BROUGHT TO YOU BY
OFFICIALAIMEDAILY 23rd Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre • 24 - 25 February, 2015
DAY TWO
All together now If you’re a regular visitor to AIME you may have noticed a few changes this year. AIME 2015 is reinventing the traditional framework of exhibitions by transforming itself from a two-day event into an interactive community that is available throughout the year. The new strategy has been designed around AIME attendees and their Education, Business and Networking needs. The Community Hub brings this new direction to life and provides the business events community with new activities to support both personal and professional development. An innovative and interactive networking centre, the Community Hub expands over 640sqm at the heart of the show floor. Four key areas ensure attendees find what they need – Business, Knowledge, Networking and Inspiration. Roundtable business workshops and one on one coaching sessions will cover various topics such as leadership, business and management as well as professional and personal development. Brought to you by Hewsons, KarryOn, ICMI, Maureen Pound and Big Picture Thinking, the sessions are
available to all attendees by visiting the business area of the Hub. The new “silent seminars” offer attendees inspirational and educational seminars and influential speakers from organisations such as Saxton Speakers Bureau and ICMI through wireless headphone technology. Face-to-face interaction is vital when developing new business connections, with the networking section providing the perfect space to unwind, enjoy a coffee, and network with industry colleagues in a relaxed, informal setting. Demonstrations on the latest interactive technology showcasing how to enhance the event experience are also being held across the two days.
CIM TV will also be broadcasting live from the show floor with interviews from key players in the business events industry covering what to expect in the year ahead. The entire show floor has also been redesigned to provide a more streamlined experience for attendees. Specific sections including geographic regions, hotels, venues and products and services will be allocated
to different “zones” allowing attendees to easily and quickly access the suppliers they are looking to engage and connect with. Jacqui Timmins, Exhibition Director at AIME and CIBTM, says the new initiatives will reinvent the traditional format of exhibitions. “After 23 years, it was time to shake things up a bit and we are very excited with the developments we’ve made to the show,” she said. “We are committed to ensuring we provide the absolute best in terms of knowledge, business and networking for our attendees. Our tagline – ‘Where Inspiration Begins’ – demonstrates how AIME opens up a world of business opportunities and it all starts within the Community Hub.” Karen Bolinger, Melbourne Convention Bureau’s Chief Executive Officer, says the Community Hub is a key part of the evolution of AIME to ensure it retains its leading position in the market place. “The networking, the learning, the knowledge and inspiration are really about evolving the exhibition into more of a community beyond a once a year tradeshow,” she said. “It’s about keeping the conversation going 365 days a year.”
Sydney is Australia’s global city. It shines as a place that brings the world's brightest minds – both resident and visiting – together to discover, debate, and invent the future. It's where people can change the world, and do. Both the 105th Rotary International Convention and the IUCN World Parks Congress exceeded estimated attendance by more than 2,000 delegates each when the events were held in Sydney in 2014. More important than the numbers are the far reaching legacies. Pushing the convention to new heights, Rotary delegates raised enough funds to buy Polio immunisation vaccines for 240,000 children, taking the world one step closer to the eradication of a global disease. Similarly, the IUCN World Parks Congress set the agenda, priorities and actions for nature conservation around the world for the next decade with the launch of the Promise of Sydney. In Sydney, you can change the world. Visit Sydney, Australia at stand F600 or contact Kristian Nicholls, General Manager Business Development, at knicholls@besydney.com.au or (02) 9332 5241
S Y DN E Y S H I N E S Sydney, now and in the future, exceeds expectations
IUCN World Parks Congress 170 countries represented with 30 more nations than at the previous Congress Exceeded estimated attendance by 207% Promise of Sydney included a UN Development Programme committing more than US$100 million in support of protected areas
Image credit:
Artist’s impression of ICC Sydney courtesy of HASSELL + Populous and Darling Harbour Live. Rotary International.
58,823
delegates visited Sydney in 2014 to help shape the future.
SYDNEYSHINES.COM.AU
105th Rotary International Convention 19,653 delegates with close to 15,000 from overseas Delegates helped raise A$120,000 for the global eradication of Polio The Rotary End Polio Now bridge climb broke two world records
Scan to watch our Rotary case study
THE CENTREPIECE OF SYDNEY'S EVOLUTION Designed to meet the requirements of tomorrow’s organiser and delegate, International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) will be the city’s prime meeting space with indoor and outdoor networking areas that take full advantage of the stunning backdrop of the world’s largest natural harbour and the Sydney city skyline. ICC Sydney is already proving to be a huge drawcard in our efforts to bring the best and brightest to our shores. BESydney has secured a growing number of leading international events, including Sibos 2018, World Congress of Accountants 2018 and World Chambers Congress 2017. This is a sign of genuine confidence in Sydney and its ability to deliver.
