Greater Springfield Business Connect

2025 Lifestyle Award Winner: Western Spirit Football Club

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, host Matt Taylor-Farrington speaks with Mark Owens from Western Spirit Football Club, proud recipient of the 2025 Lifestyle Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Mark shares his personal journey with the club, how Western Spirit became a cornerstone of the Springfield community, and why sport is so much more than just competition — it’s about health, connection, and belonging. From grassroots juniors to lifelong fans, the club fosters inclusivity, resilience, and a culture that brings people together both on and off the field.

2025 Education & Training Award Winner: Springfield Central State High School

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington is joined by Bec Evans, Deputy Principal at Springfield Central State High School, which was recognised with the 2025 Education & Training Award at this year’s Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Bec shares her personal journey into education, from early inspiration to leadership in one of the region’s most dynamic and fast-growing schools. With a focus on innovation, student wellbeing, and real-world learning, Springfield Central SHS has become known for its strong culture, staff collaboration, and future-focused approach.

We dive into the power of school leadership, what it takes to motivate both students and teachers, and how education is evolving to prepare young people for a changing world. Bec also reflects on the meaning behind this award and the importance of celebrating the unseen, collective effort that drives student success.

2025 Best Customer Service Award Winner: apaR Hair Studio

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington chats with Charlene Rapa, owner of apaR Hair Studio, who took home the Best Customer Service Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for the second year in a row.

Charlene shares what it was like to hear her name called again, and what back-to-back recognition says about her team’s unwavering focus on genuine connection, community, and consistency. From creating a salon culture where everyone feels at home to navigating the real challenges of high-energy, client-facing work, she unpacks what it truly takes to keep customers coming back.

2025 Professional Services Award Winner: VM Family Law

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Katherine Manby, founder of VM Family Law and winner of the 2025 Professional Services Award at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Katherine shares the story behind her decision to specialise in family law, a field that demands compassion, strength, and a deep sense of purpose. We discuss the culture she’s built at VM Family Law, how she supports her team through emotionally complex cases, and the guiding principles that ensure clients feel safe, heard, and supported during some of life’s toughest moments. Katherine also reflects on what it means to be recognised with the Professional Services Award, and how her team’s dedication to quality, care, and community has shaped their reputation in the Springfield region.

2025 Outstanding Small Business & Financial Services Award Winner: Zest Mortgage Solutions

In this episode of the GSBC Awards Series, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Melissa Wright, founder of Zest Mortgage Solutions, who took home two major awards at the 2025 Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards: the Outstanding Small Business Award and the Financial Services Award. Melissa reflects on what it meant to be recognised not just for Zest’s business growth, but also for its standout client experience in an industry that’s complex, fast-moving, and deeply personal.  We also dive into the importance of local business relationships, a client story that’s stuck with her over the years, and the philosophy that drives Zest’s continued success. Whether you’re a business owner looking for inspiration or someone curious about building a brand clients love and trust—this episode is packed with insight, heart, and yes… a whole lot of Zest.

2025 Members’ Choice Award & President’s Award Winner: Jo Steel – Farfalla Interiors & Events

We’re kicking off the 2025 GSBC Awards Series with a double win!

This week, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Jo Steel, founder of Farfalla Interiors & Events, who walked away with both the Members’ Choice Award and the prestigious President’s Award at this year’s Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Jo shares her emotional reaction to hearing her name called twice in one night, and the deep meaning behind being recognised—especially for the behind-the-scenes magic she brings to so many Chamber events. From setting the mood with beautiful styling to handling the unseen hours of prep, Jo offers a look into what it really takes to create the experiences GSCC members love.

She also reflects on her connection to the Chamber community, what it means to be supported by fellow business owners, and why giving back through service has been so rewarding. Plus, in our quick-fire round, we get to know Jo beyond the spotlight—from espresso martinis to reimagining her dream GSCC event.

Putting People First: Neil Coupland on Real Estate, Community, and 26 Years in Greater Springfield

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington chats with Neil Coupland, Principal of First National Real Estate Springfield and one of the original pioneers of the local property market.

Neil takes us back to 1999, when he opened the very first real estate office in Greater Springfield, and reflects on the remarkable growth and transformation he’s witnessed across more than four decades in the industry.

Looking ahead, Neil offers his vision for the future of real estate in Greater Springfield and how First National Springfield plans to keep leading with integrity, innovation, and people-first service.

Design with Purpose: Wahied Kannemeyer on Creating Workspaces That Work

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Wahied Kannemeyer, founder of Ignite Fitouts, to talk about transforming commercial spaces into environments that are not only functional, but genuinely inspiring. With more than 25 years of experience behind him, Wahied shares what sparked his passion for workplace design and how Ignite has built a reputation based on integrity, innovation, and client-focused service. As the industry evolves, Wahied gives us a glimpse into the future of commercial design, from emerging technologies to shifting expectations around workplace environments.