To mark the end of an incredible first season of The Land Pioneers Podcast, we’ve created an exclusive compilation and conclusion video—a powerful reflection on the key insights, expert perspectives, and standout moments from all 10 episodes.

Throughout the season, we’ve explored the complexities of land development, the innovation shaping sustainable communities, and the bold leadership required to drive meaningful change. Now, host Stan brings it all together, highlighting the overarching themes and invaluable lessons shared by our remarkable guests.

Join us for this final look back at an inspiring season one, where the stories and insights of our guests inspire industry professionals to think bigger, act bolder, and champion sustainable, community-driven development—leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Key Insights from the Podcast

In this final episode, we bring together the standout themes, inspiring stories, and valuable lessons from our 10-episode journey. We discussed how Max Shifman of Intrapac shared his bold vision for land development, illustrated by projects like Kinley Development, where Intrapac reimagined an abandoned quarry into a thriving, connected community. His perspective underscores the importance of seeing potential where others see challenges.

From humble beginnings to leading master-planned communities, our second guest, Nicki Hay of Core Projects, exemplifies a successful female leader. We also heard from Khurram Saeed of Resi Ventures, whose journey embodies resilience and determination in the competitive world of land development. Luke Noonan of Noonan Watts shed light on how public-private collaboration and mentorship can streamline development processes and improve outcomes.

Our fifth guest, Damon Nagel of Kite Projects, is a South Australian property developer who shared his innovative vision for urban planning driven by a legacy-building mindset. Jeffrey Bretag of The McCloy Group is the company’s planning director who brought a regional development perspective, demonstrating the importance of proactive leadership in tackling industry challenges.

We also welcomed Pat Gerace of Greenhill, a well-respected leader in South Australia’s land development space. He reflected on his work in high-profile infrastructure projects, including Adelaide’s cycling network and the redevelopment of the iconic Adelaide Oval.

Our eighth guest, Ann Baker of Two Crowns Marketing, a mum, d

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Next on The Land Pioneers Podcast, we’re excited to host John Stimson, one of the most experienced town planners in South Australia and a member of the State Planning Commission. With over three decades of diverse experience in urban planning and project management, John has shaped the landscape of South Australia and beyond.

John established Stimson Consulting in 2001 and has since led impactful projects, including the design and approval of award-winning large-scale residential subdivisions such as Seaford Meadows and Seaford Heights.

Join us as John shares his expertise on the strategic vision for the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP). With the region projected to grow considerably over the next 30 years, John discussed critical planning issues such as sustainable housing, economic growth, and the environmental framework essential to supporting a dynamic and thriving Adelaide.

Key Insights from the Podcast

In this episode, John Stimson talks about the complexities of urban planning, shedding light on the mechanisms driving the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP). A significant theme in the conversation revolves around the challenges of making accurate population projections and the importance of ongoing monitoring. John explains how projections, while generally precise in demographic trends, must remain adaptable to accommodate unexpected events, such as the societal shifts witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. These shifts have altered living preferences, reduced public transport use, and reshaped urban space requirements.

John also highlights the advanced digital systems now embedded in South Australia’s planning framework. These technologies enhance data integration, allowing planners to swiftly adjust and recalibrate strategies as new information becomes available. He emphasises that the adaptability of the GARP is crucial for its success, with mechanisms in place for periodic reviews and updates, ensuring it evolves with changing demographics and economic conditions.

Another critical aspect discussed is South Australia’s geographical and environmental constraints. The state’s vast landmass presents unique challenges, especially concerning water resource management. John mentions major infrastructure projects, like the Northern Water Project, as pivotal to sustaining future growth. Furthermore, the GARP carefully balances urban expansion with the preservation of prime agricultural land and significant environmental assets. Key growth areas, such as Roseworthy, Two Wells, and Murray Bridge, are identified to support population increases while maintaining environmental and food production standards.

John’s detailed exploration provides a comprehensive understanding of how the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan is designed to foster a sustainable and resilient urban landscape, preparing South Australia for the next decades of growth.

Click here to learn more about John and Stimson Consulting

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/

Next on The Land Pioneers Podcast, we’re honoured to host Craig Holden, Chair of South Australia’s State Planning Commission. The State Planning Commission is an independent body providing advice and leadership on all aspects of planning and development in South Australia. The Commission is also the state’s principal development assessment and planning advisory body.

Join us as Craig shares his insights into the future of the Greater Adelaide region. With Adelaide’s population expected to increase to over 670,000 by 2050, Craig discusses how the GARP will address critical issues like housing supply, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

As Chair of the South Australian State Planning Commission, Craig is steering the development of the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP), a comprehensive strategy aimed at shaping the region’s future growth over the next 30 years. Under Craig’s leadership, the State Planning Commission published the GARP document to create sustainable urban expansion, housing affordability, and infrastructure development, all while safeguarding the environment and enhancing community well-being. The vision of the paper will ensure that Greater Adelaide can accommodate its projected population increase of over 670,000 people by 2050 while preserving its liveability, natural assets, and cultural heritage.

Key Insights from the Podcast

In this podcast, Craig Holden, Chair of the South Australian State Planning Commission, discusses major reforms in South Australia, focusing on introducing the Planning, Development, and Infrastructure (PDI) Act in 2016. This reform was crucial in streamlining local council planning regulations into a unified state-wide system, thereby enhancing transparency and efficiency in urban development. The central piece of this transformation is the Planning and Design Code, a digital system that simplifies planning processes, improves community engagement and offers developers greater certainty.

One of the major highlights of the episode is the discussion on the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP), which provides a 30-year vision to accommodate population growth while balancing sustainability. The plan identifies key growth areas like the northern suburbs, Murray Bridge, and Victor Harbour, ensuring expansion while safeguarding agricultural lands and green spaces. In line with this, the plan emphasises medium-density housing and promotes biodiversity, aligning urban growth with the community’s well-being.

Another critical aspect Craig addresses is infrastructure coordination. The Housing Infrastructure Planning Unit is pivotal in aligning infrastructure developments like water and transport services with new land releases. This approach prevents supply bottlenecks, ensuring essential services are available as housing and industrial developments expand. Craig’s leadership ensures that the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan fosters sustainable and balanced growth, preparing South Australia for future challenges.

Click here to learn more about Craig and the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/