Spice 88 Autumn 2020

Issue 88 – Autumn – 2020

WATERFRONT VENUES 10 of the best venues by the water HOT SPOTS Hawai’i Auckland Perth Cairns

2020 HOT SEAT

Industry leaders reveal their insights for the year ahead

TFE HOTELS

The group’s 2020 outlook is anything but conventional

WHERE

BUSINESS GOALS, FUN & MOTIVATION MEET.

Singapore is the perfect place to combine business and leisure for meetings and incentive travel. Its cutting-edge facilities, unique venues and wide range of entertainment options enable forwardthinking leaders to engage and empower their staff with innovative ways of working, thinking and bonding. It’s where your passion for growth – of your organisation and your employees – is made possible.

Take your team and business further – plan your next event at Visitsingapore.com/mice.

Visit the Singapore Tourism Board at Stand F15 and learn how we can support your events.

WHERE

BUSINESS GOALS, FUN AND MOTIVATION MEET.

Mix business and pleasure in Singapore, with over 60 unique complimentary experiences to enhance your business event. Qualified groups can choose to enjoy dining and social networking experiences, thematic tours, attraction visits and team-building activities.

Beachfront Dining on Sentosa Island

S.E.A. Aquarium, Resorts World Sentosa

Create unforgettable memories by dining along the waterfront at Palawan Beach

Explore the aquatic realm at S.E.A. Aquarium, home to more than 100,000 marine animals

Gardens by the Bay

Sunset Cruise

Waterfront Dining

Be entertained by a private after-hours Garden Rhapsody show, complete with unrivalled night views of the city

Set sail on a relaxing getaway and take a scenic sunset tour around Singapore’s Southern Islands

Waterfront dining with views of Singapore’s conic skyline as your backdrop.

Coffee Appreciation Workshop with a Cause

Immersive Tour of Chinatown

Enjoy kopi or specialty coffee masterclasses at social enterprise Bettr Barista, paired with kueh tasting and hands-on latte art

Dragon Boating Adrenaline-charged dragon boat race that’s great for team-building.

Join Mr Tan Ah Huat, a Chinese immigrant, as he retells the story of 1920s Singapore on an immersive walking tour

Register your interest and sign up by 31 March 2021 to qualify for this offer. Groups must complete travel by 31st December 2021, have 20 or more foreign attendees and stay in Singapore for 3 or or more days. Send in your applications to Meliana_HALIM@stb.gov.sg. For more information, please visit https://www.visitsingapore.com/mice/en/inspire Terms & conditions apply.

Scan QR code to find out more

Editor’s letter

Aussie spirit

R

Brittney Levinson Editor Managing Director Simon Grover Publisher Craig Hawtin-Butcher craig@intermedia.com.au Editor Brittney Levinson blevinson@intermedia.com.au

eturning to work after the Christmas break, the start of the New Year was noticeably different to previous years. Instead of emails reading “Hope you’ve had a nice break!”, there’s been a whole lot more asking “Hope you’re safe from the bushfires?”

The last few months have been devastating, with summer bringing with it some of the worst bushfires Australia has ever seen. Many lives have been lost, homes destroyed and unfathomable amounts of our land totally wiped out.

But in true Aussie spirit, amid the devastating loss comes a wave of hope in the support, compassion and mateship shown by many Australians. The event and wider tourism industry has too shown a great deal of compassion, offering a helping hand where they can.

We’ve seen hotels offering up rooms for displaced families, event hire companies donating equipment and event professionals giving up their time to organise fundraisers to support the heroes fighting the fires.

In January, Business Events Australia launched Event Here This Year, a new

campaign to drive more business events into bushfire-affected areas that are struggling due to low visitor numbers and event cancellations. You can read all about the campaign on page 10.

In the Autumn issue of Spice, we’re highlighting some of the industry’s leading figures in our Hot Seat feature. From page 20, we put the top bosses, rising stars and unsung heroes in the Hot Seat, to tell all about their predictions, insights and plans for the year ahead.

Our trends report (page 14) rounds up the leading event trends for 2020, while our waterfront venues feature (page 16) uncovers the country’s most stunning venues by the water. We’ve also been busy travelling to new and exciting destinations, such as Perth (page 40), Hawai’i (page 42), Auckland (page 46) and Cairns (page 48).

Looking ahead in 2020, Spice will be shining a light on regional destinations throughout Australia that are ready to welcome business events. In the meantime, if you’re planning to #EventHereThisYear and have chosen a regional event location in the wake of the bushfires, we’d love to hear about it at editorial@spicenews.com.au.

National Sales Team Katherine Ross, Charlotte Marshall Production Manager Jacqui Cooper jacqui@intermedia.com.au Production Assistant Natasha Jara njara@intermedia.com.au Graphic Designer Alyssa Coundouris Prepress Tony Willson Subscriptions

Spice Magazine Team Group sales and marketing manager Katherine Ross

Sales and marketing manager

Graphic Designer

Charlotte Marshall

Alyssa Coundouris

+ 61 2 8586 6176

+61 2 8586 6216

+61 2 8586 6152

kross@intermedia.com.au

cmarshall@intermedia.com.au

alyssac@intermedia.com.au

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

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

@SpiceNewsMag

@SpiceNewsMag

Spice Magazine

subscriptions@intermedia.com.au Spice Magazine and spicenews.com.au are proud media partners of: The opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers in SPICE magazine are not necessarily those of Food and Beverage Media's management or staff.

All material contained in SPICE is copyright.

Spice Magazine is published by Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd (ABN 81 163 792 292) 41 Bridge Road, Glebe NSW 2037 ph: 02 9660 2113, fax: 02 9660 4419 ISSN 1832-7176 4 Spice Autumn 2020

DISCLAIMER This publication is published by Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected

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Copyright © 2020 - Food and Beverage Media Pty Ltd.

Contents

42 Autumn 2020

12

14

12 Cover story: TFE Hotels The group’s unconventional approach to events

14 Trends forecast The styling, tech and event trends to watch in 2020

16 Waterfront venues The hottest waterside spots to host an event

20 Spice Hot Seat

20

We put event industry leaders in the Hot Seat to hear their plans and predictions for the year ahead

40 Hot spot: Perth 42 Hot spot: Hawai’i A bucket-list destination for holidaymakers and event delegates alike

16

46 Hot spot: Auckland Spice crosses the ditch to explore what’s new in NZ

48 Hot spot: Cairns 50 Hot spot: Port Douglas

40

50

Cover image: TFE Hotels leadership team (L–R) Tish Nyar (director of operations ANZ), Shahnaz Bakhshay (senior director of sales), Cristina Guevara (business development manager MICE) and Chris Sedgwick (chief operating officer).

www.spicenews.com.au 5

Mobile bars Perfect for off-site events, mobile bars are rolling into corporate events to make drinks service a breeze. Stock them up with cocktails, beer, wine or even non-alcoholic drinks.

Hard seltzer Get ready to see hard seltzer everywhere in 2020. A blend of carbonated water, alcohol and fruit flavouring, hard seltzers tend to be low in carbs and calories, making them the up-and-coming drink of choice for the health conscious.

Gifts that give back If you’re looking for

Collaborative events We love seeing venues and suppliers come together for collaborative showcase events.

The recent Arinex Ambassador Night nailed the concept, with two venues, a cruise operator and entertainment suppliers all coming together for the event.

corporate gift ideas, check out Instagram pages @buyfromthebush and @spendwiththem, which showcase products and gifts from rural businesses affected by drought and the recent bushfires.

Going up, going down Poor lighting at gala events

Paper handouts

There’s nothing worse than having your photo snapped at a gala or awards

Let’s make 2020 the

night only to be washed out by harsh

year paper handouts and printed brochures

lighting. If your lighting is dark, ensure

disappear for good. With

there’s a professional photo area set up

event apps becoming

nearby with appropriate lighting.

standard at exhibitions and conferences, there’s no need for printed material.

Carb-loaded buffets We’re not the type to pass up a pastry or fresh bread roll, but there’s nothing worse than a buffet that’s all carbs and no greens.

Bad coffee It’s 2020; low-budget coffee just won’t cut it for events and conference breaks anymore.

6 Spice Autumn 2020

LET’S MAKE MOMENTS TOGETHER Boasting 3,700 square metres of dynamic and world-class meeting and event space, exceptional culinary experiences and harbourside views, we offer a place where people can gather, relax, meet, engage and unwind.

WINTER IS COMING Contact a member of our team to find out about our upcoming incentives* for winter bookings including seasonal rates on accommodation and day delegate packages plus exclusive value adds including: • 25,000 World of Hyatt Bonus Points • Complimentary room upgrades** • Complimentary room nights** • Complimentary WIFI in meeting rooms

Let us help you plan your next event. Call +61 2 8099 1234 or visit hyattregencysydney.com Quote ‘SPICE’ when enquiring to receive the value adds above.

SYDNEY

The Hyatt trademarks and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporations or its affiliates. 2020 © Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved. *Valid for new enquiries held between April- September 2020 only. ** Minimum room bookings and room nights apply.

Spice loves Coogee Bay Hotel’s new-look Sunrise Suite

2020

BUCKET LIST

The Spice team share the destinations we’re adding to our bucket lists in the New Year…

Top 5 most clicked spicenews.com.au Melbourne to welcome $15m digital art gallery

Brand new conference centre for NSW South Coast

The Lume, a new sensory art gallery and event space, is set to open in autumn 2020. bit.ly/spice_lume

The Equine Education Centre offers a 300-person event space in Bawley Point. bit.ly/spice_eventcentre

Joyce DiMascio joins The Venues Collection

Coogee Bay Hotel gets a coastal makeover

The former EEAA boss has taken up a new role at the Sydney-based hospitality group. bit.ly/spice_joyce

The Sydney hotel is undergoing a $6 million renovation to transform its rooms. bit.ly/spice_coogeehotel

Where we’ve been

5 of the best brand activations from Melbourne Cup Brands like Bumble, Myer and G.H. Mumm pulled out all the stops at Flemington in 2019. bit.ly/spice_melbcup

Tasmania “I want to experience for myself Tasmania’s food and wine offering that’s attracting foodies from all over the world.”

Katherine Ross, group sales and marketing manager

Hunter Valley “This year I’m looking forward to visiting the Hunter Valley and discovering this amazing wine region that’s so close to Sydney.”

Brittney Levinson, editor

The Whitsundays “I’m keen to explore this iconic Australian destination and spend some time on the famous crystal-blue waters.”

Charlotte Marshall, sales and marketing manager

@spicenewsmag

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Hawai’i

8 Spice Autumn 2020

The Ritz-Carlton, Perth WA

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas QLD

Over the Top Golf, Queenstown

businessevents.newzealand.com

Relax on the side of a mountain or sail across the harbour on an America’s Cup yacht.

New Zealand offers a huge variety of exhilarating activities set in stunning natural beauty all within easy reach of world class accommodation and venues. Inspiration is right on your doorstep.

Book your next conference in New Zealand.

businessevents.newzealand.com

Industry update

Industry rallies to support regional Australia As bushfires raged throughout Australia over summer, the events industry stepped up to show its support for regional communities.

How can you help?

1: SHARE THE MESSAGE Download the toolkit at bit.ly/EventHereThisYear. It has everything you need to know about how to integrate the campaign into your marketing.

2: HOLD AN EVENT AT HOME If you’re an event decision maker, choose Australia and encourage your networks to event in Australia this year.

3: SPREAD THE WORD Use social media channels to spread the message further by posting your #EventHereThisYear experiences online.

