The inaugural SynPosium 2025 has concluded, and what an extraordinary celebration it was. Marking 20 years of Synergie Skin’s commitment to Clean Science and evidence-based skincare, this two-day event brought together Australia’s leading aesthetic professionals, clinic owners, and industry innovators for an unforgettable experience of education, inspiration, and recognition.
Behind the Scenes at Synergie Skin HQ
Day one kicked off with an exclusive facility tour that gave attendees a rare glimpse into where the magic happens. Walking through Synergie Skin’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, laboratory, and headquarters in Springvale, guests witnessed firsthand the meticulous craftsmanship and scientific rigour that goes into every product. Seeing Clean Science come to life in the very place where innovation meets formulation set the perfect tone for what was to come.
The day concluded with the Synergie Welcome Reception at Hotel Chadstone, where networking flowed as freely as the drinks. The buzz of conversation filled the room as old friends reconnected and new partnerships began to form over nibbles and genuine industry camaraderie.
Terri Vinson Jones: Passion, Tenacity, and the Power of Staying True
On day two, founder and formulator Terri Vinson Jones took the stage, and her passion was palpable. It radiated through the room, electrifying every attendee with her unwavering commitment to evidence-based skincare. Terri made it crystal clear: she is totally against fads and all about setting standards in clean skincare based on solid evidence.
Her biggest lesson over the past 20 years? Stick to what you are good at. In an industry constantly chasing the next trend, Terri’s dedication to her core values has been her North Star. When asked about her greatest trait, she didn’t hesitate: tenacity. She never gives up. And she was refreshingly honest about the journey, emphasising that luck had nothing to do with the success of Synergie Skin. It was hard work, late nights, tears, and teamwork that built this legacy.
Her message resonated deeply with clinic owners and practitioners who know all too well that success in this industry requires grit, determination, and an unshakeable belief in your mission.
Suzie Hoitink: Building a Rockstar Band, Not a Rockstar Performer
Suzie Hoitink’s session was nothing short of incredible. Co-founder of DappleOS and Director of HTNK Advisory, Suzie brought strategic brilliance and real-world experience to the stage. Her central message was transformative: the aim of an owner or manager is not to have a rockstar performer, but rather a rockstar band.
She explained how having key dependency on one staff member leaves businesses vulnerable and creates a cascade of problems: poor productivity from other team members, low utilisation, fear-based remuneration, ineffective management, and ultimately, low staff retention. It’s a scenario many clinic owners have lived through, and Suzie’s words hit home.
The goal, she emphasised, is to facilitate a high-performing team that inspires everyone to aspire. By reducing key dependencies, businesses can increase productivity, boost utilisation, enhance profitability, improve retention, and create a saleable asset. That’s the ultimate win.
Suzie introduced the concept of value-aligned productivity, which rests on three pillars: purpose (your culture), professional development, and remuneration. She distilled her advice into the five Cs: culture, competence, communication, clarity, and consistency. These aren’t just buzzwords; they’re the foundation of sustainable business success.
She also covered the business drivers and the buckets all business owners need to invest time into, providing a roadmap for strategic growth that attendees could immediately apply to their own operations.
Vera Koslova-Fu: Mastering the Science of Light
Vera Koslova-Fu, President of the Australian Society of Dermal Clinicians, brought her 20 years of medical aesthetics expertise to the stage with a session that was as educational as it was engaging. She introduced attendees to a formula they won’t forget: WTF equals Fluence, Time, and Wavelength.
This clever acronym broke down the critical parameters of energy-based treatments, helping clinicians understand how to adapt and optimise their use of lasers and light therapies alongside cosmeceuticals. Vera’s focus on maximising patient outcomes and therapeutic efficacy gave attendees practical tools to elevate their treatment protocols and deliver even better results for their clients.
Tamara Reid and Jade Spehr: Accelerating Growth and Building Smarter Systems
Tamara Reid, founder of Inside Industry and a hair and beauty brand accelerator with 18 years of experience, shared her insights on brand visibility, strategic partnerships, and scaling businesses for long-term success. Her expertise in education and brand marketing provided attendees with actionable strategies to elevate their own clinic brands and expand their reach.
Jade Spehr, co-founder of JadeStart, brought her international consulting experience to the table, focusing on smarter systems, sales, and operations. With a background in law, accounting, and insolvency, Jade’s practical, results-driven style resonated with clinic owners looking to grow profitably and sustainably. Her advice on building robust systems that support growth without burnout was a highlight for many attendees.
The Gala Awards Night: Glitz, Glamour, and Unforgettable Celebration
As the sun set on day two, the energy shifted from education to celebration. The 20 Light Years of Synergie Gala and Awards Night was nothing short of spectacular. Attendees arrived in black tie attire, ready to honour excellence and celebrate two decades of Synergie Skin’s impact on the industry.
The cocktail reception set the tone with fine drinks and elegant canapés, while the awards ceremony recognised outstanding Synergie Partners across multiple categories, from Boutique Brilliance to Premier Clinic, Rising Star, Digital Innovator, Clinician Excellence, and the prestigious Legacy Partnership Award.
But the real magic happened when the DJ and live trumpet player took over. The combination of electronic beats and soulful brass created an atmosphere that was electric. The dance floor filled so fast it was almost impossible to keep up. Laughter, celebration, and pure joy filled the room as industry professionals let their hair down and danced the night away.
It was a night to remember, a fitting tribute to 20 years of innovation, hard work, and community. The glitz and glamour weren’t just about looking good; they were about celebrating the collective success of everyone in the room who has contributed to the growth and excellence of the Australian aesthetic industry.
A Milestone Event That Set the Standard
SynPosium 2025 wasn’t just an event; it was a milestone. It brought together education, inspiration, recognition, and celebration in a way that left every attendee feeling energised, equipped, and connected. From the behind-the-scenes tour of Synergie HQ to the expert-led sessions that challenged thinking and provided actionable strategies, to the unforgettable gala that celebrated excellence and community, every moment was thoughtfully designed to honour the past and inspire the future.
As attendees left Hotel Chadstone, they carried with them not just knowledge and connections, but a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for what’s ahead. Here’s to 20 years of Synergie Skin, and to many more years of Clean Science, innovation, and shared success.
The bar has been set. The future is bright. And the Australian aesthetic industry is stronger than ever.
