SPICE February 2019

Issue 84 – February – 2019

2019 LEADERS FORUM Insights from the industry’s leading minds

ROXY JACENKO The PR guru talks event trends, social media and more HOT SPOTS Adelaide Hills, Byron Bay, Bali

DAYDREAM ISLAND

A new era for the iconic island resort

WHERE

GOALS, FUN & MOTIVATION MEET.

Singapore is the perfect place to combine business and leisure for meetings and incentive travel. Our cutting-edge facilities, unique venues and wide range of entertainment options enable forward-thinking leaders to engage and empower their staff with innovative ways of working, thinking and bonding. It’s where your passion for growth – of your organisation and your employees – is made possible. Take your team and business further – plan your next event at visitsingapore.com/mice.

CLARKE QUAY

Contents

48 February 2019

10 Cover story

12

Daydream Island Resort gears up for its grand re-opening

12 Trend report Find out what’s trending in events in 2019

16 Leaders Forum Predictions and plans from the leaders of the business events industry

10 38

38 Team building Five team-building experiences that go against the norm

42 Adelaide Hills The hills are alive in this South Australian gem

14

44 Club Med Bali Eat, sleep, meet, repeat

46 The Byron at Byron Escape the city and host your next event in the middle of a rainforest

48 Insider: Roxy Jacenko The queen of PR and events tells all

4 Spice February 2019

42

44

Editorial

Smells Like Team Spirit

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Brittney Levinson Editor Managing Director Simon Grover Publisher James Wells Editor Brittney Levinson blevinson@intermedia.com.au National Sales Team

hen putting together the 2019 Leaders Forum, I couldn’t help but notice how often the word “team” was mentioned when interviewing the industry leaders featured on pages 16 through to 36.

During our conversations, many of them attributed their success to the support and hard work of their employees or colleagues. Whether it’s the nature of the industry we’re in or perhaps a universal movement, it’s encouraging to know the business events industry operates in such a collaborative environment.

Thank you to the industry professionals who participated in this year’s Leaders Forum and took time out of their busy schedules to share their thoughts and predictions for 2019. For me, it was a great opportunity to get to know many of the industry’s prominent figures, and for our readers, I hope it offers some inspiration and insight for the year ahead.

I also had the pleasure of interviewing the ever-fabulous Roxy Jacenko, who is a

leader in her own right with a wealth of knowledge to share with the industry about events, social media and all things business.

You can read the full story on page 48.

In keeping with the team spirit, this issue we’ve uncovered some great team-building experiences that will lure your corporate teams out of the office for some bonding time. We’ve skipped the eye-roll-inducing ice-breaker activities and opted for out-ofthe-box experiences, such as axe throwing and grape stomping. Head to page 38 for all the details.

Our recent travels have taken us to the Adelaide Hills, where we discovered a conferencing property filled with history and of course some stand-out wineries.

Read all about it on page 42. We also paid a visit to Bali (page 44) and Byron Bay (page 46).

After reading this issue, I think you’ll agree 2019 is shaping up to be a great year for business events. Our industry leaders are certainly confident that there are good things to come.

Katherine Ross, Charlotte Marshall Head of Circulation Chris Blacklock ph 1800 651 422 Production Manager Jacqui Cooper jacqui@intermedia.com.au Production Assistant Natasha Jara njara@intermedia.com.au Graphic Designer Alyssa Coundouris Prepress

Spice Magazine Team Group sales and marketing manager Katherine Ross

Sales and marketing manager

Graphic Designer

Charlotte Marshall

Alyssa Coundouris

+ 61 2 8586 6176

+61 2 8586 6216

+61 2 8586 6152

kross@intermedia.com.au

cmarshall@intermedia.com.au

alyssac@intermedia.com.au

Visit SpiceNews.com.au for the latest industry news as it happens.

Our twice-weekly updates cover venues, suppliers, destinations and technology, as well as inspiration and tips to help you plan stand-out events. @SpiceNews

@SpiceNewsMag

@SpiceNewsMag

Spice Magazine

Tony Willson The opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers in SPICE magazine are not necessarily those of Food and Beverage Media’s management or staff.

All material contained in SPICE is copyright.

SPICE Magazine is published by The Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd (ABN 81 163 792 292) 41 Bridge Road, Glebe NSW 2037 ph: 02 9660 2113, fax: 02 9660 4419 ISSN 1832-7176

Spice Magazine and spicenews.com.au are proud media partners of:

DISCLAIMER This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

Copyright © 2019 - Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd.

www.spicenews.com.au 5

Upfront

5 tips for growing your brand on Instagram Spice Magazine paid a visit to Instagram HQ in Sydney to take part in a Masterclass in Business on Instagram.

Here’s what we learnt: 1/ Set up a business profile The first step to Instagram success is creating a business profile.

“When you create a business profile, you can share valuable information with people, like your business address, the category of your business or your contact information,” says Talia KnowlesRivas, ANZ product marketing lead at Facebook and Instagram.

If your business is currently set as a personal profile, tap on settings and choose Switch to Business Profile. Fill in your contact information and you’re done!

2/ Use Insights “Once you’ve set up [a business] profile, you have access to a suite of tools to help you understand who your followers are, what kind of posts are performing and how you want to leverage those insights in your marketing,” she says.“[Insights] gives you an indication of what types of content are resonating really well throughout the day and throughout the week, to help you introduce a more systematic approach to how you’re using Instagram.”

3/ Utilise Stories Instagram Stories appear at the top of your feed and feature short videos or images that disappear after 24 hours.“Stories is becoming a very important part of how you can drive traffic to your business profile on Instagram,” says Knowles-Rivas. Stories should be used to share behind-the-scenes snapshots of your business or events and can also be used to garner customer feedback through polls.

4/ Engage with your followers Instagram users expect a prompt response to any messages or comments they make on a business profile, so make sure you’re responsive.“It’s a very vulnerable thing to reach out to someone you don’t know and to comment on their post, so it’s important to acknowledge that vulnerability and reward it by responding in a timely manner,” she says.

5/ Use hashtags “Hashtags are a really important way to get discovered on Instagram and it’s an important way to find and build a community that already exists,” said Knowles-Rivas. Use industry-related hashtags like #eventprofs, #eventinspo or #conferences, and create your own unique hashtags for your audience to use.

Top five

most clicked

1

3

4

How chatbots are shaking up the event industry

5

We’ve given our

Peter Rowland partners with MasterChef’s Jess Lemon

Where can I park?

We asked eight event

The Melbourne caterer

settings to sophisticated

website a makeover,

What’s the dress code?

professionals to share

with a modern look,

joined forces with the

colour palettes, we

Can I get gluten-free

their personal and

updated features and

‘dessert queen’ on a

rounded up the event

meals? Don’t ask me, ask

business goals for the

improved functionality.

range of sweet treats.

themes that stole the show in 2018.

the chatbot!

year ahead.

Spice News undergoes major refurb

6 Spice February 2019

2

spicenews.com.au Top 3 event themes of 2018

From futuristic table

Event profs share their New Year’s resolutions

Plastic-free flights Aircraft company Hi Fly recently made history with the first single-use plasticfree flight. Plastic cutlery, toothbrushes

Succulents Succulents make great place card holders that double as gifts for guests

and even sick bags were replaced with sustainable alternatives.

to take home after the event.

Non-alcoholic drinks More people are opting to go sans alcohol at events, so make sure you have plenty of interesting options available.

Forget the orange juice and put some kombucha or mocktails on the menu.

Creative vegetarian dishes We recently tried ‘vegetarian eel’, which was made from mushrooms and was surprisingly delicious.

Going up, going down Cold conference spaces

Gate crashers It’s simple: if you’re not on

Save the planet and turn

the list, don’t show up.

the air con down – your guests are freezing. It’s good content that will keep them awake.

Canapé events with not enough food Ensure there’s plenty of food to go around to avoid the dreaded post-event Macca’s run for guests who are still hungry!

Overly loud music Your guests can’t network when the music is blasting, so turn the volume down a notch.

www.spicenews.com.au 7

Openings

Merivale adds to its portfolio Sydney hospitality group Merivale has opened the doors to The Apartment at Hotel Centennial, a new private dining and event space in Woollahra.

The light-filled space has been converted from a former private residence and features views across Centennial Park.

With arched windows, high ceilings and a private terrace, The Apartment at Hotel Centennial is ideal for private dinners and cocktailstyle corporate events.

The venue features a large boardroom, three breakout rooms and inhouse AV, plus a private entrance to offer seamless entry for guests.

Shadow Play by Peppers set for April launch AccorHotels has revealed a first look at Shadow Play

by Peppers, set to open this April in Melbourne.

Located in Southbank, the hotel will feature oneand two-bedroom apartments with floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies.

Simon McGrath, chief operating officer, Pacific at AccorHotels, said the hotel will meet the demand for luxury accommodation in Melbourne.

“Southbank is in need of a sophisticated luxury hotel product to cater to an increasingly selective global market that is looking for quality, location and facilities of a world-class calibre,” he said.

The hotel will also include a wine bar and cellar, two private dining rooms and a guest lounge and library.

Sofitel Fiji to get a fresh new look Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa, Denarau Island, is currently undergoing a multi-million-dollar refurbishment project to enhance the overall guest experience.

Phase one includes an expansion of the adults-only Waitui Beach Club, which will see 24 new beach cabanas added, a new beachside cocktail bar and an undercover dining space for up to 40 guests.

From April 2019, the resort will also upgrade its Luxury guestrooms, while upgrades to Superior and Family guestrooms will follow in the second half of the year.

The resort’s dining outlets, bars and conferencing spaces will also be renovated, plus a new yoga deck will be added to the property.

8 Spice February 2019

Advertorial

Urban chic upgrade transforms Rydges Sydney Central

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wo new floors have been added to the Rydges Sydney Central, along with a full refurbishment of existing rooms and the new Sydney Brewery Surry Hills to make the hotel one of the city’s most dynamic hotels for conferences and events.

The hotel has always enjoyed a premium location just 200 metres from Central Station, but with Surry Hills’ reputation as Sydney’s cutting-edge chic neighbourhood, the Rydges has gained even more streetcred recently, blending high-quality conference facilities with special touches

such as a striking new interior design and a rooftop function centre and terrace.

The hotel offers nine function rooms catering for groups ranging from 10 to 320 guests. All function rooms offer a flexible layout that can be tailored to suit the event’s needs, with free Wi-Fi throughout the venue to keep delegates connected.