A

ustralia’s bushfire season was one of the worst the nation has seen in recent times, fuelled by high temperatures and severe drought conditions. At time of printing, at least 33 lives have been lost and more than 11 million hectares of land has been burned, predominantly in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.

While February has brought some respite for firefighters and volunteers working tirelessly to control blazes, the impacts of this bushfire season will continue to be felt for many months to come.

Speaking to Spice in January, Carla Offord, CEO at venue sourcing specialist The Conference Shop, said regional destinations are “screaming for business” after experiencing unprecedented event cancellations and low visitors numbers.

“After speaking with a lot of hotels in regional destinations, they’ve had the highest cancellation rates of any conferences in a long time, and we’re talking about conferences that are even a couple of months away,” she said.

“There should be a little bit of responsibility placed on corporates to take their business out regional if they can.”

In response to the industry’s concerns about losing business due to bushfires, Business Events Australia launched the Event Here This Year campaign, as part of the Federal Government’s $76 million National Bushfire Recovery Fund. The campaign aims to encourage decision

Merimbula Wharf, NSW. Credit: Destination NSW

makers across Australia to keep their 2020 events local and support bushfire-affected regions through business events.

Announcing the campaign, Federal Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham said the tourism and events sector has “taken a hit” in recent months, even in regions not directly affected by the bushfires.

“This is a huge opportunity for Aussie businesses to support communities across Australia, whether it is those in fireaffected regions or other communities across Australia who are also feeling the pain from less visitors,” he said.

The campaign runs alongside Tourism Australia’s Holiday Here This Year campaign, encouraging Aussies to travel to regional communities in 2020. A number of social media campaigns have also garnered a following throughout the bushfire season, namely the #EmptyEsky movement, which urges travellers to take empty eskies on their trips to fill with local goods along the way to support rural businesses. n

Kiama, South Coast NSW. Credit: Destination NSW

10 Spice Autumn 2020

Openings

Conference in style at Hotel Chadstone Located 17 kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD and connected to the popular Chadstone Shopping Centre, Hotel Chadstone, MGallery by Sofitel, has launched in style.

The fashion-forward hotel offers 250 rooms and suites, two penthouses, rooftop bar and dining, a yoga studio and event spaces to Melbourne’s south eastern region.

Among the eight versatile event spaces is a ballroom with capacity for cocktail events for up to 500 guests and banquets for more than 300 people.

Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort’s sunny new look Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort, formerly known as Novotel Twin Waters Resort, has unveiled a vibrant new look, heralding a new era for the popular Queensland conferencing property.

The hotel’s $2 million refurbishment included updates to the hotel lobby and a completely revamped bar and alfresco deck. It follows the opening of the Sunshine Coast Convention Centre at the property in May 2019.

New event centre on the NSW South Coast Willinga Park opened in late 2019, bringing modern conferencing facilities to Bawley Point on the NSW South Coast. The Equine Education Centre can host events of up to 350 guests and features floor-to-ceiling windows with views to surrounding bushland.

“There is no other location which allows you to experience Australia this way,” said Terry Snow of Willinga Park.

Breakout areas include the Grand Prix building, ideal for meetings and formal dinners. Willinga Park has also launched 18 accommodation pavilions, perfect for team retreats.

www.spicenews.com.au 11

Cover story

Anything but

conventional From terraces and tunnels to rooftops and everything in between, TFE Hotels is turning some of their most distinctive hotel spaces into intimate event venues.

I

n 2020, TFE Hotels is doing away with convention to look at corporate events in a whole new way.

“We’re thinking differently about the quirky and interesting spaces we have in our hotels and the MICE and leisure event experiences we offer,” says TFE Hotels chief operating officer Chris Sedgwick.

“What we want to deliver, in addition to the nuts and bolts of corporate meetings, is an experience. Something that will make our clients sit up and say, ‘wow’.”

That could mean transforming an alleyway into a breakout room or apartments with knock-out views into a boardroom or pop-up restaurant.

“The sky’s the limit for TFE,” says Sedgwick. And he means it. Quite literally.

From the rooftop event space at The Calile Hotel, Brisbane to the underground tunnels at the Adelaide Apartment Hotel Adina Treasury, there’s enormous potential throughout TFE’s network of 60 hotels in Australia and New Zealand.

No space is too intimate or too quirky to be considered for bespoke events, says Sedgwick who, together with his event and food and beverage teams, has rounded up TFE’s top 10 spaces for 2020:

1

Rendezvous Hotel Perth Scarborough

While Rendezvous Hotel Perth Scarborough is no stranger to events, the Mentelle Room, with supersized balconies and sweeping views, is perfect for team-building and upscale events. TFE Hotels senior director of sales Shahnaz Bakhshay says the space is a building block for team togetherness.

“For PCOs and organisers, there’s an option to upgrade VIPs to Club Lounge access and the chance to tinkle the ivories on Michael Jackson’s grand piano for added wow factor,” she says.

2

The Calile Hotel, Brisbane

One of Australia’s most awarded hotels in 2019, The Calile’s amphitheatre and rooftop is an 12 Spice Autumn 2020

understated space for product launches, awards nights and private dinners.“The rooftop space is a blank canvas and fantastic for evening events,” says Bakhshay.

The space is often used for presentations, movie nights as well as early morning pilates and yoga sessions – an easy add-on to any conference and event package.

3

Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne on Flinders

4

Vibe Hotel Gold Coast

5

Adina Apartment Hotel Adelaide Treasury

If location is number one on your event wishlist, then Adina Melbourne on Flinders has the perfect penthouse to suit. Views of Port Melbourne Beach, massive balconies and a well-designed kitchen make it the perfect room for events and incentives.

The hotel also offers large conference spaces, so the penthouse lends itself well to lunch meetings or breakout events.

Driftwood Social at Vibe Gold Coast is a laidback outdoor space with a focus on sustainability and surf culture. In summer, the pool club atmosphere prevails, while in winter it transforms from tropical to teepee for a cosy event space complete with heaters and rugs.

“Think social events, corporate dinners, gala events and product launches, or anything you set your mind to,” says hotel manager Chris Osborne.

Step back in time at the Adina Adelaide Treasury, where you’ll find a hidden brick tunnel once used to store and smelt gold during the Victorian Gold Rush.

The Beatles once used the tunnels to escape their adoring Aussie fans, but in 2020 you’ll find corporates escaping the pressures of everyday life and winding down with cocktails and champagne.

The Calile Hotel, Brisbane.

Credit: Valiant

Above 319 at Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour The tunnels at Adina Apartment Hotel Adelaide Treasury

6

Vibe Hotel Rushcutters Bay Sydney

At Vibe Rushies, as it’s affectionately known, the rooftop pool deck is the place to go for corporate sunset soirées and can be partially booked for up to 50 people.

Like all Vibe Hotels, Vibe Rushies has a wellness bent, so there are options to forgo cocktails in favour of a private yoga session – the perfect way to get creative juices flowing pre-conference. Or combine both worlds with the hotel’s popular Prosecco and Pilates session.

7

Vibe Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour

The newest darling on the Sydney social scene, Above 319 rooftop restaurant and bar at Vibe Darling Harbour is a picturesque place to hold intimate events or enjoy cocktails with colleagues.

Shared plates and shared experiences are at the heart of what they do, in fact, chef recently introduced a swinging tasting table that’s suspended from the ceiling and loaded with delectable hors d’oeuvres.

8

Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne

One of Australia’s grand hotels located in the CBD, Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne brings a touch of old-world glam to any event or function.

Originally built in 1913 as the Commercial Travellers’ Club, the heritage-listed hotel has been restored to retain the feel of the era.

Nowhere has more wow factor than the hotel’s Grand Vestibule, complete with eight marble columns and an intricately tiled floor. The space is suitable for upscale corporate celebrations for up to 100 guests.

9 Styling at The Calile Hotel, Brisbane.

Credit: Valiant

There’s no on-site restaurant, however Surry Hills’ eclectic blend of eateries and bars, such as Bill’s, Firedoor, Porteño and Gogyo, are close by.

10

Vibe Hotel Sydney

Towering over the CBD, Vibe Hotel Sydney’s contemporary refurbishment turned heads when it launched in 2019. When the warmer months roll in, the intimate outdoor pool area attracts the attention of event planners.

Astroturf gives the space a fun and frivolous feel that’s perfect for cocktail events and incentives while downstairs Storehouse Sydney Central Café offers a social space and lively atmosphere for larger gatherings.

In 2020, TFE Hotels will launch a series of design-led properties from The Hotel Britomart in New Zealand to Adina George Street Sydney, each with their own quirky spaces that lend themselves perfectly to bespoke events and upscale meetings.

To find out more email meet@tfehotels.com or visit the Events with Benefits website for extra incentives: bit.ly/eventswithbenefits n

Adina Apartment Hotel Surry Hills

Adina Apartment Hotel Surry Hills is making waves in Sydney with four super-sized terraces.

General manager Ben Saxton says the spaces lend themselves well to evening events, with capacity for 50 guests each.

Driftwood Social at Vibe Hotel Gold Coast

www.spicenews.com.au 13

Trends

TREND REPORT: 2020 EDITION We round up our favourite trends on the horizon for the year ahead.

Sustainability gets real Sustainability is evolving from a preference to a prerequisite, as consumers and companies alike work towards lowering their environmental footprint.

In Eventbrite’s 2019 survey, just 11 per cent of respondents named sustainability a priority for their upcoming events. Just one year later in Eventbrite’s most recent report, a whopping 72 per cent of Australian event planners stated they are focusing on sustainability in their 2020 events.

The report revealed 90 per cent of planners are using e-tickets and reducing paper waste, 60 per cent are using reusable or biodegradable items, 38 per cent are offering vegan/vegetarian food and 21 per cent of planners are only working with venues that recycle.

THE STYLE FILES

Blue hues

Italian-inspired

Delicate details

Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2020 is Classic Blue, a “timeless and enduring hue elegant in its simplicity”. Inspired by the sky at dusk, this colour acts as a strong, yet familiar base colour for your 2020 event styling.

Take inspiration from Italy’s Amalfi Coast for your 2020 events. Inject the colour and drama of Positano with touches of green, yellow and terracotta, and be sure to serve up Italian spritz to complete the feel.

There’s no need to go overboard or over budget when it comes to styling, focus on small details that create impact, like high quality glassware and handmade place settings.

14 Spice Autumn 2020

Automation on the rise

Sensory experiences

While it’s been a hot topic for several years, automation in the event industry is becoming more advanced and more prevalent, according to research by CWT Meetings & Events.

Technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence are helping take the inconvenience and pain points out of processes for both planners and attendees. Event apps can facilitate the “on demand” printing of badges reducing wait times, while augmented technology can be used to guide attendees around a large event.

Event apps can also be a great tool for measuring engagement during an event and can be linked to an attendee’s social media accounts allowing them to engage easily with organisers and other delegates.

Sensory experiences will be an important aspect of events and conferences in 2020, according to Nigel Ruffell, founder of event and brand activation company The Company We Keep.

“Long gone are the days when you ‘visited’ an experience,” he says. “Now you experience it and increasingly that sensory experience gets closer to reality.”

Ruffell says it’s all about engaging multiple senses, with elements delegates can touch, hear, smell and even taste.

“For the Salesforce World Tour event we created a national park space, with rock and water, Astroturf grass and real plants,” he says.

“We had fruit on the trees that you could actually pick off the tree yourself rather than get it from a counter. The aim is to transport people from their everyday life and make them part of the world that your event is trying to create.

