Greater Springfield Business Connect

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.

Getting Unstuck: Loz Antonenko on Habits, Hustle & Taking Your Power Back

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with the high-energy, no-nonsense force that is Loz Antonenko from Loz Life. Loz unpacks the motivation behind her boldly titled new book Get the F*** Unstuck, and how she turned years of life challenges, trauma, and hustle into a blueprint for real, lasting transformation. With a background in coaching, science-backed strategies, and a flair for sass, Loz shares what it really means to break free from ‘handbrake habits’ and why it’s not just about motivation, but sustainable micro-habit change.

Culture, Community & Celebration: Jomar Nieva on PAMA and the Power of SpringFest

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington welcomes Jomar Nieva from the Philippines-Australia Multicultural Association (PAMA) to discuss one of the region’s most loved events: SpringFest.

With SpringFest 2025 set to be the biggest yet featuring traditional dance, live music, food stalls, and a multicultural dance party, Jomar takes us behind the scenes of the event’s evolution and the deep community spirit it represents.

Whether you’re attending SpringFest this Saturday (13 September at Robelle Domain Parklands) or simply passionate about diversity and community, this episode is a celebration of unity in action.

Awakening Aspirations: Dolores Goodey on Mindfulness, Coaching, and Empowerment

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington speaks with Dolores Goodey, founder of Aspirations United, about her remarkable journey from chef and teacher to life and mindset coach. Through programs like Reconnect to Your Goddess Within and Rapid Results, Dolores empowers clients to reclaim their confidence, clarity, and inner strength. Whether you’re navigating change, seeking purpose, or simply curious about the power of coaching, this episode is filled with wisdom, warmth, and inspiration.

Design with Heart: Jo Steel on Creating Spaces and Moments That Matter

In this episode of the GSBC Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Jo Steel, founder of Farfalla Interiors and Events, to explore how thoughtful design can transform not just spaces — but experiences.

Jo shares her journey from a lifelong love of design to launching a business that blends interior styling with event curation, offering clients a deeply personal and tailored approach. Whether it’s refreshing a residential space, transforming a commercial office, or styling a community fundraiser, Farfalla’s work is grounded in connection, creativity, and versatility.

Building a Business-Friendly City: Councillor Pye Augustine on Growth, Grants, and Local Support

In this episode of the Greater Springfield Business Connect Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington is joined by Councillor Pye Augustine to explore how the Ipswich City Council is shaping Greater Springfield into a thriving hub for small and micro businesses.

Councillor Augustine shares insights into the region’s economic landscape and unpacks the council’s Economic Development Strategy 2023–2027, centred around People, Place, Prosperity, and Partnerships. We dive into real-world initiatives like grant programs, resilience workshops, and the council’s role as Queensland’s first Small Business Friendly Council.

You’ll also hear how partnerships with organisations like the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce are delivering hands-on support to local business owners, and what infrastructure developments are in the pipeline to further boost the region’s business environment.