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If there’s one person who truly embodies what it means to be Powered by Connection, it’s this year’s keynote speaker, John Maclean OAM.

Recognised as one of Australia’s most admired endurance athletes and motivational speakers, John will set the tone for the 2026 AfMA Fleet Education & Leadership Summit with a story grounded in grit, perspective, and determination.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

John’s life changed in 1988 when a cycling accident left him paralysed. What followed was not just recovery, but reinvention.

He became the first wheelchair athlete to complete the Hawaii Ironman and the first to swim the English Channel. He has also represented Australia at the highest level across multiple sports, building a reputation for discipline, focus and consistency.

Today, he shares the lessons behind that journey — how to adapt when circumstances change, how to stay focused under pressure and how to keep moving forward when the path is uncertain.

Powered by Connection

At the heart of John’s story is connection.

Connection to purpose.
Connection to others.
Connection to the belief that progress is possible, even in the most challenging moments.

His message is simple but powerful — resilience is not built alone. It comes from showing up, doing the work and staying connected to the people around you.

Join Us at the 2026 Fleet Summit

The 2026 AfMA Fleet Education & Leadership Summit will bring together fleet professionals for two days of leadership, learning and industry insight.

John Maclean OAM’s keynote will be one of the program’s defining moments.

To register, visit: https://afmaconference.afma.org.au/

Keynote Sponsorship Opportunity

A limited opportunity is available to sponsor this keynote session and align your organisation with one of the Summit’s most impactful moments.

To express your interest, please contact the AfMA team at info@afma.org.au.