Entrepreneurship Award: The 2024 nominees

Alexandre Chavotier (NSW) is a Franco-Australian tech entrepreneur and founder of Upworth, a company that plays a crucial role in promoting financial inclusion in Australia.

After contributing to the economic and financial development of Australia as a Manager at McKinsey Sydney for many years, he chose to apply his expertise in finance, analytics, and technology for the benefit of the public. His research in AI and data analysis at Quantum Black (McKinsey's AI branch) has earned him global accolades and investments. However, Alexandre is primarily a man deeply rooted in both his French and Australian communities, having helped thousands of people better understand their personal finances, build their wealth, and take control of their futures.

Through his free platform, Upworth, he enables all Australians without financial advisors to finally access personalised support through technology. As a highly engaged mortgage broker, particularly within the Franco-Australian community, Alexandre passionately dedicates himself to providing the residents of his adopted country with a better, more prosperous, and enlightened future.

With over 20 years of combined marketing and communications experience on both agency and client sides, Amaury Treguer (Bread Agency, NSW) has proven experience in TV, print, content production, and digital and social media.

After launching Sixtine, a creative studio specialised in content production in Paris, Amaury is now focusing his efforts on creating and implementing social and digital strategies for clients in a wide range of industries, such as entertainment, tech, automotive, retail, FMCG, tourism, skincare, financial services, healthcare, and government.

Over the past 15 years working in the social media space, Amaury has worked with clients such as Netflix, Universal Pictures, Sony, Nikon, Toyota, Jaguar, Kia, BIG W, Procter & Gamble, NIVEA, Johnson & Johnson, SunRice, Lavazza, Electrolux, FedEx, Destination NSW, P&O Cruises, Accor Hotels, Zambrero, TAL Group, the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Novartis, Aspen, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Amaury recently launched Bread Agency, a social media agency focused on social commerce, with his business partner Mary. Bread’s full offering includes social strategy, creative, content production, community engagement, livestream shopping, rates and reviews, and influencer marketing.

Amaury is a regular contributor to marketing publications (Marketing Magazine, Mumbrella, AdNews, B&T) and has participated in conferences and run workshops for industry-leading training organisations such as General Assembly, Mashable, eTail, The Customer Show, FACCI, Mumbrella Retail Summit, NoVacancy, and Consumer Healthcare Products Australia.

Amaury has also been a board member of the Alliance Française de Sydney and a subcommittee member of the French Film Festival since May 2021.

In his 'dawn-time,' he's taking photos for his blog Morning Bondi.

Carine Anceaux (NSW), Founder & CEO of WanderBuddies brings a wealth of expertise from the Travel & Experience industry, having managed six travel agencies across APAC over a span of 8 years. During that time, Carine made thousands of people's dreams come true by planning and organising unforgettable road trips and special experiences. Her expertise also includes working with top international advertising agencies, such as TBWA, Hopscotch Groupe, and Magic Garden Agency, as well as in Management Consulting with EY and KPMG.

WanderBuddies brings together social & dating apps with travel & experience platforms to provide a seamless experience for users. WanderBuddies is the first friends-matching & dating platform that enables people to match with like-minded individuals and book a wide variety of experiences, tours, activities, accommodation and transportation options across 16 countries — all through one unique, global platform.

WanderBuddies provides a seamless experience, a safe environment and the best deals to customers. Match with like-minded travellers, new local friends or your other half, browse and select the experience, tours or activities of your choice on WanderBuddies platform, and meet them in real life around fun activities, or explore the world together!

Over 6,000 tours, activities, accommodation, transportation options and experiences are already available across 16 countries on WanderBuddies platform. Local "A La Carte Experiences" include stargazing tours and dinners, cooking classes, paint & sip events, drawing & live music sessions, pottery classes, social tennis, salsa/bachata classes, wine tasting events, surf camps, bowling, lawn bowls, canyoning & abseiling trips, skydiving, and more.