“This is a place where we wanted to work together to achieve outcomes. One of the interesting things that has come out from a knowledge point of view is the launch of IUCN's Green List of protected areas as a new international standard. This is the new leading edge and we started it here in Sydney.” — Trevor Sandwith, Director of IUCN World Parks Congress 2014
ICC Sydney is on track for completion in late 2016 and will be a place where the world’s greatest thinkers will gather to shape a better tomorrow. Did you know ICC Sydney will be:
• • • •
just 8km from Sydney International Airport within walking distance to over half of Sydney's 33,000 hotel rooms able to host 2,000 delegates in Sydney’s largest ballroom capable of holding three, self-sufficient conventions concurrently.
Find out more: iccsydney.com
AIME • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
What are you looking for at AIME? The AIME Daily hit the show floor to catch up with some Hosted Buyers, Visitors and Exhibitors to find out what’s on the cards for them at AIME this year.
Mike Taylor, Taylored Consulting International
Chanelle Walker, Corporate Blue This is my first year and I think it’s fantastic. We have a large group travelling in Brisbane so we have been visiting the Brisbane exhibitors and that’s been really useful. It’s been a great start this morning and I’m blown away by how many exhibitors are here.
I have been to more than 15 AIMEs and I come every year because in our industry the people who I do business with move on every two years, so it’s really important to keep up. This year is good. It feels fresh with the different layout.
Ginny Telfer, Resource Consulting Jef Harris, Mauve Partnerships (London) This is my first time here and I’m very impressed, I’ve had lots of productive meetings and people here are really hospitable. 4 AIMEDaily 2015
I have two reasons for coming to AIME this year – to look for interesting innovations in terms of entertainment and technology suppliers and to look for people in Western Australia. I think the show is super, it’s well laid out, visually appealing, easy to get around and a very good representation of all the regions.
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Peter Gray, The Incentive Association Inc I do love the show. It’s nicely laid out and I think the lighting is good.
Louise Barker, Great Southern Outbound It’s great. I like the way it’s set out and clearly defined, it does feel more open.
Eamon Holley, Public Relations Institute of Australia
Nicole Amato, Leishman Associates AIME is great for meeting new people I wouldn’t normally think of contacting. The show has been really good so far, I haven’t got lost yet! It’s also great to be here to see all the local and international destinations and to get an overall feel of what’s happening in the industry.
It’s going really well so far, I’ve definitely met a number of people who have increased my knowledge and even if they don’t have what I need they’ve pointed me in the direction of a contact who does. This is my first AIME and I’m definitely impressed.
Wayne Poole, Australia Zoo We are just moving into this market. We have amazing venues and have never actually operated in the fields of business events and conferencing. I’m out here reminding people about our crocodiles and making people aware of what we have, for example our $40 million “Crocoseum”.
Peter McDougall, Go Vita Distributors Limited I’m having no trouble finding my way around the Centre. I’m here looking for possible destinations and venues for next year’s annual conference. Of the six appointments I’ve seen so far at least half will qualify. AIMEDaily 2015 5
AIME • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
AIME higher The AIME Knowledge education program proved a highlight for many show visitors yesterday with crowds turning out for sessions including Carolyn Miller’s session on “Living the brand”; the Associations Forum’s session on “How to boost delegates to your next association event”; and Amex Meeting and Events’ “2015 Global Meeting Trends” session. Stepping up to the podium today are speakers including advertising guru Craig Davis, speaking on the topic of “You are more creative than
you think”; employee engagement and team leadership expert James Adonis, presenting “Mentoring: a Gen Y perspective”; and Warrick Merry from Get More sharing the secrets of “Successful sponsorship management”. Sure to be a crowd favourite is motivational speaker Vinh Giang, who uses magic as a metaphor to explain psychology. In today’s AIME Knowledge session, Giang shares his secrets to “Creating the most influential you”. To find out more, we caught up with him ahead of AIME.
5 minutes with... Vinh
Giang
SESSION Creating the most influential you WHERE Auditorium WHEN 10.45 – 11.45am, Wednesday, 25 February Q How do you use magic to help motivate people? A No matter how young or old we are, magic brings out our inner child. It exists in all of us. This is the one part of us as human beings that still dares to dream and dares to believe in the impossible. Q What’s the secret to becoming a more influential version of yourself? A Being completely present with others and giving them your complete attention. Q Any tips for overcoming nerves when you’re presenting? A Before every talk or presentation I listen to the song “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor and I feel fearless afterwards. Give it a try and see what happens! It’s amazing how music affects us. Q Does success really breed success? A The only thing success gives you is a better chance at more success; it doesn’t guarantee it. The only thing that can truly breed success is your philosophy and mindset. Q Best advice you’ve ever been given? A Stop saying “let me be the devil’s advocate” when the people around you share new ideas with you. The devil doesn’t need any more advocates; the brave need supporters.
