Next up on The Land Pioneers Podcast is Pat Gerace, a well-known personality in the land development industry in South Australia. After graduating from Flinders University with a degree in economics, Pat went on to Charles Darwin University to earn an associate’s degree in law.

Starting his career in banking, Pat transitioned into government working as a Ministerial Adviser and contributing to major infrastructure projects like the North-South Corridor and the Adelaide Oval. He also championed significant long-term strategic initiatives, including the development of Adelaide’s cycling and walking Greenways.

Join us as we look into Pat’s remarkable career, his most important projects, and the ideas behind his creative approach to urban development. Don’t miss this thought-provoking interview featuring a real industry leader.


In 2015, Pat took on the role of CEO at the Urban Development Institute of Australia (SA), advocating for planning and development policies on behalf of large-scale land developers. Now, as CEO of GREENHILL and GDstudia, a leading civil engineering company and Landscape Architecture and Urban Design studio, Pat leverages his extensive experience to drive impactful projects across South Australia and beyond.

His enthusiasm for industry engagement, advocacy, and building high-performance teams drives his leadership of the GREENHILL team today. He is essential in helping customers navigate legislative and public policy frameworks so that large-scale infrastructure projects can be completed effectively.

Pat inspires the upcoming generation of engineering professionals as he leads GREENHILL to new heights and has an impact that goes beyond the projects he manages.


Key Insights from the Podcast

In this episode, Pat Gerace shares his distinguished career journey in land development, offering profound insights into his transition from investment banking to urban planning. Starting with an economics degree, Pat’s early career at Bankers Trust was marked by adaptability and leadership as he navigated various corporate restructures, including transitions through Deutsche Bank and JP Morgan. His shift to government service as an adviser to Patrick Conlon, the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, highlighted his commitment to impactful projects. Here, Pat was instrumental in driving community-focused developments, including critical infrastructure like the Elder Smith Road at Mawson Lakes, demonstrating his dedication to enhancing local connectivity and community well-being.

Pat’s role as CEO of the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) is a testament to his expertise and leadership in urban planning. During the podcast, he discusses his strategic vision for the UDIA, emphasising sustainable growth and effective collaboration between the private sector and government. He credits mentorship from industry leaders like Patrick Conlon and various UDIA presidents for shaping his strategic approach to land development. Pat’s focus on innovative urban solutions and community-driven projects has positioned him as a leading voice in the field, advocating for policies that balance economic development with community needs.

Pat also reflects on his involvement in high-profile projects such as the development of Adelaide’s cycling infrastructure and the iconic Adelaide Oval redevelopment. He highlights the importance of collaboration with government agencies to achieve transformative urban development. As CEO of GREENHILL & GDstudia, Pat continues t

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Our upcoming guest in the next episode is Jeffrey Bretag, an urban planner passionate about making a difference through collaborative decision-making. Jeffrey believes that strategic planning holds the potential to influence and improve the built and natural environment around us.

Jeffrey Bretag has spent over 15 years working across state government, local government, and private enterprise, consistently pushing the boundaries of urban planning. His extensive qualifications, including degrees in environmental science, urban planning, and bushfire planning from the Universities of Newcastle, University of New South Wales, and Western Sydney, underpin his expertise and commitment. As a Registered Planner with the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) and an Accredited Bushfire Consultant with the Fire Protection Association (FPA), Jeffrey’s dedication to creating resilient and thriving communities is evident in every project he undertakes.

As the Planning Director at the McCloy Group, Jeffrey procures approvals for residential communities, employment precincts, and urban release areas. Jeffrey’s leadership extends to his role as the Hunter Committee Chair of the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA), where he heads a team focused on integrated transport planning and meeting the Hunter Region’s ambitious Housing Accord Targets.

Key Insights from the Podcast

Jeffrey discusses his experiences in planning several master planned communities throughout NSW. Emphasising liveability and environmental preservation, the plan integrates efficient public transport to reduce car reliance, promoting greener cities. Jeffrey stresses proactive engagement with policymakers to navigate regulatory changes effectively.

Masterplan projects like The Loxford , Kurri Kurri, and Monarch’s Rise at Kings Hill showcase Jeffrey’s consultative approach to the development of master planned communities. These projects foster vibrant communities through comprehensive planning and stakeholder involvement, showcasing effective urban design principles.

Another critical aspect discussed is the industry’s response to legislative reviews. He points out that staying ahead of regulatory changes and adapting to new policies is essential for the success of urban development projects. He emphasises the importance of proactive engagement with stakeholders and policymakers to ensure that the industry’s needs and challenges are well-planned and addressed effectively.

His advanced bushfire planning is central to Jeffrey’s vision. He advocates for improved housing outcomes through collaborative stakeholder engagement, addressing diverse community needs. Reflecting on industry evolution, he highlights growing environmental focus and inclusivity, shaping a dynamic future for urban development.

Jeff’s extensive experience and leadership in urban planning and his proactive approach to industry challenges provide a comprehensive perspective on the evolving landscape of regional development. His insights underscore the importance of strategic planning and collaboration in shaping the future of our communities.

Click here to learn more about Jeffrey and McCloy Group

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Next in line for the podcast episode is Damon Nagel, a South Australian property development industry scion who is passionate about generational impact with his innovative approach to urban planning.

Damon has consistently pushed the boundaries of sustainable development, transforming landscapes into vibrant, eco-friendly communities. His dedication to creating spaces that benefit both people and the planet makes him a true visionary in the field.

See how he has used over 20 years of experience to change landscapes with impressive land developments and a focus on sustainable projects. His commitment to innovative design and eco-friendly solutions sets a new standard in the industry. Join us as we delve into Damon’s journey, explore sustainable projects, and discover the principles that drive his success.

Damon Nagel is the founder and managing director of Kite Property, where he has created exceptional projects in top Australian locations. Previously known as Starfish Developments, over the last 15 years, Damon has overseen the transformation of numerous properties, blending innovative design with sustainable practices. His projects have not only elevated the standards of urban living but have also garnered recognition for their community-focused approach.

Beyond his professional success, Damon has a unique combination of passions. As a hands-on winemaker and principal of Brackenwood Vineyard, he’s just as happy immersing himself in adventurous big boy’s toys. He races cars, flies helicopters, and is a keen skydiver, among many other exhilarating activities.


Key Insights from the Podcast

Damon’s journey began in marketing and sales. He founded Starfish with Joseph Chow in 2006 and shifted to property development after the 2010 financial crisis.

One career highlight is turning a city dump into a vibrant park, showing his commitment to community and sustainability. His move from investor-driven developments to projects for owner-occupiers marks a shift towards building lasting communities.

He shares his experiences with high-profile projects like Adelaide’s tallest residential building and ambitious land developments. He discusses lessons from remote development in Perth, the importance of focusing on local markets and navigating regulations.

Damon emphasises the need for developers and government collaboration to streamline processes and improve project outcomes. His focus on thoughtful design, sustainability, and legacy in development offers a strong vision for the future of urban growth.

He also highlighted the value of affordable housing, which provides crucial opportunities for first-time home buyers and average families to achieve their dreams of homeownership. His insights offer a compelling vision for the future of property development, balancing growth, sustainability, and accessibility for all.

Click here to learn more about Damon and Kite Projects

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/