Meetings SA

SOUTH AFRICA – AN EXCEPTIONAL CONVENTION DESTINATION

Take a seat at Johannesburg Expo Centre

SA

Mzansi’s most versatile events venue!

Golf & con

WCASE P34 | Mauritius incentive & corporate travel ferencing – the perfect pair | JOZI EVENT SHO

R32.00 (VAT incl)

www.saconference.co.za

ISSUE 39 September/October 2011

C O N T E N T S

in this issue 26

8 23

Fairway Hotel & Spa

Stimulating domestic tourism Eastern Cape regional focus

Industry Insight Stimulating domestic tourism Minister launches Tourism Month

8

AIPC column Report back from San Diego 2011

10

Thebe column Building on the legacy of sports and events tourism

13

EXSA column An update on the bumper times ahead

15

Talking points Feedback from Markex World of Events Cape 2011

16

Product News Hot topics in business tourism news revealed MSA showcases the latest developments in MICE products and service offerings

Meeting Places

30 2

Mauritius Incentive Connection

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

Discover the heart of South Africa Free State regional focus

20

Eastern Cape Open for business all year round

23

Meetings in motion At South Africa’s sporting venues

26

Mauritius Incentive Connection showcase profile Let the pleasure be yours

30

C O N T E N T S

Event Management Event showcase Sandton Convention Centre hosts the Bidvest Lounge

34

Exhibition organisers & venues Creating winning partnerships

39 Cover Story

Trouble-free transportation Getting your delegates there

51

Bon voyage 2011 Super-stylish year-end events

56

Johannesburg Expo Centre Meeting your demands, exceeding your expectations

6

Reward & Develop USB Speakers Corner Ryan Hogarth takes you to the next level on social media

60

Adventure teambuilding focus Experience the real world

62

Regulars Editor’s comment Join the SA Conference community online Subscribe Who’s who? People on the move Coming up & Looking back Events diary Index to advertisers

Super-stylish year-end events

4 12 32 65 66 68 68

56

Exhibition organisers and venues focus

39

Trouble-free transportation

51

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

3

E D I T O R ’ S

N O T E

Three cheers for event planners!

Publisher Elizabeth Shorten Editor Abby Wintgens abby@3smedia.co.za +27 (0)11 233 2608

Creative chief executive Frédérick Danton Chief sub-editor Cindy Maulgue Sub-editor Danielle Hugo Contributor Claire Rencken Production manager Antois-Leigh Botma Financial manager Andrew Lobban Administration Tonya Hebenton Distribution manager Nomsa Masina Subscription sales George Changunda georgec@3smedia.co.za

Distribution coordinator Asha Pursotham Advertising sales Caroline Martin +27 (0)11 454 6051/2 +27 (0)72 235 5725 caroline@pinpoint.co.za Meetings SA Sept/Oct 2011 © Copyright. All rights reserved 2009

No. 4, 5th Avenue, Rivonia, Johannesburg PO Box 92026, Norwood 2117, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)11 233 2600 Fax: +27 (0)11 234 7274/75 www.3Smedia.co.za Annual subscription: R225.00 (incl. VAT) ISSN 1684-9264 NOTICE OF RIGHTS Meetings SA is published bi-monthly by 3S Media. This publication, its form and contents vests in 3S Media, January 2008. All rights reserved. No part of this book, including cover and interior designs, may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher, nor be otherwise circulated in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without a similar condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser.

While every precaution has been taken in the preparation and compilation of this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, completeness or accuracy of its contents, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. While every effort has been taken to ensure that no copyright or copyright issues is/are infringed, 3S Media, its directors, publisher, officers and employees cannot be held responsible and consequently disclaim any liability for any loss, liability damage, direct or consequential of whatsoever nature and howsoever arising.

For the first time, I ve personally felt the intensity of what goes into planning a fullscale event.

S

ome 16 months ago, I started organising my wedding. It’s a very long time for planning, I know, when so many organisers are faced with increasingly short lead times in which to pull off major events.

Nevertheless, our big day is here, and all our hard work and creative efforts will be culminating in a major celebration on 24 September.

Attention to detail and anunyielding knack for project management must be the two things that stood out the most for me during the planning. Without those skills, the function could possibly have fallen flat.

This got me thinking: corporate event planning is not for sissies. It is not party planning –this profession falls far from the idea (and glamour) of throwing great parties.

In fact, planning a professionally-run business event focuses on the rationale or goal of having an event, and whether it is achieved.

The real work is in the details leading up to the event…and paying attention to every facet of these is crucial.

Meetings SA endeavours to assist you, the planner and our reader, every step of the way by providing access to the latest in event management and meeting destination trends.

In this issue, we showcase the launch of the Mauritius Incentive Connection, which sets out to provide organisers and incentive houses based in South Africa with a single point of contact to access the many hidden treasures of the magical island. Turn to page 30 for the full story.

We’ve got the most up-to-date news from exhibition organisers on page 39, in terms of their exhibitors’ and visitors’ requirements when it comes to exhibition venues. Meetings SA takes a look at what these requirements

are and what various venues are doing to meet these demands.

In addition, there is just no getting away from the social network revolution. On page 60, in the USB Speakers Corner, Ryan Hogarth digs deep into the topic of social media as a conferencing dream tool, providing you with exclusive knowhow on how to make it work for you.

So, before I head off on honeymoon to somewhere exotic, here are three cheers to all our readers, the planners and organisers especially, who make the magic that is South Africa’s conferencing and events industry happen.

Salute!

Editor

On the cover: Johannesburg Expo Centre Bottom left: Golf in the Garden Route Middle: Sandton Convention Centre Event Showcase Right: Mauritius Incentive Connection

4

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

C O V E R

S T O R Y

Meeting your demands...

...exceeding your expectations Established in 1984, the JEC has grown from strength to strength over the years. What started as a venue purposely built for the Rand Easter Show has now become home to a exhibitions, conferences and events. range of world-class exh PMR Diamond Arrow Award The JEC has been awarded the PMR Diamond Arrow Award 2011 for the Best Exhibition Venue in South Africa. The centre was rated the highest with a mean score of 4.22 out of a possible 5.00 after an independent survey was conducted among 50 event and exhibition organisers.

The respondents rated the venue on: • access to event/exhibition facilities • catering (quality in relation to cost) • cleanliness and preparedness of event/exhibition space prior to build-up • competitive rates/value for money/cost per square metre • environmentally friendly buildings and structures • facilities for disabled individuals • flexibility in terms of layout • going the ‘extra mile’ • access to loading bays • office facilities on-site for organisers • off-loading facilities and building access for exhibitors/contractors • parking facilities for event/exhibition visitors • security • audio-visual offerings • staff (helpful and friendly) • venue infrastructure.

T

he Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC) prides itself on being the largest exhibition and conferencing venue in South Africa. With a total of 50 000m² indoor space and 100 000m² outdoor, the only limitation is one’s imagination. From inception, it was evident that the JEC would be ready to take on even the biggest and boldest of functions.

The JEC’s massive portfolio consists of live concerts hosted at the venue for international artists such as Anita Baker, Black Eyed Peas and Arman van Buuren. Then there’s the Mega Fest church gathering that filled the Main Arena to capacity; the Soweto Marathon, which returned home to the JEC in 2009 after having spent a few years in Soweto; the Toy Run 2010, which consisted of bikers who collected toys in aid of charity; the annual Rand Show, which continues to expand and saw an increase in visitor numbers of 40% this year; the Johannesburg International Motor Show, which consistently occupies the entire venue and is anticipating even bigger visitor numbers in 2011; the Soweto Festival, which is set to attract a large number of crowds as it makes its debut at JEC this year, targeting the Soweto market and beyond.

Therefore, regardless of size and specification, it’s clear that the JEC has the

Soweto Marathon

6

ME M MEETINGS EE ET TIIN NG GSS SSA A | SE SSEP/OCT EP P//O OC CT 220 2011 011 11

Sasol 60th Party

space and capability to host any exhibition, conference or event efficiently.

The best place to show off Craig Newman, CEO of JEC, and his team are highly competent, willing and able to host the most daring of events. Subsequent to the venue refurbishment and Nasrec precinct revamp, the infrastructure is definitely in place at the JEC. Newman and his team pride themselves on being forward thinking and thus try keep up with modern hospitality trends in order to compete with international markets.

With more than 10 self-sufficient and fully adaptable venues on site, the JEC offers endless possibilities for your exhibition, conference and event.

“The JEC offers erss endless possibilities for or your exhibition, conference and event” Craig Newman, CEO acknowledging the difficulties that the JEC clients have experienced over the years, centre management has formed strong business relationships with numerous reputable service providers in an effort to assist organisers during the planning and implementation process.

These preferred suppliers are therefore made available for the benefit of the

organiser, to help in sourcing security services, cleaning services for during and after the function, décor and design services, risk and disaster management services, catering services, audio, visual and electrical services, logistics, registration services and accommodation offerings. So, if you are planning an extraordinary event and wish to have it paired with professional and handson services, look no further than the JEC. The venue offers competitive rates and a comprehensive range of services – no project is too big.

Contact t +27 (0)11 494 1920 f +27 (0)11 494 1005 info@expocentre.co.za www.expocentre.co.za

We put you on show The staff at the JEC understand that, in order for events to be memorable, they need to be hosted at a venue that offers the very best in hospitality experiences. It is for this reason that the JEC tailor makes all exhibitions, conferencing and event packages to suit each client.

A fully supportive, friendly and efficient staff complement is readily available at the centre to assist where needed. After

Toy Run

In ea eac achh issu ac ss e, Mee Meetin ti gss SA offfers ad tin adver v tissers th ve ver thee oppo p rtuunit nityy to to proomote o e thheir i co c mpa mpa pany’ ny’ y s prod prod roduct oduct uctss and nd servic vices e es to an an app approp ropria rop riate ria te aud audien ienncee by by boo b kin bo ki g the the pri prime me po possiti ition on of thee fr on front ont cover, whichh incl ont incl n ude ud s a tw twoo-page oo-p agee feaatu t re articl art icl cle. e. The T maagaz Th gaazine nee oofffer ferss adve dverti rtiser se s an ser an ideaal plat platf lattfor form orm ttoo ensu ensu nsure re maximum ax exp xpo pposurre for theeirr brand. bbrra rannd. nddd. PPlleeas eaas a e call Caroli Car oliine Martin Martin Mar inn onn +27 +227 (0)1 (0)1 0)111 454 5 60551/2 to t se secur cur uree your ou bo b oki king nggg.. ng.

Africa Health

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

7

I N D U S T R Y

I N S I G H T

Stimulating domestic tourism Minister launches Tourism Month As South Africa celebrates Tourism Month in September, the Minister of Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, has stressed that domestic tourism is central to the growth and sustainability of the sector. Meetings SA provides insight.

S

peaking at the official launch of tourism month 2011 at Freedom Park in Pretoria, Minister van Schalkwyk urged the tourism industry to join hands in support of finding innovative ways of stimulating domestic tourism. The minister further called for greater cohesion from everyone involved at all levels of South Africa’s tourism sector and stressed the importance of a new approach to the domestic tourism market.

Against the backdrop of an industry still feeling the effects of the global recession, Minister van Schalkwyk said that “in difficult times we need to be even more united as the tourism industry and focus on markets that not only provide quick relief in the short term, but whose growth will be sustainable for many years to come. With domestic tourism contributing over 70% of our country’s tourism volume and contributing to sustaining and creating much-needed jobs, the domestic market has to be one of our key focus areas”.

BLK JKS, a South African rock band from Johannesburg, have played their part in the Sho’t Left domestic tourism campaign

8

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

I N D U S T R Y

I N S I G H T DJ Black Coffee shot in KZN during the Sho’t Left campaign

He added that, in these tough economic times, the industry also needs to look at innovative ways of marketing their tourism product to the domestic traveller, which includes competitive pricing and showcasing our distinctive provinces, cultures, events and attractions in dynamic, new ways. He also urged tourism businesses, hotels and other establishments to robustly market themselves to the domestic market, especially in the current global economic climate.

International focus Briefly shifting his focus to a global perspective, Minister van Schalkwyk reiterated that the National Department of Tourism and South Africa Tourism (SAT) remain committed to attracting tourists from every corner of the world, with its core markets still being absolutely critical and exciting potential being seen for South Africa in new tourism markets.

While market conditions around the globe remain challenging, he highlighted that the first quarter of 2011 showed South Africa was on the right track with its tourism marketing efforts. From January to April 2011, South Africa had 2 750 175 foreign tourist arrivals, up 7.5% on the 2 558 715 recorded over the same period in 2010, with core markets holding their own and good growth being recorded from new markets such as China, Brazil, India and the rest of the African continent.

“Lower hotel occupancy does not mean arrivals are declining, in fact we continue to record impressive growth. It does, however, point to shifts in consumer choice and where people choose to spend their money whilst on holiday in South Africa. We need to therefore work even harder to understand the tourism market and respond to the needs of global travellers. Our major tourism revenues still come from our core markets in Europe and North America and we are working aggressively to defend and grow our position in these markets, while also actively exploring the potential for tourism growth from emerging markets in Asia, the Americas and Africa,” says Minister van Schalkwyk.

Take a Sho’t Left and find your Mzansi With all the natural beauty that SA has to offer, who needs international roaming? The good times are just a road trip away. Just take a Sho’t Left towards some of the best times of your life. For more information, visit www.shotleft.co.za.

“However, domestic tourism remains our industry’s backbone and we are committed to working with the travel trade to market the destination and its offerings,” he adds.

In 2010, 29.7 million domestic trips were taken, marginally less than the 30.3 million in 2009. However, there were increases in the number of trips taken (2.2), as well as an increased length of stay and people travelling for the purpose of holiday (13.4% up from 12.0% in 2009).

The National Department of Tourism and South Africa Tourism remain committed to attracting tourists Minister van Schalkwyk emphasised again that, as part of the National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS) launched in March 2011 aimed at increasing tourist arrivals in South Africa, increasing tourism’s contribution to the national economy and creating jobs, the target has been set to grow domestic tourism from 30.9 million in 2009 to 54 million annual trips by 2020 and significantly increase its contribution to the country’s GDP. “... but getting the revenue and the tourism numbers we need – and to sustain and grow our industry – will take a collective effort. It will require synergy from tourism bodies at national, provincial and local level and the critical support of the entire tourism industry and our thousands of world-class tourism products in making our world-class

destination viable, competitive and even more attractive to local and international travellers. We must not lose sight of the fact that South Africa remains a world-class destination and we must continue to be positive in harvesting its tourism potential,” he adds.

As a supplementary tool to enhance the NTSS and to ensure that the sector reaches its targets, as set out in the NTSS, a Domestic Tourism Strategy has been drafted to further ensure the development of a diversity of products with an appeal to all market segments. The final draft of the Domestic Tourism Strategy is due for approval early next year.

SAT’s new Sho’t Left campaign, with its mantra of ‘there’s no such thing as a wrong turn’, is an example of a novel approach to putting the tourism spotlight on all nine of our provinces and SAT and its partners are doing their utmost to market the attributes of our destination.

In its most recent phase of its Sho’t Left domestic tourism campaign, SAT is using a number of local influencers to take the message of tourism deep into the heart of the emerging target market. The latest phase of the campaign profiles each of the destination’s nine provinces and puts special emphasis on the hidden gems that many people might have heard about but have not visited and explored. The campaign is supported by a number of private-sector and media partners.

South Africa celebrates World Tourism Day in Clarens in the Free State Province on 27 September 2011.

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

9

I N D U S T R Y

I N S I G H T

San Diego 2011 Rashid Toefy, CEO, Cape Town International Convention Centre

David Blanchflower, professor of Economics at Dartmouth College, USA

A realistic assessment of current challenges From a warning that global economic concerns are far from over to the kinds of action centres should be taking in response, this year s AIPC annual conference addressed both industry challenges and the opportunities available. By Edgar Hirt

T

here are a lot of questions about where we are in the global recovery, what kind of industry is emerging from the crisis and what we should be doing

about it. The conference in San Diego was intended to use the very latest industry intelligence and insights to answer these questions and owing to the extraordinary efforts by both the global experts and AIPC colleagues who contributed to our programme, it succeeded far beyond our expectations.

