Spice Issue 90 Spring 2020

Issue 90 – Spring – 2020

GET SMART Tech trends and gadgets emerging during COVID-19 COVID SAFETY How venues are preparing to welcome delegates back

HOT 100 Services & Suppliers

BRISBANE TURNS A NEW LEAF Events return to the

subtropical, open-air city

LUXURY ACCOMMODATION | SPA FIVE VENUES | RESTAURANT | WINE BAR THE VINTAGE GOLF COURSE

INDULGE YOUR GUESTS WITH AN

Extraordinary Experience

AT CHÂTEAU ÉLAN, HUNTER VALLEY +61 2 4998 2500 events@chateauelan.com.au

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Contents

8 Spring 2020

7

12 28

Industry update: MEA Robyn Johnson pens a column on the importance of skills and talent retention.

8

Cover story: Brisbane As spring arrives in the river city, Brisbane’s event industry is beginning to bloom.

10 Mental health There’s never been a more important time to check on those around us.

12 COVID-safe technology A new wave of tech is emerging amid the global pandemic.

15 Virtual & hybrid events The challenges and opportunities of taking your events online.

14

32

20 Hot 100: Services & Suppliers The leading event suppliers and services of 2020, as voted by Spice readers.

28 COVID-safe venues How Aussie venues are preparing for the safe return of events.

32 Destination: Canberra The nation’s capital is busy preparing to welcome business events back.

34 Opinion

20

34

Industry stalwart Peter Jones is taking the good with the bad during COVID-19. www.spicenews.com.au 3

Editor’s letter

Road to recovery

W

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

hile putting together our Spring 2020 edition, I was reminded of the sheer determination and resilience the event industry is known for. Amid a global pandemic that has absolutely decimated the industry and left so many businesses struggling, there are shining examples of the true willpower event professionals have and their ability to keep going, even when times are tough.

It’s therefore fitting that this issue includes our annual list of Hot 100: Services and Suppliers, showcasing the leading event businesses across 20 categories. It was heartwarming to see the huge number of votes entered and the outpouring of support for the industry’s hard working businesses, especially in this tough time.

Head to page 20 for this year’s list.

Also our annual technology edition, this issue highlights the emerging technology trends and innovations that have arisen amid the pandemic (page 12), as well as how adopting a virtual or hybrid event

format can offer myriad benefits and opportunities for organisations during this time (page 15). We also check in with event and conference venues to see how they’re preparing their spaces and staff to deliver COVID-safe events (page 28).

While there are some great positives emerging, it’s certainly a trying time for the events industry. On page 10, we look at how the COVID-19 crisis may be impacting the mental health and wellbeing of event professionals, and why it’s important to seek help for yourself and others.

Finally, on page 32, we discover why Canberra is a bucket-list meeting and event destination, and why organisers are bound to fall in love with the nation’s capital all over again once events resume.

The team at Spice are extremely thrilled to return to print with this issue, after going digital for our previous edition. We’re excited to continue supporting the industry and sharing the stories that matter most to our readers. We hope you enjoy the issue.

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

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

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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 Spring 2020

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At-home catering services Hosting a virtual event? Get in touch with your local catering supplier to see if they’re offering at-home deliveries, like The Canape Shop (pictured), a new at-home offering by Brisbane’s Wine & Dine’m Catering.

Event industry on the agenda The PM has made specific mention of the business events industry in multiple press conferences following his meeting with BECA representatives in July. We’ll take that as a little win!

Luxe hand sanitisers Hand sanitisers don’t have to be clinical; there are now so many options out there that look and smell great. One of our faves is the Brookie’s Sanitiser by Cape Byron Distillery, scented with their rainforest gin and lime.

Branded face masks Why not get your brand front and centre, smack bang on the faces of mask-wearing people across Australia? There’s loads of great Aussie companies offering customprinted face masks right now.

