Program

Main Room
Welcome and introduction

Instructions and information for how the day and sessions will run.

Main Room
Beyond the paradise: Unveiling the hidden cost of Queensland’s animal industries
AnimalKIND

Queensland is often seen as a paradise, celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, but behind the idyllic image lies a stark contrast for non-human animals. This talk will expose the hidden realities of animal industries in Queensland, revealing the profound impact they have on animals, communities, and the environment. Join Amanda from AnimalKIND to uncover the truth beneath the surface and explore the urgent need for change.  

Main Room
Eating our way to extinction – even in Australia

Join this session with Australian deforestation expert Gerard Wedderburn-Bisshop to discover how animal-heavy diets are breaching planetary boundaries, both globally and in Australia, and how a food system transformation can bring us back from the brink. 

Studio
Defending the deep: Direct action for marine life and the legacy of Captain Paul Watson
Captain Paul Watson Foundation Australia
Captain Paul Watson Foundation Australia, Brisbane Vegan Run Club

Join this session with reps from Captain Paul Watson Foundation Australia to learn about their experiences volunteering in ocean defense campaigns and future opportunities to get involved in marine protection initiatives. Founded in 2022, this global NGO continues to be driven by Captain Paul Watson’s core principles of non-violent, direct action which has guided over 50 years of achievements in safeguarding the seas and defending marine life.

Everywhere
Lunch

Farm Animal Rescue will be providing a delicious vegan burger for each attendee. 

This is included for all ticketholders at no extra cost.

Main Room
Our story, our sanctuary – Gaia’s Serenity Animal Sanctuary

Gaia’s Serenity is a sanctuary of kindness that opened its doors in Ormeau Hills, near the Gold Coast, in 2023. It was founded with the simple but powerful purpose of offering care and love to animals rescued from agribusiness and other exploitative industries. Join this session to hear how it all began, and the story so far.

Studio
Decarbonising the food service sector with plant-based foods

How can we make plant-based meals the easy, appealing choice for people in food service settings? In this workshop, behavioural scientist Dr David Fechner will dig in to the evidence to discover proven strategies to overcome common barriers – from menu design and sampling to chef training – to make plant-based dishes the desirable, accessible and socially acceptable choice.

Main Room
Speaking up for animals used in research
Animal-Free Science Advocacy

This session will discuss the plight of animals used in research in Australia, the evidence-based alternatives that already exist, and how you can support Animal-Free Science Advocacy’s campaigns for a future where no animal is harmed in the name of science.

Studio
Engaging your political reps
Australian Alliance for Animals

Want to see stronger animal protection laws? Join April from the Alliance for Animals to discover how everyday advocates can effectively engage with parliamentarians, build inside-outside pressure, and hold decision-makers accountable using the Alliance’s Influence Change Toolkit. Whether you’re experienced or new to animal advocacy, this practical session will equip you to leverage your voice as a constituent to influence meaningful reform for animals. 

 

Main Room
Closing panel and shout-outs: Finding and building community
University of Queensland Vegan Society
Captain Paul Watson Foundation Australia, Brisbane Vegan Run Club
Vegan Society of Queensland
Brisbane Vegan Meetup

A range of vegan events happen around SE Qld every month that you can get involved in. Come along, listen to introductions from the organisers and then get involved in a conversation. This final session will also include an opportunity for shout-outs and a closing Q&A.

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Social @ Netherworld

Join us all for a social get-together at Netherworld to chat and celebrate the day. It’s 7 mins’ walk from Spring Hill Hall - Map.