FAMILY BUSINESS SITE VISITS
Get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at some of some of New South Wales most dynamic and innovative family-owned businesses through our Site Visits on Tuesday 20 May and Wednesday 21 May, a favourite at the Family Business Conference. Local family businesses will open their doors to you, as you get to experience first-hand what sets these remarkable businesses apart! Hear directly from family members about their unique challenges and successes, and gain insight into the systems and processes that have driven their growth and ongoing success.
Your Conference Delegate registration includes access to two days of site visits. This includes a visit to Scenic World on Tuesday 20 May, as well as a second site visit on Wednesday 21 May. Additional guest tickets are available to attend Scenic World’s Site Visit. As part of the conference registration, we require you to select your preferences for the Site Visits on Wednesday morning, 21 May 2025. We will make every effort to accommodate your preference; however, it cannot be guaranteed.
Please Note: Bus transportation has been arranged for each site visit, including for those attending Longest Lunch events on Wednesday 21 May.
Tuesday, 20 May 2025
Scenic World
Established in 1945, Scenic World was founded on Harry Hammon’s entrepreneurial vision to transform a former coal mine into an iconic tourist attraction. With the closure of Katoomba Colliery in 1945, Harry recognised an opportunity to innovate by converting old coal skips and existing rail tracks into a passenger train, creating what is still, to this day, the world’s steepest passenger train. Today, Scenic World remains owned and operated by …
Wednesday, 21 May 2025
ActronAir
For over 40 years, family-owned ActronAir has been designing and building world-class air conditioning systems right here in Australia. Established in 1984 by Gary Mundy and his two sons, Robert and Kevin, the company was born from their shared passion, deep expertise, and commitment to innovation. With the next generation of the Mundy family stepping into the business, ActronAir is set to evolve, confidently delivering premium energy-efficient air conditioning solutions …
A.H. Beard
Founded in 1899, bedding manufacturer A.H. Beard has a long history of innovation and craftsmanship, underpinned by a passion for giving people the best sleep of their lives. Today, A.H. Beard employs a team of over 400 dedicated and highly skilled people to produce up to 10,000 mattresses each week, which are sold in Australia, New Zealand, and around the world. With the 5th generation now working…
Chas Clarkson
Founded in 1893 by Charles (Chas) Clarkson from humble beginnings in the UK, Chas Clarkson has become Australia’s leading Christmas and illumination company. Chas Clarkson creates magical and memorable experiences that bring joy to Australian families during the most special time of the year—installing hundreds of Santa experiences, thousands of Christmas trees, and millions of lights in every color of the rainbow. Over 60% of all major shopping destinations…
Garlo's Pies
Founded in 2001 by father Terry and sons Sean and Nathan “Garlo” Garlick, the business began as a small pie shop in Maroubra, Sydney, Australia. Since then, it has grown significantly, with their new facility now producing 80,000 high-quality pies, sausage rolls, muffins, and other savory products every day. A proud exporter, Garlo’s supplies pies to Japan, Hong Kong, New Zealand and New Caledonia as well as supplying domestically to…
Harris Farm Distribution Centre
Harris Farm Markets is a family-owned grocery retailer with over 50 years of experience. Operating 40 stores across New South Wales, Queensland, and the Australian Capital Territory, the company is committed to providing high-quality fresh produce, meat, dairy, and grocery items. Harris Farm remains dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and delivering the best quality to Australian families. The Harris family invites you to take an exclusive look at their new, purpose-built …
Kennards Hire Museum
Driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence, Kennards Hire is the largest family-owned supplier of high-quality hire equipment across Australia and New Zealand, with over 180 branches in the region. For this exclusive experience, the Kennard family is opening the doors of the Kennards Hire Museum, typically closed to the public, just for our delegates. This rare opportunity will take you on a journey through time, offering a fascinating glimpse…
Mongrel Boots
Step into the legacy of Mongrel Boots, a story of vision, opportunity, and sacrifice that spans over 90 years. Founded by the Cloros family, the journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leader in Australian-made footwear is nothing short of remarkable. Despite changing technologies and designs, the Cloros family’s commitment to quality and innovation remains steadfast. Today, the Cloros family continues to uphold their founding vision with three generations actively…