“This ties in with the most important part of an event – storytelling. A great event is very much like a great theatre experience; you watch a musical or a play and it takes you on a whole journey with the characters. Any live event should do the same and hold attendees in the palm of its hand. Attendees should be taken in by what the event means and why it’s there, and should feel an emotional response to the experience.”

Throw-back entertainment In 2020, entertainment will be all about interactive and engaging acts, while tribute shows will add a touch of nostalgia.

“Sight and specialty acts are always popular at events to add that intimate touch,” says Renee Walters of Premier Entertainment. “A roving magician, a flash mob, pyrotechnics, acrobatics, aerial acts, hypnotists, hosts and hostesses will brighten any event.”

Walters says tribute acts are also expected to be popular in 2020.

“With the movies bringing these famous bands to screen and opening the music up to a new demographic, top tribute shows such as Queen, Elton John, The Beatles, INXS, Abba and The Bee Gees add a new dynamic to an event,” she says.

“Everyone knows and loves these songs and they are always a crowd pleaser.”

No matter what entertainment you choose in 2020, Walters says it must speak to your audience.

“The demographic and audience style for the event is very important in choosing entertainment to cater to everyone attending,” she says.

www.spicenews.com.au 15

Waterfront venues

Sydney Empire Lounge Built over the glistening waters of Sydney’s Rose Bay, Empire Lounge is the ideal destination for corporate events. The venue has first-class harbour views and serves up the best fresh seafood, produce and cocktails that Sydney has to offer. Combined with Sydney Seaplanes’ magnificent scenic flights, your event has the potential to reach whole new heights.

Capacity: 160 cocktail, 60 seated Location: Sydney Seaplanes Rose Bay Terminal, Lyne Park, Rose Bay NSW empirelounge.com.au

Manly Yacht Club Manly Yacht Club is an idyllic waterfront venue for a product launch, meeting, conference or corporate function. Situated on the eastern shore of Manly Cove in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the venue offers an uninterrupted vista of Sydney Harbour from its sheltered balcony and hall. Manly Yacht Club works with any caterer and also offers a BYO drinks option.

Capacity: 170 cocktail, 100 seated Location: East Esplanade, Manly NSW

DOWN BY THE WATER

With sea breezes and harbour views, waterfront venues do all the talking.

venuehire.myc.org.au

Wharf One Food & Wine Located within the Darwin Waterfront Precinct, Wharf One Food & Wine blends contemporary indoor and alfresco event spaces. Specialising in wood grill cooking and local produce, the venue can customise menus to suit event planners’ needs and budgets.

Wharf One Food & Wine is ideally located just a few minutes’ walk from the CBD and can be exclusively hired for events.

Capacity: 1000 cocktail, 450 seated Location: F3A/19 Kitchener Dr, Darwin Waterfront NT wharfone.com.au

Park Hyatt Sydney Located on the very edge of Sydney Harbour, The Guest House at Park Hyatt Sydney offers direct, uninterrupted views of the Opera House and presents a unique venue for up to 70 guests seated at round tables. The Guest House’s exclusive show kitchen, coupled with a private outdoor terrace, appeals to the most discerning event host.

Capacity: 130 cocktail, 70 banquet Location: 7 Hickson Rd, The Rocks NSW sydney.park.hyatt.com 16 Spice Autumn 2020

Darwin

Stokehouse Q Brisbane’s Stokehouse Q embodies relaxed elegance

Howard’s Hall

with a stunning waterfront location, award-winning

Designed by Woods Bagot Architects, Howard’s Hall

menu and wine list and exceptional service. Executive

at Howard Smith Wharves features uninterrupted views

chef Ollie Hansford’s seasonal menu can be tailored

of the Brisbane River, Story Bridge and city skyline. With

to suit any corporate occasion, whether it’s a cocktail

retractable floor-to-ceiling glass windows, partitions to

event, lunch meeting or private dinner.

allow the flexible use of space and the ability to house

Capacity: 450 cocktail, 130 seated

multiple events at once, it’s a prime venue for a gala

Location: Sidon St, South Brisbane QLD

dinner, conference or product launch.

stokehouseq.com.au

Capacity: 1164 cocktail, 840 banquet Location: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane City QLD

Brisbane

howardsmithwharves.com

Meetings and Events

The Guest House

Your

Dedicated meeting planner

12pm

Poke bowl

lunch

Carrot hazelnut

3pm

muffin

Espresso

6pm

martinis

Enjoy high style and high productivity when you host a meeting at Park Hyatt Sydney.

Our state-of-the-art technologies and flawless service provide a sophisticated, residential-inspired setting for boardroom meetings and intimate business gatherings.

The view of course, needs no introduction.

To learn more, visit www.parkhyattsydney.com

Waterfront venues Pontoon St Kilda Beach Pontoon is a beachside bar and eatery located at sand-level in the Stokehouse Precinct. Inspired by casual seaside eating and drinking, Pontoon features an 18-metre bar, custom four-metre grill with a vibrant and seasonal menu cooked over coals, panoramic beach views and an open-air deck. Pontoon can host exclusive events, while private dining options are available for groups of 40 guests seated in The Grill area.

Capacity: 150 cocktail, 40 private dining Location: 30 Jacka Blvd, St Kilda VIC pontoonstkildabeach.com.au

Metropolis Events Located on the top floor of the Southgate precinct, Metropolis Events offers stunning views of the city’s skyline, iconic landmarks and the Yarra River. The stylish designer interior and contemporary furnishings exude luxury and sophistication, while nine metre floor-to-ceiling windows let in abundant natural light. The venue’s versatile floorplan makes it the perfect blank canvas for corporate events.

Capacity: 1100 cocktail, 402 banquet

Melbourne

Location: Upper Level, Southgate Shopping Precinct, Southbank VIC metropolisevents.com.au

Beaumonde On The Point Located on the banks of the Swan River, Beaumonde On The Point is an impressive Perth function venue, boasting sweeping waterfront views and state-of-the-art facilities. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a stunning balcony, the venue is a stylish and contemporary setting for a waterside event.

Capacity: 800 cocktail, 420 banquet Location: 306 Riverside Dr, East Perth WA beaumondeotp.com.au

Perth 18 Spice Autumn 2020

Tasmania Glen Albyn Just 15 minutes from the CBD, Glen Albyn is nestled on clifftops above Hobart’s River Derwent. Set on 15 acres, the venue offers four signature spaces, each with its own special ambience and appeal.

The Riverview Deck is a stunning setting for welcome

SeaSalt Seafood & Grill

drinks, before guests move to the Atrium, Pool Room

SeaSalt Seafood & Grill at Henley Beach showcases some of Australia’s best seafood and offers a unique take on high quality, sustainable seafood and charcoal grilled meats.

or The Shed for an experience to remember.

Capacity: 700 cocktail, 550 seated Location: 338 Channel Highway Taroona TAS

The venue boasts one of the few total beachfront dining experiences in Adelaide and only 20 minutes from the CBD.

glenalbynestate.com.au

Perfect for events, SeaSalt offers both indoor and outdoor options.

Capacity: 100 cocktail Location: Beachfront, 269 Seaview Rd, Henley Beach SA

Adelaide Stamford Grand Adelaide With spectacular views of Glenelg Beach, Stamford Grand Adelaide offers 12 specially designed meeting and function rooms, catering for up to 750 people. The absolute beachfront location, combined with premium cuisine, professional service and 220 modern accommodation rooms, makes Stamford Grand a great choice for business events.

Capacity: 750 cocktail, 650 theatre Location: 2 Jetty Rd, Glenelg SA stamford.com.au/sga

MELBOURNE’S BEST CITY VIEWS info@metropolisevents.com.au | +61 3 8537 7300 | www.metropolisevents.com.au

2020 HOT SEAT

What direction is the industry heading in? Which trends will shape events in 2020? Where can we improve? We put some of industry’s leading figures in the Spice Hot Seat to find out all the answers

Hot Seat

On the menu Plant-based dishes and 100% local wines are on the menu at International Convention Centre Sydney in 2020, giving event organisers more variety than ever before, says William Wilson.

T

he first thing you notice about the 2020 food and beverage menus at International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) is the colour. Vibrant splashes of green, red and yellow fill the plates, enticing diners to try the latest culinary and drink trends.

The menus have been curated by executive chef Tony Panetta, beverage operations and cellar manager William Wilson and director of culinary services Lynell Peck with a focus on giving delegates loads of options, no matter their preferences or tastes.

“We constantly look to make improvements on our offerings and I’m really excited by our new menu collection, with new a range of items alongside dishes that have become our signatures,” says Wilson.

Local focus On the drinks front, ICC Sydney is proud to announce it now serves only New South Wales (NSW) wines on its beverage list.

“We have always supported our local winemakers with 80 per cent local wines listed when we first opened and we’re really proud to now only list wines from NSW, every one of which has earned its place,” says Wilson.

While local producers are the main focus, quality and value of the wines are certainly not compromised.

“Good wine lists need to feature a wide range of premium quality wines at a wide range of prices from different regions and I was always comfortable that this was achievable without going to interstate or international producers,” says Wilson.

“I originally thought ICC Sydney should offer the best of NSW along with wines from other famous Australian regions, but our clients love showcasing local produce to their

guests as well so it was an easy decision to go 100 per cent local.”

More plants on the menu Plant-based options will also be a focus for 2020, with the likes of vegan breakfast bowls, roasted vegetable wraps and eggplant Penang curry on the menu.

“The move towards more sustainable living means we have far more plant-based options, Indian Jain menus and of course we use locally sourced ingredients whenever they are suitable,” says Wilson.

“The menus look great and it’s important that they show organisers the standards of food available when they come to ICC Sydney.

“The menus also highlight the flexibility and variety we can offer across every different style of event from pop-up outlets and grazing tables to build-your-own menus.”

Supporting regional producers Since opening, ICC Sydney has championed regional Australia and built meaningful relationships with local growers and producers. In 2018/19, the venue supported more than 120 local producers through its supply chain.

Supporting regional Australian producers has never been more important than right now, says Wilson.

“The last few months have been very difficult in regional Australia with communities hit first by drought followed by devastating bushfires,” he says.

“While Sydney itself is not affected, a number of our producers have been. I’d really encourage everyone in Australia to buy locally made products whenever they can and to head out into regional areas as soon as possible to help the local economies.” n

TOP 3 DRINK TRENDS FOR 2020 1. Natural wines Wild fermentations are big at the moment with ‘natural’ wines, made with minimal human intervention, becoming more popular, according to Wilson. “These wines have extra complexity and superb textures when made well,” he says.

2. Wild beers Producers such as Wildflower Brewing & Blending in Sydney’s Marrickville are making some “simply amazing” wild beers, says Wilson. “The subtle sourness from wild yeast and barrel aging gives the beers well-balanced flavours,” he says. “These styles of beer require good team members to be able to talk to guests about them, so we have a special activation available for cocktail parties.”

3. Alcohol-free drinks Alcohol-free drinks have traditionally been scarce and uninspiring, until now. “We’ve been working with Lyre’s Crafted Non-Alcoholic Spirits on a range of cocktails that taste just like their overproof counterparts,” says Wilson. “Non-alcoholic sparkling wines and beers have also improved in quality immensely for a completely alcohol-free event.”

www.spicenews.com.au 21

Hot Seat

Bringing brands to life

Corporate merchandise is more sustainable, meaningful and exciting than ever before, according to Merchgirls creative director Hannah Chipkin.

