Shark Tank Australia is returning for an exciting new season in 2024. This year’s show features fresh faces on the investment panel. The show introduces two new judges, Maxine Horne and Nick Bell.
They will join the returning Sharks Davie Fogarty, Jane Lu, and Robert Herjavec. With their impressive business backgrounds and unique styles, Horne and Bell will bring fresh energy to the show.
Meet the New Sharks
Maxine Horne and Nick Bell are the new Sharks joining the panel this season. Let’s take a closer look at who they are and what they bring to the table.
Maxine Horne: A Trailblazer in Mobile Retail
Maxine Horne is from Queensland and is well-known for founding Fone Zone. This was one of Australia’s first mobile phone retailers, launched in 1995. She started with a single store on the Gold Coast and went on to build the Vita Group.
This company expanded to 165 locations across various sectors, including IT, communications, health, and beauty. Under her leadership, Vita Group grew to employ over 2,500 people. The company generated annual revenues of over $875 million.
In 2021, Horne sold the IT division of Vita Group to Telstra for $100 million. The company was later taken over and delisted from the stock exchange. Her motto, “Think fast, run hard,” reflects her dynamic approach to business.
Nick Bell: The Serial Entrepreneur Focused on the Future
Nick Bell, based in Melbourne, is a serial entrepreneur and investor. He has a net worth of over $500 million. His journey began with a failed business, but he didn’t let that stop him.
Bell went on to found or co-found several successful tech startups. These include Appscore, Removify, Lisnic, Primal, First Page Digital, Outsourcey, Trideca, and WME.
He sold WME, a search marketing firm, for $39 million in 2017. Bell is also passionate about longevity. He recently invested $700,000 in gene therapy. His goal is to live beyond 100 years. His innovative thinking and diverse business portfolio make him an exciting new Shark.
Returning Sharks
Alongside the newcomers, the 2024 season will feature the return of some familiar faces. These returning Sharks have already made their mark on the show.
- Davie Fogarty: Best known for his success with The Oodie, a popular wearable blanket, Davie Fogarty has also helped many e-commerce brands grow their businesses.
- Jane Lu: As the founder and CEO of Showpo, Jane Lu has built a thriving fashion business using innovative online strategies. Her knowledge of fashion and digital marketing is a valuable asset to the panel.
- Robert Herjavec: A veteran Shark from the US, Canada, and Australia versions of the show, Robert Herjavec has invested over $23 million in dozens of businesses across 15 seasons. His expertise in tech and cybersecurity provides a strong foundation for his investment choices.
Farewell to Former Sharks
While the new season brings fresh faces, it also says goodbye to two of its former judges. Dr. Catriona Wallace, founder and former CEO of Flamingo AI, and Sabri Suby, founder of King Kong Digital, will not be returning.
Both brought significant expertise in digital innovation and marketing. Their departure opens up new opportunities for the current Sharks.
A Look Back at Shark Tank Australia
Since its debut in 2015, Shark Tank Australia has been a launchpad for many aspiring entrepreneurs. The original panel featured well-known business leaders.
Some of these leaders include Naomi Simson of Red Balloon, Janine Allis of Boost Juice, and Steve Baxter of River City Labs. The show has seen many successful pitches, including Car Next Door. This business was acquired by Uber in 2022.
As the 2024 season approaches, fans are excited to see the new ideas and intense negotiations that make Shark Tank so captivating.
With Maxine Horne and Nick Bell joining the team, this season is sure to offer fresh perspectives. It will also provide exciting new opportunities for entrepreneurs who are ready to take the plunge.
What’s in Store for 2024
The new season will continue to feature entrepreneurs presenting their innovative business ideas. The panel of experienced investors will listen to these pitches carefully.
Produced by Sony Pictures Television’s Curio Pictures for Network 10, Shark Tank Australia remains a key platform. It provides entrepreneurs with opportunities to secure funding and mentorship.
Although the exact date for the show’s return hasn’t been announced yet, the anticipation is high for another season filled with groundbreaking ideas and thrilling deals.
Stay tuned to see which entrepreneurs will impress the Sharks. Will they secure a deal that could turn their business dreams into reality? We will find out soon!