Spice issue 99 Summer 2022

REGULARS

Going up, going down

New and noteworthy

Cover story: Western Australia

An effortless blend of urban cool with raw natural beauty.

Celebrating 30 incredible years of AIME Silke Calder offers a sneak peek of what to expect.

FEATURES

The great incentive travel boom begins Rewarding international incentive trips are back with a bang.

News from around the world An update from some of your favourite incentive destinations.

Top four event trends to watch for 2023 Expert insights on upcoming trends for the year ahead. Easy, breezy summer venues Fabulous venues for long days and balmy nights.

DESTINATIONS

Embracing ‘Aloha’ on O’ahu

Unique MICE offerings in a culturally rich island setting. 48 Hours in Hobart

Where to eat, meet, play and stay in the Tasmanian capital. Let’s meet in Launceston

An easy-going destination with loads on offer. Perfectly Parramatta A city thriving with diversity and new ideas.

OPINION

Beyond the environment

Arinex’s Nicole Walker breaks down the four pillars of sustainability.

Lana Bogunovich Editor

Managing Director

Simon Grover

Publisher Paul Wootton pwootton@intermedia.com.au

Editor Lana Bogunovich lbogunovich@intermedia.com.au

National Sales Team

Katherine Ross, Charlotte Marshall Production Manager Jacqui Cooper jacqui@intermedia.com.au

Production Assistant Natasha Jara njara@intermedia.com.au

Graphic Designer

Alyssa Coundouris

Prepress Tony Willson

Subscriptions subscriptions@intermedia.com.au

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 Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd (ABN 81 163 792 292)

Oh what a year!

As we wind down to the final busy weeks of 2022, I hope our annual incentives issue excites you for the year of travel ahead – our feature on page 12 forecasts a big one. Don’t miss page 16 for the latest MICE destination updates followed by some serious travel inspiration which kicks off with beautiful Hawai’i on page 26.

It’s also our summer issue and with the long days and warm weather finally upon us, there’s nothing better than getting the team together for breezy rooftop drinks or a seaside soiree at one of the stunning venues we’ve rounded-up on page 22. Whatever trials and triumphs this year has brought for you, I hope you can find some time to relax and enjoy this issue!

Spice Magazine Team + 61 2 8586 6176 kross@intermedia.com.au

Katherine Ross

Charlotte Marshall

Visit SpiceNews.com.au for the latest industry news as it happens. Our twice-weekly updates cover

DISCLAIMER

Group sales and marketing manager +61 2 8586 6152 alyssac@intermedia.com.au +61 2 8586 6216 cmarshall@intermedia.com.au

Graphic designer

t’s hard to believe that it’s already been a whole year since I put out my first issue as editor of Spice magazine. For me, it’s been an action-packed year with many highs and some steep learning curves along the way, but one thing is for certain – there’s never a dull moment in the editor’s chair. Besides our incredible team and all the wonderful perks that come along with the job, my personal highlight was Events Uncovered which pushed me outside my comfort zone to do something I’d never done before – curate and moderate a panel of industry experts live on stage in front of an audience of event planners. It was scary, it was nerve-wracking, and it involved a lot of late work nights and navigating unexpected, last-minute curveballs. But in the end, it all came together and turned out to be one of the best things I’d ever done because it made me realise what I am capable of when I just keep pushing through those niggly moments of s elf-doubt (and don a sparkly power suit!).Sales and marketing manager Alyssa Coundouris

venues, suppliers, destinations and technology, as well as inspiration and tips to help you plan stand-out events.

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

WESTERN AUSTRALIA A world of wonder awaits INCENTIVES Travel trends, challenges and destination updates SUMMER VENUES Beautiful places for wining and dining all season long DESTINATIONS Hawai’i Tasmania Parramatta 4 Spice Summer 2022 Editor’s letter

This publication is published by Food and Beverage Media 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 © 2022 - Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd.

Lawn parties and family fun

Time in lockdown and at home has given us a new appreciation for spending time outdoors with loved ones. Especially with the weather warming up, we are seeing a rise in outdoor events with bright styling and lots of engaging entertainment for the whole family.

Versatile venue spaces

With more dynamic and inclusive events on the rise encouraging companies to come together across all management levels and locations, venues that can offer a VIP lunch for 12, team building for 200 and a conference and gala for 450 all in the same space are in high demand right now.

A modern twist on classic themes

All the favourite themes are on the rise! Everyone is looking for a fresh take on classics such as Vegas, Masquerade, Studio 54 and Enchanted Garden. Want to get ahead of the trends? Blend themes and styles! We recently put together a Masquerade-Halloween gala dinner, because why not?

As one of the leading events specialists in Sydney, the team at Funktionality is known for staying ahead of the curve when it comes to events. Here, they give us the low down on what’s trending and what isn’t.

Simple step and repeat media walls

Having just a simple printed backdrop and red carpet isn’t going to cut it anymore. 3D textured walls embellished with florals, balloons and signage, custom props and even furniture to create a ‘scene’ has become a big trend.

Going up, going down

Boring presentations

Now we’re back to in-person events, we’ve had enough of the endless screenfocused conferences and presentations. Get creative by integrating props and activities that get delegates up and moving and make them feel connected, engaged and inspired.

Accessibility issues

With all that’s going on in the world, we miss the easy access we used to have to fresh and creative styling products and décor from international suppliers. Bring back the global connectivity and reliable shipping of pre-COVID times!

Club Med Phuket, Thailand

Located in the beautiful Kata Bay, just 45 minutes from Phuket International Airport, the recently revamped Club Med Phuket has unveiled two newly renovated meeting rooms and facilities and an additional building to accommodate events. With 340 rooms, a range of flexible spaces, team-building activities and nightly entertainment, including live shows and gala dinners, the resort can be hired exclusively to provide MICE guests with everything they need under one roof. Offering a blended work and leisure experience, the new MICE centre offers greater accessibility before, after and in-between events with three meeting rooms of varying sizes, a new conference theatre for up to 137 pax and upgraded access between event locations and other parts of the resort. It’s also ideal for reconnecting teams, with lush outdoor spaces overlooking the Andaman Sea and carefully curated cultural, gastronomic and tropical experiences.

New + noteworthy

QT Gold Coast

QT Gold Coast has unveiled its newly refreshed and expanded conferencing and event spaces, marking the completion of the first stage of the design-led hotel’s transformation. In addition to enhanced connectivity and state-of-the-art technology, the spaces feature a coastal luxe theme inspired by the location’s beach lifestyle. The grand QT Ballroom offers 598 square metres of pillarless space with six-metrehigh ceilings for up to 650 guests and can also be arranged into six individual spaces. For more intimate events, planners can choose from the light-filled Sunset Rooms on level one or the Venice Beach-inspired spaces on level two. The most significant development is the extension of the Malibu room onto the rooftop, featuring a terrace complete with wood-fire oven, smoker and Argentinian grill, perfect for al fresco entertaining. Events can also be extended to The Landing, a spacious lawn with beach views.

Oxford House, Sydney

Public Hospitality has transformed a historic Paddington property into Oxford House - a bright and breezy boutique hotel. Affectionately referred to as OH!, the Palm Springs-inspired hotel offers 56 rooms and three suites, all featuring a separate living area and one with an expansive balcony overlooking the city. There are two dining experiences, designed for hotel guests and locals alike. On street level, Oxford House Restaurant is an all-day restaurant offering a relaxed space and evolving modern Australian menu by executive chef Tyler Preston and can be hired out for private events of up to 50 pax. On level one is the Oxford House Pool Bar, which offers an ideal space for summery cocktail events of up to 100 guests. The opening follows the group’s transformation of The Strand Hotel in Darlinghurst, with restorations of Alexandria’s Camelia Grove, Erskinville’s The Kurrajong and Balmain’s The Town Hall to follow in the coming months.

