A Day to Remember: EO Melbourne’s Family Day at Luna Park

EO Melbourne’s Family Day at Luna Park was a celebration of connection, joy, and adventure—a day where families came together to create memories that will linger long after the rides came to a stop. Members of EO Melbourne brought their spouses, children, and even friends of their kids for an unforgettable experience in one of Melbourne’s most iconic locations. From the moment the gates opened for exclusive access to the final hours of fun, it was a day brimming with laughter, thrills, and heartwarming moments.

The morning began with private access to the park from 9 AM to 11 AM, giving EO Melbourne families the rare opportunity to enjoy free rides without the usual crowds. The air buzzed with excitement as families explored the park’s timeless attractions. For the little ones, the whimsical charm of Moon Balloons and the enchanting spins of the Carousel brought squeals of delight. Older kids and thrill-seekers tested their courage on adrenaline-pumping rides like the Supernova, where flips and spins left everyone breathless, and the Coney Drop, which had even the bravest riders gripping the safety bars. Families bonded over classic favourites like the Dodgems, where bumping and spinning sparked endless laughter, and the Ghost Train, where spooky surprises brought out giggles and gasps alike.

When the park opened to the public at 11 AM, EO Melbourne attendees weren’t ready to say goodbye just yet. They enjoyed an extra hour of complimentary rides, extending the magic of the morning. Whether it was soaring high on the Sky Rider, spinning through twists and turns on the Pharaoh’s Curse, or taking a nostalgic ride on the Great Scenic Railway, there was no shortage of thrills and smiles. Even the youngest adventurers found their own slice of fun, floating gently on the Arabian Merry or marvelling at the colourful sights around them.

Beyond the rides, the day was also a feast for the senses. Families gathered at the Luna Café & Floss Hut , indulging in sweet treats and refreshing drinks. The aroma of freshly spun fairy floss wafted through the air, while coffee and snacks provided the perfect fuel for another round of fun. It was in these small, shared moments—savoring a sugary treat or relaxing with a cup of coffee—that the true essence of family bonding shone through.

What made EO Melbourne’s Family Day truly special wasn’t just the rides or the food—it was the sense of togetherness. Parents watched proudly as their children laughed and screamed with delight, teens challenged each other to conquer the park’s most daring attractions, and adults joined in the fun, proving that adventure knows no age limit. The event brought together not just immediate families but also friends of kids, creating a vibrant community united by joy and shared experiences.

As the event drew to a close, families left with tired feet, full hearts, and countless stories to tell. EO Melbourne’s Family Day at Luna Park was more than just an outing—it was a celebration of family, friendship, and the simple joys of spending time together.

The Excitement Soars High at the iFLY EO Melbourne Family Event

It was a fun Sunday for EO Melbourne families as participants had a thrilling experience at the iFLY Family Event held on 3 April 2022 at the iFLY Melbourne attraction. 

Recognising the importance of entrepreneurs spending quality time with their families and loved ones, EO Melbourne has always been putting together family events for its members and their families to enjoy.

Adults and children alike had the opportunity to soar high in this indoor skydiving facility without having to jump out of an airplane. The facility is the first 14-ft diameter iFLY wind tunnel to be built in Melbourne. 

Participants first had hands-on training with a professional coach as they were briefed on the safety procedures of the activity. They were also provided with flight gear to prepare them for their indoor flight. The good thing about this activity is that no previous experience was necessary and anyone over the age of 3 years old could participate.

Members have nothing but commendation for such a fun and one-of-a-kind experience. “It’s a great unique experience to share with the family,” Damian Blumenkranc said. 

EO Melbourne is part of the global network of Entrepreneurs’ Organization, a unique, experience-based network that supports the needs of the 360° entrepreneur through business, family, community & personal experiences. Our chapter offers world-class learning events, skills-specific workshops and a venue to exchange business stories that help our members learn and grow.

Realising true entrepreneurial freedom

by Jamie Lingham 

As an entrepreneur, I want the benefits of not only being my own boss but also having the ability to do what I want, with who I want, where I want and when I want. After 20 years of running my immigration business, dealing with staffing issues, long nights, long weekends and time away from my family, COVID was the one to push me to take on the ultimate travel, work, and family adventure around Australia.

“My business works better when I get out of the way. As much I would like to think that I am the centre of my business universe, the reality is that after 20 years, the business is just fine without me.”

The year 2020 was particularly bruising for the immigration advice industry. Instead of laying off staff, as our competitors did, we circled the wagons and took on the message from our EO Melbourne WhatsApp group to double down on marketing and use the resources around us to get through this together. As a result, we not only survived but also grew the team during this period. Personally, it was taxing and stressful, yet it was also exciting as it reignited my entrepreneurial fire and reconfirmed my ability to manage a crisis.

Fast-forward to January 2021, my wife, Penne, and I decided to purchase a camping trailer, take the kids out of school, rent our house out on Airbnb and drive around Australia, while still working on the business. Four months later, our Instagram handle ‘@leadingremotely’ was born and we were on the road!

Nine weeks in and I have already learned some great lessons:

Why didn’t we do this sooner? – Our business allows us to work anywhere with internet access, and our clients don’t care if we are in Melbourne or Mexico. As a family with young kids at this age (10, 7 and 5), we feel the timing is perfect. Home school can be a battle, but we figure that they are learning more every day than they will at school.

Systems, processes and preparation – We have spent the past few years (over)-engineering the systems and processes in the business. We have also employed the right people in the right seats and invested heavily in their success (two of my team are in EO’s KEP and we are trying to get something similar for another team member in New Zealand). These team members get the same buzz that I do after the forum and it’s amazing to see their growth.

My business works better when I get out of the way – As much I would like to think that I am the centre of my business universe, the reality is that after 20 years, the business is just fine without me. This has challenged my purpose and relevance, yet the best news is that it allows me to unshackle myself of everything but the top-level strategic decisions.

It’s my eat-love-pray moment – No matter how spontaneous the trip felt, it is apparent that there is a deeper meaning to this journey. Rather than a holiday, it is a lifestyle, outside of leading remotely. It’s about letting go, as well as it’s about connection - connection with myself, with Penne and, most importantly, with my kids, before they seek connection away from our guidance and are lost to us forever.

We have already travelled more than 14,000kms over this vast land, changed three tyres, busted the water tank on our camper, and I have also torn all of the ligaments in my ankle after falling off the roof of my car. Despite this, we are still only 40% in of our planned journey, and not only am I excited for the next six months but I am also eager to meet the family that will soon to Melbourne and the impact that this amazing life experience has had on us as individuals, as a couple and as a family unit.

For more updates on working remotely and our outback journey please follow us on Instagram @leadingremotely.

*Jamie Lingham is a member of EO Melbourne and the Global Immigration Leader of Absolute Immigration.

“How to Build Successful Families” Workshop with Warren Rustand

EO Melbourne members and their families had a fun engagement at the How to Build Successful Families Workshop with Warren Rustand. Out of the 80 participants, 33 were family guests or children of EO members. This workshop coincides with the chapter’s focus this year on family and in bringing those most important on the same journey.

The workshop revolved around the principles and values of how to create high performance, successful families. It included specific activities and techniques that could be used within a family to make it happier and more productive.