Events

Grand Final Luncheon Recap

The Carlton IN Business Grand Final Luncheon 2025 brought together over 900 guests at Crown Palladium for an afternoon that celebrated the powerful intersection of sport, leadership, and connection.

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The Carlton IN Business Grand Final Luncheon brought together over 900 guests at Crown Palladium for an afternoon that celebrated the powerful intersection of sport, leadership and connection. With the AFL Grand Final just days away, the event set the tone for the weekend ahead – featuring inspiring conversation, premium hospitality and unforgettable moments shared among industry leaders and football greats.

Hosted by Abbey Holmes, the event opened with a soulful performance by Mahalia Barnes, energising the room and setting the tone for a dynamic afternoon.

The event featured exclusive interviews and panels with some of AFL’s most respected voices.

  • Greg Swann, AFL’s EGM of Football Performance, shared insights on rule changes, concussion protocols and the return of State of Origin.
  • Joel Selwood, Geelong legend and premiership captain, reflected on his career, leadership journey and the emotional highs of Grand Final day.
  • A Grand Final Preview Panel, featured Tom Hawkins, Erin Phillips and Nick Riewoldt, who shared personal stories, predications and reflections on their football legacies.

 

The Grand Final Luncheon exemplified Carlton IN Business’s commitment to premium experiences, strategic partnerships and community connection. As the network continues to grow, it is events like this that reinforce its role as a connector of people, ideas and industries.

State-based Luncheons

Sydney

Adelaide

Perth

Brisbane

We kicked off 2026 with the Sydney Luncheon, proudly presented by Hyundai.

Guest speakers:

  • AFL CEO Andrew Dillon
  • Carlton Football Club CEO Graham Wright
  • Brent Smart, Chief Marketing Officer at Telstra
  • Anita Godbeer, General Manager of PR, Social & Content at Tourism Australia,

Adelaide Luncheon, hosted by Carlton IN Business Major Partner Penfolds within the iconic Underground Cellars at Magill Estate.

Guest speakers:

  • Chris Davies, General Manager of Football at Carlton Football Club
  • Kristy Keyte, Chief Marketing Officer of Penfolds
  • The Hon. Peter Malinauskas MP

Inaugural Perth Luncheon, proudly presented by Hyundai. 

Guest speakers:

  • Michael Beros GAICD, Hyundai
  • Daniel Pastorelli MLA, Member for Landsdowne
  • Abbie McKay, AFLW Carlton Football Club Captain
  • Jordan Russell, Head of Development at the Carlton Football Club
  • Adam Gilchrist, Australian cricket icon 

A landmark occasion as we bring this initiative to Queensland for the first time. 

Guest speakers: 

  • Councillor Fiona Cunningham, Deputy Mayor of Brisbane
  • Chris Davies, General Manage of Football at Carlton Football Club
  • Josh Fraser, Assistant Coach at Carlton Football Club
  • Sarah Cook OLY, CEO Rowing Australia
  • John Collins AM, Night Life Economy Commissioner, QLD Government
  • John Gillam, Chairman Lendlease
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The Carlton IN Business Grand Final Luncheon 2025 brought together over 900 guests at Crown Palladium for an afternoon that celebrated the powerful intersection of sport, leadership, and connection.

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