2024 Conference Keynote Speakers

Safe Travels ~ A Perioperative Journey 

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Keynote Speakers

 Friday's Keynote Speaker

Sophie Delezio.

An inspiration beyond all measure.

In December 2003, at two and a half, Sophie Delezio was critically injured when a car crashed into her day-care centre. She defied the odds and survived the burns to over 85% of her body, losing both legs below the knee, her right hand and ear. During those six and a half months in hospital, she learnt to walk, sit and swim again. Two and a half years later, in May 2006, she was hit on a pedestrian crossing on the way home from school, again critically injured with multiple fractures and a brain injury. She spent 2 months recovering in hospital.

Sophie has been and still is much loved by Australians here and abroad and is known to her broader community, who supported her across nineteen countries of the world, as a survivor. Her journey didn't stop once leaving the hospital wards and her grit and determination then and now to live the fullest life is a testament to her spirit. Sophie's resolve to find a way forward is an enduring characteristic impacting her overall approach to life.

Sophie thrives on a challenge and on embracing every opportunity to live the life she has always dreamed of packaged with a great sense of fun and adventure. Here, to show us wisdom beyond her years, she will speak of the ups and downs and what she does about them, then happily answer any question with her characteristic honesty and integrity.

 

Saturday's Keynote Speaker

Shane Fitzsimmons,
Former NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner.

Shane Fitzsimmons was appointed the inaugural Commissioner for Resilience NSW and Deputy Secretary, Emergency Management with the Department of Premier and Cabinet from May 2020, following a distinguished over-35 year career with the NSW Rural Fire Service.

In 2022, he was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the 2022 Australia Day honours for "Distinguished service to the community through leadership roles within the fire and emergency response organisations".

Shane will share his story and knowledge of leadership, teamwork, and his amazing ability to produce the best results from whichever team he leads. He will discuss the numerous difficult situations he has faced throughout his distinguished career, how he has coped and tips on bringing the best out in people.

Shane is an inspirational and engaging speaker and everyone who hears him speak will come away with an insight into themselves and a new appreciation of those around you.