Celebrating leadership and growth at DNAC25

The 2025 Developing Northern Australia Conference (DNAC25), scheduled for July 22–24 in Cairns, promises to be a landmark event, highlighting the evolution of leadership and the power of opportunity in the North. At the forefront is The Cairns Institute's Professor Allan Dale, who returns as Chair of DNAC25 for the 11th and final time. His leadership has been instrumental in steering the conference since its inception in Townsville in 2015; fostering a platform for collaboration across government, industry, and communities.

“DNAC is more than a conference—it’s a catalyst for real change. It brings together the people, ideas, and partnerships needed to drive sustainable development and unlock the full potential of Northern Australia.” — Professor Allan Dale, Chair, DNAC25

A testament to the conference's impact is the journey of Dennis Fay, who attended a previous DNAC as a TNQ Drought Hub-sponsored delegate. He now returns as a keynote speaker. In 2023 he was a sponsored delegate for the Darwin Conference, in 2024 he was a sponsored session speaker, and in 2025, he will take the main stage with other keynotes including Isabelle Bond, Analyst, Climate and Security Policy Centre, ASPI, The Hon. Dale Last, Queensland Minister for Northern Australia, Dr Dan Smith, Group CEO, NORSTA Maritime and Professor Barney Glover, AO, Commissioner, Jobs and Skills Australia.

As one of several keynotes, Dennis will chronicle the evolution of Salty Monkeys, a First Nations-owned social enterprise. ‘Attending the DNA Conferences through the support of the TNQ Drought Hub has been a game changer for me. In Darwin, I was focused on networking and learning, but by Karratha I had progressed to presenting on stage, sharing the Salty Monkeys journey and impact. The response leading to national media exposure and an invitation to be a keynote speaker for DNA 2025 in Cairns. This progression has opened new doors for collaboration, exposure, and regional impact.’ Dennis Fay, founder Salty Monkeys.

It blends Indigenous culture, marine conservation, and ethical apparel—producing dive gear featuring artwork by Indigenous artists. The organisation leads environmental clean-ups in the Torres Strait, develops recycled products like EcofinZ fins, and runs youth programs focused on leadership and ocean stewardship.

The conference continues to draw a diverse audience of policymakers, Traditional Owners, entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry leaders from across the country and the wider Indo-Pacific region. DNAC25 will delve into critical themes such as Indigenous-led development, sovereign capability, sustainable infrastructure, and economic diversification. DNAC25 reaffirms its role as the flagship event shaping Northern Australia’s future by building on the foundations of past gatherings and fostering discussions that lead to actionable outcomes.

Join us in Cairns to be part of these transformative conversations and witness firsthand the stories of growth and leadership that DNAC25 celebrates. https://northaust.org.au/

May 2025