The Event December 2011

R22.80 December 2011/ January 2012 www.theevent.co.za

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DURBAN’S BIGGEST CONFERENCE YET GENERAL INDUSTRY

ICC Durban

DURBAN’S largest conference to date, the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17), took place at Durban ICC from 28 November-9 December 2011. 8000 delegates from 191 countries attended over the four days.

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UILD-UP for the conference began three weeks prior to the event. There were approximately 160 contractors on site, creating 7400m² of temporary office space over and above the existing facilities. The lower level (basement parking) was used to create a further 14 000m² of usable space which included an International Broadcasting Centre, Country Delegation Offices and the UNFCCC offices. The International Broadcasting Centre accommodated 1 100 international media.

Additionally, 5 500m² in temporary marquees space was put in place in the north and south plazas of the ICC Exhibition Centre.

40-kilometres of cabling was installed for video, data and communication networks across all levels of the ICC. To ensure as green a conference as possible, Project manager The Conference Company, and service provider Oasys Innovations, had to ensure that the ICC Exhibition Centre was up-

graded accordingly. Eco friendly boards made from recycled products were used to build offices and meeting rooms within the ICC halls. Approximately 3 500-metres of locally produced, flame resistant and eco-friendly cardboard boxes and sugarcane waste walling was installed, a first for the South African meetings industry.

“COP17-CMP7 (COP17) provides a critical opportunity for the city to demonstrate its environmental approach through the COP17-CMP 7 Greening Programme, which aims to minimise the environmental impact of the event,” says Dr Debra Roberts,

deputy head of the Environmental Planning and Climate Protection Department (EPCPD).

Through signing the UNFCCC Host Country agreement, South Africa had committed to mitigating event related carbon emissions. As part of the COP17 Greening Programme, eThekwini Municipality developed and tested a methodology for calculating event ecological footprints.

Electricity, LPG and water usage at delegate accommodation makes up the greatest single contributor (61%) to the estimated event carbon footprint. Electricity, water and LPG usage at all event venues is

the second largest contributor (23%), and intra-city transportation the third largest contributor (15%). This estimate will be verified and recalculated based on actual data collected during the COP17 event.

Non-motorised transport options included walking and cycle routes from various key locations in Durban. eThekwini Municipality also developed its own climate offset project, the Durban Community Ecosystem Based Adaptation (CEBA) Initiative, in response to the need for vulnerable communities in Africa to be active participants in the rapid transformation

of their cities towards increased resilience and adaptive capacity to climate change.

For the duration of the conference, the ICC Durban complex became a United Nations island site, where entry and exit was controlled by security officials mandated by the United Nations. Entry was only permitted for persons who had been accredited.

There was no parking on site for the duration of the event.

Staff and contracted service providers had to park at a designated offsite parking facility and take a shuttle service to and from the ICC. All suppliers delivering to the ICC had their vehicles searched offsite before being escorted to the premises by the SAPS and the Metro police.

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (JOINTS) chairperson, lieutenant general Elias Mawel was responsible for the top notch security.

The JOINTS operations entailed rigorous visibility of security forces in uniform and some in civilian clothes patrolling in vehicles, on foot, on bicycles and horseback and air support. The security plans were executed together with the United Nations in order to ensure that the event was secured accordingly for any eventuality in the air, land and sea.

Sally Fink

The EXSA Awards Sponsored by Scan Display

The 2011 EXSA Hall of Fame recipients

Memorable Event of the Year, The Cape Yearlings Sale by Agri Expo

EXHIBITIONS INDUSTRY THE Exhibition and Event Association of Southern Africa (EXSA) Awards took place at Sandton Convention Centre on 3 November 2011. The awards honour those who have achieved excellence in the exhibition sphere.

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HIS year’s celebrations marked the thirtieth anniversary of the EXSA Awards and were themed Casino Royale and Masquerade.

EXSA chairman Natalie Naude, says, “This event is the culmination of a year of hard work on behalf of both the members of the industry and the EXSA board. It was wonderful to be able to have everyone together celebrating all the successes of 2011 and honouring those who have contributed tirelessly towards making this such an exceptional year.”

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Stand suppliers Scan Display and 3D Design were the big winners of the evening.

3D Design walked away with six awards, while Scan Display bagged five.

Both companies tied for the coveted Best Supplier Award.

Scan Display’s Justin Hawes says, “I am especially proud to receive the Best Supplier award, as it is voted for by the venues, organisers and important players in the industry. It means they enjoy working with us and believe we offer professional service.”

3D group sales director, Conrad Kullmann adds: “It’s gratifying that our capabilities were recognised across a variety of size format categories and for clients in very different industries. This highlights 3D Design’s versatility and indepth knowledge of numerous industry sectors.”

Complete Exhibitions was the winner of Best Exhibition alongside a Conference for the fifth SA AIDS Confer-

ence; and also received a Certificate of Excellence in the Memorable Events category for the Sasol’s TechnoX Science Festival, which saw over 23 000 school children from over 300 schools going through the event.

“As a company that focuses on service excellence, these awards represent the recognition by our industry peers for our achievements,” says director Nigel Walker.

The Gauteng Homemakers Expo was voted the Best Consumer Exhibition of the Year in the category for large exhibitions over 12,000m², marking the fourth year it has received the distinction.

MD Ray Abrahamse says, “The standard of competition that we are up against was extremely high. It’s important to remember that one competes on a national basis with a large variety of exhibition types.”

Elaine Crewe, Gallagher Convention Centre’s Exhibition and Special Events manager

again took the honours for the third consecutive year for Best Venue Employee. She says, “Gallagher allows every staff member to perform at their best. The company makes major investments in its staff and we all have a serious sense of client service and strive to exceed clients’ expectations.”

The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) scooped the award for the Best Exhibition Venue.

CTICC’s COO Joey Pather says, “The fact that the centre won this award is further testament to the world class infrastructure of the CTICC and Cape Town. The CTICC is well on its way to achieving its vision of being the best long haul international convention centre by 2020.”

2011 saw the introduction of the Hall of Fame which recognises industry stalwarts who have been a major part of the exhibition industry. The recipients were: • Rolf Frobus, Hakunamata

• Tony Louw, TL Electrical • Tjaard Kuiken, Octanorm • Dirk Elzinga, CIC Consulting • John Victor, Fair Consultants • Adele Lucas – posthumous • Carol Weaving, Thebe Project • John Kullman, 3D Design • Brian Kennedy, Oasys • Anita Matthias, Seatworks • Clive Dellow – posthumous • Sue Gannon, EXSA The next EXSA National Conference takes place from 5-7 February 2012 at The Fairway Hotel in Johannesburg.

“The exhibition and event industry has seen some incredible movement over what has been a challenging year, and in order to ensure forward thinking and innovation whilst providing superior service, the programme has been developed around the theme: Driving Delivery With Value,” explains Natalie Naude, Chair of EXSA. For more information visit www.exsa.co.za

The EXSA Awards Sponsored by Scan Display

2011 Chairman’s Award, Sue Gannon, EXSA

BEST STAND AWARDS Custom Built Stands - 12 m² Scan Display for Scan on Show’s stand at Meetings Africa Custom Built stands 13 - 24 m² Set Squared for the Alexander Forbes stand at IRF Congress Custom Built stands 25m²-50 m² 3D Design for Roche Diagnostics‘ stand at Laboratory Medicine Custom Built stands 50 -100 m² 369 Designs for the South African Airways stand at Indaba Two Certificates of Excellence were awarded to: •3D Design for their own 3D Design stand at Markex JHb •Set Squared for the Sun International stand at Indaba Custom Built stands 101 - 200 m² stands Scan for the Three Cities stand at Indaba Custom Built stands over 201 m² Seatworks for the Peugeot stand at JHB International Motor Show System Built 13 – 24 m² 3D Design for their Southern Sun stand at Meetings Africa

Exhibition of the Year 2011, SA Shows/Dogan Trading’s Johannesburg International Motor Show

System Built 25 m²- 50 m² 3D Design for the Telkom stand at SATCOM System Built 51m² to 100 m² Scan for the Alcon stand at the OSSA Congress System Built 101 - 200 m² 3D Design for Mercedes Benz at Automechanika System Built 200 m² and over 3D Design for the KIA stand at JHB International Motor Show Internationally designed - locally manufactured stands Oasys for the Yahsat stand at SATCOM Custom and System Built stands Plan A Designs for the Signature Life stand at Indaba Best stand awards for an Outdoor Pavilion The Exhibitionist and PenQuin, for the Suzuki stand at JHB International Motor Show

Best Organiser, Specialised Exhibitions

Martina Ledwaba and Naume Moakamedi accepting on behalf of Meetings Africa

Best Consumer Exhibition 3001- 6000 m² Three City Events for SABC Baba Indaba – Sandton

Best Exhibition held alongside a Conference Complete Exhibitions for the SA Aids Conference

Best Consumer Exhibition - 600112 000 m² Exposure Marketing for The Baby Expo – Gauteng

Exhibition of the Year 2011 The JHB International Motor Show

Best Consumer Exhibition 12 000 m² & over Homemakers Fair - Gauteng

The Best Supplier - Stand Design and Construction •Scan Display Solutions •3D Design

Best Trade Exhibition 3 000 - 6 000 m² Scan on Show for Meetings Africa Best Trade Exhibition 12 000 m² & over Dogan Trading for Automechanika Best Trade and Consumer Exhibition 3 000 – 6 000 m² Expo Trends for Hobby X JHB

BEST EXHIBITIONS OF THE YEAR

Best Trade and Consumer Exhibition 6000 -12 000 m² Montgomery Africa for Grand Designs Live

Best Consumer Exhibition 3000 m² & under Three City Events for SABC Baba Indaba - BFN

Best Trade and Consumer Exhibition: 12 000 m² & over Thebe Exhibitions and Projects Group for Decorex SA - JHB

BEST SUPPLIERS

The Best Supplier - Security Expo Screens The Best Supplier - AV Gearhouse SA The Best Supplier - General Regal Rentals Best Venue CTICC Best Organiser: Specialised Exhibitions BEST EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR Best Venue Employee Elaine Crewe - Gallagher Convention Centre

Best Organiser Employee Brad Hook - Montgomery Africa Best Supplier Employee - Stand Design & Construction Carl Woodland, Oasys Innovations GL Best Supplier Employee - Security Mark Sleep, Stable Management Best Supplier Employee - AV Leonie de Vrye, Screencom Best Supplier Employee General Tony Cantatore, 3D Furniture Hire EXSA Personality of the Year Andrew Gibbs from Concept G Exhibitions MEMORABLE EVENT AWARDS Certificate of Excellence •The Soweto Festival by Adele Lucas Promotions •Sasol’s Techno X by Complete Exhibitions.