Trending merch Hannah Chipkin gives us the low down on the hottest merch trends right now: • “Reusable tote bags seem to never get old, especially now supermarkets have banned singleuse plastic bags. We love working with Spice and A LIST Guide to make their Events Uncovered bags, it’s always a fun brief!

• Food and beverage merchandise such as cooler bags, lunch bags and reusable water bottles are always a winner.

• Felt products, such as the laptop sleeve from our Inga collection, are super popular.”

Going corporate

T

he founders of Melbourne-based creative agency Merchgirls joined forces after a chance meeting in 2010.

Hannah Chipkin, a fashion designer at the time, saw an ad for a manufacturer claiming ‘We can make everything. No job too small’. Already on the hunt for a manufacturing partner, Chipkin called the number and Pippa Joseph answered, and before long the two were working together.

In 2015, when Chipkin had just closed her fashion business, she was approached by the Australian Ballet to design a merchandise range.“I picked up the phone and asked Pippa to do it with me,” said Chipkin.“She was immediately on board.”

From there, Merchgirls was born.

With Chipkin on design and Joseph on production, the duo made a name for themselves in the arts space, working with theatre companies, art galleries and bands on bespoke retail merchandise.

22 Spice Autumn 2020

Chipkin says the transition from retail to corporate merchandise kicked off with a call from employment marketplace Seek.

“They were really the start for us understanding there’s a market for mass promotional merchandise and that really changed where we put our focus,” she says.

Since then, Merchgirls has worked with the likes of Australian Open, PEXA, Business Chicks, Mecca and ANZ, and has designed event merchandise for Virgin, Google and YouTube.

“Companies understand there’s an expectation to provide a takeaway item and those that put value into it want to do it properly,” says Chipkin.“They’re the people that want something different to the norm.”

Merchandise in a sustainable society With people more conscious than ever about minimising waste, it begs the question: is merch still necessary in 2020?

According to Chipkin, as long as it’s meaningful and reusable, it is.

“If something is fit for purpose and welldesigned, then it’s a desirable, useful item,” she says.“If it’s just a mousepad with a logo, it’s not the most thoughtful thing.”

The focus on sustainability also means eco-friendly products such as plantable pencils and reusable bags are becoming more popular.

“We try to keep our footprint as light as possible but we are producing large volumes for certain customers so we need to be as mindful as we can,” says Chipkin.

“If you put thought into it, give it purpose and do it well, then it’s worth doing.”

The year ahead In 2020, Merchgirls is upping the ante with its new Corporate Kits, designed to give clients a better idea of what their product suite might look like.

“We’re taking our most popular products, branding them in a cohesive way and using it as a helpful tool to showcase what we can do and how it can look,” says Chipkin.

“We want to play on the idea of ‘emerchency’. The Merchgirls are there to revive your merch.”

In the year ahead, Merchgirls is looking forward to working with new and existing clients. The dream client, though?

“A streaming service like Netflix or Stan,” says Chipkin.“We’d love to talk to someone in that area, we’ve got ideas.”Airlines also ‘fly’ high on the dream client list. n

MORE THAN A V EN U E

WATCH NOW

NSW Public Schools Aboriginal Dance Company

Create an authentic event experience by connecting with the talents of local Indigenous artists and businesses, and discover an understanding of Australia’s First Nations People.

Choose to host your next event at ICC Sydney. sales@iccsydney.com | +61 2 9215 7100 | iccsydney.com

Hot Seat

A new era

With a new leader at the helm, the Exhibition & Event Association of Australasia is poised for a year of success, writes EEAA president Spiro Anemogiannis.

W

e start off the new year and decade by welcoming Claudia Sagripanti to the EEAA team as chief executive. Claudia commenced with the association in mid-February and joins EEAA with a solid background in exhibitions, events and digital technology. The industry is very much looking forward to working with Claudia who will continue the great work of Joyce DiMascio who departed EEAA at the end of 2019. Looking ahead, these are the key areas EEAA will be focusing on in 2020:

Much of the EEAA community has been involved in supporting important assistance schemes to ensure Australia’s identity as a destination for business events, major events, leisure tourism and local community events, is upheld.

In her new role, Claudia will be liaising with the Federal Government and Tourism Australia, who have introduced significant funding for business recovery purposes. Claudia will represent our industry to ensure the importance of business events to the Australian economy continues to be recognised.

Sustainability

A Career for Life

Sustainability continues to be a hot topic and a core focus of EEAA in 2020. This year we will introduce the EEAA Sustainability Initiative – a program dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of exhibitions and business events.

As part of the initiative, EEAA established a partnership with Tourism Australia, enabling the appointment of specialist sustainability consultants, Edge Environment, to develop a framework for reducing our industry’s environmental footprint.

Edge Environment conducted several workshops with the EEAA community late last year, gathering important information which has enabled them to identify key environmental hotspots to be addressed.

The guideline and action plan will be ready for rollout in the coming months.

Another area of focus for in 2020 is the work we undertake to attract and retain talent in the business and consumer events sector. We launched a second phase of activity under our ‘A Career for Life’ campaign in January this year, specifically targeting high school graduates as they consider career options.

Advocacy EEAA’s advocacy efforts will continue around issues impacting the business events community. Like many Australian businesses, EEAA is committed to contributing to the recovery of businesses who have been affected by the bushfires over the summer.

24 Spice Autumn 2020

Member services I will continue to chair our new series of Special Interest Groups, a program for organisers and associations members designed to address specific issues and opportunities for these member groups.

These are valuable peer-to-peer forums, followed by networking opportunities with our wider community.

The 2020 EEAA Calendar of Events lists the wideranging events hosted or organised by Members of EEAA and is available at eeaa.com.au. It’s an impressive line-up covering all types of industries who rely on their trade and consumer events to bring together buyers, sellers, exhibitors, visitors, speakers and sponsors.

And lastly, on behalf of the EEAA, we wish you all a very successful 2020. n

Merch better with Merchgirls.

MERCHANDISE THAT’S TWICE AS NICE Hello! We are Merchgirls, a creative agency that designs and manufactures custom merch for high profile clients in the retail, corporate and promotional space. Merchgirls are professionals in making your brand look sensational. Your one-stop shop from concept through to product on the shelf.

Merch suite developed for Seek

CREATIVE BRAND SOLUTIONS Don’t compromise. Most local suppliers offer the same range of promo stuff with limited creative and customisable options.

Your merch should be a strong marketing tool and reflect your brand in the best way. Merchgirls have done the hard work and collated the most stylish and practical product options out there (not to mention, highly customisable), so your brand will look fresh and exciting, just like it should.

Merch suite developed for City of Parramatta

WE’VE GOT A BIG ECO We care about the environment and feel that we have a responsibility to manufacture with mindfulness. Merchgirls say NO to individual plastic packaging. This means as a rule, all our products come packed nude (ahem). All our products are highly re-useable and we also have a growing range of eco-conscious products using recycled fabrications.

Merch suite developed for Sunglass Hut

FI N D O U T WHY AU ST R AL IA’S TOP BRANDS WORK WITH MERCH GIRL S B O O K I N TO S E E O U R N E W CO R PO R AT E KITS FOR 2020 | (03 ) 8060 93 3 6 | H EL LO@MERCH GIRLS. COM. AU

Quality. Design. Purpose. merchgirls.com.au

Hot Seat Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Sydney. Credit: Cristina Moir Photography

A growth mindset

Company growth and diversity are among the major priorities for NW Group as it enters a new year, says Mario Valenti.

F

or NW Group, which comprises audio, video and lighting brands Norwest, Haycom, Oceania and Spyglass, 2019 was a massive year.

“By the end of the 2018/19 financial year we delivered around 5000 events across Australia and New Zealand, which equates to some 13 events a day,” says Mario Valenti, general manager Australia at NW Group.

In the final few months of 2019, NW Group’s ceremony department was in Manila delivering the South East Asian Games opening and closing ceremonies, while local teams were involved in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Sydney and the 50,000 pax Jehovah’s Witnesses convention in Melbourne.

26 Spice Autumn 2020

“They then worked on the Christmas carols in Melbourne and Sydney and then bounced into the Australian Open in January,” says Valenti.

“While everyone’s winding down, those guys are ramping up.”

It was also a big year for contract wins, with NW Group securing the New Zealand International Convention Centre contract, a three-year contract for the WOMADelaide festival in Adelaide, as well as a long-term partnership with State Opera South Australia.

Fostering internal growth The year was also one of internal milestones for NW Group and included a series of appointments within

“We’re launching a couple of initiatives next year with our recruitment to try and improve that gender balance.”

– Mario Valenti the senior team. Valenti moved from group director of sales to general manager, which saw then general manager Graeme Whitehouse promoted to director of people and assets.

“It’s about fostering growth and a growth mindset across the business,” says Valenti.

“We operate across different markets, so it’s important to change the message, refresh the team a little bit and keep us on our toes.”

In 2020, NW Group will focus on upgrading its video equipment, while continuing to grow its network of businesses.

“We’re working on a small acquisition in the Queensland market and we’re pretty confident that’s going to get over the line,” says Valenti.

“We’re always on the lookout for like-minded businesses to grow the scale of our business.”

Building a balanced workforce The biggest focus for NW Group in 2020 will be to encourage more women to pursue a career in AV and to employ more women across the entire business. At present, women represent approximately 5 per cent of NW Group’s workforce in Australia and New Zealand, which is something Valenti is adamant about changing.

“We’re launching a couple of initiatives next year with our recruitment to try and improve that gender balance,” he says.

“That’s across all levels, at a management level and an AV technician level. It’s easier said than done, but unless you have a plan and try, things won’t progress.”

The year ahead With 2020 now well underway, NW Group are looking to their next major event, the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

“The Tokyo involvement is a big deal for us, it involves a lot of pre-production and a lot of people on the ground in Tokyo,” says Valenti.

In the corporate events market, NW Group will continue building on the success of 2019.

“Across the corporate market, we’re continuing to grow the Haycom brand,” he says. ”In the arts and entertainment market there’s a couple of big tours in the new year that we’re pitching at the moment.”

With a focus on diversity and growth, plus a calendar packed with high-profile events, NW Group is gearing up for a stellar 2020. n www.spicenews.com.au 27

Hot Seat

Panel discussion at the 2019 PCOA Conference

Credibility is king Barry Neame, president of the PCO Association, says certification is likely to become a necessity for event planners in 2020, while technology and collaboration will also lead the way.

T

here is likely to be an increasing expectation during 2020 for event managers and event companies to become certified, says Barry Neame, president of the Professional Conference Organisers (PCO) Association.

Neame says the ‘expectation’ will come from the clients with whom the managers and companies do business. He says those who are not certified lessen their chances of gaining new work from those clients.

“Certification determines if an event manager or event management company meets or exceeds minimum standards of service and business practices,” he says.

“Clients see certification as a method of ensuring they are getting quality and at the same time being assured of risk mitigation.”

In 2019 the PCO Association experienced a surge in the number of associations and corporate clients approaching it to distribute tender documents to certified event companies.

“Industry suppliers are also placing credibility on certification and are providing better deals for accredited companies,” says Neame.

“Certification is now included in government ‘invitation to tender’ documents as a desirable criteria.”

28 Spice Autumn 2020

Technology and collaboration Fresh from a highly successful 2019 PCOA Conference in which the theme was ‘Anything is Possible’, Neame says new technology has a major impact on events across the board.

“It impacts on how we organise, market and deliver events,” he says.

“Industry suppliers are also placing credibility on certification and are providing better deals for accredited companies.”

