We learned how the brain works

Kickstart Day 2025 wasted no time getting straight into the good stuff.

First up? Milo Wilkinson – behavioural scientist, criminal profiler and all-around expert in why we do what we do.

She took us deep into how our brains work (spoiler: they’re running your body’s whole show).

Through the lens of her personal story, Milo showed us how thought patterns shape our performance, resilience, and even our daily interactions. And she had us hooked.

‘I found her life story fascinating,’ Campaign Coordinator Mariam David shared. ‘Her session taught us just how important it is to keep the brain active.’

‘Milo made me look at the brain in a new way,’ Rental Administration Secretary Kat Alexiou explained. ‘She taught us how much our thoughts shape our resilience, in mind and body.’

For Campaign Coordinator Aimee Sandler, the session was invaluable. ‘We learned techniques to strengthen our mindset – something I’ll definitely be putting into practice!’

By 10 am, we were already thinking differently.

 

We learned what it really takes to succeed

After a quick morning tea loaded with caffeine and a much-needed sugar hit, it was time to turn our attention to Alisa Camplin AM.

Alisa made history as Australia’s first female winter Olympic gold medallist in freestyle aerial skiing, then battled through 2 knee reconstructions – and still walked away with a bronze at the next Olympics.

And if one career wasn’t enough, she also climbed the corporate ladder, leading global teams for IBM and now in the Boardroom. Impressive, right?

Her message to the team: Success doesn’t only flow from hardwork. You also need to work smart - your mindset is a choice and you need to put the planning and preparation behind your strategy.

‘Alisa was an inspiration, and I loved hearing her takes,’ Executive Assistant Grace Horsey shared.

‘She was incredible – so inspiring to listen to,’ Inspections Officer Felix Agudelo said. ‘You could feel her passion in every word.’

After Alisa’s session, one thing was clear: discipline is what makes winners.

 

We learned how to think like a Navy officer

After a well-earned lunch break (because all that inspiration works up an appetite), it was time to hear from someone who knows a thing or two about mental toughness.

Enter Paul Taylor, a neuroscientist, podcast host, exercise physiologist and former British Royal Navy aircrew officer who is completing his PhD in Applied Psychology.

And let us tell you, he knew a thing or two about resilience.

From stress fitness to rewriting our thought patterns, he showed us how to train our minds like we train our bodies.

‘His presentation was full of golden insights, lessons… even book recommendations,’ Kat Alexiou said. ‘I took away so much.’

‘He gave us real techniques to use daily,’ Aimee Sandler added. ‘Understanding how our thoughts shape us was huge.’

At the end of Paul’s session, we were ready to take on anything life threw our way.

 

We learned to sit back and take it all in

By now it’s clear – our Kickstart Day isn’t just about taking notes and nodding.

It’s a chance to reflect on what makes working at Gary Peer special: connection, inspiration and striving to be our best.

And by the afternoon, that energy ran high.

Conversations flowed, ideas sparked and the room buzzed with a shared sense of purpose.

‘The enthusiasm of Gary and Phillip says it all,’ Licensed Estate Agent and Auctioneer David Thomson shared. ‘It’s been a terrific team-building experience.’

‘I really appreciate the effort involved in putting this on,’ Senior Property Manager Braeden Visser admitted. ‘It’s something that allows us to all grow and improve.’

But with one last session to come, we weren’t done just yet.

 

We learned nothing beats a good surprise

At Gary Peer, we love surprises. Especially when it involves treating our hardworking team. (Because, let’s be honest, they deserve it.)

To end the day with a bang, we brought in our mystery guest, Brian Nankervis: Australian writer, actor, radio host, television producer and comedian.

And he did not disappoint.

Pairing his sharp intellect with comedic flair, Brian had us in stitches one minute and deep in thought the next, providing the perfect end to an inspiring day.

‘Brian’s presentation was exhilarating,’ Kat Alexiou shared. ‘He was light-hearted yet insightful… a fantastic way to end the day.’

‘We loved Brian,’ Grace Horsey agreed. ‘Great laughs, great fun – honestly, the perfect surprise from Gary and Phillip.’

It was an experience we won’t forget.

 

We learned that we pick killer venues

Kickstart Day isn’t just about the speakers, the lessons or the energy. It’s also about where we do it. And our locations never disappoint.

Last year, we raved about the incredible setup at Albert Park’s Carousel. And this year? No surprises, it delivered again. Good food, great company and a view to match? We’ll take it!

‘It’s been a fantastic day,’ Braeden Visser said. ‘The venue is amazing; the speakers are amazing.’

Safe to say, we know how to pick ‘em.

 

We learned we will always be encouraged to grow

Real estate is about more than property deals. It’s about people – their lives, dreams and challenges.

To support them, we need to be at the top of our game. At Gary Peer, we always have the chance to improve ourselves for the people we serve. Because when we thrive, so do our clients.

‘I’m so grateful to work for a company that genuinely cares about wellbeing,’ Felix Agudelo said.

‘As our inspiring speakers all touched on: you can only control what you can,’ Senior Property Manager Susan Gaul added. ‘We all took home this important message.’

So, we’ll keep showing up, growing and pushing for better – because we have so many reasons to.

 

Are you interested in being part of a team that thrives? Discover how you can own your career – with Gary Peer.