Memorable Event of the Year The Cape Yearlings Sale by Agri Expo 2011 Chairman’s Award Sue Gannon, EXSA

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2011 - THE YEAR IN REVIEW David Hasselhof performing at the Loeries

EDITORIAL 2011 was a bittersweet year for many, with some experiencing crippling losses due to the post World Cup slump and double dip recession. Editor of The Event Newspaper, Sally Fink, takes a look at the year that was.

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HE year started on a high note with President Jacob Zuma praising tourism in his state of the nation speech. He explained that events such as The Cape Town International Jazz Festival contributed more than R475 million to the economy of Cape Town and created 2 000 jobs. Minister of Tourism Marthinus Van Schalkwyk also announced his National Tourism Sector Strategy which aims to increase the number of foreign tourist arrivals to 15 million. The first step toward achieving this saw Cape Town Routes Unlimited’s Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo appointed as executive manager of the National Conventions Bureau (NCB).

This year Meetings Africa bounced back from a slow 2010, with figures up 3 353 from last year’s 2 899. The Meetings Africa Matchmaking Programme broke records with 7 387 business meeting requests sent.

2011 saw the inaugural Sports and Events Tourism Exchange (SETE) take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre to answer the major questions surrounding the aftermath of the FIFA World Cup. Next year the event will move to ICC Durban.

South Africa’s biggest marketing expo, Markex, celebrat-

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ed 25 years, but also said a sad farewell to exhibition director Lyn Chamier.

A big success story was Durban winning the bid to host United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 17).

Cape Town had its own share of good news, being named as World Design Capital in 2014, Table Mountain being named as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, and the city being named World’s Best Destination

by Tripadvisor.

Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) also announced its R4.5 billion expansion plans that will effectively see the convention centre doubling in size by 2015.

Live Events made a big impact at awards ceremonies in 2011 with an Event Management Category being added to the Prisa PRISM Awards in March; and also at the Loeries in October with new events chair Matt Shirtcliffe awarding Live Events its second Grand Prix in two years.

Sadly, 2011 also saw the resignation of Loeries CEO Andrew Human.

Another high profile resignation saw Thandiwe JanuaryMcLean step down as CEO of South African Tourism (SAT). Thulani Nzima was appointed to fill the role.

South Africa won two Tony Awards; Athol Fugard for Special Achievement to Theatre and The Handspring Puppet Company for their work on War Horse. The Event Newspaper also had its share of success with editor Sally Fink being named as one of

the Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans.

I invited prominent members of industry to share their reflections on a tough year.

Site president-elect Tes Proos believes it was a tough year for industry with the Site South Africa workshop in July helping to establish the state of the crisis facing industry. “No one expected 2011 to be as disappointing as it was,” she says. “South Africa isn’t perceived as value for money as we once were. This year R366 million was quoted by Destination Marketing Companies (DMCs) which was lost to other destinations. The DMCs also found that compared to other countries, in most cases South African four and five star hotels are more expensive, but what is really killing us is airport taxes.”

There were however, some highlights. “The Site South Africa chapter set an example for the rest of the world by winning Chapter of the Year and three out of eight awards at this year’s Site Crystal Awards,” she says.

Calvyn Gilfellan, CEO of Cape Town Routes Unlimited, explains that the tourism industry only felt the effects of the world economic crisis in 2011. Preparations for the hosting of the FIFA World Cup buffered South Africa from the effects of the global recession. “One of the challenges faced by the industry was a drop in room occupancy rates. This could be ascribed to the oversupply of hotel rooms, which led to a number of establishments closing down,” he says.

He goes on to explain that the continual rise in fuel costs led to increasing airfares, which means fewer visitors from traditional source markets.

“Perceptions of a ‘tourism crisis’ were exacerbated by comparisons with last year’s winter season, when the country hosted the FIFA World Cup. A much more realistic comparison would have been with the winter of 2008, as the tourism industry is subject to the vagaries of seasonality, and it is completely normal for occupancy to dip during the colder months.”

Calvyn believes there is light at the end of the tunnel. “In the first eight months of 2011 international tourist arrivals grew by 4.5% (UNWTO), signalling a recovery in the international arena. Our pre-

diction is that this world recovery will filter down to Cape Town and the Western Cape by the second quarter of 2012.”

Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) National Chairperson Nina Freysen-Pretorius says 2011 was a watershed year for SAACI. “Early in the year we amended our constitution, and instead of our former chapters, we now have subsector-specific forums representing our members. We believe this makes our association just so much more relevant to members and that we are now in a better position to make a real difference in their businesses,” she says.

She believes 2011 continued to be challenging for the industry as the effects of the economic slump were still being felt. “Obtaining new business was a challenge for most. As an association SAACI also had to take a close look at its core functions to continue fulfilling its role effectively.”

Nina hints that in 2012 the annual SAACI awards will be expanded.

On a personal note, Nina’s company, The Conference Company, established its Johannesburg offices. “This makes us a truly South African based PCO,” she says.

For Carol Weaving, managing director of Thebe Exhibitions and Projects, a highlight was launching two first time shows; the Sports and Events Tourism Exchange and the Retirement Expo. In 2012 Thebe will be launching an additional two shows, developing new business initiatives in Africa, and launching a new venue.

“We also had record visitor numbers at Decorex Joburg this year and won a local EXSA award and an international award,” she says.

For Joey Pather, COO of CTICC, it was all good news.

“During the 2010/2011 financial year the centre hosted over 500 events and attracted a record number of 1 243 910 visitor, delegate and tourist days. This is the highest number since the centre opened its doors and can be attributed to the increase in attendance at exhibitions and trade fairs. The exhibition halls, individually or in various configurations, were used on 84 separate occasions, for various events, yielding

53 % occupancy,” he says.

Expo Centre’s Craig Newman says he was humbled by the receipt of the coveted PMR Africa Diamond Arrow Award 2011 for being the best exhibition and event venue in South Africa.

It was also a surprisingly good year. “The exhibition and events industry has felt the pressures of the international economic crisis, which has resulted in budget cuts. Regardless, we have continued to successfully host spectacular exhibitions, conferences and events within a range of budget structures. However, the smaller budgets have affected the introduction and possibility of new exhibitions, events and conferences and the scale at which they can be hosted,” he says.

This year Expo Centre saw the re-emergence of the popular Rand Show as well as the return of the Johannesburg International Motor Show.

Sandton Convention Centre (SCC) general manager Karin White says that the centre has been busy locking down business through an aggressive Beyond 2010 strategy. “The trading environment has changed drastically over the past few years which means that business plans and strategies are now being reviewed right throughout the year,” she says.

The SCC international team also expanded its marketing footprint by participating in two new shows in America – IMEX USA and IBTM in Las Vegas.

A highlight of the year was SCC executive director Mati Nyazema being named as a finalist for the Businesswoman of the Year award in August 2011.

Mati explains that the recession affected how clients spend their money. “Rate negotiation has become more protracted as clients try and save money. There is also higher risk in business involved, as booking times are still getting shorter and sometimes clients cancel events within days of the show,” she says.

She does, however, believe that 2012 will be positive. “The refresh of Sandton City and the consolidation of the Gautrain fast rail service have dramatically improved the appeal of the Sandton destination. We anticipate seeing more traffic for exhibitions and events coming through to Sandton as a result.”

USING SPORT TO CHANGE LIVES SPORTS TOURISM THE Beyond Sport Summit took place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 7-8 December 2011.

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EYOND Sport is a global summit on sport development, which supports the use of sport to create positive social change across the world. Beyond Sport founder Nick Kelly explains, “Our aim is to use sport as a social catalyst. Cape Town is a city with many issues, but also many opportunities. It can therefore be seen as a centre for development and innovation.

Sport is a low cost cure for social change. It can be used to heal emotional trauma and even save lives.”

He believes the site visits delegates conducted in Cape Town in the run-up to the summit reflect the Beyond Sport Effect of focused action, where sport has made a tangible difference in growing the city.

One of the sites visited was a sports field in Gansbaai sponsored by Barkley’s Spaces for Sport that brought a segregated community together, and resulted in the construction of a totally integrated school. “This is one of my favourite examples of extreme social change through sport,”

he says.

In his keynote speech, minister of Sport and Recreation Fikile Mbalula expressed his wish for a sports system that is integrated and democratic. “Sport plays an important developmental role in our country. It is a crucial sector to achieve our national goals of transformation and social change.”

The minister says that South Africa leverages on sport in the fight against poverty, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. His drew on resolutions made at the National Sport and Recreation Indaba in November, which includes the National Sport and Recreation Plan as well as the School Sport Programme Rollout Plan. The National Sport and Recreation Plan will capture the strategic focus of the department’s objectives into measurable units. “We want to see the achievement of success in international sport; and the development of a sports system in South Africa that is united, non-racial and prosperous.”

“The global emergence of sports tourism is essential to our economy,” he said. “We have seen proven economic benefits in terms of revenue and job creation. Going forward, government will support further growth of the sporting sector in South Africa.”

Furthermore, the minister believes that the World Cup tour-

Minister of Sport & Recreation Fikile Mbalula

nament in 2010 proved that the nation can work together in unity. “Our country has witnessed its national potential. This should be further harnessed.”

“Sport can make a tangible difference to people’s lives,” concluded the minister.

One of the most anticipated discussion at the summit was the opening panel featuring UNICEFF’s Lord Paddy Ashdown, former CEO of the FIFA World Cup Organising Committee Danny Jordaan, and

Mmakau Mining executive Bridgette Radebe, that took a look back at a difficult year.