The tone was set for the conference theme, ‘It’s all about change’, by opening keynote speaker David Blanchflower, a former member of the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee

South Africa to host the 2013 AIPC annual conference

The decision taken at AIPC’s general assembly this year in San Diego to select Cape Town as the 2013 annual conference destination is a very welcome one. Cape Town itself is a hugely attractive destination but the real issue for AIPC is the extent to which the Cape Town International Convention Centre represents the quality and innovation that reflects our objectives as an organisation. A great deal of the strength of our industry comes from the diversity of experiences we deliver around the world and the ways in which these inspire attendees. Our location in Cape Town will provide AIPC delegates with a great opportunity to experience a centre and destination that are at the leading edge of development in this part of the world and to see how they are using their special qualities to create a very unique product – one that has proven itself to be highly competitive in the global market. This type of exposure helps generate the kind of new ideas and thinking that ultimately benefit not just the industry overall, but also our individual member centres as they grapple with the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today. We look forward to working with the centre and its staff to make this one of AIPC’s most successful conferences ever.

10

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

and professor of Economics at Dartmouth College, who was also named Business Person of the Year by the Daily Telegraph.

His strategic advice was followed by a series of reports on both major geographic areas and key sectors, including association business, the exhibition industry and event planners interacting with both corporate and association clients. The common themes were modest growth combined with an ongoing need for flexibility and caution.

Presenters also identified the need for a greater effort to look for new services that can generate value for both suppliers and clients and new ways of organising business relationships that can again benefit both parties in times that are financially challenging for everyone.

Addressing the challenges The third major component of the programme addressed the ways in which member centres are already addressing the challenges they face with a range of new planning, programming and community interaction. These elements include new approaches to revenue generation, facility

I N D U S T R Y

design and refurbishment, the rise of premium food and beverage and managing change in a centre environment. Also addressed were the ways in which centres in various parts of the world are adjusting their arguments around the role they play in economic development in order to attract new attention and investment from governments and communities.

I N S I G H T

Panel discussion on how events are evolving: a user’s perspective

Survey results Driving much of the programme were the results of a comprehensive member survey carried out in the months immediately prior to the conference, which covered business confidence, performance results, key economic and business factors and new response tactics. The survey was completed in a way that enabled the wide variety of topics it contained to be broken down by region in order to enable a comparison of how various factors are playing out in different parts of the world.

What we learned didn’t necessarily make those of us hoping for a speedy recovery entirely happy, but there was general

agreement that a realistic assessment of business conditions, combined with a spirited discussion of tactics for response, provided members with the best possible value for their participation. I think we consider ourselves better prepared for the challenges of the future as a result of what was conveyed in the conference and this is the best outcome we could have achieved.

About the author Edgar Hirt is the president of the International Association of Congress Centres (AIPC) and thee managing director of Congress Center Hamburg. For more information, e-mail marianne.de.raay@aipc.org or visit www.aipc.org.

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

11

Join the SA Conference community Go ahead – it’s FREE Submit your conference, event or exhibition to be listed on SA Conference Online by visiting www.saconference.co.za/pg/event/submit

SA Conference Online e’ve got the latest business tourism news, venue developments and an extensive list of all the necessities to host successful meetings and events.

You cue is to go to www.saconference.co.za.

Submit your venue to be listed on SA Conference Online www.saconference.co.za/pg/serviceprovider/submit www.saconference.co.za/pg/venue/submit Submit your services or products to be listed on SA Conference Online www.saconference.co.za/pg/serviceprovider/submit www.saconference.co.za/pg/venue/submit Remember – all existing listings can be updated easily, by clicking on the following links: Update Venue info, Update Conference/Events info or Update Service Provider info. These send an automated email to the online editor, notifying the recipient of the required changes.

Sign up!

Sign up online for our e-newsletter, the SA Conference Update, and get the lowdown on the hottest happenings in the business tourism arena.

Like SA Conference on Facebook Here you can have your say or get the conversation started about everything and anything related to the world of meetings, incentives, conferencing, exhibitions and events.

Comprehensive B2B exhibiƟon lisƟngs

User-friendly search funcƟons speakers and conferences

Follow us on Twitter The @SAConference tweets will keep you updated on all the latest, exciting and, of course, interesting happenings in the growing sphere of business tourism in South Africa, and on the African continent too.

www.saconference.co.za To advertise on SA Conference Online, contact Caroline Martin • t +27 (0)11 454 6051/2 • f 086 660 2024 • caroline@pinpoint.co.za For more info or any website-related queries, contact Abby Wintgens • t +27 (0)11 233 2608 • abby@3smedia.co.za

MSAMayJunel11 proofed.indd 16

2011/05/05 01:40:14 PM

I N D U S T R Y

I N S I G H T

THEBE COLUMN

Building on the legacy of sports and events tourism

T

hese days, many people say that the 2010 Soccer World Cup is “old hat”. To some extent that may be true, but we cannot afford to underestimate its legacy.

The fact of the matter is that South Africa delivered the best World Cup ever and that it is the biggest sporting event in the world.

Sports tourism is one of the fastest growing areas of the global travel and tourism industry and South Africa is now, without a doubt, a leader in the field. Sports tourism and mega events in South Africa are estimated to

contribute more than R6 billion to our tourism industry. More than 10% of foreign tourists come to South Africa to watch or participate in sports events, with spectators accounting for 60 to 80% of these arrivals.

At the recent sports and events tourism conference in Cape Town, experts agreed that we cannot rest on our d laurels now that we have proved what we can do. Even with the legacy of the World Cup, we will not be able to sustain

“Sports tourism and mega events in SA are estimated to y” contribute more than R6 billion to our tourism industry” Carol Weaving, MD of Thebe Exhibitions & Projects

the momentum if we do not have a clearly formulated strategy and plan in place to grow the industry.

The conference brought together decision makers in this industry for the first time, discussing aspects such as destination branding and sponsorships and looked at some very interesting international case studies.

While many of us are not directly involved in sports events, the impact on events industry is huge. We need to keep a close watch on developments in the sporting arena and turn sports events into business opportunities. We need to work with authorities that are putting g bids together, making sure that our events form part pa of bid documents. We need to work with incentive travel companies, spo sports tour operators and government ag agencies, negotiate sponsorships an and provide essential strategic and lo logistical support. Central to all o of this is a understanding of the interrelatedness of sports and events, of how the different pieces of the puzzle fit together.

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

13

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF EXSALLENCE

EXSA30 EXHIBITION & EVENT

ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

The role of EXSA is to serve the exhibition and events industry in Southern Africa.

Our core strategy is to actively grow and develop the exhibition and events industry within Southern Africa. This is achieved through promoting the unique benefits offered by exhibitions and events, and raising the profile of our members who include venues, organisers and suppliers.

Tel: 011 805 7272 Fax: 011 805 7273 Email: exsa@exsa.co.za www.exsa.co.za

I N D U S T R Y

I N S I G H T

EXSA

Bumper times ahead E

xcitement is mounting for the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa’s (EXSA’s) annual awards evening, to be held at the Sandton Sun Convention Centre on 3 November. “The industry always looks forward to this exciting event to round off a year of hard work and dedication. Excitement surrounding this year’s event, which is themed ‘Casino Royale’, will be no different,” says Sue Gannon, EXSA’s general manager. “We hope everyone will dress up and join in the fun.”

The exhibition industry’s ‘Oscars’ recognise excellence in various sectors of the industry, including Best Exhibitions, Best Stand Designs and Best Industry Personalities, with over 30 awards handed out during the event.

“We’ve been busy judging shows and stands throughout the year. A panel of industry experts will handle the final analysis while simultaneously verifying all the decisions made,” she continues. “We also have our Memorable Event category for corporate events hosted throughout 2011, be they p y events product launches,, in-house company or client events – all are eligible to win an nts must all obviously hold award. These events w factor that makes the incredible wow e.” them memorable.” e entertainment, great There will be live ment all round and food, and excitement rd to welcoming EXSA looks forward youto this great annual ether. industry get-together. able at Tickets are available R500 per person from the EXSA office, or sa. online at www.exsa. co.za.

2012 annual conference will be held at Sun City from 5 to 7 February. “We have two international speakers lined up already and

“We’re bringing in various speakers to cover all aspects of the industry, with something that will excite and interest all of our various forums – the organisers, venues and suppliers” Natalie Naude, EXSA’s chairperson

are busy putting together the rest of the programme, which will be uploaded on the EXSA website shortly,” reports Gannon.“We have Hans Bruder, the managing director of Octanorm, coming out from Germany to address EXSA conference delegates on design issues and the latest trends in p Bruder has been a member of the Europe.

EuroShop exhibition com committee of the Düsseldorf Exhibition Exhibitio Centre since 1995. He is also the th president of the Octanorm Service Ser Partner International Network, Netw the world’s largest exh exhibition builders’ network, with 155 companies from 50 countries countr from all five contin continents.”

In 200 2009, Bruder receive received from the A American Exhib Exhibit Designer and Producer As Association the

2012 conferencee EXSA has ts announced that its

Hans Bruder, managing director of Octanorm

most prestigious Hazel Hays Award for his contributions to the North American exhibition industry. Conference delegates will also welcome the ESG Group’s Kristian Willand from Melbourne, Australia. Willand will discuss brand activation and the Australian market, as well as touch on greening, where he has been involved in several projects.

“We are looking forward to a very exciting line-up for the conference,” says EXSA’s chairperson, Natalie Naude. “We’re bringing in various speakers to cover all aspects of the industry, with something that will excite and interest all of our various forums – the organisers, venues and suppliers.”

In addition, Naude will be attending the UFI Conference in Valencia in November and will be reporting back to the industry on international developments. “We will be putting together a panel discussion of those South Africans who attended the UFI Conference to discuss and engage with conference delegates on our industry here.

EXSA is gaining more international members each month and we are thrilled that the association is growing in leaps and bounds.”

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

15

I N D U S T R Y

I N S I G H T

Talking points

Markex returns to Cape Town

Returning to Cape Town for the first time in three years, Markex World of Events Cape 2011 took place from 23 to 25 August at the CTICC. Here s what several of this year s exhibitors had to say about the 2011 exhibition.

Although it was small, we had a number of quality visitors at our stand over the three days. The trade-only section is a great initiative as it does away with the ‘freebie-grabbers’ – so thumbs up to the organisers for that initiative. Overall, Markex Cape Town was well organised and the staff at the CTICC were all very friendly and incredibly helpful. My only negative feedback however is the setup of the parking voucher system. Parking at the CTICC is very expensive and, if you’d forgotten to buy parking vouchers for the duration on the show for the short amount of time that they were available for on the first day of Markex, you had a hefty parking bill by the time the show closed on Thursday afternoon – Natalie Greig,

Creative Brands

Markex Cape 2011 has been an awesome exhibition for us as we’ve generated some positive sales leads for business going forward.

There’s been a great atmosphere in the hall since the start of the expo and we we’re really happy to see that there weren’t too many students.

Students who did attend this year were in fact interested in pursuing marketing/events-related careers – Nosi Dipa, project coordinator,

regional manager, Shocraft

Brand AXN

We’ve managed to generate some positive leads at this year’s Markex Cape showcase. I also found working on the stand at Markex Cape quite different to that of Markex JHB, where I worked on 3D’s stand in 2010. The markets are quite different and I’ve gained valuable knowledge from having worked at both showcases. My only suggestion to the organisers would be to possibly relook the days for which the exhibition is scheduled as a weekend showcase always seems to be more popular with Capetonians – Sian Cuypers,

sales, 3D Cape

16

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

Creative Brands exhibits every year at Markex JHB, even though our head office is based in Cape Town (which is why we chose to exhibit at Markex Cape 2011). With the 2011 Cape expo being the first one in the Mother City in three years, we found it really difficult to compare this year’s Johannesburg expo to the Cape Town one.

The expo was good for brand exposure, yet I feel not nearly enough marketing was done to sell the show to the Cape Town market. My advice to the organisers is to invest properly in the show to ensure Markex Cape occurs annually. That aside, the expo provided a great opportunity to showcase Creative Brands to our existing client base and we’re happy with the response we’ve received so far – Richard Jermyn, owner,

It was a great experience for Ultra Events. The expo turned out to be busier than we had originally perceived; although for even higher visitor numbers we feel that the addition of a prominent entertainment draw card to the exhibition programme would bring additional visitors for forthcoming Markex Cape expos. Overall, having a presence at this year’s show has been lucrative for us as a company given that we’ve generated some excellent sales leads. Thanks to Specialised Exhibitions for a good show that was well organised, and to the organisers themselves for being so friendly and helpful

– Nurisha Fakier, operations manager, Ultra Event Technical Solutions

Logomotif has exhibited at both the Cape Town and Johannesburg Markex exhibitions and, this year, found the Cape Town market to be a very different one. We needed to engage people more at Markex Cape 2011 and found that, in terms of stand traffic, we experienced periods of peak traffic followed by moments of extreme quiet. Unfortunately,

by Thursday lunchtime we still didn’t have any confirmed orders for our products, however, the Cape Town market could work differently in that regard. All in all, the Markex expos, which are always well organised, remain good exposure for the Logomotif Manufacturing brand. My only negative feedback would be in relation to scanner devices offered to exhibitors, which we found to be rather pricey – Nicole de Vries, managing

member, Logomotif Manufacturing

The Markex Cape 2011 exhibition was much busier than we had expected. The quality of the visitors was great too, though one can’t really compare the Johannesburg expo to this one (Cape Town). We’ve generated a long list of excellent leads and found that the scale of Markex Cape provided us with an ideal platform wherein the Awesome South Africa product was not lost among a sea of competitors. We also found that the Cape Town market really enjoyed the unique, fun and ‘out-of-the-box’ product that is Awesome South Africa – Derryn Campbell, motivational speaker

and author of Awesome South Africa

I found that the expo presented us with a number of good quality leads. We also experienced an incredibly quick pace in the turnaround time of the leads contacting the Eeze Event Solutions head office for quotations on our various products. On the downside, I feel that not nearly enough hype is created in terms of marketing and advertising the Markex Cape expo to the Cape Town and Western Cape markets. In addition, given that we never miss exhibiting at the Markex JHB expos, with the cost of a stand at Markex Cape being almost the same price as that of its JHB counterpart, organisers need to take a serious look at this as the cost is not at all relative to the rather low stand traffic we experience at Markex Cape 2011 – Steve English,

managing director, Eeze Event Solutions

Nature’s our Asset!

THE DISTINCTIVE CONFERENCE VENUE IN MPUMALANGA LOCATED IN A TRANQUIL BUSH SETTING • • • • • •

4 hours by road from Gauteng Only 2km from KMI Airport Standard equipment Luxury accommodation Delectable cuisine Game Drives (by prior arrangement)

Tel: +27(0)13 750 8100 reservations@likweti.co.za www.likweti.co.za

P R O D U C T

N E W S

It’s full steam ahead for events in Tshwane

Midrand’s leading venue gets

W

ith the pressure on organisers and venues alike to comply with the regulations set out in the new Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act, Gallagher Convention Centre recently celebrated an industry first with the opening of an on-site intermediate life support (ILS) pre-hospital clinic.

The clinic, which is the brainchild of Gallagher’s coordination manager, Mandy Barrell, is a partnership between venue management, Cape Medics and Eyethu Medics, a division of Eyethu Events. Cape Medics’s Ozawyr Vally has been at the centre of the clinic’s inception given his extensive first-hand experience in emergency operations at events Edmond Mkabela pictured alongside some of the medical equipment available at the Gallagher Convention Centre clinic

The CSIR ICC is well positioned to provide complete and seamless solutions for mediumsized business events

A

s the South African economy is showing signs of recovery, however slow it may be, at the Tshwane Events Centre we are making use of every opportunity to regroup and focus on future developments,” says the centre’s marketing manager, Ricky Da Costa. “Our offering of over 82 000 m² of covered exhibition space and open and multipurpose areas – all accessible from multiple entrances, certainly makes us the venue of choice for big events and exhibitions. For this very reason the Black Farmers found us the best venue for their recent expo and workshop. We are ideally suited to their exhibitor profile of agricultural suppliers of agricultural machinery, irrigation, chemical, transport, fertiliser and seed.”

