Northern Business Achievement Awards September 2025

The Northern Business Achievement Awards are a partnership of industry, education, local and state government, and decision-makers across Melbourne’s north.

Join us at the Northern Business Achievement Awards breakfast on Thursday, 4 September 2025.

We are honoured to welcome Kosmos Samaras, Director of Strategy and Campaigns, and Tony Barry, Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications at RedBridge Group, as our keynote speakers.

The Keynote Topic is: Reading the political tea leaves – reflections on the 2025 Federal Election and the forthcoming 2026 State Election.

The keynote topic offers a timely and insightful look into the shifting political landscape in Australia. It will explore the key outcomes of the 2025 Federal Election, what they reveal about voter priorities, party dynamics, and national policy directions, and consider how these trends may influence the lead-up to the 2026 Victorian State Election.

From economic recovery and climate action to workforce development and regional investment, the session will unpack the implications for businesses, communities, and governments navigating this evolving political environment.

About the speakers:

Kos Samaras: Kos Samaras is a leading authority on political strategy, public sentiment, and behavioural research. With over 25 years of experience in government, campaigning, and policy advising, including as a senior figure within Victorian Labor, Kos has helped shape major initiatives across infrastructure, health, and energy. His expertise lies in translating community attitudes into actionable strategy, particularly in diverse and fast-changing environments. Kos regularly advises clients on how to align their work with evolving public expectations and political priorities.

Tony Barry: Tony Barry is a seasoned strategist with more than two decades of experience in public affairs, campaign strategy, and political risk management. He has advised governments, corporations, and media across Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Tony specialises in helping clients navigate reputational challenges, build influence, and engage with decision-makers in complex political landscapes. A veteran of more than 50 political and corporate campaigns, his insights are grounded in a deep understanding of public opinion, stakeholder pressure points, and the modern media cycle.

Event Details:

The event will be held in ‘The Market Ballroom’ on level 1 at Novotel Melbourne Preston from 6:45 am (for a 7:00 am prompt start) – 9:00 am.

All guests will receive complimentary parking (excluding overnight parking for accommodation guests) in the Novotel Melbourne Preston underground parking area accessed via Hotham Street. You must register your vehicle through a QR code, which will be available in the function space during the event. It is an automated system, so no tickets are required. When you leave, the system will scan your number plate, and the gate will open.

For nearby public transport: There is a bus stop in front of the hotel, the 86 tram stop is just minutes away, and the train station is a 10-minute walk.

Event Photography: Please be advised that this event may be recorded, and photographs will be taken. This footage may be used after the event on the NORTH Link website or other marketing materials. Please notify us if you do not consent to us recording or photographing you and using your image and likeness as mentioned.