Welcome to ‘Local Business Sessions,’ a Mornington Peninsula podcast series where local businesses share innovative approaches and practical insights. ‘Business Wrap Up’ episodes give you exclusive access to local business events.
The ‘Frankston Mornington Peninsula Industry and Jobs Expo’ was held at the Mornington Racecourse in August 2024.
It was designed to facilitate connections between local job seekers and opportunities within the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston region. During this dynamic event, we took the opportunity to catch up with local business and industry leaders to find out career opportunities.
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This episode, part of the Business Wrap Up podcast series, provides employers with key insights into attracting and retaining talent in today’s evolving job market. Industry leaders discuss the importance of cultivating a positive workplace culture, offering career growth opportunities, and embracing flexibility to meet the expectations of a modern workforce.
Listeners will learn practical strategies, such as valuing passion and work ethic over predefined qualifications, offering diverse roles, and addressing work-life balance. The episode also highlights the growing demand for mental health support and strong leadership in creating welcoming, supportive environments. Employers are encouraged to think creatively about career pathways and to showcase the unique benefits of their industry to remain competitive for top talent.
Perfect for businesses looking to adapt and thrive in the competitive labour market, this episode inspires employers to reimagine their approach to workforce development and leverage resources like government initiatives and local industry support.
Joel Vanderuit is the Director of Tall Trees Nursery, part of the Cohort Nursery Group. Growing up in the nursery industry, Joel initially pursued a career in music and graphic design before joining the family business in 2014. He expanded operations and co-founded Cohort Nursery in 2020, operating with a focus on sustainable growth, efficiency, and community involvement.
Grace Jiranek is the Vineyard Manager and Assistant Winemaker at Eldridge Estate in Red Hill. After earning a Bachelor of Viticulture and Oenology, she honed her craft in Adelaide and the Mornington Peninsula. Grace is passionate about sustainable viticulture and creating memorable wines, with experience in Burgundy and top local wineries.
Sarah Saxton is the Agribusiness and Agroecology Lead at Mornington Peninsula Shire, where she has spent the past eight years championing local food systems. Her work includes growing the Mornington Peninsula Produce (MPP) brand, hosting farm walks, advocating for key agricultural issues, and developing a 6-year Food Economy and Agroecology Strategy. Sarah also co-runs a wine brand and lives in Red Hill with her family.
Jan Stepan is the Head of Weddings & Events at Jackalope Group at Merrick North. He joined in 2017 and has since gained experience across multiple departments and brands. Jan is passionate about Jackalope’s brand, story, and business, playing a key role in creating memorable experiences for clients.
Lyle House is the General Manager of Enchanted Adventure, a 25-acre adventure park on Arthurs Seat. Born and raised in Mt Eliza, Lyle has a background in construction and management, previously serving as Director of Grey Gum Building Group. His construction expertise contributes to overseeing the park’s operations and new developments.
David Brown is the Industry Engagement Team Leader at Brick and Block Careers, promoting bricklaying vacancies and career pathways. With 14 years in training and apprenticeships, David is passionate about helping young people start their careers while supporting employers in meeting staffing needs and fulfilling employment responsibilities.
Alice Hanna, HRD Australian HR Manager of the Year 2022, has over 20 years of experience creating exceptional workplaces. With a background in psychology, she fosters strong cultures and advocates for diversity and inclusion, particularly in male-dominated industries, while promoting safe, supportive environments for women in the workplace.
Jodie Rebbechi is the General Manager of the Master Painters Association of Victoria/Tasmania, with 19 years of experience in the industry. With a background in marketing, she is passionate about supporting members and addressing the skills shortage in the painting industry, aiming to increase apprenticeships and ensure long-term industry sustainability.
Kristy Walton is a qualified early childhood professional with over 25 years of experience. As a Kindergarten Improvement Advisor in the Bayside Peninsula Area, she supports kindergarten providers in the Mornington Peninsula Shire to implement the Best Start Best Life reforms. Previously, she held leadership roles in establishing family and children’s centres.
Tahnee Irons is the Talent Acquisition Manager at Peninsula Health, where they lead recruitment efforts to ensure top talent aligns with the organisation’s mission of Safe, Personal, Effective, and Connected Care. With a strategic approach and strong relationship-building skills, Tahnee is dedicated to creating a positive candidate experience and supporting healthcare excellence.
Content created November 2024, updated February 2026