Going up, going down

Buffets It’s likely we won’t see buffets at events for some time to come,

Rule breakers

which is probably a good thing

Don’t be a ‘Karen’, follow

given the health risks they can

the rules so we can all

pose and the food waste that

get back to what we

comes along with them.

love: events.

Communal condiments Think again before you place those salt and pepper shakers on the table for a gala dinner or long-table luncheon. With hygiene the top priority right now, individual pinch pots are the way to go. www.spicenews.com.au 5

Spice loves

Spotlight Sessions In partnership with AV1, Spice Spotlight Sessions is a new virtual interview series, where we catch up with event businesses to hear their COVID-19 stories. Recorded in the AV1 ControlRoom, the series covers everything from challenges and changes in the industry to new business ventures. Watch some of our latest interviews below:

Top 5 most clicked spicenews.com.au Industry reacts to events restart timetable Industry leaders took to social media to share their views on Australian Chamber of Tourism’s Tourism Restart Timetable, saying business events should restart sooner.

PM scraps 100-person limit on events National Cabinet agreed to remove the 100-person limit on gatherings that was initially in step three of Australia’s COVID-19 recovery framework.

The Langham, Gold Coast

How each state plans to lift COVID-19 restrictions Updated each week, Spice shares a state-by-state guide to event restriction rollback across Australia.

The Langham, Gold Coast to open in 2021 The hotel will offer 169 luxury rooms and suites, event spaces and signature dining in Surfers Paradise.

Lauren Hayward and Leanne Constantino, Forum Group Events & Marketing bit.ly/Spotlight_Forum

Plans for $100 million boutique hotel in Sydney An iconic Paddington venue is set to be transformed into a 101-room hotel with event spaces.

GOOD NEWS STORIES Three feel-good stories from around the world.

Sydney attractions thank frontline workers SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower Eye and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo are sending a big ‘thank you’ to frontline workers with free entry for emergency services, healthcare workers and teachers during August.

Adelaide AV company offers mental health training AV supplier Novatech has provided formal mental health training to key

6 Spice Spring 2020

Keith Findlay, Sprintr by AV1 bit.ly/Spotlight_Sprintr

staff, in partnership with CrewCare, to ensure they are equipped to support their teams during uncertain times.

Read more on page 10.

Shangri-La turns hotel sheets into face masks Shangri-La Group has partnered with hygiene solutions provider Diversey to turn 12,500kg of used, clean linen into half a million face masks for local communities across Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka.

Michael Watson, Wats On Events bit.ly/Spotlight_WatsOn

Industry update

Retaining skilled staff vital to recovery We must rethink how we entice newcomers and retain existing talent in order to keep the events industry alive, writes Meetings & Events Australia CEO Robyn Johnson.

W

ould you recommend a career in the events industry right now? I recently had a conversation with a fellow events professional who was asked by a student leaving school this year whether they should become a nurse or pursue a career in event management. My colleague, who is passionate about our industry, advised them to become a nurse. Twelve months ago, she added, it would have been a different answer.

I hear stories every day of experienced people reluctantly leaving events management to find work in other industries. The longer the industry is shut down the larger the exodus will be, I fear.

That’s why we need governments to provide urgent support so that we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic with an industry capable of delivering its traditionally huge contribution to the national economy.

We also need industry leaders to collaborate in order to develop short-term strategies to support and retain our skilled workforce and longer-term strategies to ensure we are ready to “reboot” when things return to a more normal state.

When you look at the skills held by events professionals it is little wonder they are frequently scooped up by other industries. Not only do we have the ability to simultaneously service multiple clients and handle a diverse range of tasks, we are also creative thinkers and we have an extraordinary attention to detail.

An experienced event manager has the skills to run a small business or perform a range of middle management roles. Every major event requires expertise in strategic management and marketing, financial and risk management.

They involve logistics and crowd control, and an

understanding of complex technical requirements and audio visual production. These skills are easily transferable and highly valued elsewhere.

The JobKeeper program is providing muchneeded financial support to our industry.

