Pitch2Grow 2025: Showcasing innovation and entrepreneurship in Moree
Just after sunset on Friday night, Moree’s Social Co House became the backdrop for Pitch2Grow 2025. The event gave the stage to 6 locals who shared their unique ideas with a supportive audience of over 40 from the community.
Presented by the UNE SMART Region Incubator (UNE SRI) and led locally by Regional Connector, Sheree Cayirylys, the event was the culmination of weeks of work and preparation, and a showcase of the diverse entrepreneurial talent living in Moree.
A showcase of regional innovation
The audience learned about ideas already being tested, refined, and built, each reflecting the ambition and resourcefulness regional founders are known for. There were no vanity pitches here. Each founder brought forward a concept already being tested or built, grounded in real need.
The Moree Pitch2Grow 2025 cohort:
Doreen Davis, Vintage Elegance Pre-Loved Formal Wear, is reshaping the experience of school formals by making stylish outfits more accessible for local students.
Chloe Magick, Magick Events, designs wellness-focused community experiences that offer more than just entertainment.
Mark Simpson of Upstairs Solutions - Smoke Plus, a cleverly engineered solution for one of agricultural aviation’s most frustrating inefficiencies.
Jacson Warner, The Social Soundtrack, rethinks how music can shape public spaces with an innovative business model.
Jessica Driscoll, Drops and Props Event Hire, demonstrates an unmatched eye for detail, lifting the standard for local events and milestone moments.
Jaxon Budiada, a Year 12 student, runs a polished and promising landscaping venture, proving that age is no barrier to innovation.
A program with purpose
What unfolded on stage was just the tip of the iceberg. In the lead-up to the event, each participant took part in a cohort induction and pitch workshop led by UNE SRI’s expert-in-residence, Edwina Sharrock.
This wasn’t about memorising a script. It was about understanding the “why” behind their business, communicating it clearly, and responding with confidence under pressure. The result? Founders who were prepared and polished, ready to step into the spotlight and tell their story.
On the night
Brendan Moylan, Member for Northern Tablelands, officially opened the evening, speaking to the growing momentum of regional innovation and the power of community in bringing ideas to life. He also recognised Tyler Macey, founder of Social Co House, for creating a space that reflects Moree’s energy and diversity.
The judging panel featured Jack Rickers of Hiringa Energy, a leader in green hydrogen, who also presented the $500 Judges’ Prize, a gesture that signalled genuine support for early-stage innovation in regional communities.
Two awards were presented on the night:
People’s Choice Award ($200, sponsored by UNE SRI)
Judges’ Prize ($500, sponsored by Hiringa Energy)
Feedback from the community
The response was overwhelmingly positive:
“A professional, inspiring program.”
“Such a strong showing of young regional talent.”
“I left with new ideas and new contacts… worth every minute.”
One founder summed it up simply:
“To Sheree Cayirylys and Edwina Sharrock: thank you for the push, the guidance, and for believing in my idea. Five stars.”
More than a pitch night
Funded by the NSW Government’s Boosting Business Innovation Program, Pitch2Grow has evolved into more than just an event on the calendar. It’s become a platform where new ideas are nurtured, confidence is built, and regional voices are heard.
And judging by this year’s energy, that platform is only getting stronger.