Oborozuki, Sydney

Joining Circular Quay’s prestigious waterfront dining precinct is Oborozuki, a fine dining Japanese restaurant offering a modern kaiseki and teppanyaki experience. Located within Sydney Harbour ‘Opera Residences’, the elegant restaurant and Oborozuki Bar sit side-by-side over two glass-encased levels, offering sweeping harbour views alongside unique food and beverage experiences. Seating up to 50 people, the bar features a range of premium wines and Japanese spirits and includes a private bar for up to 10 guests. Boasting the largest kaiseki dining

room available for up to 10 guests. There are also three private teppanyaki rooms, with two seating up to six guests and one for up to 10 guests. Considered one of the world’s finest Japanese culinary experiences, kaiseki is presented as an upscale multicourse menu consisting of cold to hot dishes, with each dish prepared simply to emphasise the natural beauty and flavour of premium quality seasonal Australian ingredients. Alternatively, the restaurant’s teppanyaki experience offers an immersive and engaging 10-course dining experience led by head chef Feliz Zhang’s talented teppanyaki chefs.

Western Australia

Sitting on the banks of the Swan River (Derbal Yerrigan) in Whadjuk Noongar country, Australia’s sunniest capital city Perth (Boorloo) effortlessly blends urban cool with raw natural beauty.

Its heart is bustling with bars, restaurants, hotels, shopping and cultural spaces, and is also home to one of the world’s most beautiful inner-city parks, Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Within 30 minutes of the city centre, business travellers can be exploring Western Australia’s oldest wine region, watching a famous Western Australian sunset over the Indian Ocean, discovering an island paradise or walking the streets of Fremantle (Walyalup).

An array of new public spaces and revitalised buildings have activated Perth city and its surrounds. The vibrant waterfront precinct of Elizabeth Quay connects Perth to the Swan River with new hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton Perth and DoubleTree Hilton Perth Waterfront offering riverfront views, premium event spaces and a selection of dining options.

Majestic landscapes for big sky thinking.

Above: Elizabeth quay, Perth. Image credit: aeroture_au via social media.

Left: Longreach Bay, Rottnest Island.

Right: Optus Stadium and Matagarup Bridge, Burswood.

Below left: The Warders Hotel, Fremantle.

Below: WA Museum Boola Bardip, Perth.

Image credit: Tourism Western Australia.

Linking Perth CBD to

Square connects people to place and is a recognition of Western Australia’s Aboriginal heritage. Not to be missed is the spectacular new WA Museum Boola Bardip, acting as a gateway to explore all of WA, and a place to share the State’s many stories. Across the river, connected by the Matagarup Bridge, is the 60,000 seat Optus Stadium that boasts world-class event spaces with spectacular city backdrops.

Famously home to the world’s friendliest marsupial, the quokka, Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) is a unique island paradise located just a short 25 minute ferry ride from the mainland. Business travellers can explore the island by foot, scenic flight, Segway, skydive or waterbike. Within 45 minutes of Perth CBD, delegates can be swimming with wild dolphins in Rockingham or cruising the canal waterways in Mandurah.

Continuing the boom in new and refurbished accommodation, since 2020, Perth has welcomed the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront overlooking the Swan River and city skyline; Vibe Hotel in the inner-city suburb of Subiaco; Samphire Rottnest, the island’s first boutique luxury accommodation offering; and the boutique, heritage-listed Warders Hotel in Fremantle.

With the influx of new hotels came the opening of signature restaurants across the city. Enjoy fine dining at venues such as Hearth at The Ritz-Carlton Perth, Nobu at Crown Perth, Santini Bar & Grill at QT Perth, Garum at The Westin and Wildflower at COMO The Treasury.

Perth is the perfect adventure playground for your next business event, explore more at businesseventsperth.com

Northbridge, Yagan

n

“Within 45 minutes of Perth CBD, business travellers can be swimming with wild dolphins in Rockingham or cruising the canal waterways in Mandurah.”

Celebrating 30 incredible years

With event planning well underway and new exhibitors and hosted buyers confirmed daily, AIME event director, Silke Calder, gives us a sneak peek of what to expect at next year’s special 30th anniversary show.

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) is returning to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) from 13 – 15 February 2023. It is the industry’s flagship tradeshow in Asia Pacific and with nearly 60 percent of the world’s population located in the region, it is the ideal platform for capitalising on the growing business events industry.

AIME 2023 will be a celebration of the event’s extraordinary 30-year legacy.

Three months out from the big day and with over 90 percent of the showfloor sold, we’re thrilled with the support we’ve received from international destinations and Australia’s convention bureaus - every state in Australia will be represented at AIME next year. Here is just a snippet of what to expect…

The Knowledge Program

Kicking off AIME’s 2023 program on Monday 13 February is the highly anticipated Knowledge Program - the launchpad for the global events industry to come together, immerse in learning and inspire events for the next year and beyond. The theme for 2023 is: Your Industry. Your Opportunity. What is the opportunity for the events industry now?

Our ongoing commitment to deliver the best program for the industry has seen us establish a new initiative – the Knowledge Program Advisory Committee. This committee consists of eight leaders from the Asia Pacific business

events community who are guiding the curation of the program. We guarantee participants will leave engaged, renewed and armed with new skills to take their events to the next level.

Hosted and visiting buyers

We have a redesigned show floor awaiting our hosted and visiting buyers including new dedicated zones for tech suppliers, hotel chains and international pavilions. A unique Uncover Melbourne Experience, tickets to the Knowledge Program and Welcome Event, plus several more complementary experiences are included as part of our hosted buyer’s package.

Exhibitors

A key distinction that sets AIME apart is our bespoke AI-powered meeting platform. By matching buyers’ needs with the destinations and services on offer from our exhibitors, our technology will align over 10,000 pre-scheduled meetings. There is no other show in the APAC region that guarantees exhibitors introductions with such highly qualified and vetted buyers.

Welcome event

Our highly anticipated Welcome Event will be bigger and better than ever next year! Did I mention that we’re keeping the location a secret until the day of. I will say this though, it will be unmistakably ‘Melbourne’ and I can’t think of a better way to welcome our guests to this special city! n

“We guarantee participants will leave engaged, renewed and armed with new skills to take their events to the next level.”

Silke Calder

The great incentive travel boom begins

Incentive travel is back on the agenda and 2023 will see the first year in what will be a decade of almost unparalleled growth. With borders across the world now open and restrictions relatively light, the impact and benefit of incentive travel for organisations is expected to be even greater in the year ahead because, in many cases, this will be the first opportunity for people to get overseas again.

According to research by Allied Market Research, the global incentive travel market will grow from $US42.0 billion in 2021 to $US218.8 billion by 2031, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.1 per cent. Australia will be one to enthusiastically embrace the opportunity, and according to 212F director of travel and events, Jo Strachan, that has already begun.

running the type of trips they had previously,” Strachan says.

This is despite the cost of flights being high and availability limited. These factors mean that those organising incentive travel awards are being recommended to allow for more lead time in planning. By contrast, however, Strachan says that there are far more incidences of last-minute changes with program numbers and logistics, right up until departure.

“Long gone are the days of having a group confirmed and ready to go with no changes two weeks prior to departure!”

That need for flexibility and disruption in planning also means that the popular destinations for incentive travel are currently those that are a single flight from home.

Above: Incentive travel is back on the agenda with accessible, one-flight-away destinations such as Dubai proving highly popular.

“70 per cent of our groups have confirmed international travel in 2023, so this goes to show they are wanting to travel again and get back to

Strachan says Asia-Pacific, New Zealand, Hawai’i and Dubai are proving particularly popular for Australian businesses.

After a couple of years where international travel wasn’t viable, rewarding incentive trips around the world are firmly back on the cards again, Matt Sainsbury reports.