Christophe Hoppe (NSW) is the founder of Bausele, an Australian watch brand that merges versatile, stylish design with Swiss-made quality. From the beach to the boardroom, Bausele watches are designed to suit any occasion.

In 2011, Christophe established Bausele in Sydney, driven by his passion for Australia and a desire to create a watch brand that reflects the nation's spirit. The name Bausele—short for "Beyond Australian Elements"—captures the essence of Australia's unique landscapes and wildlife.

By 2015, Bausele became the first Australian brand to showcase at Baselworld, and in 2016, the brand collaborated with the Sydney Opera House for a special edition watch. Bausele's success has since expanded globally, reaching markets in France, the US, Japan, and selling online in over 40 countries.

A major milestone came in 2020 when Bausele was selected to create the official watch for the Royal Australian Air Force's 100th anniversary. Christophe's expertise in Swiss technology and innovative design have been instrumental in Bausele’s success, offering high-quality, affordable timepieces that resonate with customers worldwide.

Clement Demarais (Accor, SA) is a passionate entrepreneur deeply committed to promoting French-Australian relations through culinary innovation. As an ESSEC MBA hospitality leader with two decades of experience in diverse managerial, entrepreneurial, and intrapreneurial roles, Clement has gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the industry.

With a background in business development, he has held positions as General Manager and Business Leader, and more recently, he led the launch of a new business in Adelaide CBD — PARC Brasserie & Bar. He strives to bring a fresh perspective to the culinary world, emphasising the fusion of French and Australian flavours.

Delphine Aggoune-Soustre, founder of My French School in NSW, embarked on this venture following a successful career spanning the music, arts, international education, and media industries. Situated on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, she realised her vision of a school tailored to young fluent French speakers and French enthusiasts. The school offers a distinctive curriculum that incorporates music, arts, drama, and philosophy, creating a space where anyone can immerse themselves in French language, culture, and history. My French School provides a creative environment enriched by high-quality programs, classes, workshops, and events centred around music and the arts.

For the past six years, Delphine has built a team of dedicated native French teachers and artists from the music, arts, and drama industries. She has created and organised French classes, cultural events, concerts, artist encounters, guided art museum tours in French, and creative French holiday camps. My French School has welcomed hundreds of families, musicians from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, opera singers from Opera Australia, painters, children’s book illustrators, and French actors.

At present, Delphine dedicates her time to developing the school across multiple locations in NSW and forming partnerships in New Caledonia, Tahiti, Mauritius, India, France, and Dubai. She holds a Master's Degree in Music Management, a BA in Arts from the University of the Sorbonne, and multiple music diplomas from the Conservatorium of Music in Paris.

Additionally, she composes musical shows and songs for children in French and conducts guided tours in music and arts institutions.

Dominique Gill (NSW) is a construction entrepreneur and the Managing Director of Urban Core, a fast-growing construction company she founded in 2016 (formerly known as Urban Fitouts & Construction). With nearly 20 years of experience in the industry, Dominique is a licensed builder across five Australian states and a registered architect in New South Wales.

Passionate about innovation and excellence, Dominique is constantly seeking inspiring ideas and better methods to deliver projects and serve the public effectively. Her commitment to diversity and sustainability drives her to advocate for increased female representation in the construction sector, where she aims to blaze a trail for women and secure the industry's future.

Dominique believes that construction plays a vital role in achieving Net Zero goals. Under her leadership, Urban Core is pioneering environmental best practices and fostering genuine accountability in sustainability efforts. Through her work, she not only transforms the landscape but also champions a more inclusive and environmentally responsible construction industry.

Dominique's dedication to diversity, inclusion, and entrepreneurship positions her as a role model and leader, inspiring the next generation of professionals in the construction field.

Ninth-generation winemaker Dominique Portet (VIC) chose the cool climate of Coldstream in the Yarra Valley as the home for his eponymous winery, established in 2000. This move marked both the culmination of a determined search for grape growing terroir to rival his native Bordeaux and the beginning of a new chapter in a winemaking legacy that dates back to France in the early 1700s.

