Firestarters Forum: Building Bonds Beyond Borders

The Firestarters forum has always embraced adventure, but for their third annual retreat, they decided it was time to step outside of South East Queensland and into new territory. With Zoran Solano leading the planning, Sydney was chosen as the destination, a city that offered the perfect balance of OIL’s (once in a lifetime) and unique EO connections.

Rising to the Challenge

The retreat kicked off with a surprise: climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Only an hour before the climb, members were handed health waivers, and excitement (and nerves) quickly set in. For most, it was a first-time experience, a physical and psychological challenge that united the group. Standing together at the top of the bridge was more than just a bucket-list moment; it was a powerful metaphor for overcoming obstacles side by side.

Opening Windows into Each Other’s Lives

That evening, members were invited to bring 2–3 photos from their past and share the stories behind them. It was a simple activity, but a deeply meaningful one. Each picture became a small window into life outside the forum, showing what each person holds dear and strengthening bonds of trust and empathy.

EO Magic in Action

Day two took the group deep into EO territory, with behind-the-scenes visits to local members’ businesses and even a home-based HR workshop over lunch. What stood out wasn’t just the content but the generosity: industry leaders opening up about their ups and downs, sharing “warts and all” lessons that you’d only ever hear in EO. The visits sparked friendships and connections that will extend well beyond the retreat, a reminder of how powerful it is to leverage the EO network.

Memorable Moments

From piling into a too-small people mover (true forum bonding!) to sharing new experiences like eating escargot at a French restaurant, the retreat was filled with laughter and discovery. The final day capped it all off with a boat tour of Sydney Harbour, hosted by EO member Chris Gray, complete with a swim and sweeping views of the city.

Strengthening the Forum Dynamic

With one brand new member, two still relatively fresh faces, and the forum itself only three years old, the retreat came at the perfect time. It gave everyone space to break down walls, feel more comfortable, and discover each other’s true nature. The experience left Firestarters with renewed energy, stronger trust, and a sense of unity that will carry into the year ahead.

Lessons in Leadership

As planner, Zoran shared that the biggest lesson was flexibility: “As much as you plan, things change. We missed a goal-setting activity because the value of the EO members presenting was so high. Sometimes you have to read the energy and adjust, that’s where the best learnings happen.” His other takeaway: always include those once-in-a-lifetime moments that members will never forget.

Advice for Other Forums

Zoran’s advice is simple: “Leverage the EO network. Engage with local chapter admins and jump on local WhatsApp chats. You’ll be surprised by the amount of support available, often at little or no cost. Members are usually thrilled to share their time and expertise. This can enrich the ‘learning and grow’ part of the retreat and free up resources for OIL’s and other adventures.”