The growing strategic value of incentive travel

The 2022 Incentive Travel Index has found that, globally, the strategic value of incentive travel is growing. Almost all (91 per cent) of organisations see incentive travel as having an even more important role in building engagement and company culture as workforces become decentralised and dispersed. Meanwhile, 67 per cent of employers see it as critical to retaining employees. With unemployment being so low in Australia, retention is a particular priority for management.

“We have research that shows that the most highly desired reward for corporate employees is travel,” SITE Australia & New Zealand president, Nicole Tingey says.

“It actually supersedes money, or any other benefit that has been in place over the last few years as a reward. Some businesses have launched straight back into running programmes. Others are slowly moving back into that space, but it will be the predominant reward type moving forward, because it is so critical to employee satisfaction.”

There is also a real opportunity for organisers of incentives to leverage the changing expectations around travel, Tingey adds. “In doing so, they can further deepen the engagement from the trip.”

While the enthusiasm for travel has come back strongly, there are still residual concerns about participating in large groups and going to big events, as was traditionally part of the incentive travel experience.

“Health and safety is the number one concern for all corporates when they’re running these events, particularly if they’re taking them offshore, ”Tingey says.

Top right: Mount Cook, New Zealand. Popular destinations are currently those that are a single flight from home.

Below: The focus will be on finding new experiences that deliver deep engagement.

“Practitioners and event managers should be looking to provide a unique destination where the client can have an experience and not feel like they’re sitting in there amongst the crowd of thousands of people.”

Tingey says that what this will lead to, in both the short and long term, is an increased appetite for travel and experiences that are highly personalised for smaller groups of people.

“For industry associations, we all need to be kind of leaning on and learning from each other to provide the best outcome for our clients,” she says.

“I also think that it’s never been more important to engage the services of a DMC. Those entities can provide intense knowledge around a destination and build those unique experiences when you’re still in the research stage. It’s the time for agents, for event planners, and for DMCs.”

But what of the domestic market? While international incentive travel was off the table during the pandemic, the domestic travel industry had a booming incentive travel business. Destinations such as Far North Queensland, the Kimberly, and Tasmania have benefitted from the unique locations they have offered clients. 

“Groups are wanting to travel internationally again and get back to running the type of trips they had previously.”

Jo Strachan

Incentives

Above: Travel and experiences that are highly personalised for smaller groups of people will be highly sought after.

Below: The year ahead will be an opportunity to discover new locations.

The question now is, as international incentive travel opens up, what happens to the investments that went into the domestic market.

“Right now, there’s an abundance of demand for meetings and events that include incentive programmes, but as international incentives take off, how does that impact the domestic market?”

FCM Meetings & Events general manager Simone Seiler says.

“The investment that local operators have made to meet the current demand has been significant, so will that continue to materialise for them? Is there enough demand for both markets right now?”

Seiler says that two things will particularly benefit the local market. Australia has one of the most relaxed sets of requirements around incoming traffic and COVID-19 restrictions, making the country accessible. Furthermore, the weak Australian dollar will help generate significant interest in coming here, particularly from North America.

Seiler adds that it’s also important to consider those that are either uncomfortable with the idea of travelling overseas, or not currently able to.

While most people are now enthusiastic about travel again, there is a small number of people that planners will need a contingency solution for.

“There’s an opportunity for agencies like ours to generate additional or new revenue streams by having a complimentary incentive experience to accommodate those contingency plans,” she says. “Making sure that everyone who has deserved the incentive experience receives their reward is obviously a priority for organisations.

“On the flip side of that, with these kinds of things you’re looking at even more tailored and high-touch experiences for very small groups, or even couples of individuals, and that has the potential to move away from an incentive experience and to a high-end leisure experience.

The challenge there for us is in being able to deliver to the standard that is expected across both the main experience and the alternative experience - that’s hard to make sure that you get just right.”

The year ahead is going to be one of discovery and learning for the incentive travel industry. The focus will be on finding new experiences that deliver deep engagement, help distant co-workers and clients connect, and build a better relationship to their organisation by crafting memorable and tailored experiences.

It will also be an opportunity to discover new locations for incentives. Disruption at airports and juggling the visa requirements of each nation during transit make multiple-stop travel a logistical headache, so the opportunity is there to introduce people to the wonders of the nations closest to us and keeping the travel time itself to a minimum.

“People have a newfound sense of value with their time and how they spend it,” Seiler says. “They’re choosing activities and experiences with a great focus on the reason for why they’re doing them, and for now the focus is on team building and bonding activities to help people reconnect after such a long period of people being apart.” n

“People have a newfound sense of value with their time and how they spend it.”

Simone Seiler

UNCOVER THE PERFECT MEETINGS & EVENTS SANCTUARY.

Positioned on the northern end of the Gold Coast, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort offers a premier offsite event destination complete with 15 state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor event venues, one-of-a-kind destination-inspired partnerships and expertly-curated catering opportunities.

Home to a recently refurbished stay collection, a show stopping beach lagoon and nestled within 4.2 hectares of lush landscaping, the Resort also unlocks unprecedented access to three championship golf courses, a world class marina and Sanctuary Cove Country Club. Contact our meetings and events team on Sales.sanctuarycove@ihg.com or (07) 5501 9889 for assistance with planning your next meeting or event.

K-Pop culture in Korea

With K-Pop taking the world by storm and Korean film and television earning global accolades, Korea is well on its way to becoming a top incentive travel destination. This has resulted in a range of exciting new programs related to Korean pop culture as well as those that align with the global trends of environmental, social and governance (ESG) and wellness tourism.

To foster attractive incentive tour programs in these areas, Korea Tourism Organization (Korea MICE Bureau) hosted distinguished MICE destination management companies for the ‘Korea Outstanding Incentive Tour Program Competition’ in Korea in June 2022.

The 19 winning programs for incentive groups include a Squid Game-themed culinary tour, a ‘Time Capsule Tour’ exploring retro and modern Korea, an information and communications technology industry tour, and wellness tour, to name just a few.

Korea MICE Bureau also offers K-Incentive Fun-Up & ValueUp Programs for groups of at least 10 international delegates visiting Korea and staying at least two nights. Fun-Up Programs offer great benefits such as an airport welcome party.

News from around the world

With borders around the world open again, there’s never been a better time to reward groups with an international trip. Here’s what’s new in some of Australia’s favourite incentive destinations and how travelling there looks today.

Pay it forward in Hawai’i

Tourism recovery within the MICE sector is recovering and growing and Hawai’i expects to welcome an increased number of corporate groups in 2023. With excellent hotels and conference venues and a deeprooted connection to Australian visitors, Hawai’i remains a top location for everything from corporate functions to incentive rewards, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant island lifestyle that appeals to both business and leisure at the same time.

When it comes to unique and memorable experiences, Hawai’i provides exceptional “Aloha” service that is authentic and heartfelt, and suppliers have a strong commitment to ensuring that group events are transformational and not transactional. Organisers have a deep kuleana (responsibility) to those that come to Hawai’i, and guests are treated as ohana (family).

In addition to a range of premium incentive experiences, groups also have the special opportunity to pay it forward by partaking in the Malama Hawai’i Program, where they'll learn about Hawaiian culture and natural resources while volunteering in a range of projects for the local community.

A group participating in Malama Hawai’i at Papahana Kuaola on O’ahu, Hawai’i. Photo credit: Hawai’i Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman.

Deoksugung Palace in Seoul, South Korea.

So much in store in Singapore

One of the most accessible and significant cities in the Asia-Pacific region, Singapore is also increasingly recognised as an excellent destination for unique incentive travel experiences.

While most of the world ground to a halt during the pandemic, Singapore continued to innovate and transform. New hotels, tours, attractions, restaurants, and bars opened, while existing establishments took the opportunity to revamp, and now the whole city is primed and waiting to be rediscovered by visitors from all over the world.

Singapore is world-renowned for its food culture. For an intimate dinner for up to 20 guests, Pangium is an upscale, tasting menuonly restaurant located with sweeping views of Singapore Botanic Gardens. Helmed by chef-owner Malcom Lee of Michelinstarred Candlenut, Pangium presents a journey to better understand Singapore’s Peranakan culture through its unique cuisine.

