This month, 150 leaders from the spa, wellness, and wellness tourism sectors are expected to descend on Byron Bay for the 2024 Wellness Summit.

A dynamic hub for innovative thinking, groundbreaking research and invaluable networking opportunities, the second edition of the summit will bring together trailblazers in the business of wellness.

Taking place on October 20-21 at the luxurious Crystalbrook Byron resort, the summit will feature 25 speakers and panellists. Attendees can look forward to a wide-ranging agenda that includes discussions on topics such as bathing, biohacking, longevity, sustainability, AI advancements, wellness architecture, and corporate wellbeing.

The stellar lineup of speakers includes Australia’s foremost wellness expert, Dr Marc Cohen; Gold Medal Olympian, naturopath, nutritionist, and author Dr Lauren Burns; co-founder of New Zealand’s Aro Ha Wellness Retreat, Damian Chaparro; and gastronomic tourism specialist, Sam Gowing.

Attendees will also have access to 10 engaging sessions and activities that will highlight contrast therapy, bee beds, guided meditations, various treatments, red light therapy, and a state-of-the-art Wellness Check to assess both biological and cognitive age.

“I am thrilled to bring the Summit to Australasian wellness operators. It will delve into the emerging area of longevity, shed new light on wellness trends, stimulate growth, arm delegates with ideas and deliver a valuable and totally uplifting event,” says event curator and wellness industry pioneer Kris Abbey.

The event will culminate in the third annual Asia Pacific Spa & Wellness Awards, a gala honouring the industry’s best across six categories: Spa, Wellness, Travel, Beauty, People, and People’s Choice.

“We have received a record number of entries for this year’s awards. The entries are far-reaching, spanning Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, India and cruise companies that focus on wellness.”

The Global Wellness Institute forecasts that the wellness market is poised for continued growth, with consumer spending over the next five years projected to reach $USD8.5 trillion ($AUD12.61 trillion) by 20227—nearly double its size in 2020.

“Byron Bay is thrilled to welcome this event, offering a unique platform for collective inspiration and learning. It’s a privilege to showcase the region’s array of wellness activities, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of experiences we offer,” says Heath Batterham of Destination North Coast.

Set against a subtropical rainforest backdrop, the expansive Crystalbrook Byron is the ideal location for a celebration of nature, sustainable luxury, and wellness.

Summit tickets are AUD $1,200 per delegate or $1,500 for a combined ticket to the Spa and Wellness Awards gala.