The hotel’s exclusive rooftop function venue, The Surry, provides a dramatic venue for seminars, cocktail parties and dinners, with two open-air terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows and a private bar creating an ‘urban oasis’ for functions.

In keeping with the district’s long brewing history, Sydney Brewery Surry Hills has opened next door to the hotel and offers an ideal venue for functions, post-conference drinks and casual lunches and dinners, with many of the beers brewed on site.

In addition to the room refurbishment, Rydges Sydney Central’s dining, pool and gymnasium offerings have also been refreshed.

For enquiries: 02 9289 0000 or www.rydges. com/accommodation/sydney-nsw/sydney-central

Four Points by Sheraton Sydney Central Park ‘brews’ up inspirational meetings

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ydney’s Central Park precinct has a colourful and rich past, including being the site of Australia’s largest brewery, the Old Kent Brewery, for almost a century.

Today, Central Park is home to one of the most dynamic arts, restaurant, entertainment and design scenes, with the opening of the Four Points by Sheraton in late 2018 elevating the precinct into an international tourism hub, adding world-class accommodation, dining and meetings facilities.

Central Park represents one of Sydney’s most exciting regeneration projects and with its position just a few minutes from Central Station and easy access to Darling Harbour, Sydney’s CBD and the Airport, it has become a popular venue for business events.

The hotel boasts a bold design by acclaimed UK architecture firm Foster + Partners, which blends contemporary style and comfort in its 297 rooms with a nod to the area’s past, particularly in the Malt Bar, which offers Four Points by Sheraton’s signature Best Brews selection, along with an exclusive ChippendALE brewed for the hotel by Sydney Brewery.

An ideal base for hosting a seminar, conference or social event, the hotel offers eight versatile event spaces which can cater for up to 200 delegates, including an outdoor terrace that captures the buzzy Broadway atmosphere.

Enjoy superb accommodation, delicious tailored menus, professional conference solutions and great rates at Sydney’s newest international hotel – the Four Points by Sheraton Sydney, Central Park. www.fourpointssydneycentralpark.com or call the events team on 02 8288 8855

www.spicenews.com.au 9

Cover story

Island dreaming Australia’s most loved island resort, Daydream Island, will welcome guests from April 2019, unveiling a new-look, premium resort secluded in the heart of the Whitsundays.

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hen it re-opens in April, Daydream Island Resort will launch new signature dining concepts, relaxed bars and waterfront suites, as well as bringing back the iconic Living Reef with an Underwater Observatory and Education Centre.

Daydream Island will have 277 contemporary rooms and suites for guests to relax in after a day in the sun, with garden, pool and ocean view rooms providing the perfect retreat.

Three signature restaurants and three new bars will each be defined by their own distinct design and flavour, while seasonal local produce will showcase the best of the region at each restaurant.

10 Spice February 2019

Infinity will be the resort’s premium dining offering with an Asian fusion menu, open for lunch and dinner with expansive views over the Whitsundays. It also has a private Teppanyaki Suite offering guests an unforgettable dining experience.

Graze Interactive Dining will welcome the outdoors in with draping greenery and floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the Living Reef. It will be an interactive marketplace with live cooking stations and diverse dining options.

Inkstone Kitchen and Bar will focus on modern Australian cuisine with local produce and Australian native flavours at the heart of the menu.

The island will be a sought-after destination for corporate events with delegates treated to secluded beaches, sparkling bays and adventurous activities.

The event spaces will cater for major events, yet still provide a personal touch.

Guests visiting the island for conferences will have access to the latest audiovisual equipment across three dedicated conference rooms:

• The Horizon Room will be located on level two of the main building, facing east out to South Molle Island over the beautiful waters of the Whitsundays. The space can be divided into two separate rooms and can cater to up to 300 guests, suiting all styles of events.

• The Cresent Room will be located on level one of the main building with direct access to the western side of the resort through the terrace area. The room can also be divided into two separate areas with a capacity of up to 180 guests, ideal for gala dinners and conferences.

• The Eclipse Room & Terrace will be located on level two of the main building facing west, catering to up to 120 guests. As an indoor venue that has an expansive outdoor terrace, this space is perfect for conference break catering and pre-dinner drinks. The terrace offers a spectacular view westward toward Lovers Cove and the mainland.

Special events from cocktail parties to gala dinners can be catered for across a large range of indoor and outdoor event

ABOVE: Local, seasonal produce on the menu RIGHT: Contemporary event facilities for corporate groups BELOW: Superior king room BOTTOM: Each room features a modern bathroom

The island will be a sought-after destination for corporate events with delegates treated to secluded beaches, sparkling bays and adventurous activities. locations, with weddings continuing to play a part in the story of Daydream Island Resort.

The resort will also be offering the opportunity for the island to be booked for exclusive use, allowing a unique experience for delegates and the ability for the island to be activated and personalised for all attending.

The Living Reef will also be making its return to the island in an even bigger and better capacity than before, further developing its education and ecofriendly focus. The free-form coral lagoon will wrap 200 metres around the central building and hold over 1.5 million litres of water.

Guests will be able to take part in guided fish feeding, Living Reef night tours and experience an underwater dive show. The Living Reef will be bringing to life an all new Underwater Observatory which will deliver a very unique event experience for up to 30 guests, ideal for intimate and VIP events. In addition, $1 from every day delegate package will be donated to Sharks and Rays Australia for research purposes.

Daydream Island Resort is currently taking expressions of interest for conferencing and events for May 2019 onward via meetings@daydreamisland.com. n www.spicenews.com.au  11

TREND REPORT: 2019 EDITION

We look at the biggest trends set to impact the business events industry in 2019

Technology Technology such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, augmented reality and facial recognition will continue to develop in 2019 and become more commonplace in events. AI is already used frequently throughout events; it's possible you’re using it without even noticing. AI can be utilised in all stages of the event lifecycle, from making relevant recommendations to attendees as they fill out registration forms online and helping attendees find like-minded prospects on the show floor to letting delegates know they’re running late for their next session and suggesting an alternative. Chatbots are another growing technology that is benefiting the events industry, providing answers to thousands of common questions in a matter of seconds.

Mindfulness As technology becomes more advanced and we increasingly rely on it for our work and personal lives, somewhat ironically, our desire for peace, quiet and reflection grows. Mindfulness is a valuable practice that more and more event planners are integrating into their events, whether it’s an educational talk about health and wellbeing, a meditation workshop or simply a quiet zone on the show floor. It’s also important to keep in mind, conferences and events themselves can be exhausting and mentally challenging for delegates, so incorporating a spot of meditation or a morning yoga session will likely be well-received.

HOT

DESTINATIONS 12 Spice February 2019

Lonely Planet has revealed the top 10 regions to visit in 2019: 1. Piedmont, Italy

6. Russian Far East

2. The Catskills, USA

7. Gujarat, India

3. Northern Peru, South America

8. Manitoba, Canada

4. The Red Centre, Australia

9. Normandy, France

5. Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

10. Elqui Valley, Chile

Trend report

The style files Coral colours Pantone named Living Coral, a vibrant yet mellow shade of orange with a golden undertone, as the 2019 colour of the year. Expect to see the colour featured in event décor, furniture and graphic designs this year.

Data privacy When guests register for an event, it seems harmless to hand over information such as their name, email, phone number or event credit card details because it usually is. However, there is an ongoing risk of data breaches, and even major companies have had their data manipulated in recent years. According to Eventbrite’s 2019 Pulse Report, data security should be top of mind for events teams this year. With this is mind, Eventbrite has offered three proactive steps to help keep your data safe and your attendees free from fraud: keep your registration process simple and secure, choose a quality partner that can provide fool-proof technology and select a trusted venue that takes security seriously.

Moroccan-inspired Moroccan styling brings an exotic, yet elegant, atmosphere to events. Bold colour combinations, geometric prints, low sofas and lush fabrics complete the look.

Greenery Green foliage walls and leafy table decorations will continue to be popular in 2019. Large, seasonal trees are also being used as a feature in venues with high ceilings to create maximum impact.

Festivalisation According to the 2019 Meetings & Events Future Trends report

by Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT),“festivalisation” will be a strong theme in 2019, as event organisers look to enhance the attendee experience. The business events industry is turning to consumer events and festivals for inspiration, and introducing unorthodox spaces, reinvented presentation formats and engaging entertainment into conferences and meetings. CWT also predicts a major shift in content in 2019, such as engaging attendees in content creation through questionnaires and involving them in the identification of topics and choice of speakers. www.spicenews.com.au 13

NZ update

WHAT’S NEW IN NZ New hotels, refurbished venues and major conference centres in the works – it’s all new in New Zealand.

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ew Zealand is undergoing a period of significant refurbishment and development works, in all corners of the country. In Auckland alone, 90 cranes jut out across the skyline, working on major projects that will strengthen the city’s, and New Zealand’s, reputation as a business events destination.

Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) chief executive Sue Sullivan says exciting developments are taking shape that will benefit the business events sector.“This year we are committed to showcasing major investment around the country,” she says.

Projects currently underway in Auckland include the New Zealand International Convention Centre, set to open in 2020; the $300 million Park Hyatt Auckland opening this year and the refurbishment of the Aotea Centre, which will reopen in May 2019.

In the South Island, March 2019 will see the reopening of Christchurch Town Hall, which was significantly damaged in the 2011 earthquake. The venue has been fully repaired and rebuilt to offer a variety of event spaces, such as the Douglas Lilburn Auditorium for 2250 guests and the James Hay Theatre for up to 1000.

Construction is well underway for the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, which director of marketing and sales Gillian Officer says is set to open next year.“We are starting 2019 with the core of the steel framework almost in place and on track for a late 2020 opening,” she says.

14 Spice February 2019

“With the building now fully vertical and taking shape – it is easy to see the impact Te Pae will have on the city, both in its scale and its unique innercity location alongside the newly opened riverside promenade.” Officer says bookings are now ramping up, with more than 60 tentative conventions already holding space for the first two years.

Meanwhile, Sudima Hotels will open a new 118room hotel later this year, complete with meeting facilities and a stunning location in Kaikōura on the South Island’s east coast.

Reflecting on the year gone by, Sullivan says Australia continued to cement its positon as the largest inbound market in terms of business events arrivals for New Zealand.