While agriculture remains a highlight of the Spring Show, which will be hosted form 26 August to 4 September, the show programme will be enhanced with a renewed interest in educational displays and opportunities for learners. Add to this a festival of family entertainment with a carnival atmosphere and a fun-filled programme for the entire family and it promises to be a must-experience opportunity. Da Costa adds that the centre will be hosting various interesting events in the near future, including the national gathering of the Apostolic Faith mission – the oldest and largest Pentecostal church In South Africa, plus the Le Sjiek women’s expo and the world kickboxing championships. Aqua Blue Ice water has chosen the Tshwane Events Centre for its music product launch due to take place in September, while the Tshwane Career Day is also scheduled for later this year.

“On the development front, we are installing fibre-optic cables and connecting all halls to provide fast and stable Internet connectivity. New security cameras around the venue will be connected soon with a complete management system being installed in the halls, which will be controlled from one centre point,” says Da Costa. “In tight economic times, focusing on one’s core business and planning for better times ahead are essential. This is exactly what we are working on now.”

18

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

Tourism Draft Bill open for public comment

T

he National Department of Tourism (NDT) has released the Tourism Draft Bill for public comment. The bill provides for the continued existence of the South African Tourism Board and the establishment and publication of the National Tourism Sector Strategy.

The bill further provides for: • The establishment of a national information and monitoring system for gathering and disseminating information for the management and development of the industry, including the monitoring and evaluation of the industry for decision-making.

• The establishment and maintenance of a comprehensive database of information on tourism businesses for purposes of planning and development.

• The gazetting of norms and standards and the establishment of a code of conduct for different sectors within the industry.

• The development and implementation of a national quality assurance and grading system.

• The continued existence of the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) as a juristic person to implement the grading system.

The bill is open for public comment for a period of 60 days and can be found on the NDT’s website: www.tourism.gov.za. Inputs and comments can be forwarded to Mmaditonki Setwaba: Private Bag X424, Pretoria, 0001. For hand deliveries: Tourism House, 17 Trevenna Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria; fax comment to: +27 (0)12 444 7101, or e-mail: msetwaba@tourism.gov.za before 5 October 2011.

P R O D U C T

N E W S

proactive about health and safety and venues learnt from work done during the 2010 Soccer World Cup. The aim of the on-site clinic is to lower the risk profile of all exhibitions and events hosted at Gallagher. Should an emergency occur at Gallagher, the clinic has the capacity to stabilise patients before they are transferred to hospital by ambulance. This means that all events hosted at the venue will become completely medically self-dependant.

The clinic offers the full ILS package, with medical equipment such as a heart monitor and defibrillator, and in September this year Gallagher will be the first convention centre in South Africa to be home to a medicine dispenser. By inserting money into the dispenser, visitors will now have access to over-the-counter meds such headache and heartburn remedies when attending events and exhibitions at the venue.

The clinic is open Monday to Friday, as well as on all event days, from 08:00 to 22:00. Edmond Mkabela, an ILS-trained medical professional, will be employed full time at the clinic. This initiative will see immense savings brought to those organisers who use Gallagher as their venue of choice for conferencing, expos and other events, given that the clinic is now part of the complete full-service package offered by the venue.

It will also take the headache out of doing the very necessary risk assessments for organisers, since this will now be handled in house by the venue’s management team, for meetings of as few as 10 executives to world-class productions that welcome more than 5 000 visitors daily.

Legendary year-end functions

S

tage a legendary year-end function for your staff and colleagues at South Africa’s most innovative leisure venue, the multi-awardwinning Legend Golf & Safari Resort. This truly modern golfing and bush destination is located within an ancient and awe-inspiring landscape, which makes for the perfect setting for an unforgettable corporate event.

Situated in the heart of the 22 000 ha, malaria-free Entabeni Safari Conservancy in the Waterberg area of Limpopo, this is the place where the lion still reigns as king of the land and the Big Five mesmerise with their power and beauty. Home to the world-first Signature Golf Course – designed by the greatest golfers on the planet, the pioneering white lion Wildlife Centre and an array of eating and drinking outlets that are simply the stuff of legends, Legend Golf & Safari Resort promises a unique event venue. Its exclusive corporate packages are designed to help you organise a truly legendary year-end celebration with a difference. From teambuilding and game drives to interactive drumming sessions and a day at the breathtaking Doorndraai Dam, clients can take their pick from any of the following innovative packages: • The revision package, which includes conference venue hire, lunch, golf at the innovative Tribute Course, pre-dinner drinks, shebeen dinner and interactive drumming.

• The teambuild package, which includes teambuilding activities, a Wildlife Centre tour, pre-dinner drinks, shebeen dinner and local bar.

• The dam fun package, which includes a day at Doorndraai Dam with activities and lunch, pre-dinner drinks, shebeen dinner and local bar.

• The Big Five, which includes a gamedrive including pre-dinner drinks, shebeen dinner and local bar.

Hilton Cape Town meeting room

Take five with a leading brand of hotels and resorts

H

ilton Hotels & Resorts has launched the ‘take five’ promotion, offering event planners up to five complimentary benefits when booking an event or conference at Hilton Durban, Hilton Sandton and Hilton Cape Town City Centre in South Africa, or Hilton Windhoek in Namibia.

The promotion is valid for new meetings booked and confirmed between 1 August and 31 December 2011 and held by 30 June 2012.

Event planners looking to book an event or conference during this time can enjoy five free benefits: • When five delegates attend a meeting, one attendee’s meeting fee is waived – for up to a maximum of five delegates. When five delegates stay overnight, one guest room is free, up to a maximum of five free room nights.

• Five percent of the group can enjoy a complimentary room upgrade.

• Event planners will receive a refund on a site inspection of up to two rooms for two nights.

• A personalised group web page to handle all booking arrangements is provided.

• Event planners will be included in the Honors Event Bonus Programme, a loyalty programme for event bookers, with no minimum spend qualification.

“You just can’t beat face-to-face time if you’re looking to drive productivity and overall success. Now there is no reason to leave that one person behind; they can come along on the same budget,” says Peter Idoko, cluster director of business development, Hilton Worldwide, South Africa and Namibia.

• The golfer package, which includes a round of golf on the world-famous Signature Course, a Wildlife Centre tour, pre-dinner drinks, shebeen dinner and local bar.

The Shebeen at Legend Golf & Safari Resort is well known as a perfect venue for legendary yearend functions

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

19

M E E T I N G

P L A C E S

E

mbraced by several of South Africa’s provinces, the Free State assumes its rightful place at the heart of the country.

Known as an adventure destination to many and home to some of the country’s greatest providers of teambuilding services, the province is lodged between two magnificent rivers, the Orange and the Vaal.

According to Explore Free State, the province is excellently connected to the rest of the country by road and railways. Its airport, the Bloemfontein Airport, is the third largest of ACSA’s national airports and an important gateway to the landlocked province. Located on the Thaba Nchu Road, the airport is a mere 8 km from the city centre. It handles about 25 000 air-traffic movements a year, according

to ACSA’s official website, www.acsa.co.za, and brings about 400 000 passengers, the majority of whom are business travellers, through its doors. However, the airport does not only wave off tens of thousands of people on their journeys year on year; it also conducts brisk business in cargo.

The Urban Hotel To service the influx of business travellers visiting the Free Sate, the Urban Hotel Bloemfontein was established, with 60 bedrooms, all en-suite. The contemporary interior of the hotel is specially designed to meet the needs of the business traveller and special group or corporate rates can be negotiated. The hotel boasts a chic bar with plasma TVs on the first floor, providing guests

with the perfect place to relax after a busy day.

For dinner, hotel management recommends Avanti Restaurant, which is located at the Loch Logan Waterfront. Guests may have their meals delivered to the hotel,or should they wish to dine out, they may sign their dinner account with their room number.

The Urban Hotel is one of the most affordable hotels in Bloemfontein and is known for its high levels of service. Two years ago, the hotel won the Top Architectural Design Hotel of 2009 award in the Free State, presented by the Free State Architectural Institute. The hotel is situated on the corner of Henry Street and Parfitt Avenue, within walking distance from the Loch Logan Waterfront, Mimosa Mall, Bloemfontein Medi-Clinic and numerous sports Clarens, Free State

Welcome to the Free State The Free State is home to a wealth of interesting offerings, from intimate luxury boutique accommodation establishments to conference and events venues at world-class hotels. Meetings SA brings you more about this culturally diverse region.

20 20

ME M MEETINGS EET ETIN NGS GS SSA A | SSE SEP/OCT EP P//OC /OC OCT 220 2011 01111

M E E T I N G

The majestic Gariep Dam and harbour

stadiums. In addition, the CBD and the University of the Free State are a mere five minutes’ drive from the hotel.

de Stijl Gariep Hotel Now the Upper Karoo’s most stylish hotel, de StijlGariep Hotel offers 41 chic, contemporary rooms, with accommodation for up to 130 guests. The hotel overlooks the Gariep Dam with breathtaking views of the surrounding wide-open sky. The atmosphere creates spiritual harmony for visitors and is ideal for lazy long weekends, breakaways, overnight stops, conferences, functions and weddings.

Owing to its central location between the Eastern and Northern Cape, in the Free State on the N1, the Gariep Dam is fast becoming a popular destination for functions, corporate events and conferences. Over the past 3 years, de Stijl, the southern Free State’s premier conference venue, has received unprecedented support and experienced growth as a premium meetings, events and wedding venue. It is ideally located for companies servicing the Free State and Northern and Eastern Cape. For this reason, the need has arisen to expand its current facilities and accommodation capability. The following exciting developments are set to be completed and operational by late 2012: • a state-of-the-art conference and exhibition centre accommodating for 250 delegates • breakaway meeting rooms

P L A C E S

Activities for delegates at the de Stijl Gariep Hotel

• private meeting rooms • an executive boardroom • a private dining lounge • a fully equipped business centre • 400 m2 of exhibition space • a café-style restaurant/deli for delegates.

The conference centre will be equipped with the latest electronic and communication technology, including video conferencing systems. To accommodate the expansion of the conference facilities, de Stijl will also be creating: • 25 additional luxury hotel rooms • an exquisitely designed 165-seater gourmet restaurant in true ‘de Stijl’ design, with 200 degree views over the majestic Gariep Dam and harbour • a pool bar opening onto an expanded pool terrace • a retro ladies’ cocktail bar • children’s entertainment area • a gym.

The hotel and the new expansion will provide Gariep Dam with a first-class venue, unprecedented in the Karoo, and will in turn increase tourism and economic benefits to the area.

The Free State opens its ‘doors’ to all, charming visitors with its expansive plains, vibrant cities, picturesque villages and natural wonders. Isn’t it time you let the charm touch you too? Meetings SA recommends the Free State for your next conference.

Dining room at the de Stijl Gariep Hotel

Useful contacts Free State Tourism www.freestatetourism.org Free State Tourism www.freestatetourism.org de StijlGariep Hotel www.destijl.co.za

Suite at the Urban Hotel

The Urban Hotel won the Top Architectural Design Hotel of 2009 award in the Free State

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

21

M E E T I N G

P L A C E S

Open for business all year round The second largest of South Africa s nine provinces, the diverse Eastern Cape is often underestimated as a meetings and incentive travel destination. Meetings SA brings to light the latest business tourism developments in the region.

N

elson Mandela Bay (NMB), comprising the city of Port Elizabeth and the towns of Uitenhage and Despatch, is fast growing as a major economic hub for the Eastern Cape.

The easy-to-get-around region offers a diversity of conferencing facilities within reach of pristine warm-water beaches on the craggy shoreline of the Indian Ocean.

Port Elizabeth in particular is seeing a steady increase in meetings and eventsrelated business, with Scan Display having recently extended its national footprint in Port Elizabeth to service the increasing demand in the marketplace better. Following close behind are a number of exhibition and events sector businesses with plans to open up shop in the windy city and surrounds.

From state-of-the-art conference halls to boutique hotels and guesthouses, NMB offers excellent conference facilities for large association conventions, corporate events and private functions.

Video conferencing, well-equipped venues and teambuilding getaways are all wrapped up in an effective, stable and scenic environment in NMB, while seating arrangements are flexible, breakaway rooms can be provided and a variety of catering services can be arranged. The average venue in NMB caters for between 70 and 300 delegates; however, larger and more intimate venues are also available. Most venues are situated within the bay area but for those looking for exclusivity and comfort, private game reserves, seaside

resorts and luxury hotels are available, offering world-class meeting and event venues.

The new expansion of the Boardwalk entertainment centre is set to revitalise conferencing in the city. The upgrade, to be completed in December 2012, will see the building of a new conferencing venue, a fivestar hotel and a host of entertainment and shopping offerings, all close to the beach.

With this, Magnetic Storm, which has grown into a formidable events organiser, celebrates 30 years of conferencing, special events and festival organising.

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) is the official destination marketing organisation of NMB. The NMBT Conference Bureau has been established to assist and ensure that every conference and event is a memorable success by cutting the red tape, ensuring access to tourist sites, supplying accommodation and taking care of the client’s every need in general. The bureau provides destination expertise on NMB and supports associations, corporates, professional conference organisers (PCOs), destination management companies and event organisers that are interested in hosting events in the city or surrounding area.

Buffalo City

Buffalo City is truly Eastern Cape – the heart of the adventure province

Nestled between the laid-back Sunshine Coast on Route 72, Hogsback’s Amathole Mountains and the unspoilt Wild Coast, Buffalo City is open for business all year round. Incorporating East London, King William’s Town, Bisho and Mdantsane, Buffalo City is truly Eastern Cape – the heart of the adventure province.

With its bountiful range of beach and back-to-nature attractions, Buffalo City is the new rising star in South Africa’s landscape of ‘off-the-beaten-track’ destinations for leisure, sport and business travellers. Its magnificent coastline offers limitless

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

23

M E E T I N G

P L A C E S

Addo Elephant Park

appeal for both the sun worshipper and eco-adventurer. Whether for outdoor fun, high-profile sporting events or corporate teambuilding, Buffalo City delivers right on target.

Its well-connected airport and convenient travelling distances, coupled with high-quality amenities and attractions – all within easy reach – inspire a special, carefree ambiance ideally suited to unforgettable getaways. As a business travel and meetings, incentives, conferencing and events destination, Buffalo City has a rich bouquet of coastal and country venues available, from high-tech corporate to rugged and rejuvenating, from the authentic bushveld to understated seaside luxury. Be enchanted by the warmth and hospitality of the region’s people, while experiencing exceptional service specific to your needs.

For a conference with a difference, why not customise your function by combining work with a Big Five wildlife experience in a most spectacular, malaria-free region?

Guided game drives, elephant encounters, safari quad biking, abseiling, canoeing, golf,

24

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

beach trails, sunset horse rides, township tours, theatre and nightlife are just some of the activities available within Buffalo City.

The region is also home to South Africa’s only beachfront convention centre, the East London International Convention Centre, which offers a fresh Eastern Cape alternative to the business tourism industry.

For those interested in finding out more about hosting their next conference or event in Buffalo City, the tourism authority recently launched a new conferencing and teambuilding brochure titled Conferencing in Buffalo City...it’s time to talk. The brochure provides access to PCOs, event organisers, venues and teambuilding service providers and is available directly from Tourism Buffalo City. Head to the Eastern Cape for your next meeting or event, for a conference that’s sure to thrive on the wild combination of the region’s unrivalled splendour and stark contrasts, or for an event that will be all the more memorable – as very few places in the world can rival the magic of the Eastern Cape.