WANT TO BUY TICKETS? Tickets for today’s sessions are still available, for $55 per session, from the registration desk on the Concourse. 6 AIMEDaily 2015
Top things to do today Community Hub When: 9am – 5pm Where: Show floor Visit the new Community Hub, located at the heart of this year’s show. Divided into four key areas – Business, Knowledge, Inspiration and Networking – the interactive hub will help you better connect with the AIME community. Free business and leadership coaching sessions, brought to AIME by Hewsons, ICMI, Maureen Pound and Big Picture Thinking, will be available.
education program is back for 2015. Speakers include creative leader, consultant and entrepreneur Craig Davis, motivational expert James Adonis and digital strategist Chris Riddell. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased from the registration desk on the Concourse.
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year’s exclusive restaurants, Malaysian Delights, sponsored by the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau, or The International Food Fair, featuring burgers and bites, hawker-style street food and freshly made salads.
to check out the latest event technologies and innovations, get hands-on with emerging products set to revolutionise the industry and access key experts in this arena.
A LIST Open House
When: 9am – 5pm Where: Hospitality Suite 2
When: 9am – 5pm
Networking Hour
Where: Show floor
When: 3.30 – 4.30pm Catch up with old and new friends at one of the many exhibitor events held on the show floor.
Back for a third year, A LIST Open House is a dedicated area where Visitors and Hosted Buyers can meet with new event suppliers and boutique venues to gain inspiration for their own events.
AIME Knowledge education program
Globe Restaurants
Innovation Zone
When: Various session times
When: 9am – 5pm
When: 9am – 5pm
Where: Auditorium and Clarendon Room D&E
Where: show floor
Where: Show floor
Take your taste buds on a journey of discovery at this
Returning to AIME in 2015, the Innovation Zone is the place
AIME Knowledge, AIME’s
Where: Various stands, show floor
Crown Spa Pamper Zone
Hosted Buyers are invited to take a break and enjoy a complimentary 15 minute neck, shoulder or hand massage performed by Crown Spa’s expertly trained spa therapists.
AIME Gala dinner When: 7pm Where: Central Pier, Docklands Exhibitors and Hosted Buyers celebrate another successful AIME at the inaugural Gala Dinner at Central Pier, Docklands.
Gold Coast BUSINESS EVENTS
NOTHING LIKE YOU EXPECT E X A C T LY W H AT Y O U ’ R E L O O K I N G F O R
The Gold Coast is famous for fun, but it’s also a world-class meeting, incentive, conference and exhibition destination. Inspiring, energetic and exciting, the Gold Coast is the perfect destination for any business event, from intimate meetings to spectacular gala events. GOLDCOASTBUSINESSEVENTS.COM
AIMEDaily 2015 7
AIME • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Adventure Hot air balloon rides, cellar door visits and penguins are just some of the activities on offer for Hosted Buyers participating in AIME’s 2015 Post Touring. More than 160 Hosted Buyers from 19 countries will participate, choosing from nine tour options including Ballarat; Bendigo; Daylesford; Dandenong; Phillip Island; the Yarra Valley; and for the first time the Rush hour at Summerland Beach as the fairy penguins return home.
Get caught up with gold rush fever at Sovereign Hill.
FreeFree gelato gelato Stand Stand no. F501 no. F501
Geltaatnod Gelatod S F501 Sta5n01 F
Win a Magnum Moët & Chandon Win a Magnum Moët & Chandon at 4pm onatTues 24 Feb. 4pm on Tues 24 Feb. Must be there Must to bewin! there to win!
02 9714 7133 02 9714 7133 businessevents@sydneyolympicpark.com.au businessevents@sydneyolympicpark.com.au www.sydneyolympicpark.com.au/businessevents www.sydneyolympicpark.com.au/businessevents
8 AIMEDaily 2015
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beckons in post tours Great Ocean Road, which will provide the opportunity to escape on a coastal getaway to Lorne – a spectacular haven built on the very edge of the Great Southern Ocean. Hosted Buyers will also participate in the Melbourne Showcase, allowing delegates to explore Melbourne’s top event venues.
our state for their next business event,” said Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Officer, Karen Bolinger. The tours take place on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 February following AIME 2015, and are part of AIME’s Hosted Buyer Program.
Showcasing regional Victoria and Melbourne’s premium venues and activities to Hosted Buyers is a proven way to bring to life the range of opportunities and experiences on offer. “Each year we work closely with our partners in Melbourne and regional Victoria to devise a post-touring program that we believe will not only be enjoyable for our delegates, but will also encourage them to choose
Lead the high life in the Yarra Valley.