Dominique's journey in winemaking began at one of the world’s most esteemed wine properties, Château Lafite-Rothschild, where his father, André Portet, served as régisseur. He honed his skills at Montpellier University of Oenology and later served as a wine-buying adviser during his compulsory military service. His extensive experience spans vintages in the Médoc, Rhône Valley, and Provence, as well as time with Champagne giant Moët et Chandon and at his brother Bernard’s Clos du Val estate in Napa Valley.

Dominique's connection to the Yarra Valley is profound. He describes it as possessing "a charm, a beauty that engulfs you," and appreciates its fragrance and structure, reminiscent of Bordeaux. Since 1976, he has been a pioneer in the renaissance of Australia’s cool-climate wine industry, founding notable sparkling wine houses such as Taltarni in the Pyrenees and Clover Hill in Tasmania.

At the Dominique Portet winery, Dominique blends tradition with innovation, crafting wines that reflect the region's unique terroir while honouring his rich heritage. His commitment to quality and sustainability has earned him recognition as a leader in the industry, inspiring a new generation of winemakers.

Through his entrepreneurial spirit, Dominique Portet continues to shape the narrative of Australian winemaking, creating exceptional wines that resonate with both local and international audiences. His dedication to excellence and passion for the craft make him a distinguished figure in culinary and gastronomic circles.

Doris Dunon (NSW) is the driving force behind Smart Mango, an innovative export agency specialising in the construction and technical industries. With a commitment to helping businesses expand their reach, Smart Mango aims to open new markets for products and services while creating meaningful benefits for target demographics through effective overseas marketing, investment, and trade strategies.

Doris leads a team of senior multilingual experts who craft tailored strategies to meet the unique needs of each business. By leveraging both export grants and an extensive ecosystem of private and public institutions, Mart Mango ensures that clients are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of international markets.

Under Doris’s leadership, Smart Mango has established itself as a key player in facilitating global trade and enhancing the competitiveness of its clients. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to fostering international business relationships make her a prominent figure in the field of export development.

Florence Riviere (VIC) is a leading planning and environment lawyer at the multinational law firm Pinsent Masons, based in Melbourne. With nearly 20 years of experience, she advises both public and private sector clients on major infrastructure projects, including transport and social infrastructure, industrial facilities, and renewable energy initiatives. Florence is passionate about the energy transition and the evolving regulatory landscape that supports it. She has provided counsel on battery, solar, hydrogen, and onshore wind projects across Australia.

Dedicated to the efficient, strategic, and streamlined planning and delivery of her clients’ projects, Florence advises on every stage of the project lifecycle, from approvals strategy to delivery. She assists clients in securing planning and regulatory approvals at both the state and Commonwealth levels, including referrals under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) and environmental assessments under the Environment Effects Act 1978.

Florence has worked on the State of Victoria’s Big Build portfolio, contributing to projects such as the Metro Tunnel, Melbourne Airport Rail, Suburban Rail Loop, Level Crossing Removal Program, Westgate Tunnel, and North East Link.

Geraldine Collins (NSW) is the founder of La French Academy, a French language learning program, and Bleu Blanc Book Children's Library based in Killarney Heights, Sydney.

For the past seven years, Geraldine has proudly applied her expertise to help bilingual Francophone and Anglophone families discover and reinforce the French language in their homes. La French Academy's programs have been adopted by many Early Learning Centres and schools around the Northern Beaches, either as before- and after-school activities or as part of their curriculum. She is also now running full-week holiday camps that offer total French immersion for primary-aged children in Sydney!

In addition to this, Geraldine has been volunteering at the Bleu Blanc Book Library in Killarney Heights since 2019. The library was created to address the challenges of recycling books and the costs of buying and sending French books for parents of young readers. Since its opening, more than 100 members have registered, giving new life to these books. While it requires a significant personal and physical commitment, it is incredibly rewarding to see children in Sydney enjoying stories featuring T'Choupi, Martine, Boulet, and novels for young teenagers!