ABOVE: Sailing on Auckland Harbour TOP RIGHT: Christchurch Town Hall’s Avon Room BELOW: NZICC is on track to open in 2020

HOTEL NEWS

SO/ Auckland opens “International business event arrivals for the year ending October 2018 were up 8.6 per cent to 77,000,” she says. “Of these visitors 56 per cent were from Australia.”

For the year ahead, Sullivan says one of the key areas of focus for CINZ is education.

“We are focused again on education, as we continually hear of the need to give our young people more development opportunities,” she says.

“A key part of the CINZ education pillar is the mentorship program, which we have operated for the last five years with over 70 mentees attending.

“Our Emerging Talent program is now also in its fifth year and we will be stepping it up a notch with conference-style development programs.”

CINZ will once again welcome the business events industry to Auckland for MEETINGS, taking place on 29-30 May at ASB Showgrounds. n

Lifestyle hotel brand SO/, part of AccorHotels, has opened in Auckland. The eclectic, 130-room hotel features a café, Club Signature lounge, rooftop bar and five meeting rooms.

DoubleTree set for Napier Opening in 2019, DoubleTree by Hilton Napier will boast a modern Art Deco design, with 52 guest rooms and suites, a restaurant and bar, plus a boardroom.

Wellington Conference Centre gets the green light Work is set to begin this year to build Wellington’s new Conference and Exhibition Centre, following approval from Wellington City Council.

The 18,000-square-metre centre will include dedicated convention space spread across two floors and an exhibition gallery to house touring exhibitions.

“Wellington has always been competitive with the conference venues available in the city, but the WCEC will take things to a new level,” says David Perks from Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency.

“It will enable the city to not only retain its current share of conferences but also put in bids for larger international conferences that would simply have been too big for existing venues.”

Sudima Hotel for Christchurch Sudima Hotel’s new 5-star boutique hotel will open in Christchurch’s central city in May with 86 rooms, an on-site restaurant and day spa.

www.spicenews.com.au 15

REDEFINING LEADERSHIP According to the Global Leadership Forecast 2018, produced by DDI, The Conference Board and EY, leadership is being redefined as a “team sport”. This new way of thinking comes as companies increasingly rely on teams to solve problems and leaders use “360-degree thinking” where they act on input from multiple sources and perspectives. In business events, we often hear people credit their teams for their successes, which is a testament to the industry and those who lead it. In our 2019 Leaders Forum, we get to know the team leaders of the industry and find out their plans and predictions for the year ahead.

Leaders Forum

Marjolein Chandler Director of Events, Hyatt Regency Sydney Hyatt Regency Sydney delivers more than 1113 events every year, so it’s only natural to have a strong leader like Marjolein Chandler at the helm.

A

s director of events at Hyatt Regency Sydney, Marjolein Chandler is tasked with leading the hotel’s team of 14 event staff, who together produce corporate events of all sizes and styles, plus a growing number of weddings too.

“I’ve always been in events, it’s my passion,” she says.“I love the excitement of events – you can do a dinner, a conference, a wedding, exhibitions – you can do anything. It’s not purely a stock-standard conference every day.”

After completing hotel school in Holland, she travelled to Germany and then London for work before landing in Australia about 14 years ago. Here she was part of the opening team of Hilton Sydney and later worked at the Four Seasons Hotel.

When Marjolein was approached by Four Points Sydney to lead the events division during the property’s rebrand to Hyatt Regency, she didn’t need to think long.

“When I was shown the video of the hotel and what it was going to be like, it was a no brainer for me to start,” she says.

“I started a year before we officially opened [as Hyatt Regency] to set up the whole structure, the team, the pricing, selling strategy – everything we had to do to rebuild it again.”

Marjolein believes her “old school” approach to events is what sets Hyatt Regency Sydney apart from other venues in the city. She encourages her team to pick up the phone, rather than sending an email, in order to build more personal relationships with clients.

“It’s old school but the team know they have to make that call before we even quote on it because that’s how you set up the relationship,” she says.“It is the personal touch that makes the difference.”

Grand Ballroom at Hyatt Regency Sydney

TREND PREDICTIONS FOR 2019 Shorter lead times Marjolein predicts bookings will continue to be last minute in 2019.

With that in mind, Hyatt recently launched its Meetings on Demand platform, allowing smaller events to be booked immediately online.

Meeting length decreasing Meetings will also continue to get shorter and one-day meetings will become the norm, according to Marjolein. “You’ll see a lot more meetings start at 9am and by 4pm it’s over and networking drinks will begin,” she says.

Focus on F&B Organisers will get creative with food and beverage in order to make their event stand out.

“A meeting room is a meeting room and a conference is a conference, but if you do something different with food and beverage it makes an impact,” she says.

Marjolein also teaches her team to treat all events as important, even the small conferences or charity dinners.

“Some people might think it’s not worth it because it’s only a 20-person event,” she says. “The 20-person conference may be a small one now, but it could be for 1000 people in the future.

“The people who are coming to those events are the people who are experiencing it and talking about it, and they will promote the venue.”

For Marjolein, leading her team of event staff at Hyatt Regency Sydney is a rewarding job. She encourages them to have a collaborative approach to events and to pitch in where needed.

“We even go as far as if a room needs to be turned around, we all put our flat shoes on and we’re all there helping,” she says.

“We give the operations team challenges – we’re not perfect. But as long as you help and support them, that makes you even more of a team. We’re there if they need us.”

Marjolein is not just passionate about her job; she’s passionate about her team and believes motivating them is the key to a successful business.

“As long as you have a strong team, the figures will come by themselves,” she says. www.spicenews.com.au 17

Leaders Forum

Harris Meitanis Founder and CEO, The Event Ecosystem

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ith more than 20 years of experience working within the entertainment and event industries as a talent solicitor and manager, an agent (through his entertainment agency Apples & Pears Entertainment) and as an event producer (A.P.E Events), Harris Meitanis has identified firsthand the real need to improve how event professionals source talent for events.

And so, The Event Ecosystem was born.

Meitanis says the patented technology invented by him and his team is part of “an inevitable digital shift for the industry and a move towards a more transparent way of operating".

“As an industry I think we’re very much set in our ways and a lot of event professionals and talent representatives have accepted a status quo,” he says.

“However, talent procurement is severely broken, globally.”

Meitanis says with Google now at our fingertips, and easily compromised by SEO, talent can be sourced through a simple search.“The question is however, who are you actually sourcing through?” he says.

“With 90 per cent of representatives found online unauthorised and/or 18 Spice February 2019

unregulated, this contributes to both friction and significant mark-ups.

Especially regarding celebrity talent, the most important knowledge you can have is who actually represents the talent.”

In November 2018, Meitanis launched the Event Ecosystem’s first instalment, Associated Celebrity Talent Booking App (A.C.T.A), designed to place event professionals in direct contact with true representatives of celebrity talent.

Meitanis says the platform already has event professionals such as Caleb Bush, Megan Peters and Paul Kenny singing its praises. “After all, our platforms are professional tools built specifically for the event professional,” he says.

A.C.T.A’s features include a direct and transparent line of communication from client to talent; secure contract exchange facilitated by the platform; payment from client directly to talent with no money held in escrow by the platform; and a fixed 10 per cent platform fee, which is capped at $5000.

It also features an instant messaging and notification system between the client and talent, while the patented Content Management System stores all event information, travel logistics and documents in the one place.

The Event Ecosystem expands Fast forward three months and off the back of A.C.T.A’s early success, Meitanis and his

team are now gearing up to launch their next platform, Global Event Talent (G.E.T) at The Event Ecosystem at AIME, taking place in Melbourne in February.

Built on A.C.T.A’s patented technology, G.E.T directly connects event professionals with all types of unrepresented (noncelebrity) entertainers such as speakers, cover bands, dancers, aerialists and magicians.

“G.E.T has been created for clients to gain direct access to talent who don’t have representation,” says Meitanis.“The platform acts as a manager or agent, which is a service that comes absolutely free of charge to the talent. It does everything the A.C.T.A platform does, and just like A.C.T.A, G.E.T also handles everything from contracting to event documentation and invoicing for both parties.”

Digital Shift The positive response A.C.T.A has received since launch is proof that a shift towards digitisation is what the industry needs.

“Our industry is very time poor, so to hear event professionals say A.C.T.A saves them 80-90 per cent of their time during the proposal stage alone, was when I truly felt excited about what we've created for the industry,” says Meitanis.

“It’s revolutionary and we’re proud to be delivering it for our industry.”

The Event Ecosystem is set to launch further platforms in Q1 of 2020, so stay tuned.

eventsuncovered.com.au

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From an impromptu wedding during the Invictus Games to large-scale RnB concerts, 2018 was a massive year for Sydney Showground. Now, the venue is gearing up for an even bigger 2019.

Peter Thorpe General Manager, Sydney Showground

I

n 2018, Sydney Showground played host to a number of high-profile events, from large corporate dinners to major public concerts. For general manager Peter Thorpe, highlights included serving over 6600 guests at an incentive conference dinner for Jeunesse Global, winning ‘Best Achievement in Venue Management’ at the Australian Event Awards and hosting RnB Fridays live.

The Invictus Games legacy One of the most memorable moments for Sydney Showground in 2018 was working with Invictus Games to transform The Dome into a home-awayfrom-home for 500 competitors and more than 1000 of their family and friends.

“Transforming The Dome into Invictus House was a great opportunity to showcase our award-winning team, the scale we are able to cater for and the ability to muster together staff with a vision and goal to give back,” says Thorpe.

“We had security, cleaners, client managers, a catering team and senior management in many cases volunteering additional time out of their passion for the industry and event.”

20 Spice February 2019

Showing the incredible flexibility of Sydney Showground and its team, the venue even staged an impromptu wedding during the games.

“We had one of the competitors spontaneously renew his vows at Invictus House,” says Thorpe.“In the heat of the moment, the team swung into action and created a very special wedding, complete with a cake and Champagne.

“We were very excited for the happy couple and proud of our team. These are the moments we will remember and this is the legacy that is left behind.”

Challenges A venue as complex and multi-faceted as Sydney Showground doesn’t come without its challenges.

“Our business has doubled over the past seven years, therefore patrons visiting Sydney Showground have more than doubled, so this in itself is a challenge,”says Thorpe.

“The success of our Spotless Stadium now hosting GWS Giants, Sydney Thunder, Western Sydney Wanderers, X Games Sydney, Sydney Irish Festival, RnB Fridays Live and HSBC Sydney 7s means hosting and catering for a diverse range of events and needs.

