Meet the young leaders shaping the future of Queensland from healthcare to robotics
These 40 Under 40 finalists are forging a new future for Queensland across a diverse range of industries. From bridging the digital divide in schools to streamlining the healthcare experience, these trailblazers are leaving their mark on the state.
Nic Blair, Midnight Health
A self-proclaimed “serialprenteur”, Nic Blair made a permanent mark on the future of Queensland and beyond when he launched Midnight Health in 2021. The Brisbane-born company seeks to provide access to a complete healthcare ecosystem, through a patient-centred approach. After receiving $40 million in capital from nib in 2021, the healthcare provider delivered $26.8 million in revenue for FY24. In just three years, Midnight Health has helped more than 180,000 customers and shipped more than 250,000 medications to 2164 postcodes. Designed with the digital age in mind, the healthcare provider operates solely online, offering a wide range of services from telehealth consultations to delivery prescriptions.
If you could master one skill, what would it be?
“Precision driving to the level of a Formula 1 or rally driver.”
Rebecca Petroff, Sunstate Conveyancing
As the founder and director of Sunstate Conveyancing, Rebecca Petroff has made a lasting positive impact on the community and legal industry through her client-focused approach. With extensive knowledge under her belt from her career in real estate, Rebecca embarked on transforming Sunstate Conveyancing from the ground up. Today, the business has gained a reputation for reliability, winning the Global Recognition Awards 2023 and the Australia Small Business Awards 2024. As a leader, she has remained dedicated to supporting working mothers and promoting gender equality in the legal industry through flexible working hours and remote work options. Sunstate Conveyancing continues to grow under Rebecca’s leadership, expanding its services and reaching new milestones.
What’s your favourite hidden gem or lesser-known attraction in Queensland?
“My favourite hidden gem in Queensland is the Glass House Mountains. These ancient volcanic peaks offer stunning views, excellent hiking trails, and a serene escape into nature, providing a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity.”
Tobias Fischer, QUT
Dr Tobias Fischer has emerged as one of the world’s leading researchers in creating safe, intelligent interactions between humans and robots. Through his role as the Chief Investigator within the QUT Centre for Robotics, Tobias has led world-class research in a diverse range of studies – with the centre being ranked as the leading robotics group in Australia for five years in a row by The Australian Research Magazine (2019-2023). He has been prolific in research publications, with multiple best thesis and best paper awards. As a senior lecturer at QUT, Tobias has supervised four PhDs and even seen a significant year-on-year uplift in the student’s overall satisfaction as he forges a new future for scientific research in Queensland.
If you could meet any living person, who would it be?
“The Barefoot Investor by Scott Pape“
Samantha Pickering, Queensland Computers
As the COO of Queensland Computers, Samantha Pickering has played a key role in transforming the family-operated retail IZT service into a burgeoning enterprise. With a focus on small businesses and government entities, Queensland Computers has made substantial contributions to Queensland’s educational landscape. In 2023, Samantha oversaw the distribution of more than 10,000 devices across more than 1200 public schools in Queensland to assist the Department of Education in bridging the digital divide and equipping financially disadvantaged students. Community has remained at the forefront of Samantha’s leadership as Queensland Computers continues to help schools access the technology they need to flourish – as well as providing complimentary professional development for teachers so it can be used to its full potential.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
“Sky diving at Hervey Bay”
Peter Dodeja, SAI Security Group
In 2007, 19-year-old Peter Dodeja arrived in Australia with just $1200 in his pocket. He made the bold decision to start his own security business from scratch. Today, SAI Security Group has become one of the world’s top security companies, with projects across the globe, a second office in Dubai and a top line revenue of $50 million in the past 12 months. Peter’s entrepreneurial spirit continues to lead the business to new heights of success – always prioritising customer relations and experiences. Following the recent acquisition of Blue Star Security companies, Peter is committed to maintaining SAI Security Group’s position as one of the largest privately owned security patrol providers in Queensland.
To see the full list of this year’s 40 Under 40 winners, head here.
To find out more about what’s on in Brisbane, head to our Event Guide.