Danny was emphatic that because of goverment’s focus on transformation, any bid must be a project that all South Africans must be able to engage in. “The sporting event is a shared experience that brings about social integration. Big economic issues can’t be solved through a soccer game, but it can impact communities,” he says.

Paddy says South Africa is an excellent example of visionary leadership. “Never again should we allow a major sporting event to take place without that collective spirit being used on an external level,” he says, meaning that South Africa’s spirt of “ubuntu” is something that can be harnessed and exported to other countries.

Sally Fink

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TOP COMPANIES TO EXHIBIT AT MEETINGS AFRICA

The Scan on Show Meetings Africa team

BUSINESS TOURISM MORE than 130 international buyers are expected to attend Meetings Africa 2012, which takes place from 28 February 2012 – 1 March 2012 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

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EXT year, Africa’s premier business tourism lekgotla, Meetings Africa, promises to be bigger and better than ever before, offering innovative platforms for the world’s business tourism

stakeholders to connect with South Africa’s business tourism products and services.

There is a big demand for space from exhibitors at Meetings Africa as they opt for bigger stands with several associations and companies having requested pavilions.

There is also a host of first time and returning exhibitors showcasing new products at the exhibition. Among them are prestigious South African companies Sun International, Thompsons Africa, Shamwari Group, and Oasys Exhibitions.

Kick-starting next year’s Meetings Africa is an exciting new Lifestyle Golf and Safari Weekend, offering corporate networking on a different scale. The golf weekend promises an exciting ‘Leave Ordinary Behind’ experience at one of Africa’s most prestigious golfing venues, Legend Golf and Safari Resort in Limpopo. Its famous 19th hole is only accessible by helicopter. “This lifestyle weekend gives us a great platform to showcase our unique fusion of world-class facilities, warm

and welcoming people, superb wildlife and breathtaking scenery to prospective buyers. It also gives all delegates and guests an opportunity to network in one of the most beautiful spots on earth,” says Nomasonto Ndlovu, South African Tourism’s (SAT) global manager: Business Tourism.

The first event on the Meetings Africa 2012 programme is the corporate breakfast taking place on 28 February 2012.

Meetings Africa 2012 recognises the value of the local corporate market and is inviting executives, marketing managers, event co-ordinators and personal assistants to attend this interactive networking event.

One of several highlights is the two-day Association Lekgotla (conference) taking place from 28-29 February 2012. “Targeted mainly at local association executives, the Lekgotla focuses on building capacity within organisations to build credibility and enable them to attract more international meetings to South Africa. It also gives them an understanding of the magnitude of industry support available to them for the hosting of their event, irrespective of the event’s size,” says Nomosonto.

Scan on Show will once again be organising the event on behalf of SAT. Scan on Show’s Jacqui Reynolds says, “Scan On

Show’s commitment to developing Meetings Africa is to recognise the value of the local corporate market. Having exhibited at the show for several years before taking over the show management, we realised how important it is to have effective meetings at the exhibition with good local business potential.”

To this end Scan On Show has introduced a Corporate Function for January 2012 to drive awareness of the exhibition with local event planners, marketing managers and PA’s who are responsible for organising their company events.

“This emphasis on the local market will continue through to the show where the first event on the programme is the Corporate Breakfast on the opening day,” she says.

Scan On Show is also driving a much stronger Presentation Theatre for Meetings Africa 2012, offering a host of industry experts. Topics will include feedback from our CVBs, social media and electronic marketing, and recent learnings from large scale events. The full programme will be available shortly online.

Other areas that the team is working on include an enhanced business matchmaking programme and a refined floorplan.

Sally Fink

NEWS HIGHLIGHTS GENERAL INDUSTRY IF you have any news highlights to share please visit our web portal www.theevent.co.za and load your own stories for consideration in next month’s edition.

Cape Town wins host city bid for Loeries CAPE Town has won its bid to retain The Loerie Awards in the Mother City. Cape Town secured the Loeries against pitches from Ballito in KwaZulu-Natal, Johannesburg and Sun City.

The Loerie Awards and the city are now in the process of drafting an agreement to cover the period 2012 – 2014.

David Frandsen joins ICC Durban DAVID Frandsen has joined the International Convention Centre Durban (ICC) as Marketing and Sales director. David takes over from Lyrene Zimmerman.

He joins ICC Durban from the Cape Town Convention Bureau, which he headed up since 2006. His main focus at the ICC will be increasing revenue and performance in all segments of the business.

System Solutions win contract in Gabon SYSTEM Solutions, part of the Gearhouse South Africa Group of Companies, has been commissioned by Agence Nationale Des Grands Travaux (ANGT) who represent the Gabon government, to design, supply and construct large format outdoor LED screens and a control system each for the brand-new stadium

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in Libreville and the existing stadium in Port Gentil.

The Amitie stadium in Libreville - a gift from the Chinese government - is currently under construction and is due for completion in time to host the 28th CAF Orange Africa Cup of Nations in January 2012 which is being co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.

Both projects will be co-ordinated on site by System Solutions project manager Karen Blythe.

SAACI joins Convention Industry Council THE Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) has become a member of the Convention Industry Council (CIC).

The Unites States based CIC has 30 member organisations representing 103 500 individuals and 19 500 firms in the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry. It offers tools and programmes designed to support the industry. Specific programmes include the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) industry certification programme and the Accepted Practices Exchange (APEX) initiative to develop accepted practices for the industry.

SAACI general manager Adene Pringle says the association’s membership of CIC will hold significant benefits for members. “In our continuing efforts to professionalise the conference industry in South Africa our CIC membership will play an important role. I have no doubt that we will now see an increase in the number of

CMPs in South Africa. This certification is widely regarded as the most authoritative indicator of professionalism in our industry.”

She says SAACI members will now also have access to comprehensive industry reference materials and research reports.

Durban ICC to host Aortic Conference DURBAN ICC has secured the right to host the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) Biennial International Cancer Conference in 2013.

The five day conference is set to attract 1 000 delegates from around the world and is expected to generate R12.5-million for the local economy.

Thebe to manage International Small Business Congress THE Thebe Exhibitions and Projects Group (TEPG) has been awarded the exhibition management contract for the 2012 International Small Business Congress (ISBC) which will take place at the Sandton Convention Centre from 15- 18 September 2012.

The congress, to be held in Africa for the first time, is aimed at improving small business practice globally and was first established in 1974.

TEPG MD Carol Weaving says the event will also feature an exhibition that will showcase Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in sectors such as agroprocessing, automotive, mining, construction, tourism, cultural, business process services, chemicals and the greening industry.

Libreville Stadium under constructione

Joburg to host World Orchid Conference in 2014 THE twenty-first World Orchid Conference (WOC) will be held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg in 2014.

Lindiwe Kwele, CEO of Johannesburg Tourism, says, “An indication of the confidence that associations, PCOs and events organisers have in Joburg as a destination is the impressive lineup of international events – with an estimated economic benefit to the city in excess of R200 million - set to take place in Joburg over the next three years.”

The three Gauteng-based orchid societies (from Johannesburg, Edenvale and Pretoria) will be the hosts for this event.

Best Cities Board for 2012 BEST Cities Global Alliance has appointed Dubai Convention Bureau’s Jerad Bachar as board chair for 2012. Jerad follows in the

footsteps of ICC Durban’s David Frandsen who stepped down from the position in August.

Joining the 2012 Board are: Lars Bernhard Jørgensen, managing director of Wonderful Copenhagen, Calvyn Gilfellan, CEO of Cape Town Routes Unlimited, Sue Stuart, Marketing Edinburgh Convention Bureau, Melissa Ow, assistant CEO Singapore Tourism Board and Rick Antonson, president and CEO of Tourism Vancouver.

New appointments at Scan SCAN Display has recently made four new appointments.

Lebohang Zulu joins the Durban office as account executive, while the Johannesburg office welcomes Mujtaba Mustapha as exhibition architect; Kamo Mogashoa as graphic designer and Tumi Sithole as credit controller.

Sally Fink

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FASHION AND EVENTS - A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS © Jess Novotna

PROFILE GAVIN Rajah has a reputation as being one of South Africa’s top fashion designers, but the creative genius behind Cape Town Fashion Week has another talent as well – that of event organiser for his company Gavin Rajah Concept.

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AVIN was an event organiser long before the world of fashion caught his eye. “Back in 1999 experiential marketing was still a foreign term,” he says, recalling his early years of corporate hospitality.

“Corporates couldn’t see the value of experiential or how it could benefit their events. It was only after I started working with visionary brands like Investec, who gave me the latitude to be suggestive, that it started to become a buzzword.”

Gavin prides himself on having reinvented the Nederberg Wine Auction, repositioning it as a must attend event on the Cape Town social calendar. He also founded Cape Town Fashion Week and the Cape Town

Flower Show. In November this year he was flown to Abu Dhabi to organise the official functions for the Formula One Grand Prix.

His flair for fashion is evident in his events, which include custom designed elements such as sculptured art works that the client can keep, new tastes and smells, elements that tease the senses, and creative lighting.

“Part of my vision is to be innovative. Clients want to experience new things. We custom design our own décor depending on the client’s requirements and my own vision for the event,” says Gavin, who has his own furniture line which he incorporates into his events.

Each event requires high attention to detail, which is why Gavin is involved with every event from start to finish, even adding the final touch to floral arrangements. “I deliver the same level of service that I’m renowned for in fashion,” he says, which is why you’ll never see a single spoon out of place. Gavin Rajah Concept employs a very small staff compliment. “Having more staff does not make you more effi-

cient,” says Gavin, whose employees are very hands on.

Gavin’s starting point is always the client – in particular the client’s strategic objectives for the event. He believes clients are sold on visual, which is why he uses illustrations to present his concepts, a method he employs in fashion as well. “I try to interpret their needs in a creative way.” He also believes in brutal honesty when it comes to formulating a budget. He applies the same financial sensibility that was echoed in a recent Harvard Business Review that describes how clients expect more value, but also unique experiences.

“We pride ourselves on never over extending a client’s budget. In today’s tough economic climate marketing budgets are being slashed. It is only through creativity that event organisers will achieve success,” he says.

