In the heart of Adelaide’s bustling CBD, the iconic RAA Place—housed in the beautifully reimagined former Westpac Building—played host to an inspiring November afternoon. Business leaders, innovators, and advocates for sustainable practices gathered for Adelaide Economic Development Agency’s (AEDA) latest Data4Lunch session, titled Sustainable Futures - Good for Business. Organised by AEDA, this event was more than just a networking opportunity; it was a call to action for businesses to embrace sustainability not only as a responsibility but as a competitive edge.

The event venue itself was a testament to AEDA’s commitment to progress and innovation. RAA Place boasts a modern, eco-conscious design, making it the perfect backdrop for discussions about sustainability and reuse. 

Attendees, initially numbering around 120 - we feel it might’ve been a bit shorter than that, arrived to the gentle hum of conversation. The crowd was a mix of corporate professionals, small business owners, sustainability consultants, and city officials, each eager to learn how ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices could elevate their work.

The atmosphere was equal parts professional and welcoming, with many guests exchanging introductions over light refreshments (opa-Subway-style) before the program began. These moments were golden—a chance to capture the quiet anticipation and connection-building that set the tone for the event.

The program began with a warm welcome from AEDA representatives, who highlighted the organisation’s ongoing mission to drive Adelaide’s economic growth through initiatives that balance innovation with responsibility. The theme, Sustainable Futures - Good for Business, was introduced as a roadmap for businesses looking to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

David Bills, the City of Adelaide’s Low Carbon and Circular Economy Manager, was the first speaker to take the stage. His presentation was equal parts data-driven and inspirational, offering practical insights into how businesses could reduce environmental costs while driving growth. Bills walked attendees through a range of council grants and incentives available for adopting sustainable practices, demonstrating that the path to sustainability can also be a path to profitability.

The second speaker, Ben Parkinson, Managing Director and Head of Capital Markets SA at JLL, delivered a powerful case for relocating to ESG-compliant office spaces. He outlined how such moves not only align with global trends but also enhance a company’s ability to attract investment and top talent. His talk resonated strongly with the audience, sparking a lively Q&A session that extended into the networking break.

Attendees continued their discussions. Topics ranged from the challenges of implementing ESG policies to sharing success stories of sustainability in action. The energy was palpable, with business cards exchanged and collaborations sparked.

The room was alive with moments worth capturing—from candid shots of engaged conversations to wide-angle views of the corpo-venue and its vibrant attendees. Each photograph told a story of collaboration, innovation, and hope for a greener future. Many photos captured groups of attendees laughing together during lunch, their camaraderie embodying the spirit of the day - coupled with punters overlooking the city-scape. These images will undoubtedly serve as a lasting testament to the impact of the event.

As the event drew to a close, it was clear that Data4Lunch was more than just an educational seminar. It was a reflection of Adelaide’s commitment to being at the forefront of sustainable business practices. Events like these highlight the city’s potential as a hub for innovation and environmental leadership, encouraging businesses to not just adapt to change but to drive it.

The takeaways were clear: sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity, and Adelaide is ready to lead the way. Attendees left with not only new knowledge and connections but also a renewed sense of purpose in aligning their businesses with global sustainability goals.

Were you inspired by the energy and purpose of this event? At Frankie The Creative, we specialise in capturing moments like these—moments that tell your story and elevate your brand. Whether it’s a corporate event or a private gathering, let us help you preserve your most meaningful occasions with stunning photography.

Get in touch today to learn how we can bring your next event to life through the lens of Frankie The Creative.