Join Us for Networking & Nibbles

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Networking & Nibbles

Networking & Nibbles is a focused and informative networking event designed to equip you with practical, easy-to-action advice on a range of business topics. Learn from expert local speakers who will share actionable insights you can implement right away. You'll have ample time for relaxed and productive networking with business owners and professionals in a casual, information-rich environment.

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Time: 5:30pm

Date: 8th August 2025

Location: RSL (upstairs)

Topic: Local Business Success

GUEST SPEAKERS

Demi Pressler-McHugh

My name is Demi Pressler-McHugh, and I’ve recently stepped into the role of Chief Operating Officer at McHugh Steel as of January 2025. This transition came under difficult circumstances following the passing of my mother, who was a driving force behind the company’s success. I’m honoured to continue her legacy and help lead our team forward. However, I wouldn’t be here or as successful without my twin sister, Emma.

Prior to this role, I served as McHugh Steel’s Human Resources Manager, supporting our team through a period of significant growth—from 40 to over 130 employees in the past five years. I’ve always been passionate about building strong, capable teams and creating a workplace where people feel valued.

I hold a Bachelor of Business (Human Resources), along with certifications in Work Health and Safety, Training and Assessment, and I’m currently completing a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management. I’m also a licensed QBCC Site Supervisor and a Justice of the Peace.

I’m looking forward to continuing to support our customers and partners with the same dedication and integrity that McHugh Steel is known for.

Brent Illingworth

Brent’s real estate journey started at just 17 years old when he stepped into the family business alongside his dad, John. Over the past 14+ years, he’s grown into a respected local leader, now running the day-to-day operations at RealWay and heading up a team of eight.

Brent is Bundaberg through and through having lived here most of his life and built deep roots in the community through sport, volunteering, and his work. His passion for the region is obvious. He sees the potential in every corner of Bundaberg and the Wide Bay, and genuinely loves helping people find their place in it.

What sets Brent apart is his people-first approach. He brings empathy, honesty, and heart to every opportunity, treating clients like future friends and challenging the stereotypes of the real estate industry.

Brent and his RealWay team have won numerous awards, helped many satisfied clients, and boast tremendous reviews. He’s here to answer your questions on how he’s done it leading a team, and not just surviving, but thriving in a competitive industry!

Brooke Kimberley

Brooke and her husband Dan are the co-owners of Monsoon Aquatics—one of Australia’s largest suppliers of responsibly collected and aquacultured corals and marine fish. Their Bundaberg facility is also a thriving tourist attraction, offering daily behind-the-scenes coral farm tours that connect visitors with the beauty and science of the reef.

Together, they’ve navigated the unique challenges of building a business in a highly specialised industry—from the high of being named Australian Exporter of the Year, to setbacks like sinking boats—a journey filled with resilience, passion, and innovation.

Brooke is driven by a commitment to exceptional customer experiences, high-quality products, and building the systems and culture that empower the Monsoon Aquatics team to consistently deliver excellence.

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GUEST SPEAKERS

Demi Pressler-McHugh

My name is Demi Pressler-McHugh, and I’ve recently stepped into the role of Chief Operating Officer at McHugh Steel as of January 2025. This transition came under difficult circumstances following the passing of my mother, who was a driving force behind the company’s success. I’m honoured to continue her legacy and help lead our team forward. However, I wouldn’t be here or as successful without my twin sister, Emma.

Prior to this role, I served as McHugh Steel’s Human Resources Manager, supporting our team through a period of significant growth from 40 to over 130 employees in the past five years. I’ve always been passionate about building strong, capable teams and creating a workplace where people feel valued.

I hold a Bachelor of Business (Human Resources), along with certifications in Work Health and Safety, Training and Assessment, and I’m currently completing a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management. I’m also a licensed QBCC Site Supervisor and a Justice of the Peace.

I’m looking forward to continuing to support our customers and partners with the same dedication and integrity that McHugh Steel is known for.

Brent Illingworth

Brent’s real estate journey started at just 17 years old when he stepped into the family business alongside his dad, John. Over the past 14+ years, he’s grown into a respected local leader, now running the day-to-day operations at RealWay and heading up a team of eight.

Brent is Bundaberg through and through having lived here most of his life and built deep roots in the community through sport, volunteering, and his work. His passion for the region is obvious. He sees the potential in every corner of Bundaberg and the Wide Bay, and genuinely loves helping people find their place in it.

What sets Brent apart is his people-first approach. He brings empathy, honesty, and heart to every opportunity, treating clients like future friends and challenging the stereotypes of the real estate industry.

Brent and his RealWay team have won numerous awards, helped many satisfied clients, and boast tremendous reviews. He’s here to answer your questions on how he’s done it leading a team, and not just surviving, but thriving in a competitive industry!

Brooke Kimberley

Brooke is the Co-Owner of Monsoon Aquatics, one of Australia’s leading suppliers of responsibly collected and aquacultured corals and marine fish. Alongside her husband Dan, she’s built a business that’s anything but ordinary. Their Bundaberg facility is also a thriving tourist attraction, offering daily behind-the-scenes coral farm tours that connect visitors with the beauty and science of the reef.

Together, they’ve navigated the unique challenges of building a business in a highly specialised industry. From the high of being named Australian Exporter of the Year, to setbacks like sinking boats (and navigating unique challenges that really do require thinking outside the box!), Brooke knows what it takes to lead in a highly specialised, unpredictable industry.

Brooke is driven by a commitment to exceptional customer experiences, high-quality products, and building the systems and culture that empower the Monsoon Aquatics team to consistently deliver excellence!