Gavin will never compromise on his creative integrity which is why if he’s not having fun then he doesn’t want to do it. A relationship of trust with the client is also an imperative. “If I’m going to exceed their expectations there must be some connection with the client. After all, the event is my advert. What I put out is spectacular. It’s my name on the line.”

He believes his philosophy of highly personalised service sets him apart from other event organisers. “There are so many

event companies operating in South Africa at the moment who control the entire food chain. I operate in a more bespoke space, and am more focused on delivery. Events become very billable, and that’s not my game, as that’s where they lose their essence.”

Rather than affiliating himself with local associations Gavin is a member of the International Special Events Society (ISES), but he does bewail the lack of any specialist association for event organisers, which he believes accounts for everybody and their mother being able to call themselves event organisers. “There needs to be a regulatory body to oversee the industry,” he says, for among other things, ensuring that the correct safety measures and insurance is in place before events take place. “There is a tendency for event organisers to churn out events. No one has any pride in their work and if I see one more Chinese lantern at an event I will puke.”

Gavin’s trend forecast for 2012 is all about innovation.

He believes event organisers will become more playful with lighting and sound and utilise fibre optic and LED technology.

“Events are going to become a lot more experiential and interactive,” he says.

For more information visit www.grconcept.com Sally Fink

NEWS GENERAL INDUSTRY IF you have any news highlights to share please visit our web portal www.theevent.co.za and load your own stories for consideration in next month’s edition.

ICC Durban appoints CEO THE Durban ICC Board has appointed Julie-May Ellingson as chief executive officer of the Durban ICC after serving in an acting capacity since April.

Julie-May joins the ICC from the eThekwini Municipality’s Strategic Projects Unit which she headed since 2005. Under herleadership over R6 billion was invested in projects across the city, such as the Moses Mabhida Stadium, upgrade of Durban’s central beachfront, development of Sports Hubs in Umlazi, Clermont and KwaMashu, city beautification and phase one of the Victoria Embankment Yacht Mole.

Julie-May says, “First it is to be the best convention centre in Africa, offering a unique African experience with the highest quality service, and second to be a centre for knowledge sharing through which new jobs can be created locally, provincially and nationally.”

“Additionally we are looking at positioning Durban and ICC as one of the world’s premier long-haul international conferencing destinations.”

A LOOK AT CRYSTAL AWARD-WINNING INCENTIVE CAMPAIGNS

The Walthers DMC team and participants at Ezwini

CASE STUDY LAST month The Event Newspaper reported that two South African destination marketing companies (DMCs) brought home Site Crystal Awards. This month, we take a closer look at those winning incentive campaigns.

W

ALTHERS DMC was announced as the winner in two categories, namely: Most Impactful Effort Toward Corporate Social Responsibility and Exceptional Motivational Travel Program – Africa Middle East.

Walthers DMC’s KPMG Meijburg & Co Recruitment Reward Program sought to recognise, engage and reward both leading graduate students as well as existing KPMG Meijburg employees based

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on achievements in previous year’s performance.

Walthers brought the participants to South Africa and created an itinerary that allowed them the opportunity to explore the wonders of Cape Town and get close to the wild side of Africa through a safari experience at Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, all while incorporating teambuilding exercises and time for coursework case studies.

The heart of the programme rested in a day spent with the Ezweni Combined School, located on the outskirts of the Kruger National Park in Lillydale, a facility that supports 500 children.

The visit was ultimately about making a difference at Ezweni that would last beyond the one day. KPMG Meijburg

wanted to ensure that one hundred percent of the funds donated for improvements went to the school and surrounding community for job creation, and that a minimal environmental footprint was left behind.

Approximately 20 local contractors were hired for the project; when all hands worked together the results were amazing: • Four Enviro Loo waterless toilets were installed • Two classrooms had been completed • 100 school desks had been assembled • School text books, stationary and educational and sports equipment had been supplied The program made a significant impact on the Lillydale community and helped school

leaders take one step closer to their vision of expansion to accommodate 1,000 children.

Dragonfly Africa was the winner of the Best Destination Based Experiential Incentive Travel Program for their Fuji Xerox Top Tier campaign.

For Dragonfly’s Fuji Xerox Top Tier campaign the team took participants on a six days and five nights tour of Zambia and Botswana.

For this particular program, the company’s ISMD engagement score (their reporting indicator) moved up a significant 7% YOY from a base of 65% to 72%, deeming the overall financial aspects of the program a success. But true success rested in completing the program with the delivery of an incentive quality experience that would reward both the par-

ticipants and their invited partners, strengthen loyalty to the company, provide team building encounters, and leave the participants with the desire to do it all over again in the next program qualification cycle.

Some experiences, like the tour of stunning Victoria Falls (the largest waterfall in the world,) elephant interactions, and dinner on the Royal Livingstone Hotel lawns are traditional on activities in this region, but from there the predictable soon gave way to a host of optional excursions that spanned a broad range of interests. These included a tranquil spa visit, a tour of the historic Chief Mukuni Village, visiting the Walking with Lions conservation project, flying over Victoria Falls in a microlight plane or helicopter, bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge, taking an elephant-back safari, white water rafting, and rappelling or gorge swinging in the Victoria Gorge.

When Dragonfly sought to select the most appropriate CSR experience for the Fuji Xerox group, they recommended a day trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park and a visit to Mulwani Basic School, a local primary school for orphans and children with HIV/AIDS. The Site Crystal Awards were designed to elevate the global standard of motivational experiences.

For the full list of winners visit www.siteglobal.com Sally Fink

Brought to you by:

EVENT LISTINGS December World Aids Day Gala Concert 1 December, CTICC, CPT DeadMau5 SA Tour 1 December, CTICC, CPT DPSS Awards Dinner 1-2 December, CSIR Convention Centre, Pretoria An Evening With Josh Groban 2 December, Sun City Superbowl, Sun City, North-West Jingle Bells Rock 2 December, Paarl Amphitheatre, Paarl, Western Cape Mzanzi Fela Festival: The Parlotones 2 December, SA State Theatre, Pretoria The DigitalLife Expo 2-4 December, Coca-Cola dome, Northgate Focus 2012 2-4 December, CTICC, CPT ‘Magic of Bubbles’ Cap Classique and Champagne Festival 2-4 December, Franschhoek A tribute to Stevie Wonder & friends 2-6 December, CTICC, CPT Mzanzi Fela Festival: Thandiswa Mazwai 3 December, SA State Theatre, Pretoria Vans Off the Wall Music Night 3 December, The Assembly, CPT

David Karamer’s Some Like It Vrot 3-31 December, Baxter Theatre, Cape Town

Jimmy Carr 8 December, Grand Arena, Grand West, Cape Town, Western Cape

Die Burger Cycle Tour 4 December, Stellenbosch, W Cape

Suncoast Whisky Club 8 December, Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World, Durban

The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Lira 4 December, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town

The Nutcracker on Ice 8 December - 12 February, Teatro At Montecasino, JHB

Mzanzi Fela Festival: Judith Sephuma 4 December, SA State Theatre, Pretoria Carols on The Square 5 December, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton, Gauteng Microscopy Society of Southern African Annual Conference 5-9 December, CSIR Convention Centre, Pretoria CSIR Meraka Institute Conference 5-9 December, CSIR Convention Centre, Pretoria

Freshlyground Love No Hate Tour 9 December, CTICC, CPT The Castle Lite Feel the Beat of Sub Zero Experience 9 December, Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand Carols, Candles & Christmas Gifts 9 December, Durbanville Hills Wine Estate, CPT Lil Wayne 9 December, The Coca-Cola Dome, Johannesburg, Gauteng Obs Arts Festival 9 December, Observatory, CPT

Lil Wayne 7 December, Bellville Velodrome, Cape Town

Mzanzi Fela Festival: Lira 9-10 December, SA State Theatre, Pretoria

Crush/Miele Cooking Event 7 December, Tygervalley, CPT

Canon SA Expo 9-11 December, SCC, Johannesburg

Beyond Sport Summit 7-8 December, CTICC, CPT Global Carbon Exchange Course 7-9 December, Campbell House, Johannesburg Lipizzaners Carols By Candlelight 7-23 December, Lipizzaner Centre, Kyalami, JHB

Marc Lottering stars in David Kramer’s Some Like it Vrot

Jimmy Carr 10 December, Sandton ICC, Johannesburg, Gauteng Coco Lifestyle Summer Launch 10 December, St Yves Beach Club, Camps Bay

Folk & Accoustic Music Festival 10 December, CTICC, CPT Durban Wine Festival 10 December, Munies Hockey Club, Durban, Kwazulu-Natal Miss SA Teen 10 December, Sun City Superbowl, North West

Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre Experience: Prime Circle 10 December, Paul Cluver Wine Estate, Elgin Old Mutual National Choir Festival 10-11 December, Ellis Park Arena, JHB

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EVENT LISTINGS Sting will be touring in South Africa in March next year.