To escape the city, an unforgettable experience awaits at the Night Safari’s An Evening in the Wild, in Singapore’s first tipi tent for up to 40 guests. Meanwhile, large groups can choose various team-building options at Sentosa island’s Scentopia, including a hands-on workshop to make your own personal scent.

Singapore welcomes all international travellers quarantine-free, with unvaccinated travellers subject to a negative pre-departure test result and proof of having purchased COVID-19 insurance with at least $30,000 medical coverage. Mask-wearing is only mandatory in medical facilities and on public transport.

Adventure awaits in Canada

From the west coast of British Columbia to the eastern Atlantic provinces, Canada is teeming with surprising destinations and experiences, ideal for creating memorable meetings, conferences and incentive rewards.

Teams can venture into the heart of Niagara and stand in the mist where the mighty Horseshoe Falls tumbles from 13 storeys above; stay in a wilderness lodge deep in the forest of British Columbia and lock eyes with a grizzly bear (from a safe distance); or marvel at the northern lights in Canada’s northern regions as they shimmer and dance across the inky sky.

For more urban experiences, an exclusive performance by the world-famous Cirque du Soleil in its home city of Montreal can be booked as a private group function.

Meanwhile, Canada’s rich intellectual capital Ottawa, international organisations and world class universities make it easy to enrich corporate event programming with innovative speakers, immersive localised tours and networking opportunities.

As of October, there are no mandatory COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements, but travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to enter Canada via the Government of Canada website.

Niagara Falls.

Photo credit: Alan Brutenic.

Singapore.

Experience omotenashi in Japan

Having spent the last two years upgrading and improving its tourism facilities, including opening a slew of new hotels with more in the pipeline, Japan is now more accessible than ever is excited to welcome back international visitors with its signature ‘omotenashi’ hospitality.

Japan’s eclectic blend of ancient culture, modern cities, breathtaking natural landscapes, incredible resort and wellness experiences, and world-renowned cuisine, including Michelin-starred restaurants, spoils for choice when it comes to rewarding and memorable incentive itineraries.

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) is keen to help groups explore the whole of Japan. From the ancient capital of Kyoto and the bustling metropolises of Tokyo and Osaka, through to the exciting satellite and emerging cities of Sapporo, Yokohama, Kobe and Fukuoka, every town and city across Japan provides a true smorgasbord of plenty to discover and experience.

Japan fully opened to international travellers in October, but travellers that are not fully vaccinated are required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours prior to departure. Masks should still be worn indoors and many people choose to still wear them outdoors – wearing masks to ward off the common cold and even hay fever was commonplace in Japan even before the pandemic.

Britain is calling

Since Australian travel restrictions lifted earlier in the year, there’s been an exponential rise in the pace of recovery for travel from Australia to the UK with flight bookings frequently exceeding pre-pandemic levels and continuing to accelerate.

With loads of new openings, one-of-a-kind experiences and a year-round calendar of events, including the Coronation of King Charles III in early May, Britain is open and well placed to continue to welcome back corporate and incentive travellers.

London will see a boom of new luxury accommodation openings throughout 2023. One of the city’s most anticipated regeneration projects recently made its debut almost 40 years after its closure, with the reopening of Battersea Power Station in October as an innovative retail and leisure destination which also includes the new 164-room art’otel

England’s northern gateway is also celebrating ‘reinvention’, with Manchester set to welcome several brand new and refurbished music venues, new cultural and green spaces, a major museum reopening and a wave of new hotels.

Away from the city centres, groups can embrace the outdoors with several new and revamped properties launching in 2023. The Bracken Hide will open as a luxury wilderness hotel in Portree, Scotland, while The Tawny Hotel in Staffordshire will soon unveil its new treehouse-style accommodation.

Groups seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences can check out the new 270 Climbing Park coming to Gloucestershire in 2023, take a dip with stingrays and sharks at Plymouth’s National Marine Aquarium’s new snorkelling experience, or embark on stargazing safaris, kayaking and ziplining at Dark Skies Festivals happening across the country in February. London, England.

Photo credit: VisitBritain/Antoine Buchet.

The historic Higashiyama district in Kyoto.

Top four

event trends to watch for 2023

In-person will be back in full force in 2023 and businesses have a desire to wow and healthy budgets to boot. Across all sectors in Australia, the emphasis will be on creating memorable events through a combination of incredible venues, exceptional catering and awe-inspiring entertainment, as Matt Sainsbury finds out.

GETTING BACK TO NATURE

Venues that can promote an eco-friendly vibe are going to be particularly well-regarded in 2023. The Calyx venue sales manager Astrid Renigeris says aligning events with a corporate responsibility and values is a key priority moving into the new year.

“Our clients appreciate that their investment in our venue has a direct effect on providing educational and social benefits to their guests, as well as the general community,” she says.

“People are craving ‘back to nature’ experiences and physical locations that are inspiring and very different from their workplaces – either the office or home base. They’re looking for transformational and sensory experiences. In this light, The Calyx, which features our 20,000-plant covered living wall exhibition, provides a popular immersive experience.”

The Calyx.

TANTALISING TASTE BUDS WITH WHOLESOME FOOD

When it comes to catering, health and corporate social responsibility reign supreme. Seasonal, local, Indigenous, and organic foods with anti-oxidant qualities are the current menu favourites, according to Laissez-Faire Catering general manager Sara Flaksbard.

“Incorporating local plants, herbs and spices in menu planning is a must,” Flaksbard says.

“Ingredients such as bush tomatoes and tatami apples, mountain peppers, quandongs, macadamia nuts, lemon myrtle, and wattleseed are highly sought after. For those looking for meat elements that are local or native, the menus can include kangaroo, yabbies, swordfish and emu.”

Meanwhile, mocktails are continuing to rise in popularity as events look to adopt an inclusive and wellbeing-orientated approach, while alcohol consumption is being limited to a few drinks per person. There’s also a focus on catering having minimal environmental impact.

INTERACTIVITY MAKES PROPS COME ALIVE

The traditional core elements for a memorable event will remain the same in 2023, The Prop House director and owner Jano Kotzas says.

“You want to create an impactful entrance, a beautiful photo moment, and exquisite table styling, but the trending fashion right now is to make the experience more interactive, too,” she says.

“We’ve noticed that clients are seeking to add more interactive and personal elements into their events. This has come in the form of roving entertainment, such as acrobats, aerialists, musicians, and dancers, as well as games and other aspects that encourage guests to engage with one another.”

As far as aesthetics are concerned, people are thrilled to be out and about and in-person again, and events spaces are being transformed into rich sensory experiences in response.

“There has been a return to all things bright, bold and colourful. People want to express creativity in new and experimental ways and enter a ‘new world’ when it comes to experiencing events.

LEVERAGING EXPERIENCES TO CONNECT PEOPLE

Technology has come a long way in the years where COVID-19 disrupted events. Now, according to SongDivision chief executive officer, Andy Sharpe, those advancements, when managed well, are going to drive all-new and mesmerising experiences.

“Screens are clearer, sound systems are more powerful, and the creative digital work being used to communicate ideas and promote brands is more immersive,” Sharpe says.

While AI is increasingly a key theme, event managers need to be careful that the focus remains firmly on using technology to facilitate human interactions. Sharpe says this makes the role of the events experts even more critical when delivering memorable experiences.

“An over-reliance on technology can result in a cold experience for attendees. This is a fabulous opportunity for entertainers, caterers, stylists and venues to dream up new ways to get people off their phones and creating real bonds.”

The Prop House’s bold and colourful styling makes for an impactful event.

Oysters with green ants, finger limes, lemon myrtle balsamic and Kakarla, by Laissez-faire Catering.

SongDivision entertainment energises the crowd at an event.