“One aspect of these new technologies is silent sessions, where delegates use headphone technology which allows, for example, the simultaneous presentation of multiple content, depending on what broadcast station the listener chooses from their headset.

“Using this technology, presenters can run several sessions in the same room at the same time.”

According to Neame, the PCO Association was buoyed by a strong sense of collaboration that was woven through its latest conference.

“The attendees, as at previous conferences, were willing to share their experiences, and this is appreciated by the growing number of in-house event planners joining the PCO Association and attending its annual conferences,” he says.

“Our association will continue to support development of those new to the events industry through mentoring programs and special industry groups.

“Companies can only benefit from mentoring programs and such groups because of their contribution to the development of a better trained and more engaged workforce.”

In 2020, Neame predicts corporate and social responsibility will continue to be a hot topic in the events industry.

"The PCO Association councillors will continue ongoing discussions during 2020 on how to run events with purpose, legacy events and how to create corporate and social responsibility,” he says. n

Heritage meets modern Brian Roberts shares why Customs House Brisbane remains one of the city’s most iconic event venues.

C

ustoms House opened on the banks of the Brisbane River in 1889 and has since become an iconic landmark for the Queensland capital. Today, it plays host to corporate events year-round, offering grand spaces, premium catering and modern AV. Customs House Brisbane director Brian Roberts says a prime location and rich history are drawcards for the venue.

“When people are looking for event space in Brisbane, being located right on the river is one box we can tick,” he says.

“Having being built in 1889 with features such as sandstone, the copper dome and a location in the heart of the CBD also creates that point of difference.”

In 2020, the venue is focussing on its food and beverage offering, giving planners a high quality selection of menus to choose from.

“We’re certainly embracing the farmto-table approach to dining and really celebrating the food in South East Queensland,” says Roberts.

“We grow our own mushrooms in our on-site cellar and we’ve got great relationships with farms within 150 kilometres of Brisbane. We’re also sourcing fabulous seafood from Moreton Bay and up to Hervey Bay.” The New Year will also see a greater focus on vegetarian and vegan options in response to growing demand.

“We’ve got some great plant-based dishes that really appeal to our clients,” says Roberts.

Customs House is looking ahead to a strong year of events, with the likes of gala dinners, welcome receptions and roadshows in the pipeline. Roberts says Customs House offers the ultimate flexibility, with six, naturally lit event spaces and capacity for up to 300 guests.

“The rooms are naturally beautiful so you can let the building speak for itself, but the rooms have height and scale allowing for some pretty amazing entertainment and theming as well.” n

RIVERFRONT EVENTS | BRISBANE

H O WA R D S M I T H W H A R V E S With dazzling views of the Story Bridge and city skyline, skyline and an impressive portfolio of event spaces to choose from, Howard Smith Wharves is Brisbane’s ultimate riverfront destination for every kind of special event.

En q u i r e To day : w ww.howardsm i thwharves.com / events

Hot Seat

Unsung hero Spice catches up with Felicity Zadro, founder and managing director of communications agency Zadro and winner of the 2019 EEAA Unsung Hero award.

Tell us about your career journey?

“I think 2020 will be the year to rally for your neighbour…”

I started as a social scientist, studying sociology and anthropology and then working in community development, research and policy. However, I wanted to affect change at a greater level and saw communications as a way to do that, so I went back to university and completed a communications management masters, and my love of developing strategy was born.

My introduction to the events industry was via Staging Rentals & Construction as their communications manager. I then founded Zadro in 2007 from my spare room with $5000 and a laptop.

for our industry, there is still a long way to go. It seems almost everyone is in favour of making changes and there is great work being done, especially by convention centres, but as an industry we haven’t yet worked out how to all move forward together as one. Collaboration between client, venue, organisers and suppliers is needed to make real and lasting change.

To grow and remain relevant, we need to talk more about how events can be enhanced to achieve corporate objectives and deliver ROI, as well as memorable experiences. We need solutions which tick more than the traditional event box.

What does winning the EEAA Unsung Hero award mean to you?

What do you think 2020 holds for the industry?

This award was such a surprise! My team did a secret squirrel, submitting the nomination without my knowledge. I am honoured and truly appreciative of the industry-wide recognition of the work my team and I have done to contribute to the events and exhibition industry over many years. It was a generous accolade whose previous winners I hold in the highest esteem.

Our crowded supplier market is being squeezed by large players and sole operators. This will continue to put pressure on companies who haven’t evolved quickly enough or spent time truly differentiating themselves.

Against the backdrop of the horrendous bushfires this summer, sustainability practices will be scrutinised more as people become more confident to demand greener solutions.

I think event legacy strategies will gain more momentum as buyers continue to seek ways to ensure their huge efforts in hosting and organising events have a longer lasting impact.

Finally, I think 2020 will be the year to rally for your neighbour, and I hope it is the year of kindness and discovery as we embark on the next decade. I’ll be thinking about what we’d like our industry to look like in 2030 and working purposefully towards a sustainable, creative, productive and fun future for us all.

What areas does the industry as a whole need to improve on?

While there has been a significant shift towards creating more sustainable solutions Felicity Zadro accepting the 2019 EEAA Unsung Hero award

What does 2020 look like for Zadro?

We have exciting projects in the pipeline which will see us working closely with clients to design strategies impacting large communities of people. We’ll expand our insights capabilities, which is crucial to success.

We’ll continue to enhance our expertise and knowledge in the business events, business tourism, technology, association and government sectors. We’re also refining our positioning and launching a new website soon. Watch this space. n 30 Spice Autumn 2020

Balanced business Recognising the importance of wellness in the workplace, Melbourne venue Metropolis Events has designed a new day delegate package for a more mindful conference experience, explains Helen Boulter.

B

alance is at the heart of Metropolis Events, which not only provides a great meeting space, but also lets you create your own urban sanctuary high above the banks of the Yarra. Natural light streams through the nine-metre, floor-to-ceiling windows, helping delegates stay engaged, while the healthy, energy-boosting menus keep their mind and body nourished.

Helen Boulter, general manager at Metropolis Events, believes balance is the key to a happy and focussed work life.

“We all do food. We all do beverage. We all have beautiful venues,” she says.

“But we asked ourselves what we can do differently to add value for our clients and show our commitment to wellness in the workplace? The answer was Balance by Metropolis Events.”

Designed to enhance the everyday conference package, Balance by Metropolis Events includes a house-made juice or smoothie bar on arrival, delicious healthfocussed menus and a tailored mindfulness session, keeping guests energised and inspired throughout the day.

Designed in partnership with Happy Melon Studios, the package gives clients

the opportunity to select a tailored mini-meditation or mindfulness moment.

‘Happy additions’ are also available for clients looking to add breakout sessions such as yoga, fitness/pilates classes, reflexology, massage and customised mindfulness workshops.

In 2020, alongside its wellness efforts, Metropolis Events will be revamping the space with soft furnishings and venue updates.

“Our goals are to continue what we do so well, but to take our guest experience to another level,” says Boulter. n

Feel the energy of the Territory’s people.

Offering immersive and profound experiences, the Northern Territory is unmatched as a destination for staging competitive, distinctive and meaningful business events. Visit the NT Pavilion (Stand 1-14) at AIME 2020 to learn more about hosting your next business event in Australia’s Northern Territory.

W: destination.ntbusinessevents.com.au

www.spicenews.com.au 31

Hot Seat

Event tips for 2020 Meetings & Events Australia (MEA) CEO Robyn Johnson shares her top three tips for event organisers in 2020.

Hunter Valley countryside.

Credit: Destination NSW

Event tip #1: Go regional The spotlight will be on regional Australia in 2020. With so much of the country struggling through one of the longest droughts on record and the recent bushfire devastation, especially in local communities, the focus will be on what the events industry can do to support our vital regional centres.

In recent years there has been an increased interest in holding events in regional destinations. Meetings and events provide communities and their local businesses a new tourism product that delivers a much-needed financial injection, provides jobs and acts as a powerful marketing tool. There are so many successful examples where events have become a major contributor to towns, delivering both economic and social benefits and helping keep these communities vibrant.

Business events are high yielding and usually held mid-week, filling hotels and restaurants and adding patronage to 32 Spice Autumn 2020

local attractions and retail outlets during the week. MEA has chosen to take our flagship event Evolve to the NSW Hunter Valley in 2020 to showcase the enormous opportunities regional destinations offer event organisers. It is designed to encourage event organisers to explore the potential of taking their events to the bush and provide a very different experience to events held in metropolitan centres.

who are focussed on improving the sustainability outcomes of events. SEA has developed processes and systems to reduce the environmental impacts of events. MEA has incorporated the latest sustainable practices in Evolve 2020 so attendees can experience a low carbon event firsthand.

SEA also offers MEA members a reduced membership rate.

“The spotlight will be on regional Australia in 2020.”

In 2020, MEA will continue to deliver improved educational and professional development programs for the events industry to help grow our skills and knowledge. The goal is to provide access to quality and affordable training for all levels of experience, to ensure the industry is able to grow and deliver best practice and excellence in event management.

At AIME 2020, MEA will release the findings of three years of research into the skills needs of the events industry.

This has been a significant study that MEA commissioned to review gaps in our workforce so that we can develop programs to ensure the industry has access to qualified and skilled event professionals in the years ahead. 2020 will be a great year and MEA will be launching new channels to communicate to our members and the industry, including a new website. n

Event tip #2: Be sustainable Although event sustainability has been a goal for many organisers for more than a decade, more recently there has been a strong shift to ensuring events are produced sustainably. MEA recognises the importance of sustainability and has looked at how we could promote the credentials of event organisers who excel in delivering events with minimal environmental impact.

MEA has partnered with the Sustainable Event Alliance (SEA), a global affiliation of organisations and event professionals

Event tip #3: Invest in your team

Riverside revival

I Howard Smith Wharves has played a major role in Brisbane’s revival, creating a riverside precinct that’s becoming a hot spot for events, says Scott Bayne.

n the 12 months since its launch, the name Howard Smith Wharves (HSW) has become synonymous with Brisbane, with visitors flocking to grab at seat at one of the many restaurants, lay out on the grass and watch the sun go down, or attend an event.

It’s fair to say HSW has transformed the city, which is something general manager of events Scott Bayne is proud to claim.

“We're celebrating the heritage and history of HSW, while offering the Brisbane community, interstate and international visitors something different and exciting,” he says.

“In the 12 months since opening, we’ve employed over 750 team members, some of who we’ve watched progress from floor staff into supervisors and managers, which is very rewarding for our team.”

Already, HSW is a highly sought-after event location, with almost 1000 events taking place in the first year including the Good Food

Guide Awards, TedX Brisbane, Destination Australia Conference, MasterChef Australia and ATEC Meeting Place Gala Dinner.

“From bespoke events at our beautiful Houses, to large events in Howard’s Hall or The Rivershed, all spaces have their own distinct style and enjoy natural light, many also boasting riverfront views,” says Bayne.

“We also encourage guests to use our outdoor spaces, of which we have 2.7 hectares, to experience Queensland’s alfresco lifestyle.”

The next 12 months sees HSW growing its precinct and enhancing accessibility. The team is currently working with Brisbane City Council on delivering a ferry terminal to provide greater access via the Brisbane River, while a series of festivals and activations are also on the cards.