Ilan Sebban (NSW), as the founding director of Rec-Partners, is committed to fostering strong ties within the French-Australian business community. Through Rec-Partners, Ilan has dedicated himself to supporting French nationals in Australia by guiding them through the intricacies of the local job market and ensuring their successful integration into Australian professional life.

With a deep understanding of both French and Australian recruitment landscapes, Ilan has successfully bridged the gap between these two markets, creating opportunities for French candidates who often struggle to navigate the unique challenges of Australian employment. His work goes beyond simple job placements—he offers personalised career coaching, strategic advice, and long-term support to help French professionals not only secure employment but also thrive in their careers.

Ilan’s efforts have been instrumental in building a strong network within the French-Australian community, facilitating connections between candidates and employers, and contributing to the professional development of many French nationals. He has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, innovation, and the betterment of the community. Under his leadership, Rec-Partners has become a trusted partner for French businesses expanding into Australia and for French professionals seeking to advance their careers.

Ilan Sebban’s entrepreneurial spirit, combined with his dedication to helping others, makes him an outstanding candidate for this award. His work has not only benefited individual candidates but has also strengthened the broader French-Australian business community.

Ivan Larcher (Long Paddock & The Cheese School, VIC) is known throughout the cheese world as the ‘cheese doctor’ or ‘cheese whisperer.’ He is both a master cheesemaker and a globally renowned cheese expert, providing technical cheesemaking advice and teaching commercial cheesemakers around the world since 2006, including in Australia, France, the UK, the USA, Spain, Portugal, Canada, Slovenia, Sweden, Norway, Israel, Austria, Croatia, and Brazil.

Ivan’s services are in high demand, and he is widely regarded as the best in his field of expertise: artisan dairy. He has had a significant impact on farmhouse and artisan cheesemaking worldwide, especially in Australia, while also running his own farmhouse cheesemaking operation in central France with his wife, Julie.

In recent years, Ivan has focused on Australia, initially providing technical support to the Australian Specialist Cheesemakers’ Association before moving with his family to Australia to establish and run an exciting new cheesemaking venture, The Cheese School, along with its commercial cheesemaking arm, Long Paddock Cheese, in central Victoria.

The purpose of this venture is to introduce Australian consumers to a range of fine cheeses and fresh dairy products, many of which are unique to those otherwise available here, and to teach others how to make such high-quality dairy products. The vision is to support and galvanise Australia’s small but growing artisan dairy industry to become as established and successful as Australia’s high-quality boutique wine, coffee, olive oil, and craft beer industries.

Since commencing four years ago, cheeses made under the Long Paddock Cheese label have been widely acclaimed as some of Australia’s best, including recognition from the renowned delicious. magazine Producer Awards and the International Cheese & Dairy Awards in the UK. Students have flocked to The Cheese School to take advantage of both professional and enthusiast cheesemaking courses and consulting services.

Ivan has also successfully trained a talented team of French and Australian artisans passionate about cheese to make, care for, and sell these products, as well as gradually take on more of the teaching and consulting work done through The Cheese School. A sign of success in achieving his vision for Australia’s artisan dairy industry is that the first Australian cheesemaker Ivan trained at Long Paddock Cheese has recently left to establish his own farmhouse cheese making venture.

Karim Lopez (Invenio, VIC), a highly respected French-Australian technology consultant, has made significant contributions to both the design and manufacturing sectors in Australia. Since joining Invenio in 2019, Karim has worked closely with Dassault Systèmes to enhance building design capabilities, providing invaluable support to over 1,000 Australian businesses, including notable entities such as Planet Innovation, CoolDrive V8 Racing, Quadlock, and NGOs like Free 3D Hands (which designs and creates hands and assistive devices for children and adults worldwide for free). These businesses span a range of industries, including transportation, automotive, energy, medical devices, and machinery.