Meet the local wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary.
AIMEDaily 2015 9
AIME • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Social media pitfalls It builds buzz before the meeting ever starts; it makes audience members who didn’t come to the meeting recognise what they’re missing; and it helps continue the conversation after the lights go out and everyone heads home. The aforementioned “it” is social media. As fans and followers post photos, share news and comment on status updates, the social media landscape has become a crucial ingredient of building a strong
community of attendees. However, many organisations still struggle to leverage the power of Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. At PCMA Convening Leaders 2015, Scott Stratten, President of Un-Marketing, helped meeting professionals understand some of the leading reasons why their organisations might be finishing near last place in the social media race. Here’s a look at four reasons why some meetings fail at social engagement.
1 Failing to tap into the power of feelings
2 Treating it like a PR campaign
Wondering why no one is bothering to like all those reminders about the early bird registration deadline? Because they all feel like promotional billboards, and promotional billboards do very little to inspire attendees.
While your communications department can write, revise and refine a press release, social media is the opposite.
“Nobody shares mediocre,” Stratten said. “People spread emotion. We share something really funny or really sad or something that makes us really angry.”
Organisations can attempt to start the conversation, but the online community members will be the ones who determine its direction.
The social media world is very crowded. If you want to stand out from the noise, do something worth your attendees’ time. Make them stop, listen and turn the volume up to make sure other people hear the message.
“It’s not the brand telling the story,” Stratten said. “It’s the brand giving people the tools to tell the story.”
“Don’t ask them to retweet or to share,” Stratten added. “Put your messages out into the world and hope that they’re worth talking about. Hope the story is good enough that your audience will do the work for you.”
3 Running away from negativity “When it hits the fan, it’s not time to hide behind the fan,” Stratten said. “It’s time to be awesome.” Social media can be a great outlet for sharing good stories and positive reviews, but these channels also act as a platform for voicing
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frustrations. When attendees complain about the lack of glutenfree food options at lunch, the temperature in the general session ballroom or the mobile app’s shortcomings, it’s up to the meeting team to make sure each user’s complaint receives attention.
4 Being too slow That attention needs to come immediately. If an attendee posts an angry tweet at 10am, someone needs to reply by about 10:01am – or sooner, if possible. In today’s rapid-response business environment, a quick reply is not a luxury. It’s an expectation. “The speed at which we reply is almost more important than what we reply with,” Stratten said. This carries serious implications for any meeting team that creates a specific hashtag for a conference and asks attendees to use it throughout the conference. A hashtag is a good idea under one condition: a staff member must be constantly monitoring it throughout the conference to respond to questions, needs and negative comments. “Don’t have an event hashtag if you’re not following it in real time,” Stratten said.
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ibtm events: connections mean everything Organisers of AIME, ibtm events (part of Reed Travel Exhibitions), provides access to a meetings industry network of over 5000 suppliers representing 100 countries. The portfolio, which has recently undergone a full rebrand, hosts events on five continents, and brings together 17,000 meeting planners which as a result, secures over 100,000 prescheduled appointments each year between buyers and suppliers. EIBTM, the flagship show for the portfolio, has become “ibtm world”, in line with its status as a global industry event and the global connections that it creates. ibtm world, ibtm china and ICOMEX will continue to operate a trade show format event, whilst the remaining events in the portfolio taking place in America, Africa and the Middle East, have been modified to create mutual appointment matching opportunities and a “closed door” approach exclusively for Hosted Buyers and Exhibitors only, which will in turn maximise productivity FA_KLCC_AIME_ad02_070115.ai 1 1/15/15 for attendees in each of the regions.
Sallie Coventry, Portfolio Director for ibtm events commented, “We have introduced different event formats for a number of our events over the last two years, but there is a constant and defining common denominator: to deliver top-level Hosted Buyers and connections which in turn create business opportunities.” The portfolio which is globally recognised for providing the stages on which global meetings, events and incentives businesses can perform, connect with each other and prosper, has also recently announced a new venue and revised dates for its newest addition; ICOMEX, the leading MICE event in Mexico. The event, the first trade show in Latin America for the ibtm portfolio, will take place at the Centro Banamex in Mexico City from 25-26 August, 2015, and will assume the trusted values of the ibtm portfolio; delivering a high quality Hosted Buyer programme combined with networking and education opportunities.