Leaders Forum

“From hosting large-scale stadium events we are able to train staff who specialise in managing these events and broaden their passion for the events industry.”

Thorpe says while sourcing committed staff can be challenging, his team have been extremely supportive of the venue’s drive to diversify its business.

“The challenge in any business would be sourcing staff who are dedicated and passionate about the same goal – to run successful events,” he says.“I find being a not-for-profit where all of our additional revenue is reinvested back into agriculture means we often attract like-minded and dedicated staff.”

Unique spaces According to Thorpe, one of the biggest demands coming from event organisers is the desire for something unique.“They want options to bring in exciting new service providers, to add outdoor green space, different dining options and some just want the freedom to express themselves without limitations,” he says.

“We’ve seen growth in our Pop Up Christmas Carnival over the last two years, a dedicated Christmas party concept attracting major corporate clients looking for a unique Christmas event for their staff.”

Sydney Showground’s pavilions, halls, continuous indoor spaces and world-class stadium offer organisers the ultimate flexibility to create events that stand out.“The variety of events which can take place at this venue is endless and we really understand that clients don’t want cookie cutter solutions,” says Thorpe.

TOP LEFT: Pop Up Christmas Carnival ABOVE: Caravan Camping Outdoor Lifestyle Expo BELOW: Jeneusse Gala Dinner produced by Triumph Leisure Solutions

“As Olympic Park, Parramatta and the Greater Western Sydney region continually grow, we have invested a detailed business case presented to the NSW Government,” says Thorpe.

“There is a proposed master plan where we look towards the future and the development of a 4000-seat plenary auditorium, an adjacent 2000-pax ballroom, more neighbouring hotels as well as a potential light rail.”

For the near future, Sydney Showground will continue to work closely with Sydney Olympic Park Authority (SOPA) to win and deliver seamless events.“We’re committed to working together to run an event’s precinct with timely public transport, coordination of signage around the park, social media promotion as well as the potential to work with all stakeholders in the park, through the use of local hotels, restaurants and bars,” says Thorpe.

“Through our combined marketing services, we can help expose and expand audiences for clients by highlighting and cross-promoting events. We already do this for both our incredible large scale expos such as the Caravan Camping Outdoor Lifestyle Expo, sporting events from the X Games Sydney to the Big Bash Cricket League, and music concerts such as RnB Fridays Live. It provides strong foundation for trust, expertise and growth for our clients.”

In 2019, long-standing events such as The Sydney Royal Easter Show will continue, while new ones, such as Dog Lovers Show, HSBC Sydney 7s and Nitro Circus, will also be added into the mix.

“We have so many exciting events soon to be announced that I can’t wait for what our future holds,” says Thorpe.“Ultimately, it’s a pleasure working in an industry where you can call clients your friends and you have the support of organisations such as Business Events Sydney, SOPA and Destination NSW.”

Focus for 2019 and beyond In 2019, Sydney Showground will look to pursue more major events, while also advocating for major upgrades to its venues. www.spicenews.com.au 21

Leaders Forum

Andrew Hiebl CEO, Association of Australian Convention Bureaux

AACB’s annual conference heads to Melbourne in 2019

Australia’s business events industry is showing positive signs for a stellar 2019, writes Andrew Hiebl.

8% increase in international business events secured by AACB members

250,000 international delegates expected to attend these events

391 events estimated to attract $1 billion in delegate spend 22 Spice February 2019

M

y forecast for the Australian business events industry in 2019 is one of growth.

This is based upon the AACB’s Forward Calendar of International Business Events, July 2018 edition, which revealed an 8 per cent increase in international business events secured by AACB member convention bureaux since the previous report in January 2018.

We estimate the number of international delegates travelling to Australia to attend these 391 business events will break the quarter million mark – a first since AACB reporting. With the total number of delegates expected to increase, along with event days, total delegate spend will also exceed $1 billion.

Likewise, the domestic sector will also be a strong performer in 2019 with our inaugural Forward Calendar of Domestic Business Events showing 18 per cent growth in future business secured by our members. In 2017/18, Australian convention bureaux saw 11 per cent growth in domestic corporate bids won, with a 17 per cent increase in delegates expected to attend these events. This could be indicative of global economic uncertainty discouraging Australian corporates from taking their events offshore.

Association meetings and conventions will continue to be Australia’s strongest performing business events segment in 2019 from a convention bureau perspective – taking up 52 per cent of all bid wins in 2017/18. While this is encouraging, and the global association market continues to grow, this sector is a highly competitive one and Australia must keep an eye on increasing its share.

For the AACB, our focus in 2019 – especially with the upcoming federal election – will be on enhancing the government’s understanding of the positive impact of business events. To do this, we will be developing case studies and strengthening our evidence base to demonstrate the benefits business events have on the broader community. We will also continue to deliver essential market intelligence insights to encourage government and industry leaders to drive economic growth through business events.

Expanding on the success of our annual conference will be a key priority in 2019, to be held in Melbourne on 18-20 September. As our demand-focused audience and niche event continues to grow, so too do our local and global partnerships, connecting our members to new, innovative opportunities and allowing the AACB to deliver on its influence agenda.

Sydney’s Premier Conference & Events Venue Boasting 3,700 square metres of world-class meeting and event space, exceptional culinary experiences and harbourside views, let our team of expert planners turn your vision into a reality.

To start planning your next event phone +61 2 8099 1234 or visit sydney.regency.hyatt.com 161 Sussex Street, Sydney, NSW, Australia 2000

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Leaders Forum

Robyn Johnson CEO, Meetings & Events Australia MEA is gearing up for a big 2019, with its annual conference heading to Brisbane with a new look and name. Here, CEO Robyn Johnson shares an industry update and insight into the year ahead.

Where is the industry at?

Over the last few years the meetings and events industry in Australia has been able to reposition itself as an important contributor to the national economy and also as a platform for promoting Australian industries and achievements globally.

Through our advocacy work, federal and state governments are now much more aware of the scope to leverage the events industry to benefit our business sector and our tourism and cultural assets. In 2019, this recognition will undoubtedly continue to grow, with increased engagement with government and also from greater interaction with the business community.

ABOVE: MEA’s annual conference will take place in Brisbane in 2019. Image credit: Brisbane Marketing.

24 Spice February 2019

technology to improve our operations and a new website soon to be launched. This is all part of a revitalisation strategy designed to better support our members and grow the industry across Australia.

What should be on our radar?

What’s in store for 2019?

As the leading events industry association, our annual conference, EVOLVE 2019, will once again take its place as a ‘must attend’ for event managers and indeed everyone keen to extend their knowledge and meet up with the industry’s best and brightest.

The line-up of speakers and their topics will provide the opportunity for delegates to stay at the top of their game and ensure that Australia maintains its enviable reputation as a leader in the events field globally.

MEA’s plans in 2019 are indeed very exciting, with an array of existing highly regarded programs continuing to grow, the introduction of new

EVOLVE will be held in Brisbane from 31 March to 2 April 2019.

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The venue hosts small-to-large flexible indoor/outdoor spaces; world-class catering; state of the art tech to suit meetings and events of all sizes.

Sydney Harbour Marriott is also home to a 5-star restaurant and award-winning bars.

Leaders Forum

Adelaide Convention Centre’s East Wing opening

Mario Valenti Group Director of Sales, NW Group Leaders in high-end technical production (audio, video, lighting), NW Group are behind some of the world’s most spectacular live events.

F

rom the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies to the opening of the Adelaide Convention Centre East Wing, NW Group have produced a wide range of show-stopping corporate and live events through its portfolio of brands.

Following NW Group’s acquisition of Haycom in 2016, the portfolio now consists of four audio-visual brands, which also includes Norwest Productions in Australia, as well as Spyglass and Oceania in New Zealand.

According to group director of sales Mario Valenti, the four brands allow NW Group to cater to a variety of events throughout the year.

“By owning these different brands, NW Group can cover as many levels of the event market as possible,” he says.“In any calendar year, corporate events slow down in December and January, so Haycom is a bit quieter in those months, whereas the Norwest brand gets busier during that time.

So we’re able to cover those peaks and troughs in the 12-month cycle of revenue.”

Geographical reach This diversity also allows NW Group to reach all corners of the globe and 26 Spice February 2019

produce events beyond Australia and New Zealand. As well as working on the 2018 Commonwealth Games, NW Group helped produce the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta and has been short-listed to work on the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru.

Valenti says NW Group’s geographical reach and diversity of events is a driving factor for the group’s 250 staff across Australia and New Zealand.

“Our events range from Carols in the Domain to touring work with bands, plus all the regular corporate events,” he says.

“We’ve got a great crew that is happy to work across the range of events, which keeps them very interested.”

Trends and innovation When it comes to tech and innovation, Valenti says a lot is happening in the event space, but there’s still a long way to go before things like augmented reality and virtual reality become the norm.

“From our perspective, we deal with live events, so we don’t want to take the delegates to somewhere else, which is what virtual reality does,” he says.

Instead, NW Group focuses on technology that engages delegates to be

in the moment – like Haycom’s hologram product, Musion. The company produced a Musion Hologram of the Premier of South Australia to appear at the Adelaide Convention Centre’s East Wing opening, which left the audience in pure amazement.

Valenti says live streaming will also continue to evolve in 2019, as the 5G network begins rolling out across Australia.

“Live streaming will get a bit easier, there’ll be less drop out and the quality will be higher,”he says.“We’ve had some initial conversations with telecommunication companies about doing some events around 5G streaming but they’re early days.”

2019 and beyond While Valenti won’t rule out more acquisitions for NW Group in the future, he says, for now, the focus is to build on the group’s current offering and expertise.

“We’re one of the largest full-service providers in Australia and New Zealand, so I think you’ll find our offering will improve and increase,” he says.

“From an audio perspective, we’re at a high end of supply. In 2019, there will be a lot more focus on video and lighting, in order to increase our position in the market, so we’re excited about that.”

The future is here.

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Leaders Forum

With 31 hotels in operation across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific and a further 21 in the pipeline, Marriott International is well on track to reaching its goal of 50 hotels by 2020.

Sean Hunt Area Vice President, Australia, NZ and the Pacific, Marriott International ABOVE: The RitzCarlton, Perth

What is Marriott International’s outlook for 2019 and beyond?

Our outlook for the next few years is extremely positive. We currently have 31 hotels in operation across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, with a further 21 hotels in the pipeline – taking us one step closer to our goal of 50 hotels by 2020.

