It all begins with an idea.

Core Event Group emerged from the vision of Brent “Boomer” Harvey, a former professional athlete, with a burning passion to inspire individuals through the power of sports.

Retiring from professional sports, Boomer embarked on a new chapter in his life, dedicating himself to empowering individuals from all walks of life through the art of motivational speaking. Drawing upon his own experiences, he crafted a unique approach that seamlessly blended the principles of sportsmanship with universal life lessons, leaving audiences inspired, motivated, and ready to tackle any challenge that came their way.

Unlike any other sportsman events you may have attended, Core Event Group is quickly gaining recognition for its powerful messages and dynamic presentations, aimed to inspire individuals in their own life, no matter what sport, industry, or goals you want to achieve.

As Core Event Group continues to grow and expand its reach, one thing remains constant – its unwavering commitment to inspiring greatness in others. Guided by Boomer’s vision, we aim to bring you the individuals who have dominated in their fields, reminding us all that with determination, courage, and a winning mindset, anything is possible.

Meet The Team

  • Founder/General Manager

    John Halkidis is a seasoned entrepreneur and events specialist with over two decades of experience in the industry. 

    As the founder of several successful ventures and owner of prominent hospitality venues, John has a proven track record of innovation and leadership in event planning and management. 

    He has worked and managed some of the world’s biggest entertainers, hosting large-scale events and intimate gatherings alike. 

    Passionate about creating memorable experiences, John continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of event professionals.

  • Founder/Director

    Brent "Boomer" Harvey, is a retired Australian rules footballer who spent his entire career with the North Melbourne Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). In 2016, he set a new record for the most matches played in VFL/AFL history, with a total of 432 games.

    Drafted by North Melbourne in the third round of the 1995 AFL Draft, Harvey was a member of the club’s 1999 premiership team. That year, he earned the E. J. Whitten Medal as the standout player for Victoria in the State of Origin series.

    In 2022, Harvey was inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame on his first year of eligibility.

    Notable achievements include:

    • North Melbourne Captain: 2009–2011

    • AFL Premiership: 1999

    • 4x All-Australian team selections: 2000, 2005, 2007, 2008

    • 5x Syd Barker Medal winner: 2003, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010

    • Herald Sun Player of the Year: 2008

    • 2x Lou Richards Medal winner: 2007, 2008

    • North Melbourne Team of the Century

    • E. J. Whitten Medal: 1999

    • Jim Stynes Medal: 2003

    • Captain of Australia: 2008

    • AFL Hall of Fame: 2022

    • Most senior AFL games played: 432

    • NAB Cup (North Melbourne): 1998

    • AFL Reserves Premiership (North Melbourne): 1996

      After retiring from professional sports, Boomer began a new phase in his life, focusing on empowering people from diverse backgrounds through motivational speaking. Leveraging his personal experiences, he developed a distinctive method that combined the principles of sportsmanship with universal life lessons, inspiring and motivating audiences to face challenges with renewed confidence and determination.