Northern Business Achievement Awards: March 2026 Breakfast

Join us for the Northern Business Achievement Awards Breakfast on Thursday, 12 March 2026, bringing together business owners, industry leaders, and community stakeholders from across Melbourne’s north to celebrate excellence, innovation, and contribution to our local economy.

This year, we are pleased to welcome Jai McDermott, Chief of Ground Transport, Property and Retail at Melbourne Airport, as our keynote speaker on the topic - The Growth of Melbourne Airport and its impact on Melbourne’s north. Jai McDermott joined APAC in 2017 and was appointed Chief of Ground Transport in January 2020 and was appointed Chief Ground Transport, Property & Retail in July 2023. Jai has more than 20 years’ experience in corporate and public affairs, regulatory and reputation issues across a range of industry sectors, including aviation, energy, and resources.

Jai will provide valuable insights into:

• The significant growth of Melbourne Airport

• Major infrastructure expansion projects

• Increasing international flight connections

• The flow-on impact for jobs, investment, and business opportunities in Melbourne’s North

This breakfast is an excellent opportunity to connect with peers, recognise outstanding achievements in our business community, and gain first-hand perspectives on one of Victoria’s most important economic gateways.

Whether you are a business owner, professional, or community leader, this event offers meaningful networking and practical insights into the future of our region.

Hosting Councils: City of Darebin and Hume City Council

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.

Guests can park in the underground car park at Novotel Melbourne Preston, accessed via Hotham Street, for a flat fee of $5.00. Street parking is also available around the venue; please check signage for parking times and restrictions. Note: Free Parking is no longer being offered by Novotel Melbourne Preston.

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.