Meetings Africa takes place from 28 February - 1 March, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB

Durban Youth Fashion Week 10-11 December, Fetish Cocktail Lounge, Durban

The Games and Gadget Expo 15-18 December, Good Hope Centre, Cape Town

East Rand Summer Festival 10-12 December, Boksburg, Gauteng

African Dream Christmas Musical 16 December, Good Hope Christian Centre, CPT

Fleur du Cap Summer Sunset Concerts: Delft Big Band 11 December, Helderberg Nature Reserve

Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre Experience: The Parlotones 16 December, Paul Cluver Wine Estate, Elgin

Mzanzi Fela Festival: Winnie Mashaba 11 December, SA State Theatre, Pretoria

Durban Summer Festival 16 December, Kwamashu Bridge City, Durban

Miss South Africa 11 December, Sun City Superbowl, North West Lil Wayne Music Tour 11 December, The Wave House, Durban The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: The Parlotones 11 December, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town Kwanaloga Games Closing Ceremony 12 December, ICC Arena, Durban Global Carbon Exchange Course 12-14 December, The River Club, Cape Town Bollywood Star Night 14 December, CTICC, CPT Dr Victor & the Rasta Rebels 15 December, Grand West Arena, Cape Town

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Bollywood Star Night 16 December, ICC Arena, Durban Vodacom Jazz Picnic 16 December, Kempton Park, Gauteng Diary of a Dancer 16- 17 December, CTICC, CPT MCQP Maid in China 17 December, CTICC, CPT

Bone Detectives: Letting the ancestors speak: From CSI to Sterkfontein 19-23 December, Maropeng, Gauteng Boney M Christmas Special 20 December, Grand West Arena, Cape Town Brother Love 22 -23 December, CTICC, CPT Knysna Rocks Music Festival 23 December, Knysna Sports Ground, Knysna, Western Cape Al-Ansaar Souk 23 December - 1 January, ICC Durban, KwaZulu Nata The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Zebra & Giraffe 26 December, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town Garden of Lights 28 December - 3 January, Kempton Park, Gauteng

Kongos SA Tour 17 December, The Assembly, CPT

BOO! 29 December, Mercury Live & Lounge, Cape Town

Joe Thomas SA Tour 17 December, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB

Rezonance 30 December, Contermanskloof, Durbanville, CPT

Ali Campbell UB40 concert 17 December, Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit

Kirstenbosch Amarula New Year’s Eve Concert with Prime Circle 31 December, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town, Western Cape

Joe Thomas SA Tour 18 December, ICC Arena, Durban

Rock the River SA New Year’s Festival 31 December-2 January, Cape Town Ostrich Ranch, CPT

Prawn Shack New Year 31 December, Amatikulu Beach, Gingindlovu

Saica Board Exams 25-26 January, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban

January

Cape Yearling sale 26-28 January, CTICC, CPT

The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Mango Groove 1 January, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town

Cape Town Tattoo Convention 27-29 January, Pavilion Convention Centre, Cape Town

The Phantom of the Opera 3-8 January, Artscape Theatre, Cape Town L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate 7 January, Kenilworth Racecourse, CPT The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Plush and The Graeme Watkins Project 8 January, Cape Town, Kirstenbosch Fleur du Cap Summer Sunset Concerts: Wurstzipfel 8 January, Helderberg Nature Reserve Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre Experience: Nataniel 14 January, Paul Cluver Wine Estate, Elgin The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Johnny Clegg 15 January, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Dan Patlansky and Natasha Meister 22 January, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town

J&B Met 28 January, Kenilworth Race Course, Cape Town

February Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre Experience: Freshlyground 4 February, Paul Cluver Wine Estate, Elgin The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Flash Republic & Foto na Dans 5 February, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town Fleur du Cap Summer Sunset Concerts: Iam Smith & Virtual Jazz Reality 5 February, Helderberg Nature Reserve EXSA Conference 5-7 February, The Fairway Hotel & Golf Resort, JHB Il Divo in Concert 7 February, Grand West Arena, CPT Toyota Regional Dealer Convention 8-9 February, ICC Durban Standard Bank Roadshow 9 February, ICC Durban

EVENT LISTINGS Red Carpet Fashion Show 2012 takes place in Camps Bay from 10 Debruary 2012.

The Tallest Man on Earth 10 February, CTICC, CPT Red Carpet Fashion Show 10 February, Rotunda, Camps Bay Abdullah Ibrahim in Concert 11 February, CTICC, CPT Fleur du Cap Summer Sunset Concerts: The Navy Staff Band 12 February, Helderberg Nature Reserve The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Going Back To The Crossroads 12 February, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town NuQ Year End Seminar 15 February, CSIR Convention Centre, Pretoria All Things Bike 17-19 February, Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand The Beeld Holiday Show 17-19 February, Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre Experience: Elvis Blue 18 February, Paul Cluver Wine Estate, Elgin The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Taxi Violence and Machineri 19 February, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town AIME 21-22 February, Melbourne

Africa Energy Indaba 21-23 February, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB The Hollies Anniversary World Tour 23 February, Grand Arena, CPT India Clothing & Textile Trade Show 23 -24 February, CTICC, CPT Homemakers Expo 23 – 26 February, Coca-Cola dome, JHB Robertson Hands on Harvest 24- 26 February, Robertson Wine Valley Rewind 80s Festival 25 February, Kings Park Stadium, Durban

Vusi Mahlasela will perform at the Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre Experience on 10 March 2012

March CORMITEX 1-3 March, Gabarone International Showgrounds Hobby-X 1-4 March, Coca-Cola dome, JHB NWJ Bridal fair 2-4 March, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban Design Indaba Expo 2-4 March, CTICC, Cape Town The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: The Blues Broers featuring Albert Frost 4 March, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town

Spier Harvest Festival 25 February, Spier Wine Estate, CPT

Undercover Farming Expo 6-8 March, The Saint George Hotel, Pretoria

Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre Experience: Watershed 25 February, Paul Cluver Wine Estate, Elgin

Tyreexpo Africa 6-8 March, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB

The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: The Cape Philharmonic Orchestra 26 February, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town Meetings Africa 28 February - 1 March, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB Design Indaba Conference 29 February - 3 March, CTICC, CPT

Fleur du Cap Summer Sunset Concerts: Banned in Evolution 12 March, Helderberg Nature Reserve

Hugh Masekela 25 March, The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town

Engen Roadshow 12-14 March, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban

GIBTM 26–28 March, ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, UAE. GIBTM

Oil & Gas Africa 13-15 March, CTICC, Cape Town

Sting: Back to Bass 27-28 March, Grand Arena, CPT

Aeromed Africa Conference & Exhibition 13-16 March, CTICC, CPT

My Business Conference & Expo 29 March, Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand

Sign & Digital Graphics Roadshow 14-15 March, ICC Durban

Cape Town International Jazz Festival 30-31 March, CTICC, CPT

Alexander Forbes Hot Topic Seminars 15 March, CSIR Convention Centre, Pretoria Freshlyground 18 March, The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town

Usher in Concert 8 March, ICC Arena, Durban

Decorex 2012 21-25 March, ICC Durban, KwaZulu Natal

International Fashion Sale 8-11 March, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

Conversations on Architecture 22 March, ICC Durban

Paul Cluver Forest Amphitheatre Experience: Vusi Mahlasela 10 March, Paul Cluver Wine Estate, Elgin

WoodEx for Africa 22-24 March, Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand

Hansa Festival of Legends 10 March, Orlando Stadium, JHB

Culcutta Chamber of Commerce & Industry Trade Show 23-27 March, ICC Durban

The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts: Goldfish 11 March, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town

Sting: back to Bass 24-25 March, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

Basic Education Conference 30 March - 4 April, ICC Durban Wedding Expo 31 March - 1 April, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

April Hot Water and Wrestlerish 1 April, The Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon Expo 4-6 April, Good Hope Centre, CPT Shoppex 2012 5-9 April, ICC Durban, Kwazulu Natal Atomic Junkies 6-9 April, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

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DIARISE

EVENT LISTINGS April (contd)

Cape Town Book Fair 15-17 June, CTICC, Cape Town

Intl Committee on Non-Destructive Testing 16-20 April, ICC Durban

Exchange World Africa 19-22 June, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB

IT & CMA China 17-19 April, Shanghai World Expo Pavilion Theme, China

International Cost Engineering Council World Congress 25-27 June, ICC Durban

JANUARY

Huntex 20 April, Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand

Africa Ports & harbours Congress 25-29 June, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB

Saica Board Exams 25-26 January, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban

Mpumalanga Wine Show 20-21 April, Ingwenyama Sports Resort, Mpumalanga

Africa Rail 26-29 June, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB

Prisa CPD Workshop Trends in 2012 26 January, PRISA Procomm House, Ferndale, Randburg, JHB

Conversations on Architecture 26 April, CTICC, Cape Town

Disney on Ice 27 June- 1 July, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

DECEMBER SAACI Western Cape Branch Committee Meeting 2 December, Cape Town Beyond Sport Summit 7-8 December, CTICC, CPT

FEBRUARY EXSA Conference 5-7 February, The Fairway Hotel & Golf Resort, JHB

AIME 21-22 February, Melbourne Prisa CPD Workshop Strategies to promote public relations in your company 23 February, PRISA Procomm House, Ferndale, Randburg, JHB Meetings Africa 28 February - 1 March, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB

MARCH Prisa CPD Workshop Fundraising - This is how...

6 March, PRISA Procomm House, Ferndale, Randburg, JHB Prisa CPD Workshop Crisis communication management 8 March, PRISA Procomm House, Ferndale, Randburg, JHB Prisa CPD Workshop Change management for PR professionals 14 March, PRISA Procomm House, Ferndale, Randburg, JHB Prisa CPD Workshop Social Media 26-27 March, PRISA Procomm House, Ferndale, Randburg, JHB

Decorex 26-29 April, CTICC, Cape Town Expo 18 Golf Expo 27-29 April, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

May The Joburg Wine Show 4-6 May, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

Eid Shopping Festival 12-15 July, Coca-Cola dome, JHB AFM Women’s Conference 13-15 July, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban Africa Mining Congress 16-19 July, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB

The Baby Expo Mammamagic 17-20 May, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

Future Ed 19-21 July, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

The Getaway Show 31 August - 2 September, CocaCola dome, JHB

SA Council of Shopping Centres Congress 19-20 September, ICC Durban

IMEX 22-24 May, Frankfurt, Germany

Intl Federation of Teachers of French Conference 23-27 July, ICC Durban

September

Durban Business Fair 21-23 September, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban

Fine Brandy Fusion 23-25 May, sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg Grand Designs Live 25-27 May, Coca-Cola dome, JHB SA Property Owners Association Conference 31 May- 2 June, ICC Durban Comrades 31 May - 2 June, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban

June Roxette 3 June, Coca-Cola dome, JHB NUMsA National Congress 4-8 June, ICC Durban Roxette 5 June, ICC Arena, Durban

APRIL

PRISA annual conference 11-12 June, Johannesburg

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July

Indaba 12-15 May, ICC Durban

GIBTM 26–28 March, ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, UAE. GIBTM

IT & CMA China 17-19 April, Shanghai World Expo Pavilion Theme, China

Decorex takes place from 21-25 March at ICC Durban, KwaZulu Natal

SA TB Conference 12-15 June, ICC Durban

Limpopo Wine Show 27-28 July, Meropa Casino, Polokwane SAACI National Conference 29-31 July, Indaba Hotel, Fourways Banking Outlook Africa 30 July-3 August, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB

August Conversations on Architecture 8 August, Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand Decorex 8-12 August, Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand Andre Rieu 17 August, Coca-Cola dome, JHB IT&CMA India 21-23 August, India Expo Centre, Delhi Wedding Expo 25-26 August, Coca-Cola dome, JHB

SA Orthopaedic Association Congress 3-7 September, ICC Durban Intermodal Africa 5-7 September, ICC Durban National Boat Show 7-9 September, Coca-Cola dome, JHB Eastern Bridal Fair 7-9 September, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban Sports & Events Tourism Exchange 12-14 September, ICC Durban Business Opportunities and Franchise Expo 13-16 September, Coca-Cola dome, JHB Medunsa Refresher Course 14-16 September, CSIR Convention Centre, Pretoria ISBC 15-18 September, Santon Convention Centre, JHB Planning Africa 16-19 September, ICC Durban

Good Food and Wine Show 21-24 September, Coca-Cola dome, JHB Cape Town Wine Show & Vindaba 25-27 September, CTICC, Cape Town

October Rage 2-7 October, Coca-Cola dome, JHB Homemakers Fair Expo 4-7 October, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban Cosmetex Africa 16-18 October, Sandton Convention Centre, JHB ICCA Congress 20-24 October, San Juan, Puerto Rico Engen Roadshow 23-24 October, ICC Exhibition Centre, Durban

PIRACY IN AFRICA - TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT CURRENT AFFAIRS ACCORDING to the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) there were over four hundred pirate attacks off the African coast in 2010, with over 1000 hostages taken.

P

IRACY refers to the war-like acts committed by private parties (not affiliated with any government) that engage in acts of criminal activity at sea.

The biggest perpetrators originate from Somalia, which is currently under siege by warlords.

Piracy is a feasible means of income for impoverished Somalis (many of whom are fisherman) as the East African coast is a major maritime shipping route. Approximately 30% of the world’s oil trade passes through this region.

The absence of Somali coastal security has allowed illegal international fishing and maritime dumping to go unchecked. It has also aided the growth of Somalia’s “pirate economy” with ransoms now averaging more than USD five million. The United Nations estimates worldwide losses of between USD13-16 Billion per year. Approximately USD110 million has been paid out as ransom to pirates in the last two years.

An added problem is that there is no international legal system for suspects accused of piracy. Pirates apprehended on the

high seas are often released because of the difficulties of prosecuting them. Few are successfully prosecuted for their actions.

The effects of piracy are frightening, especially in the cruising industry which is seeing major cancellation of business.

In 2007 the Kenyan coastal city of Mombasa received 40 cruise ships calls. In 2009 this number dwindled to 16 calls and by 2010 the number had further declined to two calls. The loss to the Mombasa economy is calculated to be approximately USD 200,000 per call. This works out to a total loss to the Kenyan Tourism Industry as approximately USD 5-6 Million. Piracy has essentially destroyed Mombasa’s plans to build a cruise ship terminal, not to mention its status as a major shipping hub.

The Indian Ocean island of Seychelles has also been hard hit by piracy. Last year saw the kidnapping of British tourists, Paul and Rachel Chandler, just off the island of Mahe. Security has been stepped up to halt the spread of piracy with coast guard vessels and US warships outnumbering the cruise ships that used to frequent the azure waters.

As part of Operation Ocean Shield NATO has to date dispatched approximately 31 vessels to patrol the east African coast, but pirate vessels are fast and often operate at night, and once they have control of

US warships attack a pirate vessel

a ship, no further military action is possible because of the presence of hostages. The IMB suggests ship owners adopt measures such as onboard security, tracking devices and razor fencing to counteract piracy.

But despite these measures the threat of piracy is increasing. Maritime advisor Michael Owen Jones says piracy is rife along the entire African coast from the Gulf of Aden to Algeria in the West, and that 90% of piracy worldwide takes place off Africa, equally split between East and West Africa. “Tourists

in Kenyan coastal islands and towns are soft targets and are only money to the war lords. No one is safe and protection is not policed and/or managed by local law enforcement agencies,” he says.

Pirate vessels have been reported in the Mozambique Channel, which receives 98% of South Africa’s maritime trade. It has been over a year since South Africans Bruno Pelizzari and Debbie Calitz were captured by Somali pirates in the Mozambique Channel. Diplomatic attempts by the South African Govern-

ment to secure their release have been unsuccessful.

South Africa’s minister of Defense Lindiwe Sisulu has acknowledged the threat of piracy to South Africa. She told leaders from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) that six million tons of oil are transported around South Africa’s western coastline every month, making it a prime target for pirates. She urged SADC leaders to consider the protection of Southern African waters to safeguard the nations’ economies.

Sally Fink

cocktail-style, standing functions.

It can cater to about 120 people for cocktail style functions.

The Summit Boardroom is situated in the Upper Cable Station building, above the Summit Lounge. It has two private balconies: facing Lion’s Head and the City bowl, which can cater to 15 people. The Twelve Apostle’s Mountain range and Devil’s Peak balcony can take around 40 people.

During the summer months the outdoor venues are relatively reliable but one have to keep in mind that for many of the outdoor venues they do not have a back up plan. Should the wind be too strong they will cancel and close for safety reasons. You would have to secure a secondary venue for your group.

A variety of their outdoors venues have hosted intimate weddings, large charity fundraisers and corporate lunches.

The Twelve Apostles Terrace is situated below the Table Mountain Café. It faces the Twelve Apostle’s Mountain range has a maximum capacity of 400 people and is ideally suited for early morning breakfast and evening cocktail functions.

The City Side Viewing Deck is an open-air balcony situated near the Summit Lounge and is a two minute walk from the Upper Cable Station. This sandstone walled deck has stunning views of the city and it is excellent venue to host a function any time of day.

The Sacred Circle Viewing Deck area is a five minute walk from the Upper Cable Station,

overlooking the City and can cater for 30 people.

The Café Terrace Balcony is an open-air venue situated behind the Cafe, above the Twelve Apostles Terrace. This balcony faces the Twelve Apostle’s mountain range and is a fantastic site for sunset cocktail functions. The balcony can take a maximum of 35 people standing.

Table Mountain is becoming quite a popular wedding venue for couples wanting to tie the knot on top of the world.

The Table Mountain Cableway’s venue hire includes the basic furniture, table linens, equipment and service requirements.

Remember to budget in the cost of your guest’s return fare for the cable car. What is really novell is that they have little miniature Table Mountain shaped bottles of 125ml which you can fill with anything from alcoholic drinks, to juices to olive oil.

The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is also committed to preserving the amazing biodiversity of its fynbos and its environment in general. It has scooped more than a handful of environmental awards and accolades, the latest being in 2010 – a Platinum for its Heritage Environmental Rating. The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company was the first business in Africa to achieve Green Globe Certification and was one of the first to achieve the SABS ISO14001 certification.

And don’t forget that you can ride the Cable car free on your birthday.

Astrid Stark

EVENTING ON TOP OF THE WORLD Table Mountain

VENUES NOW that Table Mountain has been voted in as an official New Seventh Wonder of Nature it is going to be hard to top it as one of the most unusual and spectacular places in South Africa to hold a special function.

T

HE Cape Floral Region, which includes Table Mountain, is a stretch of land and sea spanning 90 000 square kilometres, and is one of the richest plant kingdoms in the world.

Of course, the mountain being more than 1000 metres above sea level, with sweeping views

of the Cape Peninsula’s stunning curves, the busy harbour, the V&A Waterfront, and a stretch of ocean as far as the eye can see, add to its attraction as unusual function venue, not to mention the fact that Cape Town recently won the bid for World Design Capital 2014.

Once you’ve reached the top of the legendary cloud covered table (the legend goes that Jan Van Hunks won a pipe smoking competition with the devil) you have a choice of two indoor venues and four outdoor venues.

With Cape Town’s tempestuous weather your most reliable option will be to go inside and

use the Summit Lounge and the Summit Boardroom. And even in summer it is best to advise your guests to dress in layers and take extra warm clothing as it is a few degrees colder on the mountain.

The Summit Lounge is situated in the Upper Cable Station building and has breathtaking views of the entire city. This U-shaped venue has three private balconies; facing Lion’s Head and the City Bowl with a capacity of 15 people; facing the mountain and the Twelve Apostle’s Mountain range has a capacity of 40 people and the Devil’s Peak balcony can take about 15 people.

This venue is ideally suited for

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TOP TRENDS FOR 2012 Some organisers are already using their iPhones to record videos of keynote speakers which they upload straight to YouTube.

This stadium was designed as a field of simple elements hoisted into the air to provoke a sense of dynamic display, referencing back to traditional nomadic structures. © POPULOUS

GENERAL INDUSTRY THE Event Newspaper looked far and wide to find the top events industry trends for 2012.

Event APPs THIS is less of a forecast than a reality. This year’s EIBTM saw the launch of the first full show EIBTM Event APP, which was designed to meet the individual needs of all EIBTM attendees. The APP contained all exhibitor and show information, venue maps and floor plan, a guide to the city of Barcelona and direct links to all social media portals. Most importantly, the APP was available as a free download. Soon no event will be complete without one.

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The iPad IPADS are also playing an increasingly important role in eventing. An example of what’s happening overseas is the unique iPad application created to showcase venues throughout Scotland that can be downloaded for free from the Apple store. iPads are excellent tools for exhibitors to demonstrate their products and services at their stands and is a much more convenient way to deliver presentations to clients than lugging around laptops. Next year also keep a look out for show dailies published directly to the iPad. Social media integration ONE major advantage of social

media is that it allows businesses to communicate directly with customers. The second is cost.

Starting a conversation online directly with your customers is far more economical than newsletters, phone calls and PR, and has the additional advantage of creating customer loyalty as more often than not, the relationships created online will carry over into the real world.

Social media is also being used to extend the reach of events. Many shows use official hashtags on Twitter which encourages conference delegates to Tweet show developments as they happen, and assists in broadening the scope of events to an even wider audience.

Gaming AT an EXSA workshop held earlier this year Industry stalwart Dirk Elzinga predicted that online games will make a big impact at events.