Useful contacts Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism www.nmbt.co.za NMBT Conference Bureau conference@nmbt.co.za or events@nmbt.co.za Tourism Buffalo City www.tourismbuffalocity.co.za

The NMBT convention bureau’s services

Pre- and post-bid assistance • Lobbying for possible funding for large conferences and events to the city.

• Bid presentations, bid site inspections and promotional material.

Convention planning support: • site inspections, media and public relations help • marketing of the convention/event through different mediums • sourcing of suppliers/local PCOs. On-site assistance and support: • supply of welcome bags, visitors’ guides, maps and promotional materials • visitor information booths • airport welcome receptions.

Incentive travel support: • comprehensive destination expertise • itinerary planning • facilitation of stakeholder engagements.

Other services: • Car rental and accommodation are offered at special conference rates.

• Pre and post tours and individual conference packages are available at special rates.

• In cases where no PCO is involved or delegates are responsible for their own arrangements, NMBT will assist with a one-stop call centre for all accommodation, car rental, tours and day trip requirements in the bay.

Valley of Desolation

3 AP ALR PLE iPA EAD D YW S WIN ON !

1 OF WH

EN 3 iP Y DAY OU BO AD2’s OK C ON YO FER PAC E NC U R KA G BE T E E WE HE AND EN 1 A LD UG 31 O C TO U S T BE R 2011 .

INSPIRE AND REWARD DELEGATES AT EMPERORS PALACE. A DREAM VENUE  GUARANTEED TO IGNITE IMAGINATION AND EXCITE THE SENSES TO THE ABSOLUTE MAXIMUS. Timeless classical sculptures and architectural masterpieces combine with every modern convenience offering a truly sublime experience. Our facilities cater from eight to 3 000 delegates, with a choice of 26 elegantly appointed venues fitted with state-of-the-art technology. At Emperors Palace, our consummate professionals ensure that your gathering will be an epic experience.

NEW

HIT THE JACKPOT WITH A DAY CONFERENCE DEAL… H

And have we got a deal for you! This “all-in” conference package includes venue, A equipment, i refreshments, lunch and free parking – all this, at a rate created just for you.

Emperors Palace – meeting your demands in any event at a deal you just have to take!

GROUP ACCOMMODATION NEEDN’T BE A SQUEEZE… From as little as R495* pps, score more from your travel budget. Book a conference event and enjoy up to 44% discount on hotel accommodation for groups of 10 or more with free breakfast.

UNBEATABLE BENEFITS FOR CORPORATE PARTNERS… Sometimes, business travel is bleak! Add the bling to your next trip at Emperors Palace. Here your partner stays free, you get free dinner and reduced car hire with Avis – you can’t fit much more into your briefcase. Sign-up now for these epic benefits!* Whether it’s a local day conference or a national event – Emperors Palace has it all. *Terms and conditions apply.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR EPIC EVENT TODAY, CALL US ON : Tel: +27 (0) 11 928 1055 or visit www.emperorspalace.com p Follow us on

@ @emperorspalace Find us on

M E E T I N G

P L A C E S

Meetings in motion At South Africa’s sporting venues Much of SA s legacy is firmly rooted in sport. From the country s incredible stadiums and sporting grounds to its magnificent golf courses, hosting meetings and special events at these is crucial to sustaining this infrastructure. By Abby Wintgens

Fairway Hotel & Spa

B

eing highly synonymous with business these days, a round of golf among CEOs, executives, VIPs and even celebrities sees many lucrative deals being sealed. On the topic of why golf makes for an exceptional social add-on to a conference programme, Mariska Nortje, operations director at Golf in the Garden Route, had the following to say: “Golf will always be seen as an attraction when included in any conference.

It provides great motivation and offers delegates the perfect platform for relaxation and networking. New ideas and strategic business plans are often masterminded on the golf course, given the relaxed, positive environment thereof.”

Randpark Golf Course, with its two outstanding golf courses, the Randpark and Windsor courses, is no exception to the high-

26

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

flying executives’ meetings strategies.

With the advantage of the only five-star hotel on two championship golf courses, meeting and banqueting options have now expanded for golf enthusiasts. Conference facilities at the plush Fairway Hotel & Spa include two conference rooms (Windsor I and II), which may be joined to create one larger conference room accommodating up to 130 delegates, depending on the seating configuration. Smaller boardrooms and breakaway rooms with state-of-theart conference equipment are available for strategy sessions.

The option for a half day of golf combined with a half day of conferencing now exists as an add-on to your conference programme, while the Golf Villas at the Fairway are ideal for those travelling in groups,

accommodating up to eight people sharing in four en suite rooms at an affordable rate. The driving range on site, with expert golf lessons upon booking, further opens up possibilities for conference delegates to combine work and leisure.

In KwaZulu-Natal, Fairmont Zimbali Lodge & Resort, two premier coastal destinations, present ideal venues for meetings, incentives and social events, coupled with the magnificent Tom Weiskopf-designed 18-hole championship golf course. The course has been described as “an enthralling journey through 18 holes”, while the Zimbali Country Club – located onsite at the resort – is ideally situated for conferencing and breakaways. The country club provides full amenities for golf, including compulsory golf carts, a halfway house, putting greens, a driving range and a bar and lounge facility, which is of the highest order. In terms of the ultimate golfing experience, Zimbali is among the top 10 courses in South Africa to receive the Compleat Golfer’s 5-Star Golf Experience Award. It is also rated independently by Golf Digest magazine as a top-five finest golfing experience in South Africa.

At Fairmont Zimbali Resort, you may host your conference in five-star style in the 280 m2 Marula ballroom, which has the capacity to accommodate 300 guests. Ample pre-function space is available for registration or pre-dinner cocktails. Fairmont Zimbali Lodge specialises in more personalised conference arrangements for small to medium-sized groups of up to 90.

From golf at the coast to golf in the bush, Legend Golf & Safari Resort’s (LGSR’s) unique TPC sawgrass night shoot-out competition is staged on its innovative, 10-hole Tribute Course. Here delegates get to play one of the world’s most iconic par 3s under the canopy of the African night sky. The course, which pays homage to some of the greatest golf holes ever designed, has seen celebrities and golf fanatics swing into action as they take on one of the most extreme challenges on planet golf.

M E E T I N G

The night shoot-out competition is a great way to end a busy day of conference, played in the company of glow-in-the-dark light sticks illuminating the tee and green and the sound of the jackals echoing around the majestic surrounding Waterberg Mountains. And more exciting news at LGSR is that conferencing in South Africa is about to get a whole lot more innovative with the opening of a state-ofthe-art meeting venue at the resort. LGSR will be throwing open the doors to its new centre in March 2012, offering national and Fairway international delegates the conferencing experience of a lifetime as they meet in the heart of the malaria-free Big Five Entabeni Safari Conservancy.

Stadium venues Accommodating tens of thousands of spectators in comfort and style, South Africa is home to world-class sports stadiums. The Durban venue for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the Moses Mabhida Stadium, is praised for its distinctive design and ability to host an event on an international scale. Apart from its great attractions, including a Big Swing, Adventure

P L A C E S

Walk, Stadium Tours and SkyCar, it is also home to a thriving commercial zone, with restaurants and stores to complete the stadium’s offering.

A work of art in itself, with its sweeping arch and sinuous network of polished paths, the Moses Mabhida Stadium is also a top-quality events venue and has been host to variety of distinctive occasions. The venues range from the intimate grandeur of the Presidential Suite – home to the rich and famous during the World Cup – to the slick Mixed Zone, which is big enough to accommodate an SUV for

Night golf at LGSR

Nortje suggests the benefits of hosting corporate golf days • Quality, personalised time spent with clients – when else would you get the opportunity to spend valuable time with existing and prospective clientele?

• Promotes brand professionalism – ensuring that your golf day is organised professionally will serve to confirm your company, product or service.

• Brand exposure and awareness – this is an invaluable opportunity to establish brand positioning in the marketplace through pop-up banners placed on-course and promotional merchandise such as golf balls, clothing, etc., press releases and company newsletters.

• Social media exposure – no price can be put on the exposure one’s brand receives through targeted social media campaigns in the lead-up to the golf day.

• Client or customer recognition – corporate golf days are seen as an important tool in thanking existing clients and customers for their loyalty and business.

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

STAY

27

M E E T I N G

P L A C E S

vehicle launches. The multifunctional nature of the rooms sees them being highly adaptable to host cocktail parties, banquets, product launches, conferences, cinema screenings, etc.

Another iconic development inspired by the baobab tree, the Peter Mokaba Stadium

Useful contacts

Moses Mabhida Stadium

Golf in the Garden Route www.golfinthegardenroute.com

Legend Golf & Safari Resort www.legend-resort.com

The Fairway Hotel & Spa www.thefairway.co.za

Moses Mabhida Stadium www.mosesmabhidastadium.co.za

Fairmont Zimbali Lodge & Resort www.fairmont.com

Peter Mokaba Stadium www.pmokabastadium.co.za

in Polokwane, offers an unusual setting for launching a new product or hosting a trade show. Stadium facilities include a world-class soccer pitch, a conference centre, function rooms for entertaining guests, commercial office suites, VIP suites for short- or long-term lease, an outdoor entertainment and exhibition area, and a media briefing room.

Meetings SA recommends heading to any one of these unusual spots for your next conference, exhibition or event, for meetings in motion that are sure to impress.

Peter Mokaba Stadium

28

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

It’s more than a playing field...

If you are looking for versatility, we are your one-stop shop!

Ellis Park Stadium boasts the Best kept secret in Joburg…

Hidden within the Stadium gates you will find a dedicated Team of Event Managers, with a wealth of industry knowledge, who will make your event a resounding success.

We cater for Gala Dinners, Product Launches, Exhibitions, Team Building, Family Fun Days & Press Conferences. The list of possibilities for your functions are endless…

Indoor Year-End luncheons for 450?

Outdoor Company Braai for 4 000?

Street Party under the African sky for 5 000?

We offer a wide range of venues that cater for a “High Tea for Two” up to “Events for 60 000".

For your convenience we have 900 undercover parking bays within the stadium, 24-hour security and visible policing within the precinct.

We specialise in tailor made functions and work within your budget.

You are one call away from stress-free event planning and a range of services at your fingertips.

MAURITIUS INCENTIVE CONNECTION

Let the pleasure be yours Located a mere four-hour flight from South Africa, Mauritius truly is an island of magical moments where all your business and leisure needs are catered for. By Abby Wintgens

M

auritius, with its contrasting multitude of tastes, colours and experiences, is a charming oasis of turquoise-coloured waters that are sure to fascinate even the most discerning of travellers. This tropical holiday destination beckons both leisure tourists from all over the world and business travellers looking to experience unparalleled luxury.

As a meetings, incentives, conferencing and events (MICE)-friendly destination, Mauritius is home to all the key ingredients required for successful business tourism undertakings.

Together with leading hotel and meetings and events-related business, Connections Tourism Management, a leading destination management company (DMC), recently launched an initiative dubbed the Mauritius Incentive Connection (MIC) to provide organisers and incentive houses based in South Africa with a single point of contact to access the many hidden treasures of the magical island. The initiative sees 10 luxury hotels partnering with a variety of unique venues, teambuilding service providers, an event production company and two national carriers (South African Airways and Air Mauritius).

The experience Think of awe-inspiring events where delicious and beautiful cuisine are the order of the evening, where incredible fireworks displays

light up the night sky and where your every need is met with the friendliest of smiles – you’re thinking of a typical full-scale function hosted on the island of Mauritius.

Connections DMC, together with its partners, presents the complete group travel package, with exciting day and nighttime activities, from catamaran cruises and traditional pirogue sailing to teambuilding-based trips to the Casela Yemen Nature Reserve. Other incentive ideas include canyoning, helicopter flips and shopping trips to Port Louis and Floreal, to name but a few.

The hotels Maritim Hotel, a luxurious beach resort and spa, lies on a private beachfront estate known as Balaclava along Turtle Bay. Located on the north west Coast of Mauritius, the Maritim specialises in the organisation and hosting of incentives, conferences, meetings and various special events. A spectacular setting that lends itself to rich and memorable travel experiences, The Grand Mauritian, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, is situated within 15 minutes of the main tourist region of Grand Baie. Its four meeting rooms are bright, airy and easily customisable to meet the specific needs of your meeting or event. The largest of the four can accommodate up to 200 guests.

The InterContinental Mauritius is located on one of the most pristine stretches of beach

overlooking the Bay of Balaclava. The hotel is located just north of the capital, a 15-minute drive from the clubs and sights of Grand Baie.

Home to a variety of stunning events and conferencing venues, its grand ballroom is a magnificent event space that offers direct access to the pool, gardens and beach.

Standing on the sheltered bay of Pointe aux Piments on the north west coast of the island, Le Meridien is home to four restaurants specialising in different cuisine. Its Chamarel Ballroom can accommodate up to 500 guests, and may be divided into two large meeting and reception areas if necessary. The hotel is also home to a conference centre with five boardrooms.

Offering a truly unique experience, the Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa is located on the breathtaking West Coast, within one hour’s drive of the airport.This hotel really does have the ability to create that all-important wow factor for special events. Its grand ballroom is a magnificent event space, easily customisable to host gala dinners, product launches and conferences, among others.

Incomparable and distinguished, One & Only Le Saint Géran nestles peacefully on the East Coast of Mauritius, in Belle Mare.

Meeting facilities are provided complimentary to guests of the hotel; natural daylight fills state-of-the- art conference and boardroom facilities that accommodate groups of up to

One & Only Le St Géran

30 30

ME M MEETINGS EE ET TIIN NGS GS SSA A | SSE SEP/OCT EP/ EP P/OC OC CT T 20 22011 011 11

MAURITIUS INCENTIVE CONNECTION

Incredible pyrotechnics by Impact Production

80. Celebrations of note are the norm for all special events hosted at the resort hotel, as each event receives the creative, individual attention of one of its dedicated celebration consultants.

An exquisite retreat with incredible villas and private beaches, the Four Seasons Resort is situated on the East Coast, 45 minutes' drive from the airport. The hotel boasts a function room that is ideal for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, receptions or sit-down dinners. Its pre-function area and adjacent lawn can be used for lunches, cocktails and dinners.

Shanti Maurice, an intimate resort, is one of the island’s most exclusive retreats with its exotic gardens, pristine white sands, a sublime spa and spacious accommodation. The hotel is home to a conference room that can accommodate up to 70 guests for conferencing and up to 130 for a cocktail reception.

Combining elegance with the magic of Africa, Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort is situated on the South Coast of the island. Guests of this Heritage Resorts hotel have access to the idyllic Beach Club with its trendy and contemporary design, perfect for relaxing and enjoyment, both day and night. For conferencing, the meeting facility at the hotel can accommodate up to 80 guests.

Also located on the South Coast, Heritage Le Telfair is infused with the charm and style of a colonial sugar plantation. Escaping back through time, this hotel immerses its guests in a very special atmosphere, embodying the charm and romanticism of yesteryear.

Its ‘Chantoiseau’ suite is fully equipped for meetings, conferences and private dinners.

Contact t +27 (0)11 781 2111, angela@ludowell.co.za www.ludowell.co.za.

One & Only Le St Géran

Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa

Quad biking at Casela Yemen

Catamaran cruise

MIC partners Connections – a DMC with a designated department specialising in handling leisure groups, incentives and conferences.

Impact Production Group – a specialist in event concepts, artist management and production, as well as a provider of permanent AV installations.

Lu Dowell Representations – one of the first travel representation companies to be established in South Africa, and the appointed MIC agent.

A variety of four and five star plus hotels Venues • Ruins of Balaclava • Chateau Labourdonnais • Chateau De Bel Ombre

• Café Des Arts • Eureka Colonial House • Casela Restaurant • Domaine De L’étoile

Café Des Arts

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

31

SUBSCRIBE

SA

SA

SADC Int.