Karim’s exceptional skills and dedication have earned him the prestigious title of Top Consultant in APAC South (covering Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand) from Dassault Systèmes for four consecutive years, from 2020 to 2023. This award is given annually to the top performers in the region. He has also played a key role in organising multiple events throughout the year centred around 3D CAD technology and innovation, each drawing over 600 attendees, further promoting innovation in partnership with Dassault Systèmes. Since 2021, he has also participated in the Melbourne GP and the Vailo Supercars Adelaide racing event, sponsoring the Blanchard Racing Team in the Supercars season with Invenio. These events have provided a great opportunity to discuss the application of 3D CAD technology and simulation in the racing industry.

Beyond his professional achievements, Karim is deeply committed to enriching the French-Australian community. Since 2014, he has been an active member of the Melbourne French Theatre, performing annually in the works of esteemed playwrights such as Molière, Feydeau, and Marivaux. Karim was awarded the Colin Duckworth Encouragement Award in 2023 for his performance in “Flagrant Délire.” His most recent performance in 2024 was in La Surprise de l’Amour, a classic French play by Marivaux, which attracted over 700 spectators during a two-week run at the Maison Théâtre in Carlton, Victoria.

Karim Lopez’s steadfast dedication to advancing both French technology and cultural heritage exemplifies his profound commitment to enhancing the French-Australian community and fostering meaningful cultural and economic exchange.

Lucas and Alyce Blanck are the dynamic couple behind Kerri Greens (VIC), an innovative winery located in the heart of Mornington Peninsula. With a commitment to crafting exceptional single-site wines from their self-managed vineyards in Balnarring and Red Hill, they blend tradition with modern techniques to produce truly unique offerings.

Winemaking is in Lucas's blood; he hails from Alsace, where his family's legacy continues at Domaine Paul Blanck. This rich heritage informs their philosophy, which beautifully merges Alsatian purity with Australian ingenuity. Their wine range features traditional Mornington Peninsula staples, such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, alongside Alsatian favourites like Gewurztraminer and Riesling.

At Kerri Greens, the expression of site is paramount. Lucas and Alyce aim to showcase the exceptional quality of their fruit, sourced from vineyards that range from approximately 20 years old to a heritage site planted in 1981, which produces the distinguished Hickson Chardonnay.

Their winemaking approach embraces minimal intervention, utilising wild yeasts and neutral oak, while keeping sulphur usage to a bare minimum. This philosophy ensures that each bottle reflects the unique characteristics of the land, embodying both the couple’s pioneering spirit and deep respect for their craft.

As the General Manager of Four Frogs Crêperie (NSW), Marianne Poirey has been instrumental in transforming the business into one of Sydney’s most beloved culinary destinations and the go-to spot for authentic French crêpes.

Originally from Franche-Comté/Alsace, Marianne spent much of her career in Brittany, where she developed a deep appreciation for crêpe making. Her impressive background in hospitality includes 25 years of experience with renowned companies such as Alain Ducasse Entreprise in Paris and the Accor Group in Brittany. She was even part of the opening team of Le Jules Verne, the prestigious restaurant on the Eiffel Tower! This extensive and varied experience has been key to her success at Four Frogs Crêperie.

Since moving to Australia and becoming a citizen, Marianne has focused on showcasing French culinary traditions to the Australian market. Under her leadership, all four crêperies successfully navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Marianne’s ability to adapt, implement creative solutions, and sustain the business during such uncertain times speaks volumes about her resilience and business acumen.

In addition to her business achievements, Marianne has worked tirelessly to strengthen the connection between France and Australia. She has built partnerships with French businesses and cultural organisations, such as the French-Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FACCI), Sydney Accueil, and Alliance Française Sydney, demonstrating her commitment to fostering strong ties between the two countries. Looking ahead, Marianne is spearheading the upcoming "Brittany Month" at Four Frogs, which will highlight Breton culture to Sydneysiders.