However, its stand-down provision is also providing a dangerous temptation to cut deep into people’s working hours. While this will provide short-term cash flow relief it will also risk employees with mortgages and other financial needs looking for other opportunities.

The events industry was already experiencing skills shortages prior to COVID-19, particularly for entry- to mid-level event managers, sales and business development executives and technicians.

Meetings & Events Australia has carried out research over a three-year period that found shortages in these skills was increasing. It’s obvious recovery will be particularly challenging if we lose the skilled workforce on which we rely.

To effectively rebound post COVID-19, we will also need to focus on how we encourage those who left the industry to return. Long term, keeping existing staff will not be enough.

A “career for life” campaign that can entice school leavers to choose a career in this dynamic industry would be a good idea.

Education and professional development must continue to be a priority. Events companies that don’t keep on top of industry trends will be outpaced by those that do.

Our industry will probably be one of the last to recover from COVID-19. We need to work collaboratively to retain talent and maintain confidence in the future prospects for our most valuable asset: the skilled events practitioners for whom Australia is renowned internationally. n

“The longer the industry is shut down the larger the exodus will be, I fear.”

www.spicenews.com.au 7

Cover story

BRISBANE’S NEWEST LUXURY HOTELS W Brisbane This city-centre stunner features 1,100 square metres of event space, a heated rooftop saltwater pool, two bars and a spa.

The Fantauzzo Located at the riverside Howard Smith Wharves dining and events precinct, this Art Series hotel boasts three conference spaces, a stunning rooftop bar and spectacular infinity pool.

The Calile This award-winning urban resort sits in the heart of Brisbane’s leafy shopping strip James Street, combining multifunctional event spaces with resort facilities.

Emporium South Bank Australia’s most awarded boutique luxury hotel features multiple event spaces and a sky-high rooftop pool bar with magnificent views over the city and beyond.

The Westin This inner-city oasis offers sweeping city views from a swim-up bar, a two-floor wellness centre and almost 1,000 square metres of event space.

8 Spice Spring 2020

1

Brisbane turns over a new leaf The season of renewal is producing green shoots as live events begin to return to warm and welcoming Brisbane.

B

efore Brisbane’s wide open streets are filled with the signature purple bloom of Jacaranda trees, one of the first signs that spring has arrived in the river city is the three-week Brisbane Festival.

Restrictions related to coronavirus forced organisers of the major arts and culture showcase to completely reimagine the event in a COVID-safe context.

The result is a carefully curated Boldly Brisbane program that will reawaken the city with 91 events, 73 of which are free, from 4-26 September 2020.

Adorned with party hats and perched atop iconic Brisbane structures will be six giant Gouldian Finches, created by internationally renowned artist Florentijn Hofman. The colourful Australian native birds will offer messages of hope for residents and visitors.

Following the Brisbane Festival, the city will welcome back another entertainment-focused event. On 21-22 October, the BigSound live music festival and conference will return with a revised program to entertain, inform and inspire music industry participants to rebuild and re-emerge from the COVID-19 crisis.

In another sign of green shoots for Brisbane’s events industry, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) reopened to host events in August.

Awarded by Meetings & Events Australia as the country’s best for banqueting and catering, BCEC is offering flexibility for small to larger events with its 44 meeting rooms and event spaces.

Its Site Specific COVID Safe Plan is integrated with VenueShield, a new environmental hygiene protocol developed

by BCEC’s parent group, ASM Global.

Cover story

Additionally, the BCEC Safe Event Guideline assists clients in planning their events and encompasses all the necessary health and hygiene safeguards, food safety measures and social distancing required under the current opening conditions.

Juliet Alabaster, general manager of business and major events at Brisbane Economic Development Agency, the city’s convention bureau, says the return of events is an encouraging sign for the events industry and related hospitality, tourism and servicesector businesses.

“While challenges remain, there is a cautious sense of optimism in Brisbane as we take steady steps towards staging more face-to-face meetings and events,” says Alabaster.

“We are focused on helping the industry to safely reinvigorate its love of events and, when the time is right, welcome back interstate and international delegates to our open-air, green city.”