“Our precinct events are all focussed around giving back to the Brisbane community, so we can’t wait to do more of this in 2020.” n

SOUTHGATE MELBOURNE SOUTHBANK info@metropolisevents.com.au www.metropolisevents.com.au +61 3 8537 7300

www.spicenews.com.au 33

Hot Seat

Rising star Lauren Semken, event manager at cievents, was named Young Achiever of the Year at the 2019 Australian Event Awards. Here, she shares highlights and learnings from her career to date.

What is the best thing about your job?

Although I do love a good plan, every day in events is something different, which definitely keeps me on my toes! Being able to challenge myself and do things out of the ordinary is one of the things I love about being an event manager and has taught me that not everything will go your way, even if you have planned it down to a T. The life of an event manager is not as glamorous as it people perceive it to be, with late nights in the office finalising last minute changes, early morning setup, living out of a suitcase and shoving down food when you get half a second to eat something. But being able to deliver these events and seeing people come together to make it all happen outweighs all the negatives (plus the fancy hotel rooms and opportunity to travel helps as well!).

What advice would you give someone entering the field?

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learnt during your career?

I have learnt that not everything is going to go the way you want it to, but it’s about being able to challenge yourself in that moment and make it work regardless. Being able to step out of your comfort zone is a hard thing to do, and is something I am still working on, but in this industry it is key to learning. To be able to grow and thrive in this industry you need to be confident in your abilities and believe in yourself, and then your colleagues and clients will feel the same.

“Having an amazing team and group of colleagues to work alongside has definitely helped and I am constantly inspired by them.”

My advice would be to get as much experience as possible in the industry such as volunteering on local events, charity days, university open days or community sporting events to get a feel of what type of events you like and to build on your skills from the get-go. It also gives you a good opportunity to network and start to grow your industry connections.

What has been your career highlight?

Winning Young Achiever of the Year at the 2019 Australian Event Awards has definitely been a career highlight so far. I was lucky enough to be nominated and announced as a finalist but I did not expect to win, so I am feeling very honoured and excited. I am grateful for the opportunity to be recognised for my work and to be able to grow my experience and skills over the last three or so years at cievents.

Having an amazing team and group of colleagues 34 Spice Autumn 2020

to work alongside has definitely helped and I am constantly inspired by them.

What is the best event you have worked on and why?

One of my favourite events I have worked on is the 2017 Flight Centre Global Gathering in Hawai’i. When I started with cievents in 2016, I worked on this same event however did not go on site to see it out in Singapore. In 2017 I had the opportunity work on it again in the position of registration manager, travelling to Hawai’i with the team. With more than 3000 delegates, this incentive program involves a lot of logistics and planning, and is definitely out of the box, with a pool party as the welcome function, famous celebrities as MCs and a stadium as the conference venue.

It is a lot of fun and being able to bring thousands of people together from around the world is such a rewarding experience. It brings its challenges, with many venues and suppliers involved, but it is still one of the most amazing and inspirational events I have worked on thus far. Not to mention former President of the United States Bill Clinton was the keynote speaker and DJ Mark Ronson was the after-party act! n

Sydney’s new meeting place Sydney Masonic Centre has just undergone a multi-million dollar transformation to bring a modern meeting facility to the heart of Sydney’s CBD.

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s Sydney’s first purpose-built conference centre, located in the heart of the CBD at 66 Goulburn Street, Sydney Masonic Centre (SMC) is an architectural landmark with a rich heritage. The centre hosts more than 700 events and welcomes approximately 200,000 guests through its doors annually.

According to general manager Paul Davison, SMC has always enjoyed an enviable location and is renowned for its outstanding service. Now with the new level four open and the soft refurb complete, SMC aims to set the benchmark for meeting facilities in Sydney.

Understanding the importance of adaptable function spaces, SMC now offers

13 multi-purpose spaces all enhanced with integrated state-of-the-art technology and audio visual systems, as well as architectural lighting solutions that give event organisers control at the touch of a button.

The Marble Foyer is an ideal registration hall, exhibition and cocktail space, the Grand Lodge is the perfect plenary for up to 600 guests and the Banquet Hall can be booked for lunches, dinners, cocktails, awards ceremonies and exhibitions. Event organisers can also make the most of another 10 rooms across all levels of SMC for concurrent sessions, meetings and break-out zones.

The new conference rooms on level four – the Remington and Northcott – can be booked individually or combined for a

self-contained ‘conference centre within the centre’. This new floor boasts natural daylight and views over Sydney’s south.

Sales and marketing director Scott Cooper says the leading audio visual services and technology as well as dedicated kitchen facilities and catering on level four offer a“brand new contemporary meeting space in the middle of Sydney’s CBD”.

“This is a huge asset to event organisers who can rely on our exceptional customer service, catering excellence, leading sustainability solutions and standardsetting event delivery.” n

Hot Seat

2020 event tech trends

Brecht Fourneau, Aventri senior director EMEA and APAC marketing, says big data and personalisation are here to stay.

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vent tech is developing at a rapid pace.

We’ve witnessed leaps in technology solutions that have uprooted the way events are planned, executed and evaluated. But in order to succeed in today’s increasingly competitive environment, event planners across the world must embrace the tools that specifically support their roles.

So, what event tech trends can we expect to see in 2020?

Trend 1: Personalisation with wearable technology and apps Australians have a growing interest in wearable technology, with sales in smart wrist wearables in the first half of 2019 up by 22 per cent on the previous year, according to research by Telsyte. When it comes to events, wearable technology makes the entire experience much more personalised, for example, enabling attendees to share their contact information, check-in for events and register for sessions.

The recent addition of mobile apps created purely for networking at a select event gives greater insight into attendees’ interests as they schedule their day in the lead up to the event. Additionally, many on-site apps enable relationship building and allow attendees to connect with peers who have similar interests or business needs at the event.

For event planners, such apps and wearable technology solutions are essential, providing greater insight 36 Spice Autumn 2020

into event preferences and interests of attendees that can be used to inform future event decisions.

event planners and the capabilities of every event they execute.

Trend 2: Artificial intelligence (AI)

Events are a combination of content and speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, marketing tools, registration tools, on-site services and reporting/analytics. With so much going on at once, the industry is searching for ways to consolidate this information and find efficiencies to reduce costs.

So, it’s no wonder that we are seeing a huge rise in the use of fully integrated event management software providing data centralisation with everything from planning to execution and evaluation in one place.

AI and machine learning will soon become a prominent technology used across the meetings and events space, giving event

“…on-site apps enable relationship building and allow attendees to connect with peers who have similar interests or business needs…” professionals the ability to unlock the potential of data, anticipate problems and resolve them quickly.

In 2020, the impact of AI will be profound. With the ability to recommend agendas, predict traffic flow, leverage event chatbots, predict marketing campaigns, generate personalised content recommendations and propose relevant connections, it will transform the roles of

Trend 3: Data integration

Trend 4: Augmented reality (AR) AR provides an interactive experience that is commonly used to enhance events. The merging of real-world environments with computer-generated objects via mobile apps and wearable technologies creates an engaging and interactive experience for attendees.

The AR trend is especially useful for creating exhibition booths that stand out from the crowd and entice broader audiences. Immersive experiences that combine the real and virtual worlds help connect guests on emotional and physical levels and ensure your brand remains at the forefront of their minds, ultimately driving sales. n

Local hero BCEC executive chef David Pugh is a local hero when it comes to championing Queensland’s finest produce and its farmers, fishermen and local artisans.

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ne of Australia’s most respected chefs and a pioneer of Brisbane’s finedining scene, Brisbane Convention & Centre (BCEC) executive chef David Pugh has been recognised for a lifetime advocating the use of local sustainable and ethical produce.

His recent appointment by the Queensland Government as an #eatqld champion topped a remarkable year for Pugh, after also being named The Courier Mail Food Awards 2019 Icon of the Year.

The recipient of numerous chef’s hats during a stellar restaurant career, Pugh has unleashed his passion for fresh local produce together with his finest haute cuisine skills on the BCEC’s latest menus.

Equally at home in a field of carrots in Queensland’s Scenic Rim as he is crafting menus for thousands of delegates, Pugh delivers honest food, where flavour, simplicity and freshness are the heroes.

“Food is being discussed in exciting ways and our clients are asking the

important questions such as ‘Where is it from?’ and ‘How is it produced?’” he says.

These sentiments are in tune with BCEC’s long history of advocacy of Queensland food, sourcing the best available and accessible local seasonal produce.

“Right now many of our primary producers are doing it tough,”says Pugh.“Years of drought compounded by flooding rains and now the devastating bushfires, here and interstate, means all venues have an added incentive to support their local producers.”n

SYDNEY’S NEWEST CONFERENCING VENUE

unveiled

Sydney Masonic Centre is the first choice for conferences, meetings and special events in Sydney’s CBD. See the brand new conferencing level at the official industry familiarisation.

Thursday 5 March, 4 -7pm Register scott@smcfc.com.au The place to meet in Sydney.

Hot Seat

A new direction With a new name and message, Northern Territory Business Events is looking ahead to a promising 2020, says Rebecca McCaig.

I

n 2019, Northern Territory Convention Bureau relaunched as Northern Territory Business Events (NTBE), reflecting the changing nature of the industry. With a new name came a new message, in line with Tourism NT’s new tagline, ‘Different in every sense’. NTBE director Rebecca McCaig says it’s about conveying that the NT is unlike any other place on earth.

“We’ve extended it to say ‘Different in every sense for business events’ because we know the NT delivers a multi-sensory experience for delegates,” she says.

“NT destinations are so different from the rest of Australia, they provide a profound disconnect from hectic, every day routines and inspire exceptional outcomes.”

The new messaging is highlighted in three festivals that take place throughout the NT, including Bruce Munro: Tropical Light in Darwin, Field of Light at Uluru and Parrtjima in Alice Springs.

“These amazing light displays enliven all the senses and showcase the NT landscape in a very creative way, providing spectacular enhancements to business events,” says McCaig.

New products, such as Banubanu Wilderness Retreat on Bremer Island and the $200 million Westin Darwin will also help bring more events to the NT. Over the next two years, the NT will host several international association events, such as the World Federation of Neuroscience Nurses, the Congress of

the International BioIron Society, World Indigenous Business Forum and the Asian Shipowners’ Association Conference.

To attract more events like these, the NTBE Support Fund provides financial assistance of $100 per delegate to eligible business events at the consideration or bidding stage. Above all, the NT’s relaxed lifestyle and strong cultural ties are major drawcards for business events.“Strong destination appeal attracts increased delegate attendance and our iconic natural landscapes provide perspective and freedom to think,” says McCaig.

“There’s inspiring storytelling from a 65,000-year-old living culture and scope for meaningful community engagement and social legacies from business events.” n

OUR CI T Y, YOUR CAN VAS.

There’s no place we’d rather be and we know your delegates will feel the same.

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre is the leader in delivering exceptional events, with an inspiring and unique riverside location in the cultural heart of South Bank. You’ll be working with a team that will not only ensure your event is unforgettable, but also help to make your time here even more memorable.

LE T ’ S C R E AT E INCRE DIBLE .

SALES@BCEC.COM.AU | 07 3308 3063 | BCEC.COM.AU

38 Spice Autumn 2020

MEETINGS WITH INCENTIVES Host your next event or meeting at The Langham, Melbourne the number one hotel in Australia and New Zealand as recognised

by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2019 Readers’ Choice Award.

Receive 5% off the master bill when you book a minimum of AUD $10,000 in accommodation and AUD $4,000 in catering before 31st May 2020.