Summer venues

EASY, BREEZY SUMMER VENUES

From swanky rooftop bars to oceanside sun decks, these fabulous venues will keep you cool as a cucumber all summer long.

Journey Beyond Cruise, Sydney

An afternoon or evening spent cruising around the world’s most beautiful harbour is pretty hard to beat and Journey Beyond Cruises’ 78-foot luxury cruiser, Spirit of Migloo, provides a magnificent floating events space. Sturdy, spacious and with modern amenities, the vessel features three expansive decks, two separate interior spaces, and an outdoor bow and rooftop sundeck from which to take in all the sparkling Sydney sights. You can charter the vessel exclusively for up to 120 guests cocktail, or hire either the main deck (50 seated, 80 cocktail) or the upper deck (30 seated, 40 cocktail) aboard a scheduled cruise. There’s a variety of food and beverage options available, with everything from canapés to three-course sit down meals featuring local, seasonal produce accompanied by sommelier-selected New South Wales wines.

journeybeyondcruises.com

HYDE Hacienda Bar + Lounge, Sydney

Whether it’s for hosting a corporate function, product launch or work drinks, HYDE Hacienda Bar + Lounge is one of those places that’s sure to impress. Overlooking Circular Quay, this contemporary lounge-style cocktail bar lends a relaxed and playful vibe with its pastel-coloured furnishings and foliage hanging down from the ceiling. On the menu you’ll find fresh and vibrant share dishes that take on the bold flavours of the Americas alongside tropicalinspired cocktails and French and Australian wines. The space can host from 30 to 200 guests and there’s a dedicated events team on hand to ensure a seamless and highly enjoyable experience.

hydehaciendasydney.com

NSW

Odyssea City Beach, Perth

Even though it’s just a 15-minute drive from Perth CBD, Odyssea City Beach will make you feel as though you’re miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Overlooking the majestic Indian Ocean, the sun-drenched outdoor ‘SSEA DECK’ is the place to be when you want to bask in the glow of those famous Western Australia sunsets. The deck can accommodate up to 170 cocktail style, while the coastal-inspired indoor restaurant can host up to 120 seated or 200 cocktail, or you can have the full venue for larger events of up to 200 seated or 300 cocktail. Whether it’s an end-of-year cocktail function with canapés and live cooking stations, or a seated dining event, this spectacular seaside location is simply perfect for summer entertaining. odysseacitybeach.com.au

Iris Rooftop, Brisbane

Perched atop Hotel X in Brisbane’s hip and happening Fortitude Valley, Iris Rooftop oozes luxe Mediterranean vibes at every turn. With its 360-degree city views, sprawling lap pool and chic cabanas, this gorgeous venue is guaranteed to bring the wow-factor to summertime events. There are many function spaces on offer to suit whatever type of mood your event is after. Sip champagne while taking in the atmosphere from the Iris Cabanas, host a dinner party against a glittering backdrop of the city skyline and Story Bridge, or have the whole venue for up to 250 guests and party the night away. More intimate events will be perfectly catered to in the Private Dining Room (10 seated) or The Sunset Lounge (50 cocktail). irisrooftop.com.au

Stokehouse St. Kilda Beach, Melbourne

With its striking design, enviable beachfront location and award-winning food and wine, it’s hardly surprising Stokehouse is a highly coveted events venue. Overlooking St. Kilda Beach, this stunning restaurant boasts uninterrupted sea views and several elegant spaces that can be booked exclusively for events of up to 250 guests cocktail or 150 seated. More intimate dining events will be perfectly catered to in the privacy of the Palm Room which accommodates up to 40 guests, or the Cellar Room which is secluded away from the main restaurant and offers a semi-private dining experience for up to 14 guests. Top tip – start your event with welcome drinks and the fresh sea breeze on the STOKEBAR terrace. stokehouse.com.au www.tesrecruitment.com.au

Above: Waikiki Beach, O’ahu, Hawai’i.

Below: A gala event set up amidst aviation memorabilia inside Hangar 79.

Embracing

Aloha’ on O’ahu

From the lush deep-green forests covering Diamond Head Mountain to the sparkling turquoise waters of Waik k Beach, O’ahu’s beautiful landscapes astonish at every turn.

Steeped in history and culture, O’ahu is the third largest island in the state of Hawai’i and home to the majority of Hawai’i’s diverse population.

It is right here that you’ll find an eclectic contrast of the ancient and the modern, offering unforgettable group experiences and one-of-a-kind venues set against a postcard-perfect tropical island backdrop. Add to this the generous Aloha spirit and gracious hospitality of its people and you’ll soon realise that O’ahu lives up to its nickname – “The Gathering Place.” Here’s where to meet, stay and play on O’ahu.

Uniquely Hawaiian venues

Featuring terraces, courtyards and landscaped tropical gardens complete with waterfall and fishponds, Hawai’i Convention Center (HSC) is one of the most beautiful convention centres in the world. Located in the heart of Hawai’i’s capital, Honolulu, it offers nearly 103,000 square metres of bright and breezy spaces that can accommodate events of up to 13,000 pax, including 47 meeting rooms, an exhibit hall, two tiered-seating theatres, a 3,250-square-metre ballroom, and the jewel in the crown – an expansive rooftop terrace which offers unbeatable views from every angle.

In downtown Honolulu, the historic Hawai’i Theatre Centre makes for a fun alternative venue for presentations and awards ceremonies. Dating back to 1922, the theatre’s architecture and design has been beautifully preserved, complete with state-of-the-art capabilities and seating for 1,350 delegates.

As well as being home to an intriguing collection of aviation exhibits, the Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbour National Memorial also offers 10,000 square metres of indoor and outdoor event space for events of all shapes and sizes. You can host a presentation in the 200-seat Pacific Theatre, a workshop in the education centre, an incredible outdoor event right on the tarmac, or a glitzy gala dinner for up to 2,200 or cocktail for up to 5,000 set amongst awe-inspiring aviation memorabilia in one of two hangars.

Nearby, on the active navy base, is the Battleship Missouri Memorial – an impressive memorial and museum which also doubles as a private events space after hours. There are four fascinating venues within the

‘

Hosted by Meet Hawai’i and O’Ahu Visitors Bureau, Charlotte Marshall explores MICE offerings on the culturally rich and naturally beautiful island of O’ahu, Hawai’i.

battleship, which can host anything from intimate events for 25 guests to gala dinners for up to 2,000. Pre-event tours can also be arranged so that guests can be inspired by their surroundings, the very same ones where World War Two officially ended.

World-class resorts and facilities Hawai’i’s Waik k Beach is as known for its palm-fringed, white-sand shoreline as it is for its jaw-dropping luxury resorts – and with more than 30,000 rooms on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

A great hotel for incentive groups, Prince Waikiki offers a golf course, adultsonly infinity pool, spacious all-ocean view guest rooms and suites, and a great location. You can also add in Club Lounge access which allows your group some privacy away from the rest of the hotel. There are also numerous meeting spaces both indoors and outdoors that can be used for meetings of all sizes. Top tip: The hotel uses locally grown ingredients from their own rooftop garden!

Fresh from its $US80 million renovation, Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa has emerged with 2,787 square metres of reimagined indoor and outdoor venues, including 19 new event rooms and 16 breakout rooms. The main ballroom can accommodate 800 guests in a theatre set-up or 610 attendees for a banquet. A private P kai Ceremony can also be arranged as part of a team building experience that incorporates the

traditional Hawaiian practice of ocean water purification performed at sea to increase harmony and renew focus amongst the team.

From its spaciously appointed accommodations to its opulent events spaces, the oceanfront Alohilani Resort oozes luxury. Its flexible spaces can be configured to meet individual requirements and range from meeting rooms for up to 24 people to a grand ballroom that can host up to 1,500 cocktail. For the ultimate Hawai’i vibes, the pool deck offers the perfect spot for networking drinks and comes complete with a light installation that can be personalised to your company brand and logo. The resort is also taking the lead with green initiatives by being the first to commit to a carbon neutral certification as well as committing to energy and water conservation and an existing sustainability initiative to plant 100,000 indigenous trees in its Legacy Forest.

