The Future of Creative Business Shines Bright at R|6.0 Showcase
Showcase was truly a night to remember, marking the culmination of our intensive 10-week creative business incubator program R|6.0. The event gave our participants the traction they needed to take their businesses to the next level, and it solidified R|6.0's reputation as a leading creative business incubator program that is shaping the future of the creative industry in our region.
A Night of Inspiration and Achievement
From the moment the doors opened at The Events Centre Caloundra, a palpable energy filled the air. The event, featuring a special address by Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, drew the region's most influential figures in the arts and business sectors, all eager to witness the rise of the next wave of creative entrepreneurs.
Overcoming Nerves, Building Community
For the R|6.0 cohort, the journey to Showcase was both challenging and transformative. The nerves were evident as they prepared to present their three-minute pitches, but those nerves quickly turned into resolve as they took the stage. Each participant presented their unique vision for their enterprise, the passion driving their work, and then a call to action for what they needed to turn their dreams into reality. Reflecting on the experience, participant Tia Carrigan underscored the power of collaboration: "We are better when we work together," she said, highlighting how the cohort's unity and mutual support were crucial to their success, fostering relationships that will last well beyond the program.
Building Confidence and Belief
As SCCA President Liz Burcham noted, R|6.0 is about more than just teaching practical skills; it's about building the confidence and belief that our participants need to achieve their vision. "At the heart of this program is the understanding that success comes not only from knowing how to develop a business but also from believing that you can," Burcham said.
Facilitator Hayley Linthwaite remarked on the significance of the program as "an incredible opportunity to bring your passion, your creative process, and your practice into a lived reality."
A Night to Remember
Hosted by the ever-charming comedian Jenny Wynter, with musical guest Andrea Kirwin and a cultural performance by Robbie. The evening began with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Helena Gulash, Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) Traditional Custodian and Elder, and The Refinery Elder-in-Residence.
R|6.0 (in order of Showcase appearance):
Tia Carrigan: This Bird
Jade Stevens: Art Habit
Tracey Richards: Wild Crow
Julian Scrafton: Changeling Co.
Adelle Rutch: AYR Ceramics
Renee Mead: Murri Girl Designs
Sally Stent: Eco Interiors
Hayley Davis: Parados
Susan Schiotz: Lemon Eclipse
Leisa Kaye: Underground Arts
Megan Ruby Lee: Wilderess Designs
R|6.0 is delivered as part of The Refinery, SCCA’s platform of professional development programs designed to support creative practitioners working at the intersection of art, technology, environment and design.
This program is supported by Major Partners: the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, Sunshine Coast Council through the Arts and Heritage Levy, and the University of the Sunshine Coast; and Program Partners: SunCentral and the MET, and The Events Centre, Caloundra.
Learn more about The Refinery programs currently open for applications.