Spring Forward – Caves Connect Event Wrap-up
Last week’s Spring Forward Caves Connect at Caves Coastal was a true celebration of connection, community and collaboration. With more than 70 business owners and entrepreneurs in the room, the energy was electric despite the lingering winter chill. This was the perfect way to launch into spring and highlight the strength of our local business community.
Sponsored by Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows
A big thank you goes to Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows, who generously sponsored the night with complimentary drinks and canapés. Their support helped make the event a success, while also giving us a glimpse of what’s to come with the return of the Caves Coastal Beer, Food & Wine Festival on Sunday 28 September 2025. This festival promises to be a major regional attraction, and it was fantastic to hear from Pierre van Rooyen of Oscars Group about their vision for growing it further.
Launching Work Experience Connect
Another highlight of the evening was the official launch of Work Experience Connect, a partnership between Caves Connect and Swansea High School. Principal Andrew Pesle spoke passionately about the importance of giving Year 10 students real-world opportunities to explore careers, make connections and discover their strengths. Already, a number of local businesses have signed up to host students, with more encouraged to register via the Work Experience Connect page.
As I often say, sometimes you only discover your true career path by first learning what you don’t want to do—and work experience is a vital step in that journey.
Inspiring Stories and Local Talent
In true Caves Connect spirit, several business owners took the mic to share stories about their own work experience memories and how those lessons shaped their entrepreneurial journeys. Their honesty and humour created plenty of laughs and sparked meaningful reflection across the room.
We were also treated to a stunning aerial artwork display by Peter Harrison, showcasing the creative talent in our community, and the evening’s highlights were captured by Jacob, a Swansea High work experience student, who filmed the night. His work is a reminder of why this initiative matters—giving young people practical opportunities to grow their skills and confidence.
Looking Ahead
Caves Connect was more than just another networking night—it was a reminder of what happens when business, education and community come together. From sponsorship partnerships to mentoring the next generation, the value of connection was on full display.
Thank you to everyone who attended, shared their story, or signed up to host a student. The momentum from this event will carry forward into our upcoming initiatives, and we look forward to seeing you at the next Caves Connect gathering.
Watch the video wrap-up captured by Jacob below …
Learn more about Work Experience Connect
Read about the upcoming Beer, Food & Wine Festival
Check out local aerial photographer, Peter Harrison’s work
Daniel Borg
Creative Director
psyborg® was founded by Daniel Borg, an Honours Graduate in Design from the University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia. Daniel also has an Associate Diploma in Industrial Engineering and has experience from within the Engineering & Advertising Industries.
Daniel has completed over 2800 design projects consisting of branding, content marketing, digital marketing, illustration, web design, and printed projects since psyborg® was first founded. psyborg® is located in Lake Macquarie, Newcastle but services business Nation wide.
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Cheers Daniel