9:11 AM
Reed Travel Exhibitions has also recently
appointed Nick Pilbeam as Divisional Director – Travel. Pilbeam brings with him an enormous amount of growth strategy knowledge and industry insight to the portfolio. Pilbeam commented: “I am very excited to join Reed Travel Exhibitions and ibtm events on the next step of its journey and help further develop its strong travel and MICE brands. All the events are individually hugely respected and I look forward to being a part of it, delivering strategy and meeting global customer needs with such an experienced and dedicated team.” To find out how the ibtm events can connect your business to global and regional markets visit www.ibtmevents.com or contact one of the ibtm events team at the information desk in the Community Hub.
Your satisfact n is the best reect n of our growth and progress n
Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre Kuala Lumpur City Centre 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia T 603 2333 2888 F 603 2333 2800 E info@klccconventioncentre.com www.klccconventioncentre.com
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AIME • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Associations news
Think global, act local The International Special Events Society (ISES) was founded more than 25 years ago with a vision to establish the live events profession as a significant contributor to the overall discipline of marketing and face-to-face communication. Looking towards the next 25 years its original vision remains the same. ISES is the world’s largest community of event professionals, with 5500 members in 54 Chapters across 25 countries and is increasingly being recognised as the association for event professionals throughout the world, and its members regarded as the very best in what they do. To achieve that original vision, ISES continues to work diligently to ensure that its members are the most well connected, knowledgeable and prepared in the industry to enable them to provide the very best live event experiences for their clients. At a global level, ISES has begun an ambitious three-year strategy designed to reposition itself and to add significant value and benefit to its members around the world. Part of its strategy is to redefine the “special event” industry, to
be an integral part of the new “creative economy” and for ISES members, from every discipline, to be regarded as part of the “creative event industry”. ISES’s role as an association is expanding to support the entire industry, and in particular, to promote the field of live event marketing and face to face communication. “In 2015 and beyond, at ISES Melbourne we will further enhance our strategic partnership opportunities between buyers and sellers, enabling our members to develop sustained business opportunities from their membership and experiences with ISES,” said Michael Davey, ISES Melbourne president. “We recognise that improving the return on investment to our members through dedicated programs will not only improve their experience with ISES but will also be of major benefit to the creative event industry.” ISES Melbourne will also spearhead a new scholarship program for members, which is currently being developed by Davey. Visit www.ises.org.au or call 0402 557 169 for more information.
The future leaders today The International Congress and Convention Society (ICCA) recognises the importance of continuing professional development of less experienced professionals, with its education program “ICCA International Meetings Foundation Seminar” held prior to AIME. ICCA International Meetings Foundation Seminar, formerly known as ICCA Forum for Young Professionals, is an inaugural initiative 12 AIMEDaily 2015
by ICCA Australia and ICCA Asia Pacific Office. The aim of this joint effort is to equip delegates with a basic foundation in the global meetings industry as well as prepare professionals at the start of their careers through an innovative and growth oriented program that revolves around professional growth in the early stages of their career. “The seminar is an effort to offer members
improved opportunities to learn and grow, aligned with our continuing education programs,” said Anna Case, Education Officer of ICCA Australia. Over the two days, delegates were given opportunities to network with potential future employers, and to get sound advice along with essential career-building insights from some of the most established senior industry speakers including publisher Alexandra Yeomans (CIM Magazine), Anna Case, (Gold Coast Business Events) and Martin Sirk (ICCA).
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A brand apart The introduction of ATAS, the new accreditation scheme for the travel industry, administered by The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA), is a way for businesses to become part of a trusted brand that will be developed over time through marketing efforts and consumer education, according to Joanne Tralaggan, AFTA’s marketing and communications manager. “ATAS is the brand we have developed for consumers to associate ‘the best of the best’ with; professional, credible, reputable and trustworthy travel agents,” she said.
“Social media channels have opened up an entirely new and powerful way for consumers to make decisions – taking on advice from significant others within their network circles,” Tralaggan added.
No matter how well run an individual business is it takes time and considerable financial investment to cut through market clutter and be heard over the rest of the brands shouting for consumers attention.
“The ATAS brand provides a means for travel agents to mean something to the consumer. People are going to book travel regardless. The difference that ATAS can make is to influence who they book with and why they book.
The internet has spurred a consumer led revolution with unheralded access to information when and where consumers want to receive it.
“ATAS is becoming a way to recognise those appropriately qualified and professional travel companies with whom they should be dealing.”
Meet us at Stand B120 AIMEDaily 2015 13
AIME • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Exhibitors news
The event saw 27 world leaders, the heads of eight international organisations, international delegations and 3000 international business, finance and political journalists descend on the Centre for what was the largest event in scale and complexity ever held there.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott and US President Barack Obama at the G20.