How will Marriott International focus on business events in 2019?

We want to continue providing planners and guests with access to new and inspiring meetings and event spaces. Take Sydney for example, we’ve just completed a multi-million-dollar renovation of Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, putting this iconic hotel well and truly on the map.

In Brisbane last year, we opened two new hotels, W Brisbane and The Westin Brisbane, bringing 13 new event venues to the River City. Brisbane Marriott Hotel has also completed a significant renovation, offering refreshed and contemporary spaces for meeting and event planners.

28 Spice February 2019

Across our resort offering, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas still wows guests to North Queensland with its recently renovated guestrooms and iconic lagoons, while Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa’s extensive amenities see it remain a popular getaway for large groups.

New to the market will be The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, opening in late 2019 and marking the brand’s reintroduction in Australia. It will offer 2000 square metres of luxury event space in the city’s much-anticipated Elizabeth Quay development.

We’ll also launch Element Melbourne Richmond in May 2019. The first Element branded hotel in Australia, it will feature open-flow guestrooms and social live/work/play spaces designed to accommodate both long and short-stay groups.

What are your expectations for the region’s business events market over the coming years?

We expect the MICE sector to continue growing, as international business travellers choose Australia as their preferred business events destination.

We’re gearing up for an exciting couple of years and look forward to being at the forefront of corporate hospitality and a leading player in the MICE industry here in Australia.

Aside from accommodation, what other innovations will Marriott International deliver in 2019?

A key focus for 2019 will be the launch of our new loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy, which offers members 24/7 access to unmatched benefits and experiences across 129 countries and territories worldwide. Planners can earn and redeem points when hosting a meeting, while guests can enjoy member rates on accommodation and indestination experiences to elevate any business or extended leisure trip.

Leaders Forum

Joyce DiMascio Chief Executive, Exhibition & Event Association of Australasia The industry is on the right path for the New Year, but it’s not without its challenges, writes EEAA’s Joyce DiMascio.

T

he EEAA 2018 Market Monitor, produced

by Explori, has foreshadowed a positive outlook for 2019 with a few areas of concern.

According to the study, most industry players have a clear view of the future for the industry and the role their organisations will play in harnessing innovation to drive growth.

However, the study has revealed concerns with the availability of infrastructure and creating sustainable partnerships between organisers, venues and suppliers. There are also major recruitment challenges impacted by a tighter temporary immigration environment as well as skills and labour shortages.

Explori’s report says, in common with the events industry globally, the Australasian industry too is concerned about risks posed by such matters as security threats.

As the industry changes, we will see more Confex-style events, more ‘festivalisation’ and experiential delivery, and more diversification of revenue streams. The challenge is to continue to refresh and deliver events that will inspire the market to invest, participate, exhibit and ultimately transact and do business.

Like the industry, the association has to continue to innovate and deliver programs and services that will help the industry flourish.

In the advocacy and policy arena, 2019 will continue to be a busy year. A federal election in May (most likely) and a New South Wales state election in March requires absolute diligence in taking the major policy priorities to Canberra and Macquarie Street.

In 2019, we’ll also have a big spotlight on sustainability and will be rolling out the excellent work of our Environmental Sustainability Working Group with the aim of helping the industry do a better job of reducing waste and protecting the environment.

It’s a big year for making the case for change to training packages so they better reflect the needs of the industry and we’ll continue to work with Skills IQ and TAFE on a range of training related initiatives.

We remain very committed to nurturing the careers of young leaders and under the stewardship of a new Young Stars Program committee, we’ll see more opportunities for our smartest and brightest to get involved in the industry. Our board and I are very focused on ensuring the association stays strong, connected and representative of a rapidly changing industry.

ABOVE: ‘Festivalisation’ of events is on the rise

www.spicenews.com.au 29

Leaders Forum

Barry Neame President, PCO Association Barry Neame opened the recent PCOA18 conference by challenging the 440 attendees to be brave and embrace change.

A

t the PCOA18 conference held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, Barry Neame said there continues to be such a strong sense of collaboration at the PCO Association conferences.

He said attendees are happy to share their experiences, which is appreciated by the growing number of in-house event planners joining the PCO Association and attending the annual conferences.

Neame believes there is a great need for event planners and event management companies to become accredited, as venues are recognising the value in working with accredited event organisers.

30 Spice February 2019

“Accreditation determines if the event manager or event management company meets or exceeds minimum standards of service standards and business practices,” he said.

“We see a surge in clients expecting an assurance that the event manager and or event management business they are dealing with meets the professional standards and is capable of delivering consistency and reliability in the delivery of its services.”

In terms of event trends, Neame says more so than ever before, the industry needs to be aware of the key areas to secure the data of their event.

“There are many risks to a modern event that can be catastrophic is exploited by the wrong people,” he said. “As event organisers, it is important we diligently protect our events on multiple fronts.”

Neame went onto say, above all, he believes event planners must nurture their relationships with clients and suppliers.

“Like anything of great value, strong relationships don’t just show up on their own,” he said.

“You must do your part, take responsibility, be agile and do the things that will build relationships for mutual benefit.”

ABOVE: Barry Neame on stage at the PCOA18 conference

Leaders Forum

5 minutes with Paul Waterson CEO, Australian Venue Co. With a portfolio of more than 50 venues across the country, Australian Venue Co. is going from strength to strength. Here, CEO Paul Waterson shares an insight into the company’s growth and refurb plans for 2019.

What’s in the pipeline for 2019?

In the next year we’d love to continue to grow and add capacity to our venues. We think we’re well-placed to double again from the size we’re at now. Since KKR’s investment into Australian Venue Co. the company is very well capitalised and supported to continue to pursue further acquisitions. We’re looking into all markets at this point. We don’t have any presence in Tasmania or South Australia, but other than that we are looking to grow pretty aggressively over the next two to three years.

Which of your venues will undergo refurbs?

We’re putting quite a lot of capital into redeveloping existing venues. We’re always looking at ways to improve our offerings and have a few potential refurbs for the year, particularly in Melbourne. The latest venue to undergo refurbishment this past year was the former Great Britain Hotel in Richmond Victoria, which has now been rebranded to Harlow. This was a full scale refurb, with the venue offering great spaces including a 250pax split-level beer garden, basement bar and dedicated function space on level one.

Are there particular regions of interest for Australian Venue Co. for potential growth?

Western Australia has been identified as a key region of interest for the company.

Earlier this year we acquired our fifth venue for the group, The Globe, in WA and it is just the beginning of our planned expansion in the state. WA is an attractive market as most venues are food and beverage focused which goes back to the core of our business. WA, in particular Perth, has venues similar to those we operate in Melbourne.

ENRICH YOU NEXT BUSINESS EVENT

Visit the team at AIME 2019 to learn more about hosting your next business event in Australia’s Northern Territory or contact Lucy.Morris@ntconventions.com.au to make an appointment.

www.spicenews.com.au 31

Leaders Forum

“I strongly believe that events create an impact with communities that last a lifetime.”

Sonia Sadiq Gandhi Director, Gandhi Creations Sonia Sadiq Gandhi produces large-scale cultural and corporate events with one goal: to create a diverse and unified Australia. Here, she shares the challenges and rewards of producing cultural events.

T

he foundations for Sonia Sadiq Gandhi’s business, Gandhi Creations, began when she arrived in Australia as an international student from India. “There were challenges around international students not knowing where to go, what to do with a bank account, what a tax file number was, simple things like that,” she says.

While studying, Sonia joined the student union and later got involved with the Council of Australian Postgraduate Associations (CAPA), where she supported international student communities who faced similar challenges as her.

“I didn’t realise the diversity of ethnicities and nations that come to study in Australia,” she says.“In terms of understanding different food, traditions and cultures – I would say that was the start of the business because it made me 32 Spice February 2019

realise there is so much learning to be done from a cultural perspective.”

During her time working with CAPA, Sonia began running workshops, community functions and cultural events, which kick-started her passion to work in the events industry.“I strongly believe that events create an impact with communities that last a lifetime,” she says.“That’s how Gandhi Creations came about, to create that impact within communities.”

Fast forward to 2019, Gandhi Creations has produced over 500 events, including conferences, fashion shows, round-tables and festivals for 50,000 people. Sonia also sits on the board of Multicultural New South Wales and is a 2019 Australia Day ambassador.“We work across various different events, but the purpose at the end of the day is to create a diverse and unified Australia,” says Sonia.

Her events, such as Fashions of Multicultural Australia (FOMA), which is taking place in Sydney on 1 March 2019, also serve as a meeting ground for the exchange of ideas between nations.

“Platforms like FOMA create that intense cultural diplomacy through fashion and food, thereby improving foreign investment and trade,” says Sonia.“So it’s not just about the community, but generating trade opportunities and providing indigenous

India Australia Business & Community Awards, organised by Gandhi Creations

and emerging designers a platform to then engage with foreign embassies.”

Sonia says the biggest challenge organising cultural events is continuing to create sustainable platforms to bring communities together and encouraging people to want to learn about other cultures.

“A good example of this is the Premier’s Harmony Dinner for New South Wales Government that we ran from 2013 to 2016 with about 1300 people from many different cultures,” she says.“Initially it was very hard to convince people to attend, because they said, ‘Well, I go to my community event, why would I come to this? What is the need for me to meet with the Jewish community, or the Indonesian community, or the Indian community?’

So I think changing that mindset is often challenging, but continuing to deliver impactful events really changes the thought process of communities.”

The most rewarding part of Sonia’s job, however, is helping people learn something new about another culture.

“The most rewarding element is when one of the community members says, ‘I didn’t know what a sari was until I came to your event’ or ‘I didn’t know that this is the style of food that’s eaten in Greece.’

“That integration around cultures is very, very rewarding.”

Matt Pearce Director, Talk2 Media & Events The new organisers of AIME have given the show a complete reboot, including a reinvented Knowledge Program.

Why was the Knowledge Program reinvented for AIME 2019?

Learning is an integral part of AIME, so we looked at the complete experience and how we could enhance this on every level.

We’ve opened up attendance to exhibitors as well as buyers and media. We are an inclusive industry and so this event is for the whole community, offering more opportunities to build shared experiences.

Furthermore, as an industry, we’re constantly being challenged on not just what is being presented, but how it is being presented. AIME is no different.

We will cover ideas on how to challenge

What are some of the highlights of the program?

the meeting norms, how to create a culture of innovation, to recognising our unconscious biases.

