SESSIONS

Leveraging AI for business success

AI is disrupting industries worldwide, and fire protection is no exception. But where is it all heading? In this dynamic panel discussion, industry experts, AI specialists, and fire safety leaders will tackle the big questions: How is AI reshaping compliance, risk management, and fire system design? What emerging technologies will define the next five years? And how can we ensure AI enhances—not replaces—human expertise?

As host, I’ll guide a thought-provoking conversation that cuts through the hype and gets to the heart of what AI means for fire professionals today—and in the future. Whether you’re an AI skeptic or an enthusiastic adopter, this session will provide practical insights, expert opinions, and real-world applications that will help you prepare for the next wave of technological evolution. Join us as we challenge assumptions, spark new ideas, and shape the future of AI in fire protection.

Brett de Hoedt

Fire Australia MC

Brett de Hoedt regularly takes the stage as an emcee or keynote speaker at conferences and events across Australia.

He helms awards, launches, business breakfasts, public events and exhibitions across dozens of industries. He brings wit, savvy and energy to every gig, big or small.

Using the skills gained on live radio Brett introduces, entertains, chairs panel discussions and delivers keynotes. He breaks ice, grills guests and keeps the show on the road.

Russell Porteous

Chief Executive Officer, Firewize

Russ is the CEO of Firewize, an innovative fire safety design, installation and maintenance consultancy located in Melbourne, Australia. With almost 30 years of broad industry experience, Russ is sought after for his technical abilities on subjects including safety, fire detection, emergency lighting, emergency warning and the built environment.

John Lynch

General Manager Business Services, Wormald

John has been working in the fire Industry for 26 years, with the last 23 years working at Wormald.

In his current role at Wormald his areas of responsibility cover, Australian Standards representation, TAC representation by Wormald team members, CEO of the Wormald Registered Training Organisation, Fleet, Marketing, Distribution Services and Procurement.

He is currently the Chair of TAC 1 which covers the maintenance area of fire protection systems and equipment (AS1851) and is the current FPA Australia representative on the Standards Australia FP 001 Committee. He has also been a member of TAC 3/7 (extinguishers, fire blankets, and fire hose reels) for the last 15 years.

He has previously been a co-opted Director of the Fire Protection Association of Australia, and also was a member of the Federal Department of Communications and the Arts – Fire alarm and lift phone migration committee (migration to the NBN), and also the Fire alarm migration (migration to the NBN) working group.

John also holds qualifications in Marketing, and Business Administration.

John Collie

Chief Executive Officer, FPA Australia

John Collie is the Chief Executive Officer of Fire Protection Association Australia (FPA Australia), leading the organisation in its mission to enhance fire protection standards, industry professionalism, and community safety across the country.

With a career spanning more than two decades, John has held executive roles in multinational organisations, driving strategic growth, industry advocacy, and operational excellence. Before joining FPA Australia, he was Group General Manager – Fire at Airmaster, where he strengthened the company’s position as a leader in fire protection and HVAC maintenance. Prior to that, he spent 15 years in senior roles at CSR, developing deep expertise in construction, building materials, civil infrastructure, contracting, and industrial services.

John has been actively involved in industry associations and non-profit organisations, including the Australian Glass and Glazing Association, the Australian Window Association, and the Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance. His leadership has fostered collaboration across sectors, driving industry standards and innovation.

He holds a Master of Science from Northeastern University in Boston and a Master of Commerce from Swinburne University in Melbourne. He has also been a guest lecturer at Swinburne, mentoring future change managers and innovators.

A strategic and results-driven leader, John takes a holistic approach to innovation, efficiency, and advocacy. Under his leadership, FPA Australia continues to strengthen its role as the national peak body for fire protection, ensuring the industry remains professional, accredited, and well-equipped to meet evolving challenges. His focus on collaboration and stakeholder engagement keeps the organisation at the forefront of shaping the future of fire protection in Australia.

Glenn Talbot

Managing Director, Verified

Glenn Talbot is the founder and Managing Director of Verified, Australia’s leading SaaS solution for managing risk and safety, building compliance, work permit, visitor management, and delivery verification. He has been General Manager of some of Australia’s leading service providers, has managed manufacturing facilities in Australia and New Zealand, and been responsible for national and international product distribution. He holds an Associate Diploma in Applied Science and remains as an Independent Chair for Australian Standards, Chairing committee FP-001, the committee responsible for the development of AS 1851 “Routine Service of fire protection systems and equipment”. He has been a volunteer Board member and President of a successful not-for-profit industry association.