Rand

US$

US$

270

60

80

Subscriber contact details Surname: Name: Designation: Company: Type of business: Address: Code: Fax:

Tel:

All rates include postage and VAT within South Africa. Foreign subscriptions include airmail rates.

Cell: E-mail: Subscriber VAT Reg. No:

Payment options

q Cheque

enclosed

Payable to 3S MEDIA (Pty) Ltd

q Direct transfer: Bank details

Nedbank Branch code: 128405 Acc. number: 1284129934 Acc. type: current Acc. name: 3S MEDIA

q Please invoice me q Credit card q Mastercard q Visa Expiry date:

/

Credit Card Number

Last 3 digits on back of card: Signature: Date:

/

/

Fax or e-mail proof of payment to activate your subscription.

Your magazine will be mailed to you.

DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Cindy Cloete on +27 (0)11 233 2600 or cindy@3smedia.co.za

A D V E R T O R I A L

Travel with a conscience in Dinokeng A growing tourism destination Is sustainability a buzzword in your organisation? Are you recycling paper and using local suppliers to reduce your carbon footprint? Do you want to ensure that your next conference or event benefits local businesspeople?

I

f so, then Dinokeng is the business destination you are looking for. Here business tourism is all about travelling with a conscience.

Dinokeng, just a stone’s throw from the economic hubs of Johannesburg and Pretoria, offers everything from world-class conference and events venues to unique teambuilding activities, or simply a quiet spot in which to work productively and then kick back and relax.

Dinokeng also has a variety of corporate social investment projects if you are looking for an initiative to get involved in or an unusual teambuilding experience that benefits locals while helping your team to bond. By experiencing what Dinokeng has on oer, whether it is boarding a traditional steam train, spending a weekend at one of the many lodges, being pampered at a luxury spa or enjoying one of the many adventure activities, you will be facilitating the growth of small and micro businesses in the area.

The faces of Dinokeng

veld and has decorated it with his own quirky artworks, many of which are made from recycled scrap. So popular is his place now that he needs to take reservations.

Patricia, who lives in the poverty-stricken village of Onverwacht, is dedicated to serving her community. She holds volkspiele at her home, providing food and entertainment for the pensioners and orphans of her village. To pay for this out of her own pocket, she teaches the history of Onverwacht to visitors by taking them on an authentic donkey ride, complete with koeksisters, homemade ginger beer and boerekos.

Lastly, passionate potter and painter Laleen runs a ceramics business from her vibrant home in Roodeplaat. In her workshop there she makes thousands of unique mosaic tiles and other decor items, all individually painted, which she sells to shops and visitors.

The people of the region are passionate about showing visitors just how special Dinokeng is and will welcome you warmly. So when planning your next gala dinner or manage- ment conference, nokeng. You consider Dinokeng. can expect world-class tate-of-the service, state-of-the Fani art event facilities us of acand a surplus eep your tivities to keep delegates busy, all the while doing o emyour bit to power and uplift the local community.

One of the best things about Dinokeng is the inspiring people that live and work there. From small business entrepreneurs Fani Face, Happy and Laleen, to those who take care of their communities like Greg and Patricia, come and meet the people who make Dinokeng special.

Ephraim, known in Hammanskraal as Happy, is a 30-year-old small business entrepreneur. Previously a vegetable hawker, Happy now has his own vegetable stall that supplies the locals as well as nearby lodges. Greg, who was born and bred in Hammanskraal, has made it his business to empower the community in various ways. Having had training in permaculture For more information on the Meet Dinokeng ken ng and agriculture, o.zza campaign, visit www.meetdinokeng.co.za Greg teaches loor www.facebook.com/dinokeng cals to grow their own fruit and vegetables. He has also taught a group of over 150 pensioners to make, bottle and sell their own mango and chilli atchar and marmalade.

Musician, painter and artist Fani Face’s authentic township eatery is the result of a lifelong dream to create his own space. Fani, born in Refilwe, built the restaurant using rocks from the

Happy

Patricia

Laleen

Greg Gre g

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

33

E V E N T

S H O W C A S E

The Bidvest Lounge welcomes you 34

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

E V E N T

S H O W C A S E

With unparalleled value for money, state-of-the-art facilities, highly-trained professional staff and a centralised safe location, the SCC has become the venue of choice for discerning corporate clients, PCOs and event organisers.

In an evening that demonstrated the immense capabilities of the Sandton Convention Centre as a definitive meetings and events venue, the recent Bidvest World Chefs Tour Against Hunger Gala Dinner was an incredible event production. By Abby Wintgens MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

35

E V E N T

36 3 6

S H O W C A S E

MEETINGS ME M EET ETIN INGS GS SSA A | SSE SEP/OCT EP EP P//O OC C CT T 220 2011 01111

E V E N T

In August 2011

, the Sandton Convention Centre (SCC) opened its doors to over 4 000 guests who attended the glamorous Bidvest gala dinners. The final of the four dinners, a culmination of the Bidvest World Chefs Tour Against Hunger, which began on 20 August, saw chefs from as far afield as Thailand, the USA, Myanmar, South Tyrol, Russia, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia coming to South Africa to help fight the ravages of hunger. The tour was arranged by the South African Chefs Association and the Academy of Chefs, under the auspices of the World Association of Chefs’ Societies.

With donations ranging from R10 from the public for a chef’s hat or song download to over R5 million from Bidvest, the tour was a

tour will be used to provide our selected beneficiaries with monthly food donations, which will be provided through the Bidvest group of companies to ensure that we can fulfil our objective of feeding hungry children over a sustained period of time.

We would like to thank everyone – from the chefs, to our sponsors, to the hundreds of South Africans who dug deep into their pockets to help those in need. The generosity of spirit that we have seen over the last 10 days is truly humbling,” says Martin Kobald, convenor of the Bidvest World Chefs Tour Against Hunger.

Catering (above) Symbolic of the worldwide destinations of the visiting chefs, the menu for the evening included dishes from Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

of Sandton, the centre of Johannesburg, the centre of Gauteng, and the centre of South Africa? The SCC, of course. Its prime location is one of its biggest assets, as 74% of all South African corporate headquarters are housed in Johannesburg. The Sandton area has the highest visitor attendance drawcard in South Africa for high-level meetings and exhibitions and is therefore the ideal choice for business visitors. It is flanked by the Southern Sun, InterContinental Sandton Towers and the Garden Court Sandton City hotels.

These three hotels alone provide 1 000 guest rooms on the doorstep of the SCC. A further 15 hotels lie within a relaxed and comfortable walking distance. The opening of a Gautrain station around the corner from the SCC provides easy and safe travelling from the Oliver Tambo International Airport, and now Pretoria.

The Skybridge between the Michelangelo Hotel and the convention centre offers delegates the opportunity to walk the full circle from the convention centre to Sandton City and then through Nelson Mandela Square, into the Michelangelo Hotel. So effectively guests can

Entertainment (left) Celebrating achievement and rewarding the success of the Bidvest World Chefs Tour Against Hunger, the gorgeous line-up of cabaret-styled entertainment in the Bidvest Lounge left guests wanting more.

resounding success and made culinary history as the biggest ever fundraising initiative in the global chefs’ fraternity.

Never before have so many chefs collaborated for the single-minded purpose of helping those less fortunate in a place so far from their homes, paying their own airfare and taking leave from their jobs to come and work to raise funds for children they will never meet.

Over the 10 days of the tour, chefs from every corner of the globe could be seen demonstrating in shopping centres, and food from every part of the world was tasted in Southern Sun hotels across the country.

“The R8 million that was raised during the

Venue What gem of a venue is situated in the centre

S H O W C A S E

attend a conference, have dinner and shop, all within safe walking distance. The SCC’s perfect medley of versatile venues has positioned it as the premier centre in the country over the past decade, evident in its long list of well-known and loyal clients. “We are eager to keep building our reputation and South Africa and Johannesburg’s visibility in the global arena,” says Mati Nyazema, executive director at the SCC.

Catering Garth Shnier, executive chef of Sandton Sun and InterContinental Johannesburg Sandton Towers, together with James Khoza, executive chef of the SCC as well as operations managers, Debra de Sousa and David Doosi, head-

ed up the incredible team that put together the Bidvest gala dinner.

Entertainment Setting the tone for what was sure to be a dazzling display of sheer show-stopping entertainment, PJ Powers took to the stage, followed by over 50 children from the various nominated charities, to sing the theme song for the tour, Sing Children Sing.

In addition, the likes of Samantha Peo, one of the most successful musical theatre and corporate entertainers in the country, and KB Motsilanyane, a South African actress and R&B singer best known for her role as Lucilla Vilakazi on the soapy Rhythm City, graced the stage at the Bidvest Lounge. Self-confessed foodie and radio personality Jeremy Mansfield was another famous face that delighted guests during the evening as the MC. For more information about hosting your next event at Sandton Convention Centre, call +27 (0)11 779 0000, e-mail info@saconvention. co.za or visit www.saconvention.co.za.

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

37

Voted #1 Conference centre in the Eastern Cape, the EAST LONDON INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE, managed by PREMIER HOTELS, is where state-of-the-art facilities meet the beach and every expectation.

Managed by:

Set in the beautiful Eastern Cape province, the world-class ELICC’s facilities include: a 650-seater auditorium an exhibition floor (taking up to 90 stands) 17 multi-functional conference rooms capable of seating 850 ball-room style and up to 2150 cinema-style executive board-rooms a press room restaurants and kitchens high-tech equipment and systems support guaranteed 15km from the airport on the beachfront with over 430 on-site luxury hotel rooms

Phone: +27 (0)43 709 5200 | Website: www.elicc.co.za | Email: info@elicc.co.za

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T

Creating winning partnerships CTICC

Exhibition organisers and venues focus Exhibition organisers, their exhibitors and their visitors all have several requirements when it comes to exhibition venues. Meetings SA takes a look at what these requirements are and what various venues are doing to meet these demands. By Claire Rencken

I

n terms of streamlining build-up and breakdown processes, organisers share the following insight: One of the greatest challenges facing any exhibition organiser is effective, yet fast build-up and breakdown of exhibitors’ stands. “Space is limited and venues often don’t just focus on exhibitions so build-up and breakdown timelines are getting even tighter and in some cases financially you

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

39

Let your market visit you.

E

Sketch3854/11

xhibitions are the ultimate sales tool - the most cost effective way to reach the greatest number of decision makers in your specific target market in the shortest space of time.* It would be hard to find another advertising medium that can compete with what we have to offer.

Recognised locally and internationally as an organiser of innovative, inspiring and highly effective exhibitions that meet the needs of the industries we serve, our exhibitions attract thousands of new and existing customers who arrive at your exhibit in a buying frame of mind. It’s an ideal platform to sell, secure new business contacts, develop a prospect database, and maintain high visibility.

Find out what exhibitions can do for your business.

Contact us today. * Centre for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR)

4EL s &OR OUR PORTFOLIO OF EXHIBITIONS GO TO OUR WEBSITE WWW SPECIALISED COM

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T

Grand Designs Live

The Baby Expo & Mama Magic

cannot spend unnecessary budget on venue hire. It is possible with good communication across the board to manage tight timelines effectively.

Nowadays, too, exhibitors cannot CocaCola Dome be out of the office for extended periods of time so the quicker the set-up and breakdown the less expense on their side,” says Glynis Anderson of Thebe Exhibitions.

Elizabeth Morley of Expo Trends adds: “There is congestion and queuing when you have hundreds of exhibitors all trying to get their goods into an exhibition venue at the same time – through very limited access points. Likewise, after a very positive exhibition, the need to break down as quickly as possible and again confront the horrendous queues and congestion at the limited loading bays leaves exhibitors with a very negative mindset, swearing never

to subject themselves to this again – even when the exhibition itself was successful and beneficial to them. We certainly sympathise with the venues and understand their need to maximise occupancy. But greater ease of access would go a long way towards making the exhibiting experience a positive one for our clients.”

and traffic control. Signage is a must, too, if the venue is combined with shopping centre parking, to ensure visitors know immediately where to go, and wherever possible venues need to manage this with the shopping centre concerned to ensure designated parking areas are allocated just for show days,” explains Anderson.

Morley adds: “We tend to use wellknown venues because visitors feel more comfortable going to a venue they are familiar with. However, the trend of exhibition venues charging for open parking is opportunistic and resented by our visitors – and that resentment is often misdirected at the organisers.”

Sufficient parking and easy access

Greening practices

This is of key importance and is one of the first thing sorganisers look at when selecting a venue. “It can make or break visitor attendance at shows so it is vital that parking access is streamlined and that personnel appointed to manage the area do so efficiently and effectively. Parking costs are a huge consideration, especially when an entrance fee is levied for the particular show or event, and must be justified in various ways, i.e. security

Venues need to have various greening initiatives in place.“ There is no compromise on this point. It really is all about the greening and how best you can both apply it. The pressure is on both parties to ensure greening initiatives are implemented and actually actioned before, during and after the show/event,” offers Anderson.

On Show Solutions directors Amanda Margison and Jacqui Reynolds concur: “Event greening is a big focus for Scan On Show and

Greater ease of access would go a long way towards making the exhibiting experience a positive one

The Coca Cola dome

40

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T

CSIR International Convention Centre

our team is undergoing extensive training in this regard. The Event Greening Forum ran a greening audit at this year’s Meetings Africa, so we could assess how we are doing in terms of the changes being implemented in our organisation. To position ourselves internationally it is essential that South Africa keeps up to date on industry trends.�

Complete Exhibitions has also been conscious of greening efforts for several years now. Nigel Walker, director of Complete

42

Exhibitions, has a firm foundation within the environment, holding a master's degree in environmental sciences. He says: “Within the exhibition industry everybody reuses and recycles exhibition panels and fascia boards, This is nothing new – it makes pure economic sense and also creates a platform for environmental responsibility and sustainability. Thus greening of the industry is being driven by economics and the client. However, as a recent study concluded,

clients are not prepared to pay the additional premium that is currently often associated with greening initiatives.�

Walker also notes that what makes a difference is making environmental considerations embedded into the operations of a company and the industry as a whole.

It is not easy; for example, safety regulators decline to accept electronic copies of required documentation – such documents must be printed with up to eight copies and, in cases of plans, must be printed on A3 or bigger (and in colour). “We applaud any actions by companies within the event industry to ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’. We strongly believe that only when more clients insist on a sound environmental approach within the events industry can real and meaningful progress be made,� he concludes.

Support for first-time organisers Margison and Reynolds offer the following advice: “From experience on the venue side, there are a vast number of fly-by-night organisers who believe that exhibitions are an easy way to make money. It is essential

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

The SA Conference ZHEVLWH LV WKH GHÀQLWLYH RQOLQH SRLQW RI UHIHUHQFH WR ÀQG YHQXHV DQG SURGXFW DQG VHUYLFH SURYLGHUV IRU WKH PHHWLQJV FRQIHUHQFH HYHQWV DQG H[KLELWLRQV VHFWRUV 6$ &RQIHUHQFH 8SGDWH D free weekly newsletter SURYLGHV \RX ZLWK WKH ODWHVW QHZV HYHQWV DQG GHYHORSPHQWV LQ WKH EXVLQHVV WRXULVP LQGXVWU\ DQG WKH HGLWRU¡V SLFN RI WKH ZHHN ZLOO KHOS \RX FKRVH WKH ULJKW YHQXH HQWHUWDLQHUV VSHDNHUV SURGXFWV VHUYLFHV DQG WHDP EXLOGHUV IRU \RXU IXQFWLRQ

DOESN’T IT THEN MAKE SENSE TO MAKE SA CONFERENCE YOUR HOME? 7R VXEVFULEH WR WKH ZHEVLWH DQG QHZVOHWWHU ORJ RQWR ZZZ VDFRQIHUHQFH FR ]D WRGD\

SACONFERENCE directory

MEDIA

Visitors engaging with exhibitors at Markex, Sandton Convention Centre

that the venue steers these first-time organisers in the right direction so that they use professional suppliers and possibly even consult with established organisers to ensure the success of their exhibition.�

Experienced on-site management and technical staff The expertise required of exhibition organisers and venue operations teams is immense. “Combined knowledge, experience and resource skills contribute substantially to

the success of exhibitions with the ability to share creative, innovative and expert advice.