Why is knowledge sharing important?

The business events industry relies heavily on connections (both networking and collaborating) to stay current. In its simplest form, it’s what makes the industry thrive. Without idea sharing, I believe we’d lose many of the opportunities that offer us new ways to improve, and the ability to assess and test what we can do differently.

We all present knowledge and are equally thirsty to learn.

I’m most excited for the Guide Dog Victoria’s Dialogue in the Dark session which will be an immersive experience. It will give people the chance to challenge their own limits, overcome boundaries, and discover hidden potential through experiencing the world as a person who has blindness or low vision.

Secondly, I can’t wait to see our host Fabian Pfortmüller weave his magic. He’s arguably the most renowned community builder in the world, who has dedicated his career to understanding communities.

Here’s to AIME 2019!

Over 120 dedicated function spaces Australia-wide The team at Australian Venue Co. are passionate about delivering unique and exceptional customer experiences across food, drinks and events.

With a national portfolio of restaurants, bars and dedicated event venues, Australian Venue Co. offers flexible spaces to suit your every need.

1800 836 837 www.ausvenueco.com.au

www.spicenews.com.au 33

Leaders Forum

Laura Sage General Manager, Event Planet The key is to be prepared for this, stay calm, consider your options, seek advice from the venue or supplier and be proactive on alternative solutions.

For example, when we were bumping out of an event on Fort Denison in the middle of Sydney Harbour, we were caught in a wild lightning storm. For safety reasons, the bump out and transit via a barge was put on hold, and an alternate plan was devised to bump out the next morning when the skies were clear. Our open communication with the venue and suppliers meant the job was completed with considered thought to the safety of all staff.

With 13 years of experience in events, Laura Sage designs and produces world-class events for clients such as Moët et Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Bulgari, Paspaley and Tabcorp.

Here, she discusses why problem solving is key to being a good leader.

LAURA’S MOST MEMORABLE EVENTS • Tabcorp Birdcage Marquee, which we’ve produced for seven consecutive years at the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse • Paspaley Polo in the City Marquee at Sydney’s Centennial Park. We’ve designed, produced and managed the event over a period of years and have seen it grow from just several thousand attendees to over 15,000 Australia wide

What proactive measures do you take before an event to ensure things go to plan?

We start by organising detailed internal briefings, client briefings and production meetings; ensuring we incorporate feedback and key learnings from previous events into new projects. We make sure the project team is engaged and accountable, while also collaborating with our suppliers by bringing them on the journey as part of the greater Event Planet team. Finally, never assume anything: check, double check and check once more.

• The launch of the first ever Australian Dior boutique and recently the launch of the new Bulgari flagship

How has technology assisted in fine-tuning the process of event planning?

Embracing technology has significantly improved not only the event spectacle but also production operations and efficiencies.

Event Planet collaborated with a software business, Pegasus Systems, to customise a project management solution that integrates with our accounting system. It has improved our productivity, allowed us to fine-tune client cost estimates in an instant from any location, manage supplier engagements and provide up-to-date reporting in real time.

How can event agencies hire, retain and develop quality staff?

For a team of 10, I feel very lucky to be working amongst such a high calibre of talent. I think what has led to such quality staffing is our development programs; people will stay if they feel challenged, supported and see room for personal and professional growth.

Event Planet has an international education program for leadership staff and an intensive industry internship program for tertiary students. Three of our full-time staff members have actually graduated from the internship program to become permanent employees. And of course, team morale and having an office puppy help.

boutique in Sydney

If something doesn’t go as planned – how do you address it?

Generally speaking, no matter how much meticulous planning, forethought and contingencies go into pre-production, on the event day there will be something that does not go precisely to plan.

34 Spice February 2019

Bulgari boutique launch produced by Event Planet

Leaders Forum

“The best way to improve the return on investment for your events is to take advantage of technology that captures important data points at each stage of the event lifecycle.”

Chela Evans Director of Sales, Cvent Australia What are the biggest technology trends to shake up the events industry in recent years?

We are in the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution where technology is at the core of every business and the events industry is no exception. For example, the move from paper tickets and manual door scanning to integrated mobile and social tools has transformed the way delegates register, interact and engage at events.

Similarly, event professionals once had to plan face-to-face site visits in order to put together their venue shortlist. Now, most of that process has gone digital.

According to our recent research, venues’ corporate websites are now tied with peer recommendations as the most influential resource for planners during the sourcing process. Search engines are close behind and social media has doubled its influence from last year.

Digital sourcing tools such as the Cvent Supplier Network have transformed the way planners and event professionals search for a venue and how hoteliers respond to incoming meeting requests – streamlining the process on both sides.

Do you believe there are more opportunities for event organisers to embrace technology?

TREND PREDICTIONS Virtual reality – soon you will be able take virtual tours and immersive walk-throughs of venues halfway around the world. Imagine being able to truly immerse yourself into a destination or venue without ever having to leave your office.

Augmented reality – gamification at events is going to get a major interactive boost with augmented reality (AR). AR gaming within mobile event apps will engage delegates and connect them with exhibitors, sponsors and speakers, offering both attendees and suppliers maximum impact and increasing your brand exposure.

Data protection – incredible amounts of personal data is collected at events, meaning extra responsibility for event organisers. You can expect to see international and local tightening of data protection and privacy laws. The global movement has started with the EU enacting the General Data Protection Regulation.

Biometrics and facial feedback – biometrics will provide a faster, safer and more secure check-in when confirming delegate identities onsite. Facial feedback and recognition offer a truly unique opportunity to gain real-time insights into how delegates respond to your event.

36 Spice February 2019

Yes, absolutely. The best way to improve the return on investment for your events is to take advantage of technology that captures important data points at each stage of the event lifecycle. We often say that meetings and events are ‘data goldmines’ and many professionals are not capitalising on the opportunity that all of that data provides.

One of the biggest missed opportunities is understanding how attendees engage with the event onsite. After check-in, what do your attendees do? What sessions do they attend? If you aren’t able to answer these questions, not only are you missing out on an opportunity to improve your event each year, but also missing the opportunity to better personalise the content you provide to your attendees post-event. Onsite solutions like attendee tracking, badge session scanning and feedback surveys can provide detailed insight into these data points.

Advertorial

New Melbourne & Olympic Parks development set to enhance event experiences

M

elbourne & Olympic Parks (M&OP), home to the Australian Open tennis tournament, is embarking on the third stage of its $1 billion redevelopment. Beginning in early 2019, the final stage of M&OP will reveal an unparalleled events centre – paying homage to the Australian landscape.

Civic in design, this architecturally impressive concept is quintessentially Melbourne and will include eight-metre-high ceilings and floor-toceiling windows that will project natural light across a generous 2000-square-metre pillarless ballroom and 800-square-metre pre-function area. Set across two levels, the upper level will feature a 250-seat auditorium, an abundance of breakout rooms and an outdoor terrace with uninterrupted views of the Melbourne City skyline.

Located on the edge of Melbourne’s vibrant CBD, the new spaces will be at the centre of the city’s picturesque Royal Botanic Gardens and Yarra River, enticing guests to take full advantage of the outdoor surroundings of Australia’s iconic entertainment and sporting precinct.

Set to be unveiled at Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event, held from 18-20 February 2019, M&OP’s function centre is scheduled to open in February 2022, promising to elevate the precinct’s capabilities yet again.

This new centre will sit alongside some of the world’s most iconic venues, including Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, AAMI Park and Melbourne Arena, offering premium experiences for businesses and associations across Australia and abroad. On top of this, the precinct offers exceptional catering options for events – paired with the nation’s world-famous Australian hospitality in and around the iconic precinct.

Aerial view of the Melbourne & Olympic Parks precinct

Current M&OP venues available for bookings: • Rod Laver Arena: Known as Centre Court during the Australian Open, Rod Laver Arena is ideal for intimate gatherings within its exciting new outdoor spaces.

• AAMI Park: Home to Melbourne’s award-winning stadium for football, rugby union and rugby league, AAMI Park offers a variety of spaces for events ranging from 10 to 1000 guests.

• Margaret Court Arena and Melbourne Arena: Each arena is suitable for large-scale events – from 200 to 8500 guests – and offers the flexibility to host formal dinners, cocktail functions, galas and conferences.

For expressions of interest in visiting M&OP, contact Lara Burnes at lburnes@mopt.vic.gov.au.

For more details, visit melbournepark.com.au. n www.spicenews.com.au 37

Think beyond the four walls of a conference room and try these five team-building experiences to reward and reconnect your corporate groups. By Brittney Levinson.

DITCH THE BORED-ROOM Relax with axe throwing Axe throwing is the latest craze in Australia and it’s no surprise corporate groups are loving this stress-relieving activity. With locations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and soon Adelaide, Maniax has spent four years perfecting the experience. Dee Cotter, operations manager at Maniax, says axe throwing is a very different experience than most people have had before.

“Many corporate groups work in high-stress, busy environments and when they come to Maniax they find it a great way to relieve these everyday stresses,” she says.“They get the empowerment of learning a new skill, the enjoyment of team bonding with their colleagues and we run a competition with the group so those competitive throwers can really get into it.”

For those who might have reservations about throwing an axe for the first time, Cotter says it is a very safe sport.“We’ve had over 60,000 people in for throwing with no accidents or incidents,” she says.“Our venues are purpose built with world-class axe throwing lanes and safety barriers protect our spectators and throwers at all times. When you come to have a session at Maniax, you will have your very own axe-pert who will give the team a safety brief prior to throwing, coaching in the art of axe throwing and the group will be supervised at all times while running the competition.” maniax.com.au 38 Spice February 2019

Team building

“Many corporate groups work in high-stress, busy environments and when they come to Maniax they find it a great way to relieve these everyday stresses.”

ABOVE LEFT: My Adventure Group takes team building to the extreme ABOVE In the kitchen at Sydney Seafood School BELOW: Axe-throwing is the latest team-building craze

Show off your skills in the kitchen Sydney Seafood School’s cooking classes tick all the boxes for corporate groups: they’re fun, laidback and a great opportunity for teams to get to know each other while learning new skills. Sydney Seafood School manager Roberta Muir says the classes provide a collaborative, hands-on activity for clients or colleagues.

“Of course sitting down and enjoying the end results with a glass of wine is everyone’s favourite part, but I’ve also had guests say they’ve closed deals around the cooking bench that they’ve been working on through weeks of formal meetings,” she says.