Marianne’s dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to lead through challenging times make her an outstanding choice for the French-Australian Award for Entrepreneurship. Her passion for French gastronomy, combined with her commitment to bridging French and Australian cultures, has not only enriched the culinary scene in Sydney but also created lasting connections between the two countries.

Mickael Roger (NSW) is the co-founder and co-CEO of PropHero, a data-driven digital platform revolutionising property investment by helping users find, buy, and manage the best investment properties. Under his leadership, PropHero leverages advanced data analytics to empower investors with informed decision-making.

Before launching PropHero, Mickael served as an Associate Partner at McKinsey & Company, where he led the Data & Artificial Intelligence practice. He worked with clients across the Telco, Media, Tech, Private Equity, and Financial Services industries. In 2017, he pioneered an AI-powered commodity price forecasting capability at McKinsey, assisting major commodity producers and traders in predicting prices and developing advanced trading strategies.

Mickael's professional journey began as an M&A investment banker at UBS in London in 2011, followed by a role as a Senior Consultant at Roland Berger Strategy Consultants in Paris and North Africa. There, he specialised in strategic and restructuring topics while expanding M&A and financial advisory services.

Mickael holds a Master’s Degree in Engineering from Telecom ParisTech and an MSc in International Finance from HEC Paris. His extensive experience in data-driven solutions and strategic consulting uniquely positions him to drive innovation in the property investment sector, making a lasting impact on how individuals approach real estate investment.

Founded in July 2021, PropHero is Australia’s leading PropTech platform, revolutionising property investment through cutting-edge Big Data and AI technologies. Leveraging our proprietary data model, portfolio management app and vetted local experts, we help investors find, buy and manage high-return, low-risk investment properties through a simplified process and data-driven approach.

Rachel Tribout (QLD) is a French-born illustrator and graphic designer who brings her distinctive creative vision to every project. Educated in visual communication and illustration in France, Rachel later made Australia her home, first in Tasmania and now in Brisbane. Her work spans multiple genres, including picture books, children's novels, public art installations, branding, and commercial design, collaborating with businesses, non-profits, and design studios.

Rachel’s passion for storytelling through illustration has led to the creation of two acclaimed illustrated books, The Monsters of Tasmania (2014) and The Journey of Admiral Bolognese (2016), which explore the mythical creatures of Tasmania’s landscapes. She is currently working on the third instalment in this series. Her artistic journey has taken her across the globe, where she performed as a visual artist in the award-winning children's theatre show You and Me and the Space Between in China, Japan, and the USA.

In addition to her work as an illustrator, Rachel mentors emerging artists through the Adobe mentorship program and has served as a State councillor for the Australian Graphic Design Association. She has also co-directed design festivals, contributing to the growth and visibility of the graphic design community in Australia.

Rachel’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in the way she blends traditional and digital mediums, offering a multi-skilled approach to her projects. Whether it's picture books, brand collateral, or cultural installations, she brings her French flair and unique style to everything she touches. She collaborates with businesses that share her passion for creativity and heart, bringing their visions to life through her artistic expertise.

Rachel’s work has been widely recognised within the publishing industry, winning several prestigious awards, including the 2022 Whitley Commendation Award for Children's Investigative Zoology for Poo, Spew, Gross Things Animals Do, and the 2020 ACT Big Press Notable Children’s Award for Hold on! Saving the Spotted Handfish, which also garnered multiple shortlist nominations in 2021.

A true cultural ambassador, Rachel was invited to attend the 2022 edition of the Salon International du Livre Océanien, highlighting her contributions to both Australian and French creative industries.

Solveig Coulon (Le Marché-Sydney's French market, NSW) is a dynamic entrepreneur and cultural ambassador dedicated to promoting French culture in Australia. In 2020, she founded "Le Marché," an authentic French market located in Willoughby, North Sydney. Since its inception, the market has flourished, now operating four Sundays each month across four different venues in Sydney, including The Entertainment Quarter, which attracts an average of 6,000 visitors per market day, as well as Hunters Hill, Manly, and Willoughby.