To manage a show as large as Electra Mining Africa, with its huge demands on logistics and operations, needs much expertise. Last year’s show attracted 532 local exhibitors and 207 international exhibitors, occupying some 33 000m² of floor place and pulling in over 34 000 local and international senior decisionmaking visitors. Massive equipment is brought onto site, helicopters fly in, a myriad of stands have to be built in six exhibition halls

and across three large outside display areas and the onsite organisation, administration, catering and security that has to be in place is immense,� illustrates Gary Corin, managing director of Specialised Exhibitions.

Catering services “Around the world, exhibition venues tend to implement rules of using the on-site catering company. Dependent on the level of skill that the catering company provides, this can be limiting for the creativity of

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

43

ARE YOU GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR EXHIBITION SUPPLIER? We at Complete Exhibitions believe in offering our clients real value through services. So whatever your business, let us develop and implement an integrated exhibition for you.

We guarantee you and your clients an effective, efficient and professional service. From planning, liaising with all relevant stakeholders, coordinating and managing all logistics to building and operating your exhibition, you could not be in better hands.

Additionally, we offer all our clients a host of convenient on-line services, all free of charge: Ĺ– Ĺ– Ĺ– Ĺ–

Stand Design and Estimation +PVGTCEVKXG 'ZJKDKVKQP (NQQT 2NCPU 'ZJKDKVQT 1TFGTKPI $WUKPGUU /CVEJ /CMGT

Whether you are a small exhibitor or an organiser, our services will enhance your experience, bringing your exhibition needs to life.

Complete Exhibitions really is your Complete Exhibition solution.

Call Robert Walker on 012 667 2074.

Alternatively, visit our website; www.compex.co.za or email robert@compex.co.za

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T

CTICC

seating for 5 000 delegates or 7 000m² of column-free floor space. Together with the additional adjacent exhibition centre, the ICC can double its capacity to accommodate 10 000 exhibition delegates. The centres can function independently or as two

requirements, ordering and setting up equipment, and providing guidance with any freight handling or customs clearance requirements.

Only 15 minutes from Lanseria Airport is the Misty Hills Exhibition Centre, which was The Pavillion, Cape Town

an exhibition. Catering prices at exhibition venues tend to be expensive and generally are not market related. Effective exhibition venues, such as ExCeL in London, offer a variety of catering options, from fast food outlets to smarter dining restaurants, which ultimately enhances the experience for visitors and exhibitors,” say Margison and Reynolds.

What are venues offering?

The International Convention Centre in Durban is among the most advanced exhibition facilities in the world. It is a purpose-built, fully air-conditioned centre, with three convention halls that are interlinked but separate. Moveable walls allow for a number of different venue configurations. Alternatively the halls can be opened up to form one large venue with

Misty Hills

44

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

halves of one whole. Using the first and ground floors of the venue, The Pavilion Conference Centre can accommodate up to 100 shell schemes for an exhibition. Venue management prides itself in an AV offering of state-of-the-art equipment to complement any event experience. The venue’s unique selling points are its flexibility to configure facilities to suit clients’ needs, natural light in all venues with stunning panoramic views of the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain, as well as excellent technology infrastructure and a multi-level facility that caters for extraordinary exhibitions at a very affordable price. The Pavilion team focuses on a conference experience that combines a superb facility and service excellence in one of South Africa’s top tourist destinations – an attractive and unique experience hard to find anywhere else.

The Cape Town International Convention Centre prides itself on partnering with only the very best exhibition service providers in the region. These suppliers complement the professional core services available through the centre itself to ensure the smooth execution of any exhibition.

The exhibition services team is available to assist you with every aspect of your exhibition – from conceptualising and designing the exhibition experience and arranging security and cleaning services to meeting your rigging, lighting and IT

officially opened in March 2010. Situated opposite the Pelindaba, the largest of Misty Hills' conference venues, the 1 000 m² air-conditioned exhibition centre can comfortably accommodate 55 exhibitor stands. The stand configuration is adaptable

Venue management prides itself on an AV offering of state-of-the-art equipment to complement any event experience in design to suit individual requirements and is suitable for a variety of decor options, including carpet, hessian, rattan and wooden flooring. A catering service is also available.

In the business hub of Gauteng, the Sandton Convention Centre offers easy access to over 5 000 hotel rooms, is adjacent to the country’s top shopping and entertainment complexes and provides nearly 11 000 secure parking bays. There is over 22 000 m² of convention, exhibition and special event space. The Pavilion can seat 4 500 patrons and the two exhibition levels have a combined floor space of 11 000 m².

The Coca-Cola dome is easily accessible to both organisers and visitors, and scalable from an intimate 3 000 m² to a massive

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T

venues at the Gallagher Convention Centre satisfy the needs of both exhibitors and their guests. And with the Midrand Gautrain station completed in July, the positive effects of this can already be seen at Gallagher Convention Centre. The Midrand station is situated alongside Grand Central Airport, a mere 2.4 km from Gallagher. This means that the venue is now almost ‘next door’ to anywhere in the entire Gauteng region. Together with the new road infrastructure includingthe Allandale interchange, the Gautrain will alleviate the congestion problems that commuters regularly faced in Midrand. The train will arrive at its desired destination within one minute of its suggested time of arrival.

This means that commuters can plan their trips to exhibitions and events accurately and confidently and will not have to take

Hobby-X

Useful contacts ORGANISERS Complete Exhibitions www.compex.co.za

Expo Trends www.hobby-x.co.za

Specialised Exhibitions www.specialised.com

Thebe Exhibitions www.tepg.co.za

On Show Solutions www.onshowsolutions.co.za

VENUES

ELICC

15 000 m². The events team meets with each client prior to their exhibition for a full ops meeting, where all exhibition logistics are discussed. They have a close relationship with the permitted suppliers of the venue and work closely with them to ensure a smooth build up and breakdown process. Comprehensive function schedules are created for each exhibition, ensuring that all details are covered prior to build-up. The venue is 35 minutes from OR Tambo International Airport, 10 minutes from Lanseria Airport and 20 minutes from the Sandton Business Centre.

Gallagher Convention Centre has five exhibition halls, which offer clients more

46

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

Coca-Cola dome www.coca-coladome.co.za

CSIR ICC www.csiricc.co.za

CTICC www.cticc.co.za

Durban ICC www.icc.co.za

East London ICC www.icceastlondon.co.za

Gallagher Convention Centre www.gallagher.co.za

Misty Hills Exhibition Venue www.mistyhills.co.za

Sandton Convention Centre www.saconvention.co.za

The Pavilion Conference Centre www.thepavilion.co.za

than 27 000 m² of exhibition space, is complemented by two fully equipped restaurants. The major halls are fitted with evaporative air cooling and heating systems, ducting with water, electrical and communication connections and plenty of organisers’ offices. Efficient access at street level, parking for more than 10 000 vehicles and the easy flow of visitors mean that the exhibition Gallagher Convention Centre

traffic into consideration.

In Pretoria, the CSIR International Convention Centre offers superb facilities and quality service, with exhibition venues that can accommodate events of 500 or as little as 10 delegates and guests, with groups as large as 1 000 being accommodated at times. The CSIR ICC has ample parking space for medium-sized events, including dedicated exhibitors’

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T

Durban ICC

parking bays near the exhibition hall entrance. The convention centre has a separate entrance that exhibitors may use without interrupting other clients in the centre. The entrance is built for

48

heavy loading and can also accommodate luxury coaches or buses.

At the East London International Convention Centre (ELICC), the entire complex includes a 600-seater auditorium,

an exhibition floor (holding up to 90 3 x 3 m stands) and over 400 hotel rooms on site. A business centre is located at Premier Hotel Regent, adjacent to the ELICC, and a coffee bar facility is also available on site. The ELICC has initiated smarter ways to go green by putting together an internal campaign training staff members on just how to do this.

Exhibitions remain a powerful medium for sourcing new customers, engaging with existing customers, building brand awareness, launching new products and generating sales and sales leads. “However, companies are being more selective in their choice of exhibitions; many have also realised the importance of experienced exhibition organisers managing the events.

Developing strong business partnerships is a key ingredient for success in the exhibition industry and a trend we see developing more and more.

It is therefore crucial to have a winning partnership with the exhibition venue,� concludes Corin.

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

Well connected

Marketing Services & Communication (MSC)

Connecta-Floor

When choosing an infrastructure provider for your event, exhibition, meeting or conference, you are not merely choosing a supplier, but rather a partner who will play a pivotal role in the success of your event. At Oasys Innovations we understand this important relationship and offer you the best value for your money. We provide products and solutions that cater for your unique event requirements, while also consulting and advising you from concept formation to completion of the event.

Oasys Innovations. Your one-stop supplier of infrastructure for meetings, Connecta-Floor conferences and events of any dimension.

For perfect exhibitions… watch this space Memorable exhibitions and trade shows require world-class exhibition spaces and facilities. Like the kind you’ll find at the CTICC. Offering versatile and highly flexible spaces, an unsurpassed setting, and every service and amenity you could ever need, the CTICC affords you the opportunity to transform your exhibition from an ordinary show into an unforgettable, memorable experience.

Featuring: – Up to 11 200 m2 of exhibition space, of which 10 000

m2

is column-free

– Majestic city and mountain views

– Venues designed to maximise natural light

– Comprehensive range of catering,

– Two top-class restaurants

– 2 large auditoria – A magnificent 2 000

– 33 function or meeting rooms

m2

ballroom

– An exquisite roof terrace

AV, and planning services.

– 1400 parking bays

For more information, or to book your CTICC experience, call us on +27 21 410 5000 today or visit www.cticc.co.za

Conference Transport =

ENQUIRIES and BOOKINGS 021 511 1784

fax 021 511 2401 info@hyltonross.co.za

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T

Trouble-free transportation There are so many options available in terms of transport for corporate events and all other aspects of business tourism. Meetings SA takes a look at some of the choices and what they re offering.

By Claire Rencken

V

arious bus rental options are available for coach charters and bus hire, but choosing the best service for the most economical price can be a challenge. Bus Rental. co.za is a well-established and trusted passenger transport company, based in South Africa and operating throughout Southern Africa.

Whatever your transport needs, it will make sure that you get the best service at a decent price.

If it cannot rent you a vehicle directly it will find an operator that can assist you on the dates and the routing that you need. This is a one-stop solution for your transport requirements – from airport transfers to three-week tours around Southern Africa. iKapa luxury coach and bus hire offers you a complete transportation solution. The company operates a superb fleet of luxury vehicles, ranging from seven-seaters to 52-seaters, from coach depots in Cape Town and Johannesburg. It offers luxury coach and bus hire in Cape Town, The Gautrain system provides you with a safe, comfortable and reliable train service

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

51

M A N A G E M E N T

Image courtesy of Bruce Sutherland

E V E N T

MyCiti bus around the centre of Cape Town

Johannesburg, Durban and Port Elizabeth.

Services include airport transfers, dinner transfers, golf transfers, full-day touring, half-day touring and overland touring. It is also able to source vehicles of all sizes for hire throughout South Africa through its Bus Finders division.

Another leading luxury coach and bus hire company, Protours, finds its success is based on the attributes of safety, comfort, reliability and affordability. The composition of its fleet has been adjusted into three main categories, namely small, medium and large coaches. Specifications have been adapted to satisfy the needs of clients and passengers. Protours is a major role player in the tourism industry, being one of the largest coach charter companies in the country. Lastly, Springbok Atlas is another of the biggest and longest-established tour operators in South Africa, offering a wide range of East and Southern African coach tours, minibus tours and charters. It has developed a reputation for quality and reliability since being established in 1946 and provides highly reputed destination management services.

Party buses for functions and events Getting from A to B can become a nuisance for a large group of partygoers if there is no systematic approach. Party bus hire can help avoid such situations, and there are companies that specialise in party bus hire.

Ultimate Experience Promotions, better known as ‘the Ultimate Bus’, is a luxury party bus company based in Johannesburg, Gauteng. Unlike the regular ‘party bus’ seen

52

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

The following interconnecting MyCiTi services are now operating The trunk route between Table View and the Civic Centre in the central city.

Feeder services in the areas of Table View, Blaauwberg and Parklands and Big Bay. The Gardens-Civic-Waterfront feeder service in the central city.

The airport service, from Cape Town International Airport to the central city, which costs R50 one way per adult and R25 one way per child and runs every 20 minutes, between 04:20 and 21:00 every day.

at parties and clubs, the Ultimate Bus aims to provide high-end, luxurious and fun travel with a twist. For those in the corporate industry, the company’s party buses (affectionately named ‘Mobile Mansions’) come standard with stylish interiors, onboard conference facilities such as TVs and microphones, on-board toilet and bar

Getting from A to B can become a nuisance for a large group of partygoers if there is no systematic approach facilities and last but not least, the amazing visual and audio system. The company is passionate about creating the ultimate experience for all events and its service is more than an A to B experience, but rather the most unforgettable part of the event.

Double Decker Bus Events offers a party bus, affectionately named 'Gus the Party Bus', which is available for hire for corporate functions in Gauteng. The bus can accommodate up to 35 people. It has a semi-open top, toilets, sound system and ice baths for drinks. Gus is a Leyland

bus originally manufactured in the United Kingdom and he was shipped off for duty in Hong Kong for a number of years, ferrying passengers. Landing in South Africa he became SAB’s party bus, and has now been taken over by Double Decker Bus Events and has been refurbished for your party requirements with great, reliable, sound.

Gautrain and its bus system The Gautrain system provides you with a safe, comfortable and reliable train service between OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) and the Sandton CBD, and between Johannesburg Park Station and Tshwane’s Hatfield Station. The system includes drop-off and parking facilities at all stations (except ORTIA), as well as a dedicated bus system.

These services are fully integrated and may be used separately or jointly by transferring from one to another. The services are all accessed by means of a contactless smart card – the Gold Card.

The card allows seamless transfers between Gautrain’s train, bus and parking services. Its intricacies include: • First-time users can access the station parking facilities without a Gold Card.

• Once you have purchased your Gold Card,

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

53

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T

The Ultimate Bus

you can use it to access and pay for either the train or the bus services.

• A valid Gold Card is required to use the parking exit gate.

• Every passenger requires their own Gold Card.

• Your Gold Card enables you to load a variety of journey products, from pay-asyou-go to a 35-day pass.

• To benefit from multiple use discounts, you will need to use the same Gold Card for all transactions.

• A Gold Card costs R10 and remains valid for five years.

For corporates who travel extensively, it is recommended that you enquire at any station to purchase a registered Gold Card.

This will enable the company to blacklist your card if it gets lost and to transfer unused value to a new card.

Additional services include car rental facilities at the Johannesburg Park Station and the Sandton and Pretoria stations.

there is no more space for building major roads. Already, congestion is worsening year by year and people are going to have to make the shift to public transport to avoid hours spent stuck in traffic.

Bus rapid transit, or integrated rapid transit (IRT) as it is called in Cape Town, uses a fleet of modern, comfortable buses moving in their own dedicated lanes on trunk routes. These make use of special

Experienced, informed and helpful, chauffeurs know the areas they work in inside out stations, often in the middle of the roads, and smaller buses that run through suburbs and industrial areas, bringing passengers to the main trunk routes. These are often referred to as feeder routes. MyCiTi is Cape Town’s new rapid bus service.

MyCiTi bus in Cape Town There are more than three million people in Cape Town, many of whom depend on public transport to get to work. The geography or spatial layout of the city creates challenges.