Each class starts with a chef demonstration before participants get to work in groups of up to six to recreate the dishes. Sydney Seafood School can cater to a range of dietary requirements, including nonseafood eaters, and have classes that focus on red meat and poultry as well. Canapés and beverages can also be organised on arrival for private groups.

The Spice team recently attended a cooking class at Sydney Seafood School, where Jesse McTavish, head chef at North Bondi Fish, led the menu of prawn sandwiches and baby snapper with papaya salad. The class was a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills in the kitchen while having relaxed, bonding time with each other. sydneyfishmarket.com.au/seafood-school

Grape stomping Grape stomping is an age-old tradition which sees participants jump barefoot into a wine barrel or tub and squish grapes between their toes as part of the wine-making process. While the activity is offered around the country in different wine regions, you don’t have to leave the city to do it. The experience is available to groups at Urban Winery Sydney, a fully functioning winery, event space and cellar door located just outside the CBD. www.spicenews.com.au 39

“As we are only 10 minutes from the CBD, it is so convenient to give your teams an experience they would normally have to travel hours to do,” says head of events Samantha Hammond. “As vintage only happens once a year there is limited opportunity to experience grape stomping in the city, so the demand is really high.”

So what can groups expect from the experience?

Aside from purple feet (don’t fear – water and towels are supplied post stomping), Hammond says guests can expect a fun, relaxed way to connect with colleagues.“Groups can expect to take away some fun, unique memories and knowing they have actually taken part in helping to make the next vintage of A.Retief wine,” she says.

To complete the experience, groups can sample wines straight from the tanks and barrels, enjoy cheese and charcuterie boards featuring local New South Wales produce and take home a souvenir bottle of wine. urbanwinerysydney.com.au

Paint like Picasso Inspire creativity among your corporate team with a painting session, where they can try something new and discover hidden talents – all with a glass of wine in hand. Perth business Cabernet & Canvas is one of a growing number of companies around Australia that offer painting workshops for corporate groups.

At Cabernet & Canvas, participants spend two to three hours painting, following step-by-step instructions from a trained artist, while enjoying a few drinks with colleagues. Co-owner Ella Dent says the experience can be tailored to suit each group.

“Painting in itself can put a lot of people out of their comfort zone, so most corporate groups stick to our standard guided painting workshops, but we can also customise our events to suit the client,” she 40 Spice February 2019

TOP LEFT: Get your feet dirty with a spot of grape stomping at Urban Winery Sydney ABOVE: Groups follow step-by-step instructions from trained artists at Perth’s Cabernet & Canvas

says.“Some groups choose to add an element of competition to their workshop, while others prefer to maintain a more relaxed atmosphere.”

Groups can choose from a gallery of almost 100 paintings or work with the Cabernet & Canvas team to design a custom painting for their event. The painting workshops can be hosted at a variety of licensed venues around Perth or the team can come to you. ”Being fully mobile, we can also set up our workshops within the client’s workplace, or work with any other venue that is able to accommodate our set up,” says Dent. cabernetandcanvas.com.au

Team building for corporate teams. The program kicked off with a keynote speech from Castrission, who shared his experiences with delegates and discussed how a growth mindset is critical to success.

The group enjoyed dinner under a magnificent tepee with catering by local supplier Redpepper Catering, before retiring to their glamping accommodation (complete with luxury bathrooms!).

The next morning, delegates started the day with warm Chai served at their tent, before departing for a day of adventure. Castrission and his team of guides led the group through abseiling and canyoning activities that pushed the group out of their comfort zones and off cliffs – literally! While limits were tested, everyone supported and encouraged one another and before long, a group of strangers had become team mates. The trip ended with a celebratory lunch and drinks at the Fairmont Resort, for a luxury touch to complete the experience.

“When individuals are provided the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones, real and authentic human emotions are exhibited and this is absolute gold dust for team development.”

Push the boundaries My Adventure Group takes team building to a new level, creating customised, multi-day adventures for corporate groups that challenge and reward delegates in the stunning Blue Mountains region of New South Wales. The adventures are led by My Adventure Group founder James Castrission, an Australian explorer, keynote speaker and leadership consultant.

Castrission and his friend Justin Jones hold two Guinness World Records for their accomplishments: completing the longest unsupported polar expedition of all time from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole and back, and becoming the first kayakers to cross the Tasman Sea. With these extraordinary world records under his belt, Castrission now leads adventure-based development and team-building programs for corporate groups.

Castrission says adventure is a brilliant tool to push teams out of their comfort zones and create lasting memories.“At the centre of any strong team is vulnerability-based trust,” he says.“When individuals are provided the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones, real and authentic human emotions are exhibited and this is absolute gold dust for team development.”

Spice Magazine was recently invited to experience one of My Adventure Group’s programs in the Blue Mountains, which was designed to give event organisers a taste of what the group can provide

TOP: My Adventure Group’s glamping tents in New Zealand ABOVE: My Adventure Group embarks on an adventure in the Blue Mountains

My Adventure Group tailor makes every program to suit each group and their needs.

Previous experiences have included wine tasting, celebrity chef appearances and morning yoga.“We choreograph the entire experience from the moment our clients depart Sydney (either via vehicle or helicopter) to all the glamping accommodation, adventure experiences, entertainment, 5-star dining, team development and mindfulness activities,” says Castrission.“We design the entire itinerary based on the desired outcomes and objectives of each client.”

My Adventure Group’s programs offer corporate groups the perfect blend of challenge and reward, bringing teams together in an unforgettable setting.

The programs are predominantly run in the Blue Mountains, but can also be organised in New Zealand. myadventuregroup.com.au www.spicenews.com.au 41

Hot spot

48 HOURS

in the Adelaide Hills Just 15 minutes outside Adelaide’s CBD is a secluded luxury manor, Mount Lofty House, which is as appealing to corporate groups as it is to locals looking for a luxe staycation.

Brittney Levinson explores the historic property and its surrounding hot spots.

DAY ONE AM Touch down at Adelaide Airport on one of the regular direct flights from all Australian capital cities. The Adelaide Hills are located less than 30 minutes from the airport, so jump in your hire car or private coach and you’ll arrive in time for breakfast.

NOON Make your way to Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, and meet Sharon Pippos of Hahndorf Walking Tours who will take you on a guided tour of the historic buildings, artisan shops and restaurants that line the streets. Pippos, a Hahndorf resident and history enthusiast, will take you off the main street and share the stories of the Prussian settlers who built 42 Spice February 2019

and established themselves in Hahndorf in the 1800s. Her tours can be tailored to include different activities for groups, such as strudel-making and food tastings. Complete your tour with a schnitzel and a stein at one of the nearby German restaurants.

and conference facilities. While the rooms and public spaces have been upgraded, the property’s historic features have been preserved, to ensure the spirit of the colonial manor remains.

PM

In the evening, dine at Mount Lofty House’s three-hatted signature restaurant, Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant. Enjoy a degustation menu designed by executive chef Jin Choi, whose simplistic yet technical dishes make for a memorable dining experience. Choose matching wines to complement your meal or head downstairs to Arthur’s Wine Cellar to hand-pick your own bottle of wine from the extensive selection. The restaurant also offers two private dining spaces for intimate gatherings.

Check in to your luxury accommodation at Mount Lofty House, MGallery by Sofitel, located high up in the Adelaide Hills with views overlooking the Piccadilly Valley.

The attentive staff will lead you to one of the 32 elegant guest rooms on offer in the 167-year-old property.

Mount Lofty House recently completed a $6 million refurbishment, revealing new-look guest rooms with velvet upholstery and luxe bathrooms, as well as a new reception area, restaurant, bar

EVENING

New luxury lodges Mount Lofty House will open 14 new luxury suites in September this year, bringing an unrivalled level of luxury and bespoke experiences to the Adelaide Hills. The $13 million Sequoia at Mount Lofty House development will offer a high level of service and security for those seeking a luxury retreat. Each spacious villa will have its own private balcony, offering views of the Piccadilly Valley from every angle.

DAY TWO AM Rise and shine with a morning yoga class on the lawn, which Mount Lofty House can organise for groups, paired with freshly squeezed juices and smoothies to kick-start the day.

In keeping with the wellness theme, take some time out to enjoy a treatment at Stables Day Spa, housed in one of the three original buildings on the property. Built in 1851 as a stable, the building is now a destination spa with a range of treatment options available.

NOON

ABOVE: Mount Lofty House overlooks the Piccadilly Valley TOP: One of the private dining spaces on offer TOP RIGHT: The Library BELOW: Refurbished guest room

Now it’s time to explore what the Adelaide Hills is renowned for: the wineries. Stop in at Ashton Hills Vineyard to experience its highly regarded pinot noir and sparkling wines. The cellar door offers intimate tastings for small groups, which can be paired with local produce from the Adelaide Hills region.

Bird in Hand is another must-visit when in the Hills, and you’ll be blown away by their cellar door and farm-to-table restaurant, The Gallery. For events, the Red Wine Room offers a private dining space for up to 80 standing guests, while the Barrel Hall can accommodate up to 800 guests.

Head to The Lane for lunch, where you’ll enjoy the best of South Australia’s produce, paired with The Lane’s single vineyard wines. The venue can host a range of experiences for corporate groups, including private dining, wine-making classes and vineyard tours.

End your tour at Shaw + Smith for a sampling of their award-winning wines at their modern cellar door. Shaw + Smith offers an intimate behind-thescenes tour and tasting every Friday for groups of 12, while exclusive tastings can also be arranged for groups of up to 40 guests.

PM Your wine tasting experience wouldn’t be complete without trying some of Mount Lofty House’s very own sparkling wine. The hotel’s dedicated sommelier will take your group on a tour through the on-site vineyard to taste the grapes and try the signature sparkling wine, made with grapes grown right on the property.

Before dinner, take part in the 5pm Mount Lofty House Tour, which is on offer to guests who want to explore the property and learn more about its history. Here, you’ll uncover hidden gems like the Coach House, one of the original buildings on the property. The Coach House is perfect for corporate events for 60 seated guests, with built-in AV equipment and a large outdoor deck, while the larger Piccadilly Panorama pavilion is ideal for larger conferences and banquet dinners of 200 guests.

Complete your stay with cocktails and casual dining in the Arthur Waterhouse Lounge, in front of the original fireplace or looking out over the gardens and Piccadilly Valley below. n www.spicenews.com.au 43

Set amongst rice paddies and temples, Club Med Bali is a sanctuary for delegates located on the shores of Indonesia’s Nusa Dua, less than 30 minutes from the international airport.