The G20 Leaders Summit sets new standard The 2014 G20 Leaders Summit held in Brisbane in November last year has been hailed a great success both in Australia and internationally. Bernadette Welch, Head of G20 Operations, G20 Taskforce, said
the Brisbane Leaders Summit was already being hailed as the best in the forum’s history and thanked host venue the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) for their role in delivering “a truly special, world class event”.
“From the time the G20 Taskforce entered into conversations with BCEC management in mid 2012, our relationship has been professional, collaborative and focused on results,” she said.
Occupying 120,000 sqm of space, the event included an International Media Centre bigger than that used for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, complete with a giant eight metre LED screen weighing four tonnes; the traditional Leaders Plenary and Leaders Lounge; delegation offices; bilateral meeting rooms’ communique room; and multiple dining areas. It took 22 days to build. Bob O’Keeffe, General Manager of BCEC is justifiably proud of the Centre’s role in the historic event. “It has been two years and four months of intense planning and preparation and we achieved our goal of hosting a successful and memorable G20,” he said. “The logistics and structure of this event were both unique and challenging and the efforts of those involved were exceptional.” • Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, stand D210
The Langham Auckland looks to the future The Langham Auckland has partnered with new in-house AV partner Staging Connections to offer event services.
will bring new levels of service, innovation and technical capability to The Langham Auckland.
even provide ultra wide screens, multimedia and video support to deliver really high impact with your audience or attendees.
Staging Connections’ on-site team now provides the company’s full range of event staging services including state-of-the-art AV, dramatic design and stand-out styling options to completely transform the venue space.
“An extensive technology upgrade includes the deployment of next generation digital infrastructure to support any event requirement and enables full high definition vision and audio capability throughout the entire venue,” she said. “Slides, video and messaging can be displayed in perfect detail and colour and we can
“Our exciting new ‘meeting rooms of the future’ also start with Full HD digital vision but go on to provide simple intuitive wireless connectivity for your iPad or PC so you no longer have to be tied to a cable while you present. You can even share the screen with your colleagues and other attendees to collaborate and get more done onsite. And,
The hotel’s Director of Conferences and Events, Natalie Reid, says Staging Connections 14 AIMEDaily 2015
you can bring remote attendees to your meeting screens from offsite anywhere in the world to create better reach and efficiency or webcast your meeting to them.” • Langham Hotels & Resorts, stand C706
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Darwin Convention Centre takes it outside “During the peak convention season, Darwin is blessed with beautiful dry weather conditions and warm balmy evenings,” says DCC General Manager Janet Hamilton. “With the Darwin Waterfront Precinct now fully developed, it provides the ideal tropical backdrop for outdoor events. The Centre is thrilled to be able to utilise a number of creative outdoor spaces to offer spectacular events under the stars.” Darwin Convention Centre (DCC) is set for an exciting year, with new options offering delegates to the tropical harbour city with a uniquely amazing Darwin experience. To capitalise on the warm tropical weather, new outdoor
dining packages will be available from May 2015. With views over the spectacular Darwin Harbour and surrounded by lush parkland, these creative outdoor spaces are the perfect setting for welcome drinks, cocktail parties and gala dinners.
New menu options featuring fresh, modern Australia cuisine, Asian fusion specialties and signature dishes from the Northern Territory will also be on offer. • Darwin Convention Centre, stand F710
Way to go with Entegy Not sure where you’re heading on the show floor? This year AIME has partnered with Australian event technology company Entegy to provide digital “way finding” technology for the exhibition floor. The way finding technology consists of 46 inch and 21 inch touch screen displays set up throughout the expo. To use, simply tap the screen to start and select the desired destination. The location of where you want to go and step-bystep instructions will be displayed. • Entegy, stand D308
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AIME • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Thai launches new CSR offerings Thailand’s business events industry has had a strong 2014 fiscal year, according
to the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB). Thailand welcomed a total of
919,164 business travellers, contributing more than $2.69 billion to the country’s economy. As one of the top 10 source markets contributing to Thailand’s business events industry, Australia showed significant growth last year with 37,947 business travellers (an increase of 137 per cent), and $116.77 million revenue (a 128 per cent increase), due to strong performance especially in the corporate meetings sector. The bureau will introduce its “Thailand Connect The World” brand communications campaign into the Australian and Oceania markets at AIME. Aiming at reaffirming Thailand’s
leadership position in the business events sector in Asia, the campaign targets top quality buyers and business events visitors from around the world, showcasing the three key fundamental pillars of Thailand’s MICE industry: Destinations, Businesses and People. Specifically for the Australian and Oceania markets is “Thailand: Inspiring Destination – Enhance Value to Your Business Event”, which offers options for corporate social responsibility activities with local communities in five key cities – Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Khon Kaen – such as wild life conservation, education promotion, and social welfare. • Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, stand A220
Pacific World takes on the Philippines Global destination management company and event management organisation Pacific World has launched in the Philippines. With this expansion, Pacific World now operates in 30 countries and more than 100 destinations around the world and has the widest and most comprehensive presence of any DMC in Asia.