The physical nature of the city, with the Table Mountain range in the centre and being bounded by two oceans, means that

Limousines Exclusive car hire works well as an add-on to corporate reward programmes. Supreme Limos South Africa is a professional and reputable limousine service company, based in Gauteng and operating throughout Southern Africa. Any limousine service

Useful contacts Avis www.avis.co.za

Bus Rental.co.za www.busrental.co.za

Double Decker Bus Events www.ddpartybus.co.za

Gautrain www.gautrain.co.za

iKapa Tours and Travel www.ikapa.co.za

MyCiti Bus www.capetown.gov.za

Protours www.protours.co.za

Springbok Atlas www.springbokatlas.co.za

Stigma Limousine Hire www.stigmalimo.co.za

Supreme Limos www.supremelimos.net

The Ultimate Bus www.theultimatebus.com Expovent Evolutions

54

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

you require is undertaken with great pride and care, ensuring that clients are always completely satisfied. Its fleet consists of 12 limos, three limo buses, three vintage cars, 22 sedans and even two hot air balloons.

Stigma Limousine, another leading service provider, offers quality limo transfers by means of its white stretch Chrysler 300c. It caters for the discerning client who appreciates the finer things in life.

Stigma specialises in luxury transportation and customised tours or outings. Based in Johannesburg, close to OR Tambo International Airport, the company can transfer your VIP guests in style.

Point-to-point transfers An alternative to conventional car hire is executive point-to-point transfers. Avis offers such a service. Instead of fighting your way through traffic or putting up with taxis or roadworks, let its point-topoint chauffeur-driven transfer drive you in comfort and style, in the company’s range of fabulous, low-mileage economy, sedan or multi-purpose vehicles. Avis’s point-topoint chauffeurs are dressed in distinctive red uniforms and really know their stuff.

Experienced, informed and helpful, they know the areas they work in inside out and will surprise you with their knowledge and insights. This offering from Avis is a super-convenient transfer service and its chauffeurs are available to do transfers at any hour of the day and any time of the week.

Transportation is a basic yet vital service.

There are many experienced and qualified service providers countrywide that can assist you to make the right choice at an affordable price. Meetings SA recommends you try our proposed few.

Does your hotel need a holiday?

Let us grow: t ZPVS QSPรถU t ZPVS BTTFU WBMVF t ZPVS TUBรฒ T TLJMM t UIF TNJMFT PO ZPVS DVTUPNFST GBDFT

Together. Your hotel. Just better.

'PS NBTUFSGVMMZ UBJMPSFE IPUFM NBOBHFNFOU DPOUBDU -ZOFUUF #BMJF BU t XXX IFBEMJOFIPUFMT DP [B t -#BMJF!IFBEMJOFMFJTVSF DPN

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T

Bon voyage 2011

Asara Wine Estate & Hotel

Super-stylish year-end events It is that time of year again when event organisers face the challenge of bringing new and exciting year-end function ideas to clients. Meetings SA investigates various options for small, medium and large budgets. By Claire Rencken

T

hemed events are definitely ‘in’ right now,” says Angie van Wijk, director of Creative Occasions & Ideas. “There are so many different themes to work around, and great decor and prop ideas to use for these events, to ensure that your function really brings that wow factor. All can be arranged according to our client’s budget. It is also great to work your menu around your theme: for African-themed functions, serve pap (in potjie pots), chicken pieces, boerewors rolls, mielies/ mieliepap, etc. There are so many fun ideas to come up with when organising a themed event. This is also a great opportunity for the staff in the company to bring ideas to the table. You can ask all employees to give suggestions for this year’s theme.”

Maia Jordaan of Creative Collective, a Pretoria-based events company focusing on themed events for corporate companies across South Africa, especially in Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo, agrees that themed events remain popular. She comments: “With themed events, entertainment remains one of the best

56

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

E V E N T

elements to turn the event into an experience rather than just another function. However, it is essential to ensure the entertainment is something unique and different. Consider, for example, themed arrival entertainment to set the mood and a customised show to ensure a memorable event, all set within a themed environment. Decor and furniture are other elements to theme accordingly. Creative Collective specialises in supplying, among other elements, over-sized decor to strengthen the theme further and create a breath-taking look and feel for the event.”

Colour is also an important element of bringing your theme together. “Gold is probably one of the most popular event colours this year.

But not in a gaudy or kitsch manner – gold, for example, is used with black or white to create a dramatic backdrop and lavish setting,” explains Jordaan.

So what are this year’s most popular requests? For Jordaan’s clients, the following themes remain firm favourites: • A thousand and one nights/Arabian • Medieval • Theme by colour, such as ‘an all-white affair’ • Ice/winter event • Casino Royale/Wild West • Oscars • Austin Powers psychedelic party • Hawaiian themed • African themed.

Among van Wijk’s clients, rocking 80s, retro 70s, nautical themes and a night with the stars (e.g. Oscar themed) have been the most popular.

If it’s a casino-themed event you’re planning, Vegas Nights can be of great assistance. It specialises in the planning and conducting

M A N A G E M E N T

Skyline Gardens

of casino events and functions in the Cape and Gauteng. “We provide top-of-the-line, high-quality, authentic casino equipment and courteous, professional croupiers who are trained to help guests understand and enjoy the various casino games offered. We basically

It is essential to ensure the entertainment is something unique and different

loses their money first and so on,” explains Vegas Nights’s Gordon Spence. “Our customers include large corporates, event companies and professional conference organisers, who use our services for staff appreciation events, teambuilding programmes and customer entertainment. We have worked with various venues in South Africa, providing entertainment for conferences, gala evenings and fundraising events, as well as themed parties or for private individuals for purely social events,” he adds.

Unusual venues set up a fun casino night at a venue of your choice and offer your guests ‘funny money’, which they then exchange for chips and play with for the night. We offer Black Jack, Roulette and a few other games. At the end of the night the guests, depending on you, could win prizes for best gambler, most flair, player who

For a teambuilding year-end function with a country feel, Mount Grace Country House & Spa is a good venue choice. There you can treat your valuable employees to a memorable party with great food, coupled with various fun team events.They can escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day in the beautiful and

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

57

E V E N T

M A N A G E M E N T Arabian nights year-end-function

throughout the hotel.

Skyline Gardens, also owned and managed

by South Point, is one of the most exciting and sought-after private rooftop venues in Johannesburg, with sweeping views over the city centre, the Nelson Mandela Bridge and

Oscar theme

rustic Magaliesburg, just an hour’s drive from Johannesburg. You could also indulge the team with a sleepover and one of Mount Grace’s many themed dinners, from Italian or Chinese to French cuisine, paired with some awardwinning local wines. Executive chef Franc Lubbe and his team will work around your budget to make sure your employees have a wonderful time. If something more informal is required, a braai and a few beers can be arranged.

Alternately, for a city experience, you could try South Point Hospitality’s Hotel Lamunu, situated in the heart of vibrant Braamfontein, north of the Johannesburg CBD and a stone’s throw from the Nelson Mandela Bridge. This is where arts, entertainment and big business live.

This chic hotel boasts 60 plush rooms, three meeting rooms and free Internet connectivity

58

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

Tempting as it may be in today’s economic climate, pulling the plug on the annual staff party is a mistake

year-end functions. Collisheen has a bed and breakfast on the premises and is also close to an extensive range of accommodation, from luxury country hotels to bed and breakfasts and self-catering facilities.

It has two conference facilities that can accommodate between 10 and 400 delegates, depending on the seating configuration.Patrons can also take part in various local activities such as golf (Umhlali Country Club, Zimbali Golf Resort and Prince’s Grant Golf Estate), dolphin viewing and the crocodile park, to name but a few. Collisheen also has many other activities available on the estate,which can be arranged on request.

the Hillbrow Tower. This is a glamorous event Budgets venue where you can watch the sun setand the Jordaan says: “We have noted that budgets are cityscape’s lights come alive. Offering a cocktail becoming one of the major determining factors bar, alfresco eating and intimate lounge pods in for the type of event to be held and also the sky, this is a unique destination in the city. whether an event is held at all. In some cases In Cape Town, Asara Wine Estate has a lot an inexperienced member of the company to offer. It is situated a 25 minutes’ drive east handles the coordination of the function, which from Cape Town International Airport. Founded results in overspending on mediocre functions. in 1691, Asara uses nature as its partner, not It is important for corporate companies to be only when producing world-class wines, but also aware that events coordinators and events in its carefully prepared food and meticulously companies have a wealth of contacts and knowcrafted service offering. With the staff, how when it comes to keeping costs down, but services and space to cater to your every need, with maximum effect in creating magical and groups big and small are welcomed and taken memorable occasions.” care of in any of the estate’s many venues. The Tempting as it may be in today’s economic Ballroom is ideal for large groups of up to 200 climate, pulling the plug on the annual staff delegates. For smaller groups, the Courtyard party is a mistake, as it can negatively impact Room hosts up to 80 or the Amber Terrace staff morale. “Year-end functions provide hosts 24 guests.Last but not least is Belvedere, hosting between eight Useful contacts and 30 guests. All of these Asara Wine Estate Collisheen Estate venues offer spectacular www.asara.co.za www.collisheen.co.za views over the surrounding Creati ve Occasions Creati ve Collective mountains and vineyards. www.creati ve-occasions.co.za www.creati vecollective.co.za Situated 30 minutes from Mount Grace South Point Hospitality central Durban and an arm’s www.mountgrace.co.za www.southpointhospitality.co.za length from Ballito is the Vegas Nights Collisheen Estate, which www.vegasnights.co.za offers a perfect venue for

E V E N T

the perfect platform to meet with your staff and get to know them better in a more relaxed environment. An event or function (just like a meeting) is an opportunity for you to communicate a message, spread an idea and strengthen a relationship with someone personally. Remember, celebrations are a key element in building community,� advises Jordaan.

One of Creative Collective’s accountants adds: “Employers underestimate the importance of a year-end function. With employers cutting back on bonuses, increases, social events and teambuilding, this should be the one time in the year to say thank you to your staff for their hard work.�

In the words of one of Jordaan’s clients: “Most staff wait anxiously for the annual function; we owe them the opportunity to let loose, especially if they have been productive all year long. They deserve a thank you for a job well done. They will feel appreciated for their efforts and this will motivate them to do better in the year to come.� Van Wijk agrees wholeheartedly: “It’s a time for all colleagues to get together and have fun after a year of hard work. Some companies also have awards

M A N A G E M E N T

Vegas Nights

at these events and praise staff for their hard work during the year. This motivates staff to work harder and be recognised in front of all their colleagues.�

With all these available options, it is possible to have a special event, within your budget and at a convenient geographical venue, regardless of the size of the group.

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

WANT TO HAVE THE REAL iPAD IN YOUR HANDS? Book meetings with IHG hotels and get a FREE revolutionary Apple iPad 7KH $SSOH L3DG LV WRWDOO\ VHGXFWLYH 7KH JHQWOH WRXFK RI D Âż QJHU LV DOO \RXÂśOO HYHU QHHG DIWHU \RX JHW \RXU KDQGV RQ WKLV VSHFWDFXODU SURPRWLRQ 7KDQNV WR WKH ,+* 0HHW 7RXFK SURPRWLRQ \RX FDQ get your own revolutionary Apple iPad ZLWK 0XOWL 7RXFK VFUHHQ All you have to do is book meetings worth R200,000* in one of the participating IHG hotels in South Africa.

Ask for your participation voucher today

www.meetandtouch.co.za

2IIHU YDOLG IRU PHHWLQJV WKDW WDNH SODFH EHWZHHQ 6HSWHPEHU DQG -XQH 0LQLPXP ERRNLQJ IRU D WRWDO DPRXQW RI 5 LQ WKH VDPH KRWHO GXULQJ WKH SURPRWLRQDO SHULRG 9LVLW ZZZ PHHWDQGWRXFK FR ]D IRU WKH JHQHUDO WHUPV DQG FRQGLWLRQV DQG D OLVW RI WKH SDUWLFLSDWLQJ KRWHOV

59

R E W A R D

&

D E V E L O P

Speakers Corner

A conferencing dream tool There is just no getting away from the social network revolution. The sheer numbers in user stats show that it is of vital importance, with Facebook at 750 million, Twitter at 200 million and Google at 20 million ‒ no business can ignore that many potential customers. By Ryan Hogarth

60

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

T

his revolution is the greatest of our age. It is a revolution ushering in the best expression of people power. Not even our greatest political icons would ever have envisioned that people power would be so emphatically expressed.

Clearly I’m an evangelist.

It is important to know that the definition of ‘social’ has evolved. Some 10 years ago it would have referred to a braai or the behaviour of segments of society and had little place in business. Today it refers to the personal interaction and sharing of information across platforms that connect millions of people, and it has everything to do with business.

Social mediums are dream tools for the conferencing and events industry. Every conference, meeting and exhibition is a social event and each has a message that organisers and exhibitors want delivered. The lifeblood of social media is sharing of information and ideas.

Therefore connecting these events with social technology is a perfect match.

The international trend to make conferences and events more social has given rise to innovative ways to achieve greater success.

Here are some of my favourites:

R E W A R D

Twitter The Twitter hash tag (#) is used to mark keywords or topics in a tweet. Any word that has a hash tag in front of it (i.e. #ourconference) makes that word searchable on Twitter. Clicking on it will bring up all tweets that feature those words.

This makes it an ideal way for people at a conference to stay informed about the latest developments. When delegates are encouraged to use hash tags, it creates an organic way for people to be social and share information.

A great example of using a hash tag was ‘#gotpetrol’ during the fuel shortages in July.

Users who found stations with petrol would tweet using the hash tag. In this way, those running low could find a station near them.

D E V E L O P

Uniquely speaking...

The Unique Speaker Bureau (USB) is taking the world of professional speaker bureaus and speaker agents by storm with its innovative approach to the business of promoting speaking professionals. The bureau adopts a proactive partnership with a number of our country’s most elite professional business speakers and MCs. Its stated objective is to match, and strive to exceed, clients’ expectations of speakers across the entire range of business-to-business events, from conferences, banquets and seminars to breakaways and teambuilding interventions. Plug USB into your next event and access the who’s who of South Africa’s professional speakers. Visit www.uniquespeakerbureau.com for more information.

Foursquare I believe Foursquare to be the most underutilised and underestimated social medium in South Africa. Foursquare is a location-sharing social platform. People can ‘check in’ to places and venues using the

Consider an expo with a large central area where tweets about the expo are projected live as they happen It was a remarkable example of the power of community organisation through social media.

A Twitter wall is a clever way to visualise social interaction at a conference or expo.

With a Twitter wall live tweets are projected onto a screen. Consider an expo with a large central area where tweets about the expo are projected live as they happen. Delegates themselves participate in generating a buzz about the expo and help drive traffic to exhibitors’ stands.

&

application and share tips and information (including photos). Badges and rewards are earned in the process.

Delegates can check in to the expo itself, and at individual stands. Foursquare shows who else has checked in, which is a fun and engaging way for people to find each other and for exhibitors to offer prizes or promotions.

Facebook

Social media hub orr newsroom

The ultimate social network ork is an omote and effective platform to promote d an event, build a community around f either through an events page or a fan ormation about ab bout page, where detailed information your conference or expo can be disseminated and where delegates mselves. can interact among themselves. ntion to This brings focused attention nisers the conference and organisers ough full do not have to wade through mation e-mail boxes to find information critical to the event.

Encourage engagementt by allowing users to upload photos and videos of their experiencee at the conference.

Brands entering the social s sphere tend to pigeonhole themselves themsse into the idea that the only conversion co on that matters is sales. They tend t to forget about social conversions, conveer which commu u mean community building,

measurement and conversation. So, if there is a platform for sales through exhibiting, why not build a hub for social media?

A social media newsroom is a website that forms a central content hub with social features: • Journalists are able to find your content easily.

• You are able to provide content in the format preferred by the press.

• Bloggers are able to link to or use content they need for their blogs.

• Content can be easily shared by visitors.

• All the above will help generate better media coverage for your event.

Your newsroom should have features that connect to your social media content and buttons that allow visitors to share content to their own social media platforms. Readily available tools allow you to track the success of your news and social content.

Your newsroom is the central point for all your social media efforts.

Humans are social by nature and social media has been successful because it satisfies our need to belong and interact. By making it simple and fun for people to connect with each other you will succeed in driving home the message of your event.