Le Marché is not just a marketplace; it’s a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates French gastronomy and craftsmanship. Solveig has created a warm and welcoming environment where both the French community and Australians with a passion for French culture can come together. Through her efforts, she has fostered a cultural bridge between France and Australia, enabling a diverse audience to experience the authenticity and quality of French products.

Beyond the logistics of running a market, Solveig supports a network of 40 small businesses and artisans, providing them with a platform to showcase their goods and gain recognition in the local community. Her dedication to professionalism and her love for French culture have made her an exemplary figure within the community, enriching both the cultural and economic landscape of the region.

In March 2024, Solveig was honoured with the Woman of the Year Award for Willoughby, presented by the Australian government in recognition of her passion and the positive impact of Le Marché on the local community. This accolade highlights her significant contributions to the cultural fabric of the area.

Mr. James, a local leader, praised her, stating, “Solveig is a success story of leadership, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit. Her continuous efforts towards the advancement of our community have helped shape our society into an even better place.”

Le Marché has also garnered international attention, featuring in a report by REEL MEDIAS that reached over a million viewers worldwide. Through her initiatives, Solveig has become a prominent ambassador for France in Australia, celebrating and sharing the richness of French culture with a broader audience. Her unwavering commitment to fostering cultural exchange makes her an invaluable asset to the community.

Stephane Mott (Label Baguette, NSW) is a passionate French baker and entrepreneur, dedicated to bringing the authentic taste of French bread to Australia through his specialty bakery, Label Baguette, located on Anzac Parade in Maroubra. With a commitment to traditional baking methods, Stéphane aims to introduce Australians to the joy of French baguettes and pastries.

Having previously worked as a commercial baker in large-scale production environments, Stéphane has shifted his focus to craft a more personal and authentic baking experience. His extensive background includes overseeing production for supermarket chains, but he felt unfulfilled in corporate settings. A memorable incident at Goodman Fielder, where he was reprimanded over a minor production issue, solidified his desire to pursue his passion on his own terms.

At Label Baguette, Stéphane keeps his menu intentionally simple, offering just a handful of items, including baguettes, croissants, and waffles. This minimalist approach reflects his philosophy of quality over quantity, ensuring that each product is crafted with care. He uses only French wheat and yeast, which lend his bread a unique texture and flavour. Stéphane’s baguettes are baked throughout the day, ensuring customers can enjoy them fresh and aromatic at any time.

While his loyal French clientele appreciates the authenticity of his offerings, Stéphane is equally excited by the growing number of Australian patrons who have discovered his bakery. His mission is to educate and entice local customers to experience French bread as it is meant to be enjoyed. The positive feedback from Australian customers reassures him that he is on the right path.

One of Stéphane’s standout products is his Liege waffles, made from a brioche dough injected with chunks of raw sugar, reflecting his northern French heritage. He is also experimenting with a new sourdough starter he discovered in a rural French oven, aiming to bring a piece of tradition from his homeland to Australia.

With plans to expand his offerings while maintaining the essence of a traditional French boulangerie, Stéphane Mott is not only a baker but a cultural ambassador, sharing the rich traditions of French gastronomy with the Australian community. His unwavering dedication to quality and authenticity makes Label Baguette a cherished gem in Maroubra.

Sylvie Clarke (Smart Home Vision, SA) is a dedicated entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable building practices in South Australia. Born in Orléans, France, she immigrated to Australia in 1983 and has since established a significant presence in the eco-friendly construction sector. Sylvie lived in the Barossa Valley for 15 years before relocating to the Adelaide Hills, where she continues to promote environmentally responsible living.

Fluent in French, Spanish, and English, Sylvie brings a global perspective to her work. She is a qualified accountant, having obtained her qualifications in 2002. Her career began in the private sector, working for a commercial and residential landscape company in Largs North, where she honed her financial skills.