Multiple indoor and outdoor spaces span the opulent Hilton Hawaiian Village, but possibly the most impressive would have to be The Great Lawn – the largest private oceanfront grass lawn in Waik k Set against a backdrop of tropical gardens, gentle ocean waves and a sparkling blue lagoon, this scenic location is ideal for banquets and cocktail events for up to 2,000 guests. Indoors, there are three modern conference centres within the resort, featuring intimate lounges and grand ballrooms. 

Getting there

Hawaiian Airlines offers a daily direct service from Sydney to Honolulu.

Top tip: The time difference is only three hours so your delegates will not feel the dreaded jet lag!

On the ground

Executive Chauffeur Hawaii offers a safe and reliable premium transport service. Your groups will be transported from the airport in comfort and luxury and all-day hire options are also available.

Top tip: Ask for Dustin – not only is he always on time, but he’ll also share amazing local knowledge with you between destinations.

Prince Waikiki. The Kahala Hotel & Resort.

“With the Aloha spirit all around, Hawai’i is the perfect place for teams to connect and build a stronger bond.”

Away from the hustle and bustle of Waik k , The Kahala Hotel & Resort is a favourite among celebrities and dignitaries alike. Delegates have everything they need from seven conference spaces, five restaurants and a range of exceptional onsite facilities and activities. In addition to its dazzling event spaces which boast the likes of private gardens and waterfalls, the resort also makes for an ideal incentive getaway abundant with exclusively tailored activities such as private chartered experiences, luxurious spa retreats and much more. All this, plus – there’s no resort fee!

Team building with a difference

With the Aloha spirit all around, Hawai’i is the perfect place for teams to connect and build a stronger bond.

Whisk your team away to Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve, just a half-hour drive from Honolulu. Established in 1850, this 4,000-acre private nature reserve and working cattle ranch offers a range of group activities from horseback riding and ziplining to jeep expeditions and more. Kualoa Reserve is also the set of more than 200 Hollywood movies and TV shows, including the blockbuster Jurassic Park movies, and groups can enjoy a range of movie site tours, such as an adventure through the incredibly scenic Jurassic Valley in a UTV Raptor vehicle.

For something more tranquil yet deeply meaningful, the Malama Hawai’i experience is a two-hour, hands-on group volunteering activity that connects you to the land and gives back to nature. At Kualoa Reserve your team will get to harvest taro plants straight from the taro patches that grow in the pond while learning about their cultural and environmental significance to the Hawaiian people and the importance of caring for the land. Top tip: Bring a change of clothes because you are going to get muddy!

All that hard work deserves to be rewarded and what could be better than a rum tasting? Ko Hana Distillers offers a fun and educational activity for groups that have a rum appreciation where they can walk through the sugarcane fields on a site tour and see how a true farm to bottle distillery works before tasting Hawaiian Agricole Rum, one of the world’s finest pure cane rums. They say it’s like tasting the pure heart of Hawai’i. n

Top left: Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa.

Top right: Battleship Missouri at Pearl Harbour.

Below: Hawaiian performers take to the stage at an event inside Hangar 79 at the Aviation Museum in Pearl Harbour.

Bottom: Getting stuck into the Malama Hawai’i Experience at Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve.

Gourmet Events Hawaii

This premier catering and event management company has been in the business for more than 70 years. Covering every aspect of event management, including menu planning and catering, staffing and logistics, vendor management, marketing and more, this professional team of events experts will be an asset to assist with your events while on the island.

SUGGESTED EDITORIAL OPTIONS

Welcome to Phillip Island, one amazing place — home to 101 square kilometres of extraordinary experiences and a unique range of boutique conferencing venues, just 90 minutes southeast of Melbourne.

From cruising and watching masses of fur seals sun themselves on Seal Rocks to enjoying lunch at a winery or taking to the skies on an exhilarating scenic helicopter flight, whichever direction you head, there’s fun to be found for all delegates.

Your Business Meeting Destination

Breathe life into your next corporate event by bringing your team together on Phillip Island. Easily accessible from Melbourne, Phillip Island has all the elements conference event organisers look for when planning an event. If you’re planning a conference, executive retreat, team building weekend or product launch, Phillip Island is a destination with a difference. At first glance, your guests will be blown away by the island’s phenomenal coastal landscapes, but soon enough, they’ll also grow to appreciate Philip Island’s other charms. You can host a board meeting nestled amongst the world’s largest little penguin colony, a conference overlooking the stunning southern coastline of Phillip Island and out towards Australia’s largest fur seal colony, throw an end-of-year cocktail party in a trendy winery or book luxury cabins for a team building getaway — there’s a function space just right for you on Phillip Island.

Your Incentive Destination

If you want to reward your hardworking team with exceptional food and drink experiences, thrilling wildlife encounters, and access to a bounty of beaches, put Phillip Island on your incentive trip list. A compact, easily accessible island that ticks the boxes of foodies, surfers, wildlife lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and beachgoers alike, the universal appeal of Phillip Island makes it a winning incentive trip destination. If you’re hoping to create an incentive trip that captures your team’s attention, look no further than Phillip Island.

Your Island Adventure

The island is famous for its Little Penguin parade and the legendary Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, but there’s much, much more to see and do. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s 101 square kilometres of island magic to be discovered. With easy access from Melbourne and Melbourne airport, Phillip Island is just 90 minutes from Melbourne CBD and connected to the mainland via a bridge. Cross over the bridge and experience what makes Phillip Island a unique business events destination like no other.

48 Hours in Hobart

Day one

AM

Start the day with a hearty breakfast on the sun-drenched deck of Succulent Restaurant followed by an uplifting nature walk through the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. With 14 hectares to explore, this cool climate garden has plenty of unique plant collections to see as well as a range of spaces for corporate functions and events. One of the most beautiful spaces is the Conservatory, where you can host an unforgettable event for up to 100 seated or 120 cocktail surrounded by a range of orchids and other tropical plants.

NOON

Embark on a fascinating, and at times confronting, journey through Hobart’s convict past with a visit to the World Heritage-listed Cascades Female Factory. Get an insight into what life at Cascades was like for convict women and girls through a moving onewoman performance.

When it’s time for lunch, head up the road to Cascade Brewery Bar and enjoy lunch and a beer or cider tasting in front of the fireplace or amongst the beautifully landscaped gardens. Located at the foothills of Mount Wellington, this is the perfect spot for team lunches and events, with a function space for up to 40 seated and 60 cocktail. Across the road is Cascades Brewery, Australia’s oldest brewery, which offers a range of tours and tastings.

PM

Treat yourself to an afternoon cocktail at MACq 01 Hotel’s award-winning Evolve Spirits Bar. Inspired by humans’ fascination with the spiritual and natural worlds, this luxury lounge bar displays an impressive collection of artefacts dating back more than 500 million years, making for some interesting conversation. Make your way past the skeleton of a giant Russian bear to the bar, which boasts an extensive assortment of Tasmanian and international whiskeys and spirits. Group bookings are available for up to 30 guests, or you can have the whole venue for up to 64 pax.

EVENING

Dine in style at Aloft on the top floor of Brooke Street Pier. The main dining room features an open kitchen and an entire wall made of glass looking out across the water and can be hired exclusively for up to 50 guests seated or 100 cocktail. The menu is elegant and innovative, showcasing Tasmania’s diverse produce and changing seasons with pan-Asian influences, with the option to beverage match.

