Seven Word Summary: The future calls for leaders embracing AI.

West Coast Connect has always been about bringing together business and sport, and nothing is making bigger waves across both fields than AI — a force reshaping industries, redefining performance, and transforming the way we work and lead.

As the event’s content partner, our team captured insights from leaders and keynote speakers, who explored how AI is changing not only technology, but strategy, leadership, and culture.

Here are the key learnings and perspectives from an insightful event that brought business and sport together.

AI as a strategic shift

Keynote speakers Brendon Riley (CEO, Telstra InfraCo) and Sandy Cameron (Quantium Telstra) made one thing clear: AI is already here, and it’s driving decisions, efficiency, and innovation.

But the real lesson wasn’t technical. It was strategic.

Organisations that succeed with AI will be those that:

Communicate a clear narrative about its role and purpose
Build trust by addressing risks and responsibilities
Invest in people, not just technology
Frame AI as transformation, not disruption

Lessons from leaders

Hosted by Robbie Figg, the event also showcased leaders from across industries. Drew Mayhills FAIM CF (AIM WA) and Adrian Drury (ctrl:cyber) reflected on their journeys, emphasising that AI is part of a wider pattern of change where leadership, communication, and culture are the differentiators.

Like in sport, success doesn’t come from individual talent alone — it comes from systems, preparation, and connection.

Cast your mind back to the 2018 AFL Premiership: the Eagles were without key personnel, including Nic Naitanui, Andrew Gaff, and Brad Sheppard. Yet the famous chain from defence to attack — culminating in Dom Sheed kicking the winning goal — was executed by a group of players who stepped up when the stars were unavailable. They were prepared, followed the system, and felt the connection.

The same lesson applies to business transformation: it’s not just about individual brilliance, but about teams aligned, processes clear, and people connected.

Creating influence through connection

West Coast Connect once again proved the power of convening — using their platform to connect business leaders, share ideas, and spark influence beyond the field.

The strongest organisations will treat AI not only as a technology to implement, but as a story to tell. One that inspires employees, reassures stakeholders, and signals leadership in a time of transition.

The future calls for leaders who embrace AI, while building belief in what it makes possible.

See below: Snapshots of content captured by our team