Sylvie's professional journey progressed as she took on the role of Executive Officer for the Wine Industry Suppliers Australia Inc., representing suppliers at both national and international levels. Subsequently, she served as Finance Manager with Regional Development Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island, where she combined her financial expertise with her passion for community development.

With over 20 years of experience in marketing services and finance, Sylvie has developed a strong background in management, sales, and marketing across various industries, particularly in the wine sector. She is a member of the Real Estate Institute of South Australia (Member No. 1169) and a registered Land Sales Representative (Agency: RLA 249409).

In 2024, Sylvie sponsored two events aimed at promoting "Green Houses," showcasing her commitment to eco-friendly construction and sustainable living. She is passionate about creating energy-efficient residential spaces that not only enhance the quality of life but also respect the environment.

Sylvie is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and building long-term relationships with her clients. Her vision for sustainable residential living is not just a professional goal; it is a reflection of her values and commitment to fostering a greener future for South Australia.

Victor Persinette is the owner of K-sein Fromagerie (VIC), a French-inspired cheese shop proudly located in South Melbourne Market. Founded in February 2022, we specialise in offering a carefully curated range of cheeses sourced from both Australia and Europe, with a particular focus on French varieties. Our dedication to quality and authenticity ensures that each product meets the highest standards, whether locally sourced or imported directly from France.

At K-sein, we maintain close relationships with our cheesemakers, allowing us to provide in-depth knowledge and ensure that every cheese we stock reflects the best of French and Australian traditions. Our curated selection of European cheeses, many of which are directly imported, harmonises beautifully with Australia's vibrant cheese scene, showcasing the best of both worlds.

Our name, "K-sein," pays homage to the milk protein casein and serves as a playful nod to our French roots, blending tradition with a personal touch from our founder, Victor.

As a French-Australian business, we proudly celebrate the unique synergy between these two cultures. Whether you're a connoisseur or just beginning your cheese journey, K-sein Fromagerie invites you to explore our offerings and experience the passion behind every cheese we present.

Vincent Blanchett (WSP, QLD) is a French chartered geotechnical engineer and team leader with a robust background in geomechanics. With valuable experience gained in France, England, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand, he has spent the past eight years based in Australia. This diverse experience has enriched his ability to provide critical insights into transport infrastructure, mining, and both residential and commercial property sectors.

Currently, Vincent serves as a Technical Executive at WSP in Brisbane, where he plays a pivotal role in the Ormeau Rail Facility Project. Additionally, he is the Chair of the Queensland chapter of the Australian Geomechanics Society.

Throughout his career, Vincent has consistently engaged in challenging and innovative projects, developing a comprehensive skill set that includes field testing and advanced analytical techniques. His expertise, combined with extensive construction experience, positions him to lead geotechnical design effectively. He excels in collaborating with stakeholders and contractors to deliver optimised solutions that consider the inherent risks of geotechnical work.

Brewery specialises in bringing customers together for memorable food and beverage experiences. The venture has since expanded to include the award-winning Frenchies Bakery & Pâtisserie.

Working closely with local Australian producers, farmers, fishermen, and providores, Executive Chef and Co-Founder Thomas Cauquil, along with his esteemed team of French-trained chefs, develops modern, produce-driven dishes. Their approach highlights the freshest seasonal ingredients and shapes dishes around what they discover while foraging and at the fish markets each morning.

Meanwhile, Frenchies' beers, spritzes, and more are brewed across two sites at The Cannery in Sydney. These beverages are specially designed to complement the cuisine, with Brewery Director and Co-Founder Vincent De Soyres developing award-winning drinks that push the boundaries of traditional categories and styles.

The drinks are unpasteurized and free from additives, allowing them to evolve over time and continuously surprise customers' senses and emotions.

From the food to the drinks, everything is made in-house. Thomas creates bespoke menus tailored to dietary requirements and special occasions, while Vincent crafts paired beverages to suit every taste.