Pacific World and leading local DMC, Blue Horizon Travel & Tours, Inc. Both companies have joined hands to combine Pacific World’s global experience and standards with Blue Horizon’s local expertise and knowledge in order to provide clients with expert services supported by local experience in the destination.
Pacific World Philippines is a commercial partnership between
Pacific World Philippines will operate from a central office in
Let us take you on a wonderful journey of discovery with our stunning range of events. From dinner with the dolphins at Sea World to a glamorous Hollywood cocktail party at Warner Bros. Movie World. To discuss your next conference or event call 07 5591 0020 or email ConferencesAndEvents@vrtp.com.au Visit us at AIME Gold Coast stand E300. SeaWorldResort.com.au
16 AIMEDaily 2015
”We are proud to open the Philippines to global meetings, incentives & events clients, through the launch of Pacific World Philippines,” said Gregor Zajc, Managing Director, Blue Horizon Travel and Country Director, Pacific World Philippines.
“The Philippines is a land that is still relatively un-discovered and has much to offer, from stunning venues and properties in Manila that are exceptional value-for-money, to cultural and social experiences that can add an unforgettable touch to any incentive program.” • Pacific World Singapore, stand B320; Pacific World South Korea, stand B610; Pacific World Thailand, stand A220 1501151 AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK SPECTACULAR © 2015 Village Roadshow Theme Parks. SEA WORLD © 2015 & TM Sea World Property Trust. WARNER BROS. MOVIE WORLD and logo and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s15)
DISCOVER A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE
Makati, Metro Manila, and also has operational support from offices located in Cebu, Boracay and Bohol.
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Visit The Star to win The Star will be promoting their versatile Event Centre with an exclusive competition, featuring $9000 worth of prizes including accommodation in Penthouse at The Star’s luxurious 5-star hotel, The Darling.
Hunter Valley Conference Centre opens for business The Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley Conference and Events Centre officially opened last month, providing the largest and most comprehensive regional conference and exhibition facility north of Sydney. “The new Conference and Events Centre will position the Hunter Valley as a leading Australian conference and events destination,” said Robert Coates, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. “Offering guests the latest technology and a light-filled design in a state-of-the-
art venue with a combined 2000sqm of pre-function, meeting and exhibition space coupled with a unique wine country destination. We have already received large scale group bookings for 2015 resulting in 20 per cent growth in business events and many in the pipeline for 2016 - it looks set to be a very busy year for us.” The Conference and Events Centre has also launched a signature events package trading on the region’s reputation for gourmet food and wine. The package, Harvest Hunter,
offers interactive live cooking stations, live entertainment, locally recognised chef’s sharing their favourite recipes, the region’s greatest wineries showcasing award winning wines and local producers sharing fresh breads, cheeses, chocolates and much more in an outdoor festival affair setting.
The prize is a taster of The Darling Penthouse package, which includes two luxuriously soft bathrobes and slippers, 24/7 butler service, $500 mini bar tab, garment pressing, wi-fi, late checkout, a spa voucher for the exclusive Darling spa worth $500, a food and beverage allowance up to $500 for The Star’s renowned in-house signature restaurants, flights from any Australian capital city to Sydney and limousine transfers. Winner of second prize will receive two nights’ accommodation at The Darling in a standard king room, while the third prize winner will take home a $300 voucher for The Darling Spa. To enter simply visit the team at The Star’s stand and talk to one of the venue’s helpful staff. • The Star Sydney, C710
Harvest Hunter Signature Events for 2015 or 2016 booked before June the 31, 2015, will be eligible for a selection of rewards. • InterContinental Hotels Group, stand C800
POWERHOUSE OF IDEAS Hosting the world from the Northern Territory for five years now, Darwin Convention Centre has put the tropical harbour city on the map as a fresh and unique “must go” for business events. Darwin is the inspiration for innovative breakthroughs in mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, health, education and tropical knowledge. Combine a world-class convention centre with Darwin’s unique expertise in specialist fields and the result is a perfect setting for exchanging ideas and breaking new ground in many areas that will decide our global future.
