For many people, the most memorable part of CONNECT isn't the keynote speaker or the workshop they attended.
It's the conversation that happened afterwards.
It's the person they met over coffee who became a trusted colleague. The songwriter who found a collaborator. The radio announcer who discovered a fresh perspective. The ministry leader who realised they weren'tcarrying the vision alone.
That's always been part of what makes CONNECT unique. While the conference brings together Christian communicators from across the globe, it's often the relationships formed between sessions that continue to shape people's ministry and careers long after the event has finished.
This year, CMAA is creating even more space for those connections to happen, with two new events being held alongside CONNECT26 on the Gold Coast.
Importantly, both are open to anyone. You don't need to register for the full conference to attend.
A place to find your people
The first is CONNECT PLUS+, presented by CMAA and Wild Hive.
Held on Wednesday evening at The Spring, QT Gold Coast, the event brings together people working across Christian media, music, communications, the arts and the wider creative industries for an evening designed around one simple idea: meaningful connection.
Whether you're established in your profession, taking your first steps into the industry or simply exploring where God might be leading your creative gifts, CONNECT PLUS+ offers an opportunity to meet others who share both your faith and your passion for influencing culture.
Rather than a formal conference session, the evening has been designed as a relaxed gathering. Guests will enjoy live music from Sean Rodriguez and friends, hosted by Kelsey Cooke and Chris Guerra, with food, conversation and plenty of opportunity to build new relationships.
Because sometimes the right conversation can open doors that no keynote session ever could.
Beyond The Song
Earlier that same day, singers and songwriters will gather for another first at CONNECT.
Beyond the Song has been created for artists who want to grow not only in their musical ability, but also in their understanding of the calling and career of Christian music.
For faith-based singers, songwriters, worship leaders, indie artists and Christian bands, the day promises honest conversations about navigating today's music industry while remaining grounded in purpose.
Sessions will explore the realities of building a sustainable creative career, the relationship between artists, radio and media, and the practical steps involved in developing music that serves both the Church and the wider community.
More than a professional development event, Beyond the Song recognises that creativity is both a gift and a responsibility. It's an opportunity to learn from experienced voices, encourage one another and invest in the next generation of Christian artists.
More than a conference
For years, CONNECT has been the place where Christian communicators encourage one another, share ideas and imagine what's possible together.
These new events build on that foundation.
Whether you're working in radio, media, music, communications, ministry or the creative industries, they're another way to gather with people who understand both the opportunities and challenges of serving Christ through creative work.
In a world where creative ministry can sometimes feel isolated, moments like these matter.
They remind us that while our platforms, professions and projects may look different, we're part of something much bigger- a community committed to communicating hope with excellence.
Both CONNECT PLUS+ and Beyond the Song take place on Wednesday 16 September at QT Gold Coast alongside CONNECT26.
Tickets for each event can be purchased separately, with member and non-member pricing available.
To find out more or book your place, visit CONNECT26.
CONNECT PLUS+
📅 Wednesday 16 September | 5pm–7.30pm
📍 The Spring, QT Gold Coast
🎟 CMAA Members $79 | Non-members $89
Beyond the Song
📅 Wednesday 16 September | 8.30am–5pm
📍 QT Gold Coast
🎟 CMAA Members $100 | Non-members $110