WHERE TO STAY

Crowne Plaza Hobart for all the mod-cons and comforts

The Tasman for top-notch luxury and Massimo Mele’s restaurant, Peppina

Vibe Hotel Hobart for the brandnewness and great views

Mövenpick Hotel Hobart for the central location Hotel Grand Chancellor for excellent conferencing facilities and waterfront views

MACq 01 Hotel and Henry Jones Art Hotel for the art, history and storytelling

“After breakfast, head down to the jetty for a thrilling adventure on the water with Pennicott Wilderness Journeys and see the harbour city from a whole new perspective.”

Hobart, Tasmania.

Photo credit: Luke Tscharke.

Evolve Spirits Bar at MACq 01 Hotel.

Photo credit: Evolve Spirits Bar and Adam Gibson.

With its fascinating history, gourmet experiences and picturesque surrounds, Hobart captivates the senses and lends itself perfectly to inspired events itineraries, as Lana Bogunovich found out.

AM

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast while soaking up the spectacular water views at Wrest Point, which sits on the edge of the River Derwent. With a casino, hotel, six bar and dining options, and state-of-the-art conference centre, this is a dream destination for events of all shapes and sizes. There are multiple indoor and outdoor spaces catering to everything from meetings and cocktail parties to multi-day conferences, exhibitions and gala dinners. The venue is also easily accessible by ferry or private boat charter.

DON’T MISS

A visit to Hobart would be incomplete without a visit to the world-famous Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), which features an eclectic private collection of weird, wonderful and wacky art from around the world. Get there in style by booking the‘Posh Pit’ onboard one of MONA’s high-speed ferries and enjoy complimentary drinks and nibbles in the private bar lounge.

After breakfast, head down to the jetty for a thrilling adventure on the water with Pennicott Wildnerness Journeys and see the harbour city from a whole new perspective. You’ll be cruising the waters at high speed in an eco-friendly, open-air vessel which allows you to feel the fresh salty air on your face as you get close to cliff sides and venture inside caves, spotting marine life on the way. There’s a range of tours to choose from as well as the option of fully tailored itineraries for private group charters of up to 40-plus delegates.

NOON

With its sprawling vineyard and river vistas, Frogmore Creek provides an unbeatable spot for a long, leisurely team lunch. Nestled in the Coal River Valley wine region just 20 minutes from Hobart CBD, this award-winning venue features a cellar door, restaurant, function centre, gift shop and a collection of quirky wooden floor carvings that tell the story of Tasmanian wine – follow them on a journey to a wine tasting at the end.

Top: Lark Distillery in Pontville. Photo credit: Samuel Shelley.

Above: The Observatory at Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Photo credit: Tourism Australia.

Below: Pennicott Wildnerness Journeys. Photo credit: Tourism Tasmania & Peter Aitchison.

PM

Discover the art of what makes a great whisky with a tasting and tour of Tasmania’s only working whisky village and cooperage, Lark Distillery in Pontville. Set amongst beautifully restored sandstone buildings back to the early 1800s, the distillery also offers a unique and historic setting for events of up to 100 cocktail and 40 seated. While there’s no dining outlet onsite, Flint Kitchen can arrange an incredible spread of freshly prepared local produce and meats cooked over fire in the courtyard.

EVENING

Take a stroll along Hobart’s famous waterfront to the Henry Jones Art Hotel, housed within one of the restored warehouses in the Hunter Street precinct. As Australia’s first dedicated art hotel, it features more than 500 artworks and hosts artists in residence who exhibit their works in the hotel’s gallery. Take a guided tour and learn about the hotel’s history and art as you explore its beautiful spaces while enjoying a glass of sparkling wine. Continue the journey downstairs with dinner at Landscape Restaurant and Grill which serves up the best of Tasmanian fare and wine. It can host up to 22 guests for pre-dinner canapés followed by a three-course set menu or can be hired exclusively for up to 70 seated with a six-course degustation. n

Let’s meet in Launceston

From sprawling vineyards and unique stays to indulgent dining and outdoor experiences, ‘Lonnie’ is an easy-going destination with loads on offer.

Taste wine and gin in Tamar Valley

Just a 20-minute drive from Launceston CBD is Tasmania’s largest wine region, Tamar Valley. Known for its picturesque landscapes which are centred around the Tamar River, the region produces cool climate and sparkling wines which can be sampled at more than 30 cellar doors. Enjoy a wine tasting with cheese platter and river views at Tamar Ridge or head next door to Turner Stillhouse for a tour of their multiaward-winning distillery and gin tasting.

Soak up the view over a long lunch

With its dreamy lakeside setting, Josef Chromy Wines is the ideal spot for gettogethers, whether it’s a long, leisurely lunch, formal dinner event, or team BBQ in the lakeside pavilion. In addition to tasting flights, there’s a range of on-site experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours of the winery, yoga amongst the vines, and a sparkling wine workshop where you can create your unique blend of bubbles to take home.

Indulge in a delicious multi-course degustation

For the ultimate group dinner, head to Brisbane Street Bistro. Housed within a charming Victorian terrace house, this cosy yet elegant restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere seating up to 36 guests or up to 25 at a long table. The menu is a sophisticated blend of classic French and European inspired cuisine which showcases premium quality, seasonal Tasmanian ingredients. The degustation with matchedto- perfection wines is a true crowd pleaser.

Stay in a silo

Housed within historic grain silos on the Tamar River Basin, Peppers Silo Hotel offers 108 rooms and suites, of which 52 are inside the barrels of the former silos. Facilities include gym, day spa, 24-hour reception, a conferencing space for up to 100, and two dining venues including Grain of the Silos Restaurant which showcases the best of local fare. But the real star attraction here is the resident black Labrador Archie who loves greeting guests.

Hold an event in the newest hotspot in town

Inspired by hiking Tasmania’s great outdoors, Du Cane Brewery and Dining Hall is the city’s first brewpub, offering locally brewed beer on tap, woodfired pizzas and a good time. It offers 1,500 square metres of space with an on-site brewhouse, function space (250 pax), private dining room (40 pax), cellar door and laneway experience, and can be hired exclusively for up to 400 people.

Kayak along the waterfront

For a fun and refreshing team bonding activity, hit the water with Launceston Kayak Tours. The fully guided 90-minute Tamar River Tour takes you on a gentle cruise along the scenic waterfront, or you can opt for a custom tour. The Hobie pedal-powered single and double kayaks have a battery powered motor so they’re easy to use even for those who are mobility impaired, making it a highly inclusive activity.

Turner Stillhouse. Photo credit: Tourism Australia.

Photo credit: Liza-Jane Snowden.

Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart

Enjoy uninterrupted views of Hobart’s waterfront as you conference in Tasmania’s largest purpose-built event space.

Featuring a plenary for 1,100 delegates, 11 flexible function spaces and space for 125 trade exhibition booths, the Hotel Grand Chancellor is Hobart’s premier conference & events venue.

At the Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart, we’re all about helping you make the dream come to life as we bring our bit of Tasmania to your event.

Want to learn more on why Hobart is the best choice for your event? Contact our team today. hcecgranchancellor.com

The perfect destination for your next conference or event

Perfectly Parramatta

With its rich history, culturally diverse precincts and world-class facilities, the City of Parramatta is a prime destination for hosting business events. Home to the Dharug people and their meeting place for more than 60,000 years, Parramatta knows how to bring people together and with a slew of excellent transport links and new developments, it’s incredibly well connected and accessible. Compared to Sydney’s CBD, it’s also more affordable for hosting events and offers everything you need to make your business events a success with plenty to do in the city and surrounds.

New developments in a growing city

As one of the fastest growing regions in New South Wales, Parramatta is undergoing a major transformation. Over the next five years, $20 billion will be invested into the city's infrastructure and development, propelling it towards its vision of becoming a sustainable, liveable and productive global city.

One of these new developments is the $77 million aquatic centre, situated within the UNESCO World Heritage listed Parramatta Park. Opening early 2023, it will feature three swimming pools, a water playground, multipurpose community rooms, gym, and wellness centre.