Let’s connect www.darwinconvention.com.au
+618 8923 9000 | sales@darwinconvention.com.au
AIMEDaily 2015 17
AIME • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Gold Coast venues invest in infrastructure Gold Coast venues have collectively spent more than $180 million on the development of their conference and event facilities during the past 12 months, according to Anna Case, Director Business Events for Gold Coast Business Events, part of the Gold Coast Tourism Corporation. “Over one third of our members participating here at AIME have undergone major multimillion dollar redevelopments to their event and conference facilities in the past 12 months alone and there is more planned,” she said. “Others are at the national forefront of user technology. It’s a very exciting time.” The proactivity of the Gold Coast’s business events community showcases the confidence and forward thinking of the city itself. To attract the best conferences and events on a national and international scale the Gold Coast understands it needs to provide the best in terms of venues, facilities, infrastructure, entertainment and, of course, impeccable service for event planners. “With world-class infrastructure projects recently completed (the Light Rail completed in 2014 has surpassed all predicted passenger numbers) and the forward-thinking commitment of the venue providers, the Gold Coast is certainly in a position to do this,” said Case. Hot off the presses is the Gold Coast Business Events’ 2015 Gold Coast Business Events Guide, offering event planners easy access to the latest developments and range of products, incentives and value-adds available. Copies are available from Gold Coast Business Events’ stand. • Gold Coast Business Events, stand E300 18 AIMEDaily 2015
Hawaii Tourism Oceania releases Meet Hawaii Guide The Hawaiian Islands have become an increasingly popular destination for the Australian business events sector. Now, to make planning your next event easier, Hawai’i Tourism Oceania has compiled a dedicated Meet Hawai‘i Guide, available in print and online editions. The 2015 Meet Hawai‘i Guide offers a general overview of Hawai‘i’s six islands of Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i and Hawai‘i Island including maps and general information. The handy guide provides detailed information on conference, meetings and event facilities, pre- and postconference touring activities, suitable accommodation and dining options, team-building opportunities and voluntourism experiences. Event planners will also be able to access a directory of business tourism
related contacts, a frequently asked questions section and a hotel directory, as well as information on the unique and memorable experiences that each island has to offer from swimming with green sea turtles, snorkelling with manta rays, exploring an active volcano or hiking through lush rainforest. “Each island offers its own distinct character and delivers a very different meeting experience,” said Holly Ballard, account manager, meetings, conferences and incentives, Hawai‘i Tourism Oceania. “It’s this
diversity and year-round warm climate that provides endless possibilities for groups when it comes to creating distinctive and successful programs”. Contact groups@hawaiitourism. com.au to order your copy of the Meet Hawaii Guide or download at www.meethawaii. realviewdigital.com. • Hawai’i Tourism Oceania, stand B402
Mix it up at InterContinental Sydney For the very first time, InterContinental Sydney is opening its exclusive Club InterContinental, renowned internationally for its panoramic views of Sydney Harbour,
outstanding service and delicious menu items, to nonhotel guests with the launch of its new cocktail master classes. Classes, for groups of between four -16 people, will be hosted by an experienced mixologist under the guidance of Tal Thorne, who has more than 13 years’ experience in making cooktails. Participants in the exclusive
class will be shown insider tips and tricks to muddle, mix and shake three delicious cocktails, while enjoying a menu of matched canapés using fresh seasonal ingredients. “We are very excited to open Club to the public for the very first time, giving groups an opportunity to mix good quality drinks in a fun and exciting new environment and venue with their friends,” says Thorne. Bookings are available for groups of four to sixteen guests, at a cost of $59 per person including drinks and canapés. • InterContinental Sydney, stand F600
Official AIME Daily Publisher Alexandra Yeomans Managing Editor Ylla Wright Journalist Sheridan Randall Account Manager Michelle Cullen Design/Production Manager Bin Zhou Production Co-ordinator Anne Esteban Administration Assistant Kate Wilcox
Sheraton debuts in Samoa The Sheraton brand has made its debut in Samoa in the South Pacific with the opening of Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort, following a comprehensive multi-million dollar conversion. Owned by the Grey family, the resort is the first internationally-branded resort to debut in Samoa. Nestled on the west coast of Upolu, Samoa’s most populous and developed island, Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort is just a five-minute drive from Faleolo International Airport. Occupying a beachfront position, guests are able to snorkel or dive at one of Upolu’s striking dive spots, charter a boat and spend the day fishing, swim with turtles or partake in the numerous water sports the hotel offers. Other activities include exploring
Samoa’s lush national parks or visit one of Upolu’s spectacular waterfalls, blowholes, caves or lava fields nearby. The resort boasts 133 luxury guest rooms, all with their own ground-floor patio or first-floor balcony, allowing stunning vistas of the tranquil Pacific, while facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, nearby golf facilities, a 24-hour Sheraton Fitness centre, an
outdoor spa offering a range of relaxation packages, and five bars and restaurants. Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort also offers state-of-theart conference and meeting facilities, while the resort’s refreshed function area and beachfront landscape provides a number of picturesque settings for memorable events. • Samoa Tourism Authority, stand B725
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