Katherine Ross discovers how the all-inclusive resort blends work with entertainment, creating Club Med’s ‘worktainment’ philosophy.

Eat, sleep, meet, repeat at Club Med Bali

STAY

MEET

Club Med Bali offers 391 rooms in 10 different types to suit your

The three newly refurbished meeting rooms can be used individually

delegates including superior balcony rooms and deluxe rooms with

for small meetings or combined for a group briefing with state-of-

a terrace. All rooms have a lush garden outlook. This all-inclusive

the-art facilities and natural daylight in every room. Break out spaces

resort allows you to take advantage of a range of activities, dining

range from spacious lounges outside the meeting rooms to a breezy

options and entertainment.

sea view setting that promises to spark inspiration among delegates.

44 Spice February 2019

Hot spot

PLAY With 25 different activities available from archery, windsurfing, and snorkelling to trapeze, you can get involved in everything or nothing. The resort’s very own mobile app allows you to plan the perfect day around meetings.

RENT A RESORT Club Med offers a rent-a-resort concept, giving groups exclusive access to the property and a fully customised experience. With capacity for 100 to 900 delegates, you have the flexibility to personalise your own program, customise your branding and have all the Gentle Organisers and Gentle Employees at your service.

RELAX Rejuvenate your body and soul with yoga by the beach, taking in the calming views of the sea and listening to the sounds of nature that surround you. Indulge yourself in the adult-only Zen pool to truly unwind.

EAT

PARTY

Feast on Balinese and international delights at the buffet-style

When the sun sets on Club Med Bali, the bar comes to life. Get

Agung Restaurant or dine al fresco in the specialty restaurant on

into the spirit at the nightly theatre shows watching traditional

the water’s edge, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and

Balinese dancing or performances created by the talented team

refreshing beverages day and night. For a gala dinner that offers

of Gentle Organisers. Then head to the main bar to try a few

panoramic views of the resort, host an evening at Coconut Grove.

moves of your own.

www.spicenews.com.au 45

The Byron at Byron The Byron at Byron is the ultimate retreat, blending Byron Bay’s natural charm with stateof-the-art meeting facilities. Brittney Levinson discovers why the resort has become an iconic conferencing and event destination for corporate groups.

T 1

he Byron at Byron embodies all that the northern New South Wales region is renowned for: natural beauty, incredible food and, of course, that laid-back, friendly nature. A quick 25-minute journey from Ballina Airport or 45 minutes from the Gold Coast’s Coolangatta Airport, The Byron at Byron feels like a private sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Coupled with high-quality conferencing facilities, the resort offers the perfect mix of work and play for corporate events with a difference.

Accommodation The property features 91 self-contained suites, set amongst a 45-acre sub-tropical rainforest, which guests will journey through to reach their accommodation. The Deluxe Spa Suites are located in a secluded area of the resort and just a five minute walk to Tallow Beach. The Superior and Standard Suites are positioned closer to the resort’s central facilities and conference rooms. Each suite features a separate lounge and dining area, a fully equipped kitchen and two enclosed balconies.

Conferencing

2 46 Spice February 2019

The Byron at Byron’s conference spaces can together host up to 160 delegates, with a combination of indoor and outdoor areas available. Located near the property’s main entrance are three purpose-built conference rooms, Tallow Creek Room, Wild Orchid Room and Scribbly Gum Room, which can be used

Hot spot individually or combined to create a 216-squaremetre venue. Surrounding the conference rooms is the Rainforest Verandah, ideal for breakout sessions, cocktail functions or dinners for up to 70 delegates.

A number of outdoor spaces are also on offer, such as The Lawn, a versatile open space located in the heart of the resort and perfect for long-table dinners and cocktail events. Further into the rainforest is the Lotus Garden, which can be utilised as a quiet breakout area or event space for up to 80 delegates.

Dining

3 4

Food and beverage is a key focus for The Byron at Byron, for both its leisure and conferencing guests. The resort’s signature dining concept, The Restaurant, recently received One Hat in the 2019 Good Food Guide, an exciting milestone for the property. The accolade comes after Matthew Kemp joined as executive chef, tasked with evolving The Restaurant into a key dining destination in the Byron Bay region. Kemp’s menu showcases local produce that changes with the climate and season, influenced by Asian, modern Australian and European cuisines. Guests can also enjoy a casual bite and expertly crafted cocktails at the new poolside Tallow Bar. For conference catering, a variety of options are available, such as shared table experiences, canapé options and degustation menus.

1: The Restaurant

Relaxing

2: The Byron at Byron is located within 45 acres of rainforest

The resort’s on-site day spa and wellness centre offers delegates an opportunity to relax after a busy day of conferencing, while the property’s tennis court, gym and pool offer plenty of options for guests to get active. The Byron at Byron can also arrange yoga, tai chi or meditation classes for groups led by a qualified instructor. Classes can be held by the pool, on the beach, within the rainforest or in several other locations throughout the resort. n

3: The Byron at Byron’s infinity pool 4: Modern accommodation 5: The perfect mix of work and leisure 6: F resh, local food on the menu

Explore the region 5

Cape Byron Distillery

whales with the Byron Bay landscape

Start your tour with a Brookie’s Gin

as a backdrop. Available from June

tasting, followed by a guided tour

to November, the tours take up to 12

through the Brook family farm and

whale watchers per vessel for a small,

surrounding rainforest, and then

personalised experience.

learn about the art of distillation. Be

Taste Byron Bay

sure to sample their latest creation, Mac, a delicious liqueur made from macadamia nuts and native Australian wattleseed.

6

Taste Byron Bay’s food tours and cooking classes celebrate the exceptional produce of Byron Bay region and the surrounding

Whale Watching Byron Bay

hinterland. Founded by chef Terase

Experience one of the world’s most

Davidson, Taste Byron Bay takes

incredible animal migrations with

guests on a journey of discovery,

Whale Watching Byron Bay, who take

exploring the region and tasting local

groups up close to the humpback

and seasonal produce.

www.spicenews.com.au 47

Insider

Roxy Jacenko

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aunching a successful public relations business at 24 years of age would be enough for some, but for Roxy Jacenko, it was just the beginning. In addition to her renowned Sydney PR agency Sweaty Betty, Jacenko’s suite of businesses now includes influencer agency Ministry of Talent, social media agency Social Union and accessories brand Pixie’s Bows. She also runs regular In Conversation seminars and has published five books, including her recent release, Roxy’s Little Black Book of Tips and Tricks.

“With any business, unless you continue to evolve you get forgotten about,”says Jacenko.“I’ve never ever been one to say: ‘Well one business is doing well and that will suffice’. You’ve got to continue to up the ante and push the boundaries, otherwise you just become a number and I don’t want to be a number.”

Sweaty Betty has become synonymous with not only managing public relations for high-profile brands – be it in the fashion, food or lifestyle industry – but producing incredible, Instagrammable events as part of that.

48 Spice February 2019

Brittney Levinson chats with entrepreneur, author and PR guru Roxy Jacenko about all things events, social media and building successful businesses.

Jacenko says guest expectations are higher than ever, which means events must be extremely engaging to make an impact.“Gone are the days where Champagne and canapés will suffice,” says Jacenko.“People want experiences.”

An example from Sweaty Betty’s own client events is the launch of a new Aqua range for skincare brand L'Occitane.“At the table we had the product melting in ice and cloches over the top, which were revealed by waiters all at the same time,” says Jacenko.“It wasn’t just a product display and a meal, we have a bit of a talk and that’s it – we created moments.”

For events that stand out, creating theatre and “Instagrammable moments” is a must, according to Jacenko.“Table 100 at Park Hyatt Sydney is a great example,” she says.“You sit through a three-course meal but then Shlomi [Palensya], the executive pastry chef, creates this incredible dessert in front of you. Could he make it in the kitchen and bring it out plated? Yes he could, but where’s the Instagrammable moment in that?”

The rise of social media has completely shaken up the event landscape, so much so that Jacenko admits she makes every decision because of it.

“People are time poor and they’re using social media every time they open their eyes, through their lunch break, while they’re waiting for a friend and until they go to bed,” she says.“The more you use it the better your content is and the more success you’ll have on it.”

If you want your event to be noticed on social media, Jacenko says look for creative and theatrical elements to tie in.“Look for those little points of difference,” she says.“If there’s an apple extract in the product you’re launching, hypothetically, have apples on the table and have guests’ names tied onto the apple. It’s all little touch points which create Instagrammable moments – that’s the most important thing.”

“With any business, unless you continue to evolve you get forgotten about.”

ABOVE: L'Occitane event produced by Sweaty Betty BELOW: Roxy Jacenko in event mode

If Jacenko could tell her clients one thing, it would be this: “You have to spend money to make money.”

Case in point, late last year Jacenko created a summer cocktail book to send out to key media.

“It cost me about $10,000 by the time I did the photography, printed it and had [hospitality consultant] Cocktails by Kurtis curate the drinks,” she says. "But you know what? It was a point of difference. Don’t invest in PR and marketing in events if you’ve got no money to spend or you don’t want to spend it.”

If money is limited, Jacenko says there are other ways to promote your event. "Do Instagram ads or boost Instagram posts,”she says.“We’ve got really excellent ways of being able to showcase brands, services and products these days because of social media and it doesn’t cost a fortune.”

If there’s one thing we can learn from Jacenko, it should be to always look ahead for the next opportunity. Not one to rest on her laurels, Jacenko and her husband Oliver Curtis launched 18 Communications in January this year, with a goal to help brands tap into the lucrative Chinese market.

“We’ve got a big Chinese community here in Australia, and no one is tapping into [Chinese social media platforms] WeChat and Weibo – well there will be now!” n www.spicenews.com.au 49

Social

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Out About 3

1–3: AV1 Long Summer Lunch at Museum of Contemporary Art Australia 4–5: Meetings & Events Australia’s dark circus Christmas party 6–8: Flying Fish launch at The Star Sydney

5 50 Spice February 2019

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Dart River, Queenstown

businessevents.newzealand.com

One of the most important ingredients of any successful conference is having fun, like jetboating up the Dart River at 70kmh. New Zealand offers a huge variety of exhilarating activities set in stunning natural landscapes all within easy reach of world class accommodation and venues.

Inspiration is right on your doorstep.

Book your next conference in New Zealand.

businessevents.newzealand.com