The Southport School was privileged to welcome Dr Brendan Nelson AO as the keynote speaker at the TSS Foundation Business Breakfast, held on Friday, 8 August 2025, at the JW Marriott Gold Coast. A full house of business leaders, alumni, parents, and supporters gathered to hear from one of Australia’s most respected public figures.
Dr Nelson’s address was both powerful and deeply personal, drawing on decades of service across medicine, politics, diplomacy, and national remembrance. Formerly the Director of the Australian War Memorial, and a former Federal Minister for Defence and Education, Dr Nelson brought a unique perspective on leadership in times of challenge.
Beyond his impressive resume, what made Dr Nelson’s address especially powerful was its alignment with the mission of The Southport School Foundation: to cultivate leadership, opportunity, and legacy for future generations of boys.
Dr Nelson spoke about the role of education in shaping character and citizenship, offering pointed insights on how schools like TSS play a vital part in nurturing the next generation of national leaders.
His words served not only as inspiration but as a call to action, urging guests to reflect on the kind of future we want to build, and the young people who will lead us there.
The event was not only a celebration of Dr Nelson’s contributions to Australian public life, but a testament to the strength of the TSS community. Hosted by the TSS Foundation, the Business Breakfast series is a key initiative designed to engage the broader business and alumni network in supporting the school's vision for excellence and access.
Guests left uplifted and reflective, many commenting on Dr Nelson’s authenticity, humility, and clarity of purpose.
His dedication to Australia’s veterans, his advocacy for education, and his unflinching commitment to honouring history have made him a leading voice in national life.
The TSS Foundation extends its sincere thanks to Dr Nelson for his generous time and invaluable message. His words will leave a lasting impression on all who attended and will continue to shape the Foundation’s commitment to building strong leaders for the future.
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With thanks to our generous 2025 Business Series Sponsors