In 2025, a new cultural precinct will open on the Parramatta River foreshore. Designed to be a 24/7 attraction, The Powerhouse Precinct will include a new Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences alongside the iconic Riverside Theatres, which will next year commence a $170 million redevelopment that will double its capacity.

The 30-minute City Parramatta is the geographic centre of Greater Sydney and has excellent transport links, making it within 30 minutes reach from most parts of Sydney. From Sydney CBD, it takes just 30 minutes by train, and slightly less by car when travelling via the new WestConnex.

Major transport infrastructure developments include the ambitious multibillion dollar Sydney Metro West project which will increase Parramatta’s accessibility and connectivity more than ever before. Expected to be completed by 2030, this new underground metro railway will connect Greater Parramatta and Sydney CBD, doubling the rail capacity between the two with a travel time of just 20 minutes.

The Parramatta Light Rail project is also well underway and once complete, it will connect Parramatta CBD to a number of western suburbs as well as to other transport links.

By 2026, the highly anticipated Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport will transform the region even further, welcoming international and domestic flights.

Parramatta Square and PHIVE

Parramatta Square is the beating heart of the city and its redevelopment is transforming the city centre with a refurbished Town Hall, world-class dining and retail, community spaces, soaring office towers, a campus for the University of Western Sydney, and much more.

Growing and developing at a rapid rate, Sydney’s second city is well on its way to becoming a globally renowned business events destination, writes Lana Bogunovich

.

Parramatta, New South Wales.

Photo credit: Destination NSW.

SKYE Suites Parramatta.

One of the most exciting new developments here is the newly opened PHIVE, which stands for Parramatta’s Health, Innovation, Vision and Enterprise. Featuring a bold and striking design, this six-level landmark building houses a library, discovery centre, recording studios, wellness space, bookable workspaces, council chambers, event spaces and more. The building connects seamlessly with the original heritage-listed Parramatta Town Hall and its state-of-the-art, sustainably minded design has made it the first council building in New South Wales to achieve a 6 Star Green Star rating.

Filled with natural light and open spaces that encourage collaboration and creativity, PHIVE has a number of bookable meeting and event spaces that can accommodate anything from team meetings and workshops to launches, corporate functions and team activities. Spaces can be combined or configured to your needs and feature the latest AV and video conferencing equipment with onsite tech support and catering also available.

Stay in style at SKYE Suites Parramatta

Just a five-minute walk from Parramatta Square, SKYE Suites is the perfect place for accommodating corporate groups and business events.

Designed by renowned Japanese-Australian architect Koichi Takada, the hotel features a boutique-urban-resortmeets-home-away-from-home style with spacious studios and one- and two-bedroom suites. Offering contemporary comfort, they feature open plan living with fully equipped kitchens with thoughtful touches such as Kevin Murphy toiletries and the option to pick your choice of firm or soft Sleeping Duck mattress.

Onsite facilities include a welcoming three-storey atrium-style lobby, 25-metre heated outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, gym, the spectacular rooftop bar Nick and Nora’s on level 26, and a range of retail outlets, restaurants and eateries right at your doorstep.

Meetings and conferences are well catered to with a 224-square-metre space featuring four function rooms, of which three can be joined into one room for larger groups. Filled with natural light, each room has the latest tech capabilities with a projector, drop-down screen and audiovisual equipment and a dedicated event planner can assist with everything from venue design and catering to special suite rates.

Another notable events space is the Philip Ruddock Heritage Centre, which displays the archaeological remains of buildings and structures dating back to the 1800s. Located beneath SKYE Suites, this fascinating space gives a unique insight into Parramatta’s past and can host up to 60 cocktail.

A smorgasbord of diversity Parramatta offers numerous museums and galleries to explore; sporting venues; a variety of restaurants and shops, including Westfield Parramatta – one of the largest shopping centres in Australia; and heritage listed Parramatta Park. It’s also the perfect base for exploring the Blue Mountains and parts of Country NSW.

Throughout the year, Parramatta celebrates its melting pot of cultural communities with festivals such as the hugely popular Parramatta Lanes which has been treating locals and visitors to a smorgasbord of street food and live entertainment for ten years running.

Parramatta also boasts a plethora of options for dining and socialising. Parramatta Square has an array of upscale new restaurants, with everything from French and Italian to pan-Asian – Lilymu is a definite crowd-pleaser. For a hearty Lebanese banquet, go to Bayti at SKYE Suites, and for vibrant Middle Eastern, check out the newly opened 300-seater Misc. in Parramatta Park. The restaurant-lined Church Street is nicknamed Eat Street for a reason, while Parramatta Riverside is great for late-night dining. Nearby Harris Park, aka Little India, spoils for choice with cuisine from all over India. n

Riverside Theatres.

Photo credit: Destination NSW.

Nick and Nora’s. Photo credit: Destination NSW.

PHIVE. Photo credit: Ben Williams.

Beyond the environment

The business events industry has been working hard to ‘build back better’ and it is clear that delivering sustainable events is a priority now more than ever.

It is a topic I have had the pleasure of speaking on at a range of events and forums this year, including Spice’s own Events Uncovered in July.

If, after experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic, you are feeling inspired to do more to protect the health and wellbeing of our planet and its people, you are not alone. Survey results released by Economist Impact earlier this year indicated the pandemic had changed the way people think about sustainable tourism. Of the 4,500 respondents across nine Asia Pacific countries, sustainable tourism had become more important to seven in 10 people.

A similarly focused Trip.com survey of 7,705 respondents across Asia and Europe found that eight in 10 acknowledged the importance of sustainable travel and almost seven in 10 named COVID-19 as a reason for their increased interest in sustainable travel options.

This has significant implications for Australia as a long-haul destination and makes it even more important to conduct business and hold events that appeal to the sustainability mindset of our audiences.

In becoming a carbon neutral certified business early this year, Arinex has reduced our own carbon footprint and improved our ability to influence and educate our clients and stakeholders to do the same.

But we understand this is only the beginning and as we get better

at conducting business in a more environmentally friendly way, we mustn’t lose focus on the other important elements of sustainability.

The same Economic Impact survey found that when asked to rate the two most important aspects of sustainable tourism, respondents considered the economic aspects (46.7 percent) and social aspects (41.3 percent) more important

than environmental (32.1 percent), cultural (31.6 percent) and community aspects (21.5 percent).

It can therefore be assumed that more people will expect business events to meet a range of sustainability objectives, not just environmental ones.

This expectation is more likely to be met by those that can demonstrate a comprehensive range of impacts and legacies across the four pillars of Sustainability, which are:

1

Human: Creating jobs, satisfying employees, improving people’s health, creating new knowledge and skills.

2 Social: Stimulating innovation, collaborating, growing relationships, improving communities and leaving a positive legacy.

3

Economic: Efficient use of resources to improve profitability and achieve economic growth by generating incomes and business resilience.

4

Environmental: Protecting, resorting, regenerating ecosystems and services to ensure long-term environmental sustainability.

Our industry is already demonstrating leadership across these pillars in many ways, but greater awareness, education and collaboration is needed to do even better. We must consider cultural sustainability, equality and inclusivity of our events, along with staffing to improve the long-term sustainability of our events industry.

Introducing the sustainable discussion at the start of an event journey is an excellent way to unite everyone. We won’t succeed in achieving a holistic approach to sustainability unless every part of the value chain is on board. It will take a great deal of collaboration across our sector and beyond our sector, however, with everyone aligned to this common goal it can easily be achieved.

While the path ahead may seem daunting, we must not forget how far we have come as an industry. I for one am excited for the return of business events done differently. We are at a turning point and we all have a role to play in this new direction. n

“We won’t succeed in achieving a holistic approach to sustainability unless every part of the value chain is on board.”

Nicole Walker

Arinex managing director, Nicole Walker, breaks down the four pillars of sustainability and explains why applying them to business events is crucial for the long-term.

Nicole Walker.

Photo credit: Oneill Photographics.