In addition, choose from a host of value-added benefits: • 30 minutes’ signature cocktails for your group pre or post event • Two complimentary upgrades to an Executive Terrace or One Bedroom Suite for every twenty rooms paid • Bespoke menu upgrade options Terms and Conditions •

Offer is only applicable to new bookings contracted by or before 31st May 2020, and taking place between 1st April 2020 to 30th September 2020 • •

Promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer In case of any disputes, the decision of The Langham, Melbourne shall be final and overriding

For more information, please contact: Tlmel.takethelead@langhamhotels.com

The Langham, Pasadena

1 Southgate Avenue, Southbank, VIC 3006 Australia T (61) 3 8696 8888 F (61) 3 9690 5889 langhamhotels.com/melbourne

Hot spot The Ritz-Carlton, Perth on Elizabeth Quay

PICTURE YOUR GROUP IN… As the host destination for Tourism Australia’s 2019 Dreamtime showcase, Perth proved itself a stunning destination for incentives and events. By Brittney Levinson.

STAY

PLAY

Crown Towers Perth

Swan River Sailing

Crown Towers Perth continues to draw in business events with its luxury rooms, stylish event spaces and premium restaurants.

Located in a prime position on the Swan River, Crown Towers features 500 guest rooms and a variety of event spaces, including the Crown Ballroom, which was added in 2017 to host events of up to 2400 guests. Dreamtime delegates were treated to a lavish event in The Enclave, Crown Towers’ resort-style poolside venue.

Get your groups out on the water with a tailored sailing experience with Swan River Sailing. Groups of up to 11 guests per vessel can sail along the Swan River on 36-foot yachts with an experienced sailor. The journey can be tailored depending on your group’s interests and skill level, while structured teambuilding activities can also be arranged. Swan River Sailing is located a 10-minute drive from Perth’s city centre.

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PERTH Out of town

EAT

LEARN

Wildflower at Como The Treasury

Go Cultural

Treat your group to a special dining experience at Wildflower at Como The Treasury. The contemporary restaurant is a celebration of WA produce and the six seasons of the indigenous Noongar calendar. Head chef Matthew Sartori highlights native ingredients such as pepperberry, lemon myrtle and Davidson plum. The space itself is as considered as the menu, with elegant marble, a neutral

Beneath Perth’s skyscrapers lies the sacred sites and ancient campgrounds of the first people of the South West region of WA, the Noongar people. Husband and wife duo Walter and Meg McGuire at Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours & Experiences assist groups in acknowledging indigenous culture and incorporating it into events. Go Cultural can take groups on walking tours, perform smoking ceremonies or a Welcome to

colour palette and plenty of natural light.

Country, and host cultural workshops.

Escape the city and explore some of Western Australia’s hidden gems.

Mandura Located 74 kilometres south of Perth, Mandurah offers a touch of cosmopolitan set against the backdrop of stunning beaches and national parks. With waterfront dining, lush greenery and a wide range of activities on offer, Mandurah is an ideal destination for business events.

Margaret River A three-hour drive south of Perth, Margaret River is one of Western Australia’s must-visit destinations.

With more than 95 cellar doors within reach, the premium wine region offers a sophisticated yet relaxed experience for visitors.

Fremantle Perth’s trendy port city has a lot to offer event and incentive groups.

With waterfront venues like Coast Port Beach, quality accommodation and casual, cool breweries like Little Creatures, your delegates will discover there’s so much to love about Fremantle.

PLAY

STAY

Optus Stadium

The Ritz-Carlton, Perth

Optus Stadium sits pretty on the banks of the Swan River, so pretty in fact, it was named the Most Beautiful Sports Facility in the World in the Prix Versailles 2019 awards. Inside this stunning stadium, event planners can find a variety of spaces suitable for conferences, exhibitions, cocktail events and galas. The venue can host up to 2000 guests, or for even larger groups, the hallowed field of play can even be utilised.

Bringing a renewed sense of luxury to the CBD, The Ritz-Carlton, Perth opened its doors in November 2019. Inside the hotel, 10,000 pieces of Kimberley sandstone adorn the walls, making for an authentic WA welcome. The hotel boasts 205 rooms, including 19 suites, two dining outlets and The Ritz-Carlton Club.For events, the Elizabeth Quay Ballroom is the stand-out, featuring natural light and views over the Perth city skyline.

Travel in style Capitalise on Perth’s stunning waterways with a river cruise on board Captain Cook Cruises, part of the SeaLink group. Host pre-dinner drinks on board MV Lady De Vine while transporting guests to their event location.

Take to skies with Corsaire Aviation and treat your delegates to a scenic flight in a private helicopter. The fleet comprises eight aircraft types with the largest helicopter holding up to six passengers.

www.spicenews.com.au 41

Hot spot

Island dreaming As a first-time visitor to Hawai’i, Brittney Levinson discovers the true beauty of the islands runs much deeper than the stunning scenery and luxury resorts.

Getting there Our journey to and from Honolulu was on board Qantas, approximately a 10-hour direct flight out of Sydney.

Qantas also operates direct flights out of Brisbane and Melbourne.

Hawaiian Airlines operated the interisland flights between Honolulu and Kona, a quick 45-minute journey.

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he hardest part about taking groups to the Hawaiian Islands is deciding on which island to visit. Each of the six major islands – Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the island of Hawai’i – have a distinct offering, giving groups plenty of reasons to visit time and time again. For my first visit to the islands, Oahu and the island of Hawai’i (also known as the Big Island) were on the itinerary.

The island of Hawai’i

1. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort 2. E vents in the courtyard at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort 3. Lobby at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort 4. M auna Kea Beach Hotel

42 Spice Autumn 2020

Arriving onto the Big Island, you immediately get a sense of the warm, welcoming hospitality that’s synonymous with Hawaiian culture. Located on the west side of the island, the Kona International Airport itself is a warm welcome, with open-air terminals that were unlike anything I’d seen in an airport before. Our group was greeted at the baggage carousel with a traditional Hawaiian lei, a packed lunch and an ice-cold beer – already we were feeling pretty welcome. Driving along

the coastline to our hotel, Kona’s vast volcanic landscape was captivating to say the least, with black lava rocks lining the highway as far as the eye can see.

Hotels and venues The famed Hawaiian hospitality was one of the first things I noticed when arriving at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, located a half-hour drive from the airport. Greeted at reception by a friendly staff member, a refreshing welcome drink and an ocean view fit for a postcard, I was starting to fall in love with this place and its people.

Located on absolute beachfront, the 249-room Westin Hapuna Beach Resort underwent a US$50 million refurbishment in 2019, revealing four distinct dining venues, two swimming pools and ample space for events. The hotel’s meeting spaces, including a ballroom for up 900 people, all face inwards to a large green courtyard, perfect for events as the sun goes down.

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Neighbouring property Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, part of the Autograph Collection, is also a favourite spot for event planners, given its beachfront location and lush green surrounds. The hotel features a ballroom for up to 390 people in theatre style and several small meeting rooms, while the expansive lawns are best suited for larger groups. Outdoor events are a safe bet on this side of the island, where it’s dry and sunny most days of the year.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is also one of the best places to swim with manta rays – a bucket list activity for many Hawai’i visitors. The husband and wife duo at Manta Ray Advocates takes small groups off the shore directly in front of the hotel and lead you on an aweinspiring experience with the manta rays. While at first a little daunting, the opportunity to be up-close with the creatures was unlike anything I’d ever imagined, and something you can’t leave Hawai’i without doing.

In stark contrast to the climate on the west side, the town of Hilo on the east side of the island is often cited as the rainiest city in the United States.

On the lush, green side of the island you’ll find Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, a DoubleTree by Hilton property, which offers 388 rooms and indoor and outdoor event spaces. The property also features a nine-hole golf course, waterfront restaurant, poolside bar and cultural activities for groups.

Experiences

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While the beaches and water activities on the Big Island are a major drawcard, on land there’s so much to explore across the island’s famed volcanic landscapes and natural scenery. Local operator Hawai’i Forest & Trail takes groups on customised volcano, waterfall, birdwatching and ziplining tours all over the island. Our private tour included exclusive access onto Hualalai volcano, which is still considered active, where we hiked through the forest and stood on the edge of volcanic craters. Our guide, Justin, led us through a segment of a lava tube leftover by a previous eruption and shared stories of Hawaiian legends and mythology associated with the region.

For groups looking for a day of adventure, The Umauma Experience is the place to visit. Start with the ZipLine Experience where you can zip over 14 waterfalls and enjoy ocean views throughout the nine-line course. Next enjoy a BBQ lunch and swim in a private section of Umauma Falls, before finishing the day with a horseback ride throughout the property or ATV driving. Planners can do a full buy-out of the property for VIP groups.

The best way to take in all of the Big Island’s glorious landscape and coastline is by helicopter.

Paradise Helicopters Hawai’i lead a series of tours for groups, taking you along the picturesque coastlines, above the vast volcanic landscapes and right down into the waterfall cavities and sheer cliff faces.

The best bit? They’ll even land the helicopter in a secluded clifftop so you can enjoy the spectacular views with a glass of Champagne in hand. www.spicenews.com.au 43

Hot spot

5 Oahu Known as the “heart of Hawai’i”, Oahu is the third largest island and home to the majority of Hawai’i’s population. Capital city Honululu is home to historic landmarks, a thriving dining and bar scene and the world-famous Waikīkī Beach. Further up the coast, Oahu’s North Shore is where you’ll find the world’s best surfers, who flock to the beaches for surfing competitions during the winter months.

Hotels and venues 5. G rand Naniloa Hotel Hilo 6. The Longboard Club at ‘Alohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach 7. Horizon Terrace at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikīkī Beach 8. S urfboards at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel 9. P earl Harbor Aviation Museum

Hawai’i’s welcoming hospitality was alive once again when we checked into ‘Alohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach, located right on the beachfront and in the heart of all the action. During a site tour around the property, we were introduced to executive chef David Lukela, who oversees the hotel’s culinary team and dining outlets. After chatting casually about iconic Hawaiian and Australian foods (mentioning, of course, the Aussie sausage sizzle), Lukela quietly snuck off to the kitchen to prepare his

version of sausage sizzle, which he proudly served up to our very happy group of Aussies during dinner.

Hawai’i sure has a way of making you feel at home.

The 839-room ‘Alohilani Resort is well-equipped to host business events, with a variety of spaces on offer including the ‘Alohilani Ballroom that holds 1100 people in theatre style or up to 800 for a banquet. Other features include an impressive lobby with its own aquarium, a club lounge and expansive pool deck with private cabanas.

For five-star accommodation with all the trimmings, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikīkī Beach boasts 552 apartment-style rooms with luxury amenities, full kitchen and laundry facilities and stunning ocean views. Located within walking distance of the Honolulu Convention Center, the resort has small meeting rooms perfect for breakout sessions, two infinity pools which can be utilised for cocktail receptions or for larger events, the outdoor Lau’ula Park can host a banquet for 600 guests.

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Groups looking to go off-site for their events can head to Bishop Museum, an ideal setting for corporate functions and seated dinners with 11 venues and three conference rooms on offer. As the largest museum in the state, Bishop Museum hosts world-renowned collections of Hawaiian and Pacific Island artefacts, photographs, documents and art. All exhibition spaces can be opened after hours, adding an extra dimension to your events.

Experiences Oahu offers plenty of bucket-list experiences for groups, such as the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

Spanning two original aircraft hangars, runways and a control tower, the museum is located on the historic Ford Island, in the middle of Pearl Harbor which was attacked in 1941 during World War II. At Hangar 79, original bullet holes still pierce the windows, a stark reminder of the attack. Today, the large indoor space can be used for cocktail events of up to 5000 guests and seated dinners of 2200.