Alabaster says a surge in infrastructure investment and new experiences has positioned Brisbane well for long-term economic recovery.

“Along with a range of new luxury hotels, all with unique event offerings, other venues such as the Sofitel Brisbane Central and Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane have renovated to unveil fresh new meeting spaces,” she says.

“It will take time for business events to resemble what they once were, so for now we are embracing the events we can host and are working with our clients to plan for the future.”

Planning an event in Brisbane?

Contact the Brisbane EDA Business Events team via choosebrisbane.com.au. n

2

3

“We are focused on helping the industry to safely reinvigorate its love of events and, when the time is right, welcome back interstate and international delegates to our open-air, green city.”

– Juliet Alabaster 1. The Calile 2. E mporium Hotel South Bank 3. W Brisbane’s WET Deck Terrace 4. B risbane Convention & Exhibition Centre 5. The Messengers of Brisbane will feature throughout Brisbane Festival

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5 www.spicenews.com.au 9

Insight

Under pressure With work and life pressures at an all-time high, there’s never been a more important time to check on ourselves and those around us. By Brittney Levinson.

M

ore than three quarters of Australians say their mental health has worsened since the COVID-19 outbreak began, a new study by the Black Dog Institute has found.

The survey looked into the anxiety levels of more than 5,000 people between late March and early April 2020, revealing sobering statistics on the impact of COVID-19 on Australians.

The pandemic has significantly disrupted the way people live, work and interact, and for event professionals, the shutdown of events has resulted in new pressures and stress factors.

Chelsea Pottenger, founder and director of EQ Minds and mental health ambassador, says these pressures, coupled with a constant stream of negativity and dramatic uncertainty are “quite a recipe for disaster”.

“I’m really concerned that when challenged to a great degree people need support more than ever yet it’s really easy to become disconnected, especially while we are isolated and remote,” she says.

“It’s really important to seek help, but it’s also important for all of us to reach out to ask if people are doing okay. I also really worry about people leaders too who have their own problems, but also need to consider all their staff who each have their own unique situation.”

In an effort to improve mental health awareness within the workplace, AV and event production company Novatech recently put one of its key staff through an accredited course in Mental Health First Aid, supported by CrewCare, Support Act and Griffith University.

The online training equips staff with tools and responses to offer initial support and ensure best practice when dealing with mental health in the workplace. Novatech operations manager Liz Schoemaker says the training opened her eyes up to the different types of mental health issues people might be facing.

10 Spice Spring 2020

“It was very insightful and it gave me the tools to identify when someone is developing problems or dealing with a mental crisis and then being able to approach them and provide that initial support,” she says.

Schoemaker says businesses should consider the training in the same way they consider regular first aid training.

“I think it’s very important for businesses to do the training because awareness is key,” she says.

“Early detection and treatment is the best course of action to be able to assist someone.

“The course has added an extra layer of support and even just making our staff aware that we’re able to provide this, I think is a very big relief on them.”

For those who may be struggling with their mental health, Pottenger says there’s an array of helpful resources and hotlines available.

“Most companies that I’ve worked with have their own EAP [employee assistance program], and then there’s organisations such as R U OK?, Lifeline or the Gidget Foundation that are fantastic,” she says.

To help professionals stay positive and productive while working from home during COVID-19, Pottenger urges people to prioritise exercise, healthy eating, sleep, hygiene and some form of stress management, such as meditation. She encourages people to prioritise their mental health as they do physical health.

“I really hope people feel confident to speak up to their GP if they are noticing low mood or any forms of anxiety and depression,” she says.

“Clinical psychologists and therapists are experts in the space. I feel like we need to start talking about going to therapy like we hit the gym, that is how normal the conversation needs to be.”

If you or someone you know needs help, call: Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36

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REGISTER NOW ATTEND IN PERSON OR VIRTUALLY FROM ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD! Registration is now open for the FREE expo or to purchase your discounted all-day or session tickