On The Couch With: Delvene Cockatoo-Collins

Join us On the Couch with: Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, local culture, arts and tourism business owner and advocate.

Delvene is a dynamic businessperson whose work spans across tourism, retail, design, and cultural advocacy. She runs a successful intergenerational family enterprise, weaving together multiple business streams underpinned by strong values and storytelling.

As a board member of Trade and Investment Queensland, she brings First Nations perspectives into global business discussions and champions Indigenous innovation on the international stage. Delvene has forged meaningful relationships with leading organisations, successfully positioning her brand in both retail and tourism markets while elevating the visibility of First Nations businesses worldwide. Her ambassadorial role promoting Queensland tourism in overseas markets further demonstrates her influence culturally and as a savvy entrepreneur, making her story one of innovation, resilience, and long-term vision.

Join Juliet Alabaster as she sits down with Delvene on the couch in the Brisbane Business Hub. Delvene will share her thoughts on:

• Remaining local whilst going on a global journey by diversifying skills and product offering using innovation mixed with generational learnings.
• How to navigate relationships and procurement whilst maintaining authenticity
• Her advocacy as a board member with Trade and Investment Queensland, showcasing Indigenous innovation and fostering global business connections for the state.
• Maintaining passion and creativity whilst running a business and sharing her story.

Join us for an evening of inspiration, learning, and networking, with food and beverages provided as well as a short Q&A with Delvene. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of Brisbane's premier business event series. Reserve your seat today!

About Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, First Nations Artist and Designer, Delvene Cockatoo-Collins Art

A renowned First Nations artist, Delvene Cockatoo-Collins is a Quandamooka woman who expresses the stories of her family’s lived experience on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) and responds artistically to historical images and texts.

Delvene was the designer of the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games 2018 prize-winners’ medals, commemorative medal and the large inflatable Migalu (white humpback whale) that featured in the Opening Ceremony.

It was the impact of seeing her design on a jersey worn by fans and players, on Caxton Street and on the field, that drew her back to create the Broncos’ Indigenous Jersey for a second consecutive year. When players proudly wear these jerseys, Delvene hopes it feels like an ‘Ancestor’s Armour’ which people of all cultures can relate to in their own way.

Travellers entering Brisbane Airport’s International Terminal and Brisbane’s International Cruise Terminal now first encounter artworks crafted by Delvene Cockatoo-Collins. These artworks are situated prominently at the entry points to both major gateway terminals, serving as a testament to the rich cultural legacy of Australia’s First Peoples.

In 2025 Delvene, a board member for Trade and Investment Queensland, represented Queensland's First Nations businesses at the World Expo 2025 Osaka, showcasing opportunities in art, eco-tourism, and sustainable trade. Delvene has also opened a retail space located at 61 Edward St and created collections for national fashion festivals, connecting tradition with contemporary design.

PRESENTER

About Juliet Alabaster, Chief Operating Officer, Brisbane Economic Development Agency

Juliet is a distinguished tourism and economic development leader. Beginning her career in events and hospitality, she joined Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) in 2008 and served in several senior business and event attraction roles before being appointed Chief Operating Officer three years ago.

Juliet oversees BEDA’s operations and administration, developing and implementing whole-of-business strategies and partnerships which have seen Brisbane attract record investment, visitation, and business growth in recent years. She instigated the Visitor Economy 2031: Vision for the Brisbane Region, implemented the city’s first International Incentives Strategy, and she led efforts to successfully secure several major events that now form part of Brisbane’s annual social calendar.

With a strategic mindset and a deep passion for innovation, Juliet has played a pivotal role in shaping the local economic landscape. Under her leadership, BEDA has become a promotional powerhouse for the city, running sophisticated business growth, investment attraction and major event campaigns to support Brisbane’s global development and connectivity. Juliet’s ability to forge strong partnerships across government, industry, and community sectors has been critical in advancing Brisbane's economic agenda.

Juliet is a Non-Executive Director of City Parklands Services, Non-Executive Director of the Queensland Tourism Industry Council and Deputy Chair of the Queensland Regional Tourism Network.

https://businesshub.brisbane.qld.au/
By registering for this event you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.

Host or Publisher Brisbane Business Hub