Groups interested in American history can step foot on USS Missouri, where the Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed, ending World War II. The ship has been transformed into the Battleship Missouri Memorial which can host events in different parts of the vessel. Perhaps one of the most impressive spaces on the ship is the Captain’s Quarters, which is not accessible to the public but can be hired for private events.

8 Another must-do experience on Oahu is Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve, a 4000-acre private nature reserve established in 1850. While it’s best known today as a filming location for the likes of Jurassic Park, Lost and Godzilla, legends say Kualoa was once a pu’uhonua (place of refuge), where kanaka maoli (Hawaiian natives) could come to seek forgiveness. The reserve can be utilised for events, with various scenic spaces accommodating anywhere from 15 to 5000 guests.

Despite which of the six islands you choose, Hawai’i is a dream destination for business events and incentive groups. While the famed beaches, scenery and luxury resorts certainly don’t disappoint, it’s Hawai’i’s friendly people and warm hospitality that will make your delegates feel at home. n

Poke bowls

Eat & drink La Vie – Oahu La Vie at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikīkī Beach takes a modern approach to French cuisine with degustation and a la carte menus using fresh local ingredients.

The Pig and The Lady – Honolulu A must-visit while in Honolulu, The Pig and The Lady specialises in Vietnamese cuisine with a Hawai’i spin. Expect family-style dining, large portions and delicious desserts.

Ola Brew Co – Kona This crowd-funded business uses local ingredients to brew a creative range of beer, cider and hard seltzer. Take your groups for a brewery tour before a beer tasting and lunch of tacos and poke bowls.

Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill – Hilo

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Housed inside the original Bank of Hilo (you can still see the old vault!), Jackie Rey’s serves up casual Hawaiian fare, local brews and signature cocktails.

www.spicenews.com.au 45

Hot spot

Exploring Auckland With so much to see, eat and do in New Zealand’s North Island, it pays to have an expert team to guide you along the way. By Katherine Ross.

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uckland, New Zealand offers a wealth of experiences for corporate groups, with an abundance of great accommodation, activities and venues to choose from, whether for a conference or incentive event. Everything you need is available in the CBD, but it’s worth stepping outside the city and exploring nearby gems like Waiheke Island.

With so much on offer, it pays to have an expert team to help navigate the region and execute a seamless event. A new player in the business events industry, Panache Conference and Events, a subsidiary of Acland Travel, recently launched in

EAT

Melbourne to provide high-quality conference, event and travel experiences in Australia and beyond.

Panache leverages the group’s existing supplier networks and the team’s more than 20 years of experience to deliver first-class events. To showcase this, Panache hosted 10 event planners on a famil in New Zealand to showcase the best of Auckland and Waiheke Island, while giving them a first-hand look at how Panache can assist in producing corporate event and travel programs.

From award-winning dining and thrill-seeking adventure to luxe accommodation, here are some of the highlights from Auckland and beyond:

STAY

Masu

Cordis Auckland

Masu is a contemporary Japanese robata restaurant and bar, located at the base of SkyCity Grand and headed up by top Auckland chef Nic Watt. Masu’s semi-private dining room can accommodate 18 guests for intimate corporate functions. The room is framed by bubble glass creating the impression of privacy without being completely separated from the main dining room.

Part of Langham Hospitality Group, this 411-room hotel offers stylish interiors and is located near the colourful Karangahape Road.

The hotel has 13 stunning function spaces with the largest space catering for up to 1500 guests. There are two dining options: Eight, which offers interactive food stations and The Lobby Lounge, perfect for intimate meetings and evening cocktails.

46 Spice Autumn 2020

PLAY

EAT

Boomrock Kauri Bay

Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant

Auckland’s ultimate experience venue offers everything from claybird shooting, axe throwing, a digger challenge and the opportunity to win the owner’s Range Rover if you get a hole in one in extreme golf. Located 45 minutes from Auckland CBD or just 12 minutes for those with a helicopter, this is an adult’s

Indulge the taste buds and dine in one of the two awardwinning on-site restaurants, Mudbrick Restaurant and Cocktail Bar or The Archive Bistro. Perched on the Mudbrick ridge with views across the Hauraki Gulf and back to Auckland city, you can combine a long lunch with a wine tasting and vineyard tour.

playground not to be missed. The on-site lodge is the perfect way to end the event, while the culinary team can create custom menus for up to 250 guests.

Just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, there are several spaces available for conferences and events as well as boutique accommodation.

STAY

PLAY EcoZip Adventures

Centrally located in Auckland’s CBD, SkyCity Grand offers a five-star experience with 312 guest rooms and nine restaurants.

With Auckland Harbour and city skyline views, SkyCity Grand is on the doorstep of the SkyCity entertainment complex, home to the casino and Sky Tower.

Fly high above Waiheke Island on EcoZip Adventures’ state-ofthe-art flying fox ziplines. Ride a series of ziplines, each over 200 metres long and return to base with a guided nature walk through the regenerated rainforest. Catering for groups from 10 through to 250, the property is located just 30 minutes from the ferry terminal.

DON’T MISS

SkyCity Grand

AUCKLAND

WAIHEKE ISLAND

At 328 metres high, Sky Tower is an iconic feature of the Auckland skyline. Part of SkyCity, the tower offers three dining options: the revolving Orbit 360˚ Dining, the luxe Sugar Club or the casual Sky Café.

With a wealth of experience and a connection to the island they call home, Destination Waiheke are the team to help organise your event on Waiheke Island, covering venue sourcing, transport, accommodation and more.

Holey Moley

Delamore Lodge

Think putt putt, think again. Holey Moley, located at the Viaduct, lets you experience a round of golf like never before. The venue offers a full service bar and music to set the scene for a great event.

Delamore Lodge is a boutique hotel offering picturesque views and luxury service. Its dedicated event space caters for up to 70 guests sit-down and exclusive accommodation is available for 12 delegates.

The Sky Tower

Destination Waiheke Island

www.spicenews.com.au 47

Hot spot Off-site event at Sell TNQ

Cairns on show

Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef were on show during the annual Sell TNQ showcase, unveiling the latest developments and experiences the region has to offer.

C

airns and the Great Barrier Reef, located in picturesque Tropical North Queensland, is one of Australia’s most stunning destinations for business events. Equipped with worldleading facilities, modern hotels and bucket-list experiences, the region has everything groups need for a memorable business event. The region was on show for Business Events Cairns and Great Barrier Reef's annual showcase, Sell TNQ 2019. Here are some of the highlights the group of 30 event buyers got to experience during the event:

World-class venues Cairns Convention Centre is the city’s hub for events and conferences, located 10 minutes from the Cairns International Airport and walking distance to hotels. The centre is about to kick off a $176 million expansion, adding an extra 3000 square metres of meeting and exhibition space. The centre will close from May to October 2020 for major works, with the final completion date set for early 2022.

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort has undergone a major refurbishment, revealing a fresh look across its guest rooms, bars, restaurant and conference rooms. The hotel has five meeting spaces, ideal for small to medium conferences with capacity for up to 200 delegates. Each space boasts natural light and updated AV, while the poolside grounds are ideal for outdoor events and team building.

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Events with Cairns flair As part of Sell TNQ, delegates were treated to various off-site events that showcased the collaborative nature of the local venues and suppliers. AJ Hackett revealed it’s not only the perfect place for thrill-seeking bungy jumps but, as the only licensed rainforest venue in Cairns, it’s also an event destination. Partnering with Ochre Catering, the venue hosted a gorgeous event amongst the rainforest, complete with an impressive stunt jump from the 140-metre-high bungy platform.

Nu Nu Catering, based in Palm Cove, showcased its ability to host unforgettable dining experiences anywhere in the region, with an off-site event in a secluded cane farm. As the sun set, delegates enjoyed freshly shucked oysters, before sitting down for a long-table dinner in a rustic setting.

Welcome event at AJ Hackett

Nu Nu Catering

Located in the heart of Cairns, Salt House is another great setting for events and private dinners, which delegates experienced on the final night of the program. Salt House features a variety of event spaces, including a 20-seat private dining room with floor-toceiling windows and surrounded by some of the world’s best wines and Champagnes.

Experiences like no other A trip to the region isn’t complete without a day on the reef. Delegates were whisked off to Green Island Resort with Quicksilver Group, where they were given a first-hand look at the resort’s conference facilities and 46 guest rooms, before heading off on diving and snorkelling adventures.

Quicksilver Group offers a variety of reef experiences across its 14 vessels, including exclusive charters for corporate groups.

Back in the centre of town, Cairns Aquarium is drawing visitors in as both a captivating attraction and event venue.

Suited for cocktail events of up to 300 guests, the venue showcases the region’s reef and rainforest ecosystems in a modern setting. The venue is also home to Dundee’s Restaurant, which serves up quality local produce. n

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Hot spot

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas Thala Beach Nature Reserve

48 HOURS IN PORT DOUGLAS Port Douglas, in Tropical North Queensland, is the kind of place you could stay in for weeks – the laid-back vibe, fresh food and friendly locals make you feel right at home. But if you’ve only got limited time, these are some of the must-dos for groups.

DAY ONE Kick off your day with a Dreamtime Walk at Mossman Gorge Centre, an eco-tourism development located in the Daintree Rainforest National Park.

The Ngadiku (meaning stories and legends in local Kuku Yalanji language) Dreamtime Walks are conducted by the local Indigenous people who take visitors on a guided walk along private tracks, visiting culturally significant sites. Groups are welcomed with a traditional ‘smoking’ ceremony that cleanses and wards off bad spirits, before venturing into the rainforest where the guide demonstrates traditional plant use, identifies bush foods and shares their own stories of their special relationship with the environment.

50 Spice Autumn 2020

In the evening, there’s no better place to host an event than at Flames of the Forest, an inspiring event venue hidden amongst the rainforest. Despite its secluded location, the venue has everything you need for a memorable event, such as a silklined marquee, handmade chandeliers, custom colour LED fixtures for branding opportunities and premium marble bathrooms. The on-site catering is second to none, with the ability to serve up locally sourced menus for up to 800 guests for a banquet.

Retire for the evening in your luxury accommodation at Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas. The property boasts 295 guest rooms and 18 event venues, all surrounded by two hectares of stunning lagoon pools. The resort can cater for events of up to 1000 guests, with The Glade Pavilion offering the largest pillarless conference space in Port Douglas. Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining as well, with several restuarants and bars to cater for all occasions, whether a fine-dining experience or poolside cocktail.

DAY TWO Day two calls for a visit to Thala Beach Nature Reserve, a deluxe family-owned retreat set amongst native forest and on the shores of Oak Beach. The retreat comprises 75 timber bungalows, each built on stilts to capitalise on the views. Settle in for lunch among the treetops at Osprey's Restaurant, which serves up a seasonal menu that showcases the best of the region’s produce. The retreat also offers two conference spaces with capacity for up to 120 in cocktail style. Head down to the sea via Thala Beach Nature Reserve’s exclusive beach access to enjoy a fresh coconut from the trees above.

Before you depart, there’s only one way to take in Port Douglas in all its glory. Take to the skies with GBR Helicopters, part of the Experience Co. group, and enjoy Port Douglas and Great Barrier Reef from above. The adventure and activity provider has a fleet of three-, four- and six-seater helicopters to take groups on once-in-a-lifetime scenic flights above the reef. It’s the perfect way to end an incentive or event in one of Australia’s most stunning locations. n

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