Digital games are a good way to engage delegates and add an element of fun to events.

A good idea is to integrate the exhibition floor into the game, allowing the user to navigate the show and learn about exhibitors as part of a treasure hunt or quiz.

In this way virtual events can be used to great effectiveness as an educational solution.

Collaboration “THE upswing of the economic recession is that it necessitated the need for businesses to reinvent themselves in order to survive,” says Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) COO Joey Pather. “In order to position South Africa as a leading international meetings and events destination strategic partnerships and alliances are gaining importance. It is vital that businesses work with their clients on enhancing and growing their meetings and events.”

Carbon Neutral Events BABA Indaba is fast on its way

to becoming carbon neutral.

“We have been making steady progress in this area and have recently implemented an innovative solution for each of our exhibitors to obtain individual renewable energy certificates for their stands at Baba Indaba.

In addition to this we ensure that electricity consumption is kept to a minimum thereby reducing the carbon emissions attributable to the show,” says show director Natalie Naude.

The impact of air and road travel can be offset by investing in carbon-offset projects. Finding a venue with an ISO 140001 standard, which specifies the requirements for an organisation’s environmental management system, is a good first step. Event organisers can also enlist the help of independent carbon experts, such as Icologie, to conduct a thorough eco-audit.

Event Greening Forum’s Justin Hawes says, “Greening has received a lot of positive media coverage and people love the concept, but I found very few clients requesting green innovations in 2011. In 2012 I think this will change. The South African Climate Change Response Expo is asking all the exhibitors to make sustainable choices, and this has been a catalyst for exploring green options. As a result there has been a frenzy of creativity and cool ideas emerging – many of which do not cost a lot.”

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Stand Innovations Sponsored by 3D Group 3D ACHIEVES SUCCESS LOCALLY AND ABROAD 3D Stand

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HE 3D Design Group, one of South Africa’s leading turnkey exhibition companies, is winding down a tough but rewarding year with success both locally and abroad.

The group links several strate-

gic business units specialising in the supply of a comprehensive range of products and services for exhibitors and exhibition and event organisers alike together.

These have the capacity to design, construct, project manage

and execute up to 400 events and exhibitions exhibits a year, as well as provide specialist services such as furniture and lighting hire, and the development of marketing collateral.

Early in November, 3D Design was called to the podium nine times at the 2011 EXSA Awards Gala Dinner held to honour those who have contributed to the industry over the last 12 months. Its achievements included six Best of Stand Awards, a Certificate of Excellence for its own stand at Markex Johannesburg, and being named Best Supplier Company of the Year – Stand Design & Construction. In addition, 3D Group co-founder and managing director, John Kullmann was inducted into EXSA’s Hall of Fame and 3D Furniture Hire manager, Tony Cantatore, received a Best Supplier Employee Award.

3D Design was rewarded for its KIA stand at the Johannesburg International Motor Show, its Mercedes Benz stand at Automechanika, its Telkom stand at SATCOM, its Southern Sun stand at Meetings Africa, its stand for the Axis Work Group

at Mediatech, and for its Roche Diagnostics stand at Laboratory Medicine.

“The group’s familiarity with major exhibition centres around the world also saw it design and project manage the construction of many more stands overseas. Here, its membership of the OSPI partner network reaped dividends, and translated into cost savings for clients. ‘Designed here, built there’ – the loose summation of the OSPI philosophy – really benefits clients,” says group sales director, Conrad Kullmann. “Not only do they save time and money when it comes to transporting their stands, it significantly reduces the environmental impact of exhibiting in centres around the globe,” says Conrad.

Several of the more recent destinations for 3D Design’s clients include Geneva, Istanbul for the Department of Science & Technology and London for SA Tourism at the World Travel Market.

Over 330 world leaders, including heads of state, heads of government, ministers, national ambassadors, heads

of regulatory agencies, and CEOs from around the world, came together to debate and interact on a broad-reaching global agenda spanning everything from broadband to connecting cities, harnessing innovation and next-generation wireless advances, and featured live participation from around the world.

“We’ve worked at ITU Telecom World – the exhibition and conference for the International Telecommunication Union – before. This year’s event closed its doors on 27 October 2011 after four intensive days of high-level networking, knowledge exchange and deal-making.”

“3D Design was commissioned to build the Telkom exhibition stand and the South Africa Pavilion for the Department of Communication in Geneva this year. We worked together with our OSPI partners in Switzerland and Austria, again demonstrating our ability to design and construct exhibition stands anywhere in the world where they may be required.

Both were delighted with the result,” says Conrad.

SISTERS ACT BUILD UNIQUE STANDS FOR WHISKY FESTIVAL

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HE FNB Whisky Live Festival took place from 2–4 November 2011 in Cape Town and 9–11 November 2011 in Johannesburg.

The festival has officially cemented its reputation as the largest, liveliest and most entertaining whisky event of its kind in the world and is gaining popularity among South Africans.

Showcasing whiskies from all around the world, the event attracts more visitors and brands than any other whisky festival – globally.

Sisters Act conceptualised and built two large stands for Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky and Three Ships, managing all logistics around the project for both Cape Town and Johannesburg.

The stands utilised bespoke

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Whisky Live

lighting to create inviting spaces to attract visitors.

The team also facilitated a whisky tasting of both brands

Whisky Live

and two tasting sessions per night in the center room with the master distiller. A promotional activation encouraged

guests to enter their information onto one of two iPads in order to join the James Sedgwick distillery page for further informa-

tion and distillery images.

Sally Fink

LAND TENURE SEALS DEAL FOR CTICC EXPANSION GENERAL INDUSTRY

Proposed Expansion View

AFTER 18 months of negotiation, the final land deal for the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) has been secured.

A

CCORDING to CEO, Rashid Toefy, with the deal concluded, subject to due diligence, plans are already underway to proceed with the next phase of the CTICC expansion project. The existing building offers 55 000 m² of lettable space and the intention of the expansion is to increase this capacity by 49 000 m².

The tender for the architectural and design team has been issued and the development manager is expected to be appointed in the new year.

The expansion has sparked considerable local and international interest and at the first tender briefing for the architectural and design team, more than 30 local architects were in attendance, showcasing the potential of talent in Cape Town. The shortlisting of the top five candidates is expected to be announced in December 2011. Thereafter another selection round will take place and the appointment of the official architectural and design team will be announced in March 2012.

The expansion will not only allow for the growth of internation-

al conferences and exhibitions, but will play a pivotal role in driving skills development and contributing to local job creation in the initial construction phase and the sustained jobs thereafter, as a result of induced tourism. “The core mandate of the CTICC has always been to maximise economic spinoff and job creation and the expansion speaks directly to this imperative,” says Rashid.

“As a convention centre, whose values are entrenched around economic, social and environmental advancement, sustainability considerations permeate every aspect of the business. It’s what drives CTICC to innovate, create opportunities and effect change in the meetings and events industry in terms of sustainability. “The centre will be

aiming for a six star green rating and we plan to set the benchmark in terms of being one of the world’s leading green buildings,” says Rashid. “With the world’s focus on Cape Town in the lead up to 2014, having been designated as the World Design Capital it is fitting that Cape Town will soon boast an iconic convention centre that uses design to transform, unite and contribute to a vibrant global city.”

A recent feasibility report by economists from the University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business that measured the possible impact of the expansion revealed that the centre’s contribution to national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to increase to over R 5.1 billion, while Gross Geographic Product

(GGP) is expected to increase by R 1. 8 billion per annum by 2018.

“The expansion plans are proceeding according to schedule and in the next few months the tenders for the quantity surveyors, project managers and sustainability consultants will be issued.

“With international conferences having a minimum booking lead time of three years, the sales and marketing drive has kicked off in

anticipation of the new expanded convention centre, which is set to open at the end of 2015”, concluded Rashid.

Construction is expected to begin in mid-2013 and the expected date for completion is end of 2015.

Sally Fink

NEWS HIGHLIGHTS GENERAL INDUSTRY IF you have any news highlights to share please visit our web portal www.theevent.co.za and load your own stories for consideration in next month’s edition.

EXSA Conference Venue Chosen EXSA has announced that the Fairway Hotel in Johannesburg will be the venue for their 2012 Conference.

“We decided to keep the venue local for our Johannesburg members and yet give them a wonderful experience at this superb five-star venue,” says EXSA chair Natalie Naude. “This will hopefully encourage people

to attend – both members and non-members are welcome.”

The theme of the 2012 conference is “Driving Delivery With Value” and will take place from 5-7 February 2012.

The programme includes international speakers Hans Bruder from Octanorm, Germany and Kristian Willand from ESG, Australia as well as a distinguished array of local speakers on various topics, including: •Brand Activation •International Trends • Evolution of Design •The highs and lows of launching a new show •Demystifying ROI •Status of the Global Exhibition Industry

•Smartphones and Tablets: toys or an operational advantage?

•Protection of Private Information Act •Legal Compliance for client data •Venues: “Why Not” to “Can Do” • A DIY Guide to Safety & Security Compliance •Skills Development – Services SETA – the Dawn of a New Era Gautrain to stop at CSIR THE Gautrain together with the Gautrain H2 Lynnwood bus, which departs from the Gautrain Hatfield Station, now offers commuters to the CSIR International Convention Centre (CSIR ICC).

To assist first time Gautrain and Gautrain bus users the CSIR

ICC has step-by step information sheets available with information pertaining directly to reaching the CSIR ICC by Gautrain. Information can also be obtained from the Gautrain website.

Undercover Farming Expo for SA THE inaugural Undercover Farming Expo takes place from 6-8 March 2012 at The Saint George Hotel and Convention Centre near Pretoria. The expo will focus on intensive farming techniques and farming industries.

Hanlie Delport, exhibition manager, says this expo will serve as a business hub and will create the ideal platform for industry professionals to be on the frontier of protected farming and

Fairway Hotel

to network with key players in the industry.