These are just a few examples of how this technology can be used to create some excitement around your events. By taking a little time to understand the mediums, you will quickly learn that the opportunities are almost endless.

About th thee author Ryann Hogarth Ry Hoo is a social media catalyst. He speaks frequently to business and conferences confer co f enc on re-engineering business through social media and consults businesses businessse s through the five step programme to devising and implementing a sustainable sustaina ta ab social media programme. Apart from consulting to executives on their theirr social the sooc media presence,Hogarth also writes his own blog on the social media landscape lan andscaape p in South Africa. Follow Hogarth on Twitter: @ryanhogarth, visit his website: websitte: www.ryanhogarth.com, w join him on Facebook: Fb.me/RyanRHogarth or e-mail him m: ryan@hogarth.co.za rya yan@ @h him: for more information.

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

61

R E W A R D

&

D E V E L O P

Adventure Educators

Experience the real world Uniquely designed outdoor adventures Un provide provid the ultimate in hands-on, experiential and learning. Meetings SA talks to the pros fun an about abou the current trends in adventure-based teambuilding to find out more about this team exhilarating offering. e

A

ccording to Dream Team Catalyst, if you plan an effective teambuilding event you should understand the three phases in team dynamics. These are: • Feel as a team: Most companies tend to forget this important aspect.

If people don’t feel emotionally connected, they will never perform as a team.

• Act as a team: To act as a team, team members need specific skills, such as leadership, delegation, organisation and negotiation.

• Perform as a team: To achieve the expected results, teams need to focus on clear objectives and take constraints into account.

Covering the above-listed phases of team dynamics, by way of a joint venture with Hercules Trophy International, Dream Team is bringing a new adventure offering to South Africa that connects companies through competitive teambuilding experiences – Hercules Trophy. Given its strong focus on ‘feel as a team’, Hercules Trophy creates a platform where people can connect easily on an emotional level.

The concept of the teambuilding event is as follows: various business teams of up to six players each partake in the event; all teams compete in 12 different labours in a planned and safe environment; Dream Team can organise sector trophies and specific company trophies for between 24 and 96 teams (i.e. 144 to 576 people) on one day; Hercules Trophy is tons of fun and entertainment for everyone, ensuring a great

By Abby Wintgens

networking effect; quality catering is available all day long; an opening ceremony and awards ceremony and a great after-party all form part of the day; and an interactive website is provided for teams to access more information, consultation and links to social media updates.

Building teams through adventure Seeking to experience the real world with a grassroots approach to adventure and teambuilding is the team at Clarens Xtreme. The management is a group of energetic adventurers who have developed a unique strategy for handling clients’ request, according to company owner Ollie Esplin. “We do not ‘tell’ them what we do for strategic

If you plan an effective teambuilding event you should understand the three phases in team dynamics adventure interventions; instead we enquire what they would like us to do for them. The reason is that no one knows the client/company and its staff better than the client itself and we prefer to custom-make an activity for the client’s team. Understandably, some groups have little or no idea of what they would like to do. In those cases, we send them on some of Clarens Xtreme’s pre-designed team activities, while throwing in some of the activities that have been specially designed for other groups. For example, one of our specially designed activities is the art

s r o t a c u d enture E

Adv

“We Develop People”

Teambuilding & Events Drumming, Archery & Human Fooseball Corporate Skills Training Year end functions School Camps / Tours We source venues and do catering Adventure Educators

62

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

0834445000

info@adved.co.za

www.adved.co.za

R E W A R D

&

D E V E L O P

Kamkiri Clarens Extreme

Khamkirri

Useful contacts in the park activity, which allows team players to tap into their inner artists. We also offer the basic adventure activities such as whitewater rafting, which we do all year round thanks to the constant flow of our river. And our marksmanship games, like kettie shooting, archery, paintball and target shooting, remain a hit with corporate groups.”

Clarens Xtreme offers a wide variety of group experiences. The choices are vast, from an assortment of adventure sports, game drives and cultural tours to family vacations and unique custom-made expeditions to places you have never even imagined.

Esplin adds: “We prefer to steer away from using the word teambuilding, as it seems to generate an uneasy feeling among some staff, given its notorious connotation of being forced to take part in some activities that they do not want to do. It’s our way of avoiding creating a negative attitude.”

Adventure-based teambuilding seeks to engage participants actively, sparking creative energy, fostering innovation and building camaraderie. At Adventure Educators, the

Adventures Educators

Clarens Xtreme

company’s 13 years of experience www.adved.co.za www.clarensxtreme.co.za in developing people sees it serving Dream Team Catalyst www. Hercules Trophy over 60 corporate groups, private dreamteam.co.za www.hercules-trophy.co.za businesses, conference organisers Khamkirri and government departments, year www.khamkirri.co.za on year.

According to owners Kim Rice and Philip an environment where we can’t rely on our Clarens Extreme Voigts, “Cients are becoming more focused experience”. He adds, “In unfamiliar situations, – Art In da Park on teambuilding programmes that are both people, especially when out of their comfort relevant in meaning and demanding, based zone, are more apt to ask for help and work on their required outcomes”. Rice continues, as a team. This is exactly what Khamkirri is “Clients need their teams to return from the all about. Yes, we have all the modern-day experience having learnt something of value, technologies to host a modern day conference. which they can implement practically in the But we also have the people, skill and workplace and in their personal lives. It is no experience to make your teambuilding both longer about the feel-good activities that productive in terms of strategy planning as evaporate soon after the experience has well as cement your team into a well working ended. It is about making a real and lasting unit where all their fear about the modern-day difference. That’s what we do.” work place disappears.”

Heading out of the city and away from the Action-oriented by design, adventure-based boardroom, great adventure awaits in the teambuilding interventions have seen groups Green Kalahari, with Gawie Nieuwoudt and being developed all over the world. Isn’t it time his team at Khamkirri. Discussing modifying you let your group experience a little of this behaviour through teambuilding, Nieuwoudt exhilarating growth experience too? Meetings maintains that “the key to this is creating SA recommends it.

Hercules Trophy

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

63

<HDU HQG %DQTXHWLQJ %XQGOHV

ar y v s e g Packa n R260 e betwe 350 pp and R V QRZ IRU FW X &RQWD HWDLOV DQG IXOO G Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & s â&#x20AC;&#x2122; T

:KHWKHU SODQQLQJ D 0DWULF )DUHZHOO RU D &RUSRUDWH <HDU HQG )XQFWLRQ PDNH LW PHPRUDEOH DW DQ\ RI RXU 0RXOLQ 5RXJH WKHPHG FRQIHUHQFH YHQXHV $OO SDFNDJHV LQFOXGH D '- GpFRU WDEOH FORWKV FHQWUH SLHFHV FKDLU FRYHUV WLH EDFNV XQGHUSODWHV LQ WKH FRORXU RI \RXU FKRLFH D SKRWRJUDSK RI \RXUVHOI DQG \RXU SDUWQHU DW WKH HYHQW DQG D IXOO EXIIHW PHDO

64

Contact Monique Van Rensburg

Â&#x2021; 0RQLTXH YUHQVEXUJ#]D VXQLQWHUQDWLRQDO FRP MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

R E G U L A R S

Following its Annual General Meeting on 4 August, the Tourism Business Council of South Africa has announced its new board. From individual private sector businesses, the following representatives have been elected: Pieter de Bruin of First National Bank, Clifford Ross of City Lodge Hotels, Graham Wood of Southern Sun Hotels, Tommy Edmond of Tourvest, Theunis Potgieter of South African Airways, Ross Kata of Expedia, Glen Phillips of SANParks, Maryllyn Lewis of Thebe Tourism, Salifou Siddo of the Tourism Enterprise Programme, and Bart Bender of ProServ South Africa. From industry associations, the following representatives have been elected: Jennifer Seif of Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa, Robyn Christie of the Association of South African Travel Agents, Chris Zwiegenthal of the Airline Association of South Africa, Brett Dungan of the Federated Hospitality Association of SA, Michael Tatalias of the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association, Adene Pringle of the Southern Africa Association for the Conference Industry, Paul Pauwen of the South African Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, Gavin Eyre of the South African Youth Travel Confederation, Charl Fouche of the Afrikaanse Handelsinstituut, Caroline Ungersbock of the National Accommodation Association of SA, J Venter of the National Off-Road Working Group , and Churchill Mrasi of the South African Leisure, Travel and Hospitality Association.

Who’s who People on the move

Mandy MacDonald has been promoted to marketing administrator for Gallagher Convention Centre. In her new role, Mac Donald will focus her attention on the holistic details of the venue’s marketing programme, and implement the activities listed herein, such as building relationships with media to support PR efforts, learning the inner workings of the organisation and getting action or obtaining information from key role players.

Mount Grace Country House & Spa has appointed the widely travelled Gillian Kureva as its new spa manager. Her decade-plus industry experience has taken her across some of the world’s top spas, from exotic India to the sun-drenched Caribbean. Exuding quiet confidence and flair, Kureva says she plans to bring some of her international spa experiences to the award-winning Mount Grace Spa. “In this business you cannot afford to relax as there’s always room to up your game. At Mount Grace we have an excellent product ideally located in the Magaliesburg countryside, but there remains great potential to add to the spa experience and make it truly memorable,” she says.

Seasoned brand and communications specialist, Lungi Morrison, has joined the South African Tourism team as UK country manager. Morrison’s work will involve promoting South Africa as a preferred destination to visitors from the United Kingdom, SA Tourism’s largest air market. According to South African Tourism’s chief operating officer, Tim Scholtz, Morrison’s vast experience in brand building and communications, as well as her depth of experience amassed over the years, make her an ideal candidate to continue the organisation’s work in the UK.

Mati Nyazema, executive director of the Sandton Convention Centre, has been selected as a finalist for the Businesswoman of the Year Award 2011, hosted by the Business Women’s Association of Southern Africa (BWASA).The award has a number of purposes, which have remained consistent over the years. It recognises the achievement of South African women business leaders. Nyazema has a rich history of empowering women and a personal passion for advocating women’s issues, mentoring colleagues and raising the profile of women in business.

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

65

R E G U L A R S

C O M I N G

U P

Supporting women entrepreneurs in SA

W

omen-owned businesses are a significant part of the South African entrepreneurial landscape. In last year’s Eskom Business Investment Competition, the winners in two categories were women, and they received meaningful cash prizes that would help grow their businesses, as well as the opportunity to

Lungiswa Moko of Ntinga

showcase their products and services at the annual Business Opportunities & Franchise Expo (BOFE).

The competition is an initiative that recognises small and medium-sized black-owned businesses operating in the agricultural, manufacturing and trade/services sectors in South Africa, and is part of the Eskom Development Foundation’s ongoing business support programme.

Taste comes to town

I

sn’t it time you took a mouth-watering, tantalising and delicious culinary adventure?

Now in its fifth year, the Pick n Pay Taste of Joburg festival, in association with Orbit sugar-free chewing gum, comes to Joburg this spring. Taking place from 15 to 18 September at the Montecasino Outdoor Event Area, the Taste festival will take visitors on a flavour voyage of discovery with taste sensations from around the world. From French to Spanish, Afro-Asian to African and Italian to Indian cuisine, guests of the festival are sure to sample some of the best cooking that the City of Gold has to offer.

L O O K I N G

Showcasing 14 of Joburg’s top restaurants and chefs, Taste brings together the very best to serve their fabulous, trend-setting signature dishes. The impressive list of participating restaurants and their world-class chefs will guarantee that there will be something sensational for every palate.

SAACI 2011 rocks

B A C K

SETE surpasses expectations

T

he inaugural Sports and Events Tourism Exchange (SETE) has successfully entrenched South Africa’s status as one of the world’s preferred big event destinations.

The exchange took place at the CTICC 27 to 29 July 2011.

Building on the collaboration between the sports, events and tourism industry that resulted in South Africa successfully staging the biggest event in the world last year, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the exhibition and conference provided a unique platform for South Africa to set itself apart as a world leader in sports tourism. “It gave the sports

Delegates trying out SA Tourism's touch table

66

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

The Taste Festival will take visitors on a flavour voyage of discovery with taste sensations from around the world

and tourism industry an opportunity to come together; to realise that there is a confident, purpose-driven generation in South Africa with the skills, infrastructure and knowledge to attract a wide range of sports events to South Africa in the future,” says South African Tourism global manager of events, Sugen Pillay.

Sports tour operators, sporting codes across the board, sports and tourism facilities and provincial and city tourism agencies were among the more than 100 exhibitors that participated in the inaugural SETE exhibition.

SETE Exhibition hall

T

he business tourism sector recently turned its focus to the Western Cape, to the annual SAACI national conference, which took place at NH The Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset SAACI delegates celebrating at the gala dinner

The Taste Festival will take visitors on a flavour voyage of discovery with taste sensations from around the world

West from 24 to 26 July. Some of the speakers at this year’s conference included the National Minister of Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, and the Western Cape’s Minister of Tourism, Alan Winde.

In his welcome address, Minister Van Schalkwyk discussed how South Africa’s status as a premier global leisure tourism destination is now firmly entrenched.

Exhibition Stands we design them...

we build them...

www.3ddesign.co.za

4 Neutron str. Linbro Business Park, Linbro Park, Johannesburg. PO Box 1795, Marlboro 2063, Johannesburg, South Africa Johannesburg Tel 011 608 1588 Fax 011 608 0591 â&#x20AC;˘ Cape Town Tel 021 702 1089 Fax 021 702 1537

R E G U L A R S

What, when and where...

Index to advertisers

SEPTEMBER 7th TOPS Soweto Wine Festival Date: 1 to 3 September Venue: University of Johannesburg, Soweto Campus 2011 School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH) Colloquium Date: 14 September Venue: University of Johannesburg, STH Kerzner Building Design in Hospitality Confex Date: 15 to 16 September Venue: The Forum, Turbine Hall E Tourism Africa Summit Venue: CTICC Date: 15 to 16 September Business Opportunities & Franchise Expo Date: 15 to 18 September Venue: Coca-Cola dome Taste of Joburg Date: 15 to 18 September Venue: Montecasino Outdoor Event Area The JHB Good Food & Wine Show Date: 22 to 25 September Venue: Coca Cola dome Sexpo Health, Sexuality & Lifestyle Expo Date: 29 September to 2 October Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre

OCTOBER The Star HRD Expo Date: 4 to 6 October Venue: Sandton Convention Centre Joburg International Motor Show Date: 6 to 16 October Venue: Johannesburg Expo Centre

67

Adventure Educators

62

The Nautilus

11

Aquila Safari Private Game Reserve

13

Avis

53

Cape Town International Convention Centre

49

Complete Exhibitions

43

Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts

59

Dinokeng

33

East London International Convention Centre

38

Ellis Park World of Sport

28

Emperors Palace Expovent Evolutions South Africa

25 IFC & 1

EXSA

14

Fairmont Zimbali Lodge & Resort

32

Fairway Hotel & Golf Resort (The)

27

Gallagher Convention Centre

41

Headline Hotels

55

Headline Leisure

64

Hylton Ross

50

International Convention Centre Durban

OBC

Johannesburg Expo Centre

OFC

Legend Golf & Safari Resort

29

Likweti Lodge & Sanctuary

17

Misty Hills Country Hotel, Conference Centre & Spa

45

Moses Mabhida Stadium

5

Photo and Film Expo 2011 Date: 13 to 16 October Venue: Coca-Cola dome

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism

22

Oasys Innovations

48

Green Building Council of SA Confex Date: 27 to 28 October Venue: CTICC

Sandton Convention Centre

Good Health & Wellness Expo Date: 28 to 29 October Venue: Docklands Hotel, Durban Metro

68

3D Group of companies

MEETINGS SA | SEP/OCT 2011

34 - 37

Specialised Exhibitions

39

Tala â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Durban's Finest Game Reserve

IBC

Tshwane Events Centre

47

uShaka Marine World

57

www.saconference.co.za

MEETINGS SA | ISSUE 38 Sept/Oct 2011