Merri-bek Bold Business Gathering - October 2025

Moving to Planet Positive Business

Let’s talk about what it means to build businesses that don’t just use resources - but respect them.

At this Bold Business Gathering we are going to try and work out how can we create less harm and more good? How can our businesses contribute to a future that works for people and the planet?

From recycling and reuse, to repair, circular systems, ethical materials, and local production, we’re bringing together the businesses rethinking not just what they make, but how they make it, who they partner with, and where their impact lands.

It’s not always easy, and it’s rarely perfect. But bold business owners are trying to do the work - adapting, experimenting, and leading with values.

🗣️ Hear from local businesses who are:

• Designing waste out of their products and processes

• Reusing, recycling or reimagining materials in smart, surprising ways

• Choosing ethics and sustainability over shortcuts

• Building circular models that regenerate rather than extract

• Rethinking energy sources

Business leaders sharing their stories include:

• Mario Milici, Founder and Creative Director, UpShop Industries

• Marshall Waters, Founder, Rewine

Whether you’re already on this path or just curious where to start - this gathering is about sharing real stories, practical steps, and bold ideas for building better businesses.

💬 Why come?

• Learn how other businesses are making sustainability part of their DNA

• Get inspired by creative reuse, circularity and systems thinking

• Connect with other values-led business owners and makers

• Help grow a local business community that’s good for people and the planet

Let’s lead the shift from extractive to regenerative, from fast to thoughtful, and from wasteful to wise.

Merri-bek is where innovation, community and sustainability thrive together. We believe the future favours the bold, and we’re bringing together Merri-bek’s innovators, entrepreneurs, creators, change-makers and owners of future-focused businesses - the people who are pushing boundaries, blending industries and doing things differently. Bold Businesses create jobs, spark new industries, build community, and give people purpose. Merri-bek is fast becoming the home for businesses that don’t just adapt to the future, they shape it.

💡Please share this with anyone who should be in the room 

📩 Questions? Have a bold business story you might like to share?
Please email business@merri-bek.vic.gov.au