Join us facebook.com/theevent.newspaper • PUBLISHER: Film & Event Publishing

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twitter.com/TheEventSA

February booking deadline 19 January 2012 February material deadline 21 January 2012

• COPY EDITOR: Kate Hodges (kate@thecallsheet.co.za) DISCLAIMER: Opinions expressed in The Event do not necessarily represent the official viewpoint of the editor or the publisher, while inclusion of adverts/advertising features does not imply endorsement of any business, product or service. Copyright of this material is reserved. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, The Event and/or its employees may not be held liable or responsible for any act or ommission committed by any person, including a juristic person, referred to in this publication. It and they furthermore accept(s) no responsibility for any liability arising out of any reliance that a reader of this publication places on the contents of this publication.

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IMVELO AWARDS HIGHLIGHT RESPONSIBLE TOURISM ACHIEVERS Southern Sun Waterfront

GENERAL INDUSTRY THE winners in the 2011 Imvelo Responsible Tourism Awards programme were announced on World Tourism Day.

T

HE Imvelo Awards, which recognises tourism businesses that demonstrate sustained responsible practice, is organised by the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA) in association with the National Department of Tourism.

Brett Dungan, CEO of FEDHASA, said the overall winner, selected from the six category winners, was the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company.

Drakensberg Sun

The judges applauded the company’s overall performance and sustained commitment to responsible practice. “The company has for many years been at the forefront of environmental stewardship, having been the first business in Africa to achieve Green Globe Certification and one of the first in tourism to achieve the ISO14001 certification through the SABS,” says Brett.

“It operates a high-impact business in one of the world’s most sensitive and iconic sites, one that is recognised as a World Heritage Site by the UNEP.” Brett said particular attention has been given to minimising the

impacts that this business has – while recognising the importance and growing international demand for access.

“This year the company has transported over 775 000 visitors to the mountain top, making it the Western Cape’s single most important tourist attraction, and nationally only second to the Kruger National Park. It has been a finalist and winner in various categories of Imvelo since 2005, and in spite of its size has managed to hold its own against significant competition for recognition,” he says.

In the category Best Social Involvement Programme the group winner was Sun Interna-

tional Zambia. The independent winner was African Impact. Entrants were judged on examples of corporate and social responsibility like community investment initiatives, local outsourcing, community health, welfare and education activities, promotion of local SMME enterprises as well as local HIV/Aids and other social programmes.

In the category Best practice - economic impact the group winner was Sun International Zambia. The independent winner was the Backpack and African Travel Centre. Entrants were judged on local purchasing and economic practices, employment equity, Black Economic Empowerment, employee training and development.

The Drakensberg Sun Lifestyle Resort walked away as the group winner in the category Best Overall Environmental Management System. The Nkomazi Game Reserve in Mpumalanga was highly commended in this category. Entries were judged on combined environmental issues including management systems and procedures, conservation activities, social and economic initiatives, communication systems and awareness creation.

In the category Best Single resource Management Programme - Energy Management the winner was the Town Lodge Sandton in Grayston Drive.

The Drakensberg Sun Lifestyle

Resort was the winner in the category Best Single Resource Management Programme - Water Management.

In the category Best single resource management programme - waste management the group winner was the Southern Sun Waterfront Hotel in Cape Town. The independent winner in this category was the Backpack and Africa Travel Centre.

In the category Most Empowered Tourism Business the winner was Southern Sun Hotels Interests.

The Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town was highly commended in this category. Entrants were judged on the extent to which they addressed empowerment.

In the category Investor in people, the winner was the Vineyard Hotel and Spa. Motsethabo Tours was highly commended in this category. Entrants were judged on the practical development of human resources, determined by national minimum standards or guidelines.

The FEDHASA Chairman’s Award was made to Lorraine Jenks of Hotelstuff/Greenstuff for her commitment to responsible tourism practice in the hospitality industry.

Brett said this year’s entries were of a very high standard and no less than 159 category entries were received with a total of 38 tourism businesses that made it to the finals.

Sally Fink

says Martin Snoek of Marketing Services and Communication, designers of the new logo.

Entries for the 2012 PRISM Awards are now open and, with 37 categories, public relations agencies, practitioners and corporates have an even wider range of options in submitting entries. The deadline closes 20 January 2012.

This conference, which will coincide with the WoodEX for Africa exhibition, creates a platform for wood and woodworking professionals to be on the frontier of the timber industry and to network with key players in the industry. “Participation in this conference is an ideal opportunity for industry members to learn from the foremost timber and industry related experts and to discuss key issues. Our advisory board will ensure that the conference programme will address and meet the needs of the industry. Our aim is to produce a conference for the industry by the industry,” says Celeste Whitaker, WoodEX for Africa Conference planner.

Sally Fink

NEWS HIGHLIGHTS GENERAL INDUSTRY IF you have any news highlights to share please visit our web portal www.theevent.co.za and load your own stories for consideration in next month’s edition.

velop Africa as a leading conventions and events destination, and to ensure that international conventions that rotated, included Africa on their schedule of destinations, for international delegates to experience.

Nigeria appoints Africa Bureau of Conventions NIGERIAN minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Edem Duke, has appointed the African Bureau of Conventions to strategically assist in the development and promotion of Nigeria as a convention, exhibition and event destination.

The African Bureau of Conventions says that their overall strategy is to promote and de-

More Categories for PRISM Awards NEW categories and a new corporate identity for the PRISMs reflect the expanding scope of the industry and growing stature of the achievement Awards for public relations and communication.

The five new categories all focus on digital and online media, reflecting the massive growth of these new media in the public

relations and communication space, not only in South Africa, but globally. “The diversity of online, social and digital media over recent years has unleashed huge opportunities for the public relations industry – but also challenges,” says Bridget von Holdt, convenor of the PRISM Awards.

“The integration of these tools into public relations campaigns and strategies has provided a tremendous opportunity for public relations professionals to leverage online and social media outlets to boost their offerings.”

2012 also introduces a new corporate identity for the PRISMs. “The logo has evolved into a vibrant, friendlier symbol of the revitalised Awards and categories,’

We’re distributing 4 000 copies a month free via bulk distribution at event industry organisations and associations; key industry meeting points like convention centres, hotels and rental houses; and at key industry events. This means we’ll remain the most read events industry trade publication.

After seven years of carrying the cost of mailing another 4 000 copies direct to everyone else, we’re asking for subscriptions to help us cover our rising distribution costs.

Subscribe now for just R22.80 pm to keep receiving your copy, delivered to your door every month.

Please contact us for a subscription debit order form: nadia@filmeventmedia.co.za or 021 674 0646.

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Advisory Board for WoodEx for Africa AN advisory board has been formed to develop the programme content of the inaugural WoodEX for Africa Conference, which will be held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand from 22–24 March 2012.

NEW iNitiativEs aNNouNcEd for aimE EVENTS THE (AIME) team is constantly developing the show to keep it fresh and dynamic, and as the event enters its 20th year, the organisers have announced some significant changes and updates.

Globe restaurant sponsored by South Africa Tourism IN 2012, AIME’s Globe restaurant will be sponsored by South African Tourism and will draw on the different culinary delights that attendees can enjoy when travelling to South Africa for their next conference or incentive trip.

Lalie Ngozi, country manager, South African Tourism Australasia, said they are hoping to entice delegates to discover their exciting and thoughtfully tailored menu throughout the show.

“South African Tourism has a long standing relationship with AIME, so we are thrilled that the business tourism representatives who visit from across the AsiaPacific will be able to sample a selection of both South Africa traditional meals, as well as those that have been given a modern twist,” she says.

“The flavours of South Africa are certainly unique, but we are sure that visitors will enjoy trying our delicious national dishes.”

New Globe 2 dining area FOR AIME attendees who are looking for food-on-the-go and do not have time to sit down and enjoy AIME’s Globe restaurant, the new Globe 2 dining option will be a welcome addition to the 2012 show. Sponsored by the Singapore Tourism Board, and providing faster meal options, Globe 2’s ‘SingaporeXpress’ will give diners a taste of the hawker-style cuisine that Singapore is famous for while providing a casual Singaporeinspired dining area.

Ozaccom Plus AIME has teamed up with Ozaccom Plus to offer accommodation and flight packages to Melbourne for AIME attendees.

Visitors and exhibitors will be able to find flights and preferable room rates from members of the Australian Hotel Association (AHA), as well as three additional hotel properties, making it a one-stop-shop for AIME travel plans. AIME attendees for 2012 can visit www.aime.com.au from late November and book their trip in one go.

New association partnerships AIME 2012 welcomes three exciting new partnerships with major associations within the events and conference planning industry. The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), the Professional Con-

ference Organisers Association Inc (PCO) and the International Special Events Society (ISES) will work alongside AIME organisers to promote business event opportunities to their current and prospective members.

AIME already has established relationships with Meetings & Events Australia (MEA) and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).

By engaging many of the industry’s well respected associations, AIME is able to connect with a larger scope of event planners around the world and further strengthen its position at the forefront of the industry.

Association Lounge A NEW Association Lounge will be added to the show floor providing the three new association partners, ACTE, PCO and ISES, with a comfortable space where they can hold business meetings and network with AIME attendees. The Association Lounge will be found near the Visitor Pamper Zone.

Education Programme A NEW look Education Program will be introduced for AIME 2012 providing excellent professional development opportunities for all AIME attendees. The Program will be created with input from the industry and AIME’s association partners to deliver relevant and interesting content that ad-

AIME

dresses the current challenges and issues facing the meetings and incentives industry.

Saxton Ultimate Event Experience THE Saxton Ultimate Event Experience, a showcase of entertainment for business events including impressive illusion, motivational speaking, dance and music, will return to AIME for the third consecutive year in 2012.

AIME organisers have moved the show to an earlier timeslot on Wednesday morning before the start of the Pre Scheduled Appointments (PSAs), allowing Hosted Buyers to attend.

Hosted Buyer options REGISTRATIONS to attend AIME

2012 are now live at www. aime.com.au and organisers are encouraging buyers to get in early for the chance to be accepted on the VIP Hosted Buyer Program.

Benefits available to buyers include flights, accommodation, Pre Touring itineraries in regional Victoria and access to AIME’s exclusive Hosted Buyer Lounge and Crown Pamper Zone, as well as the extensive networking program.

AIME takes place from 21 -22 February 2012 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).

For more information and to register as a Hosted Buyer please visit www.aime.com.au.

Sally Fink

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