversations, the spirit of unity and excellence was unmistakable.
As we look ahead to what’s next, one thing is clear: the Christian Media & Arts community is alive with possibility. And CONNECT remains the place where that possibility takes root.
Presale Registrations for CONNECT26 are Now Open
Join us next year for CONNECT26: Resonance at QT Gold Coast from 15 to 17 September, 2026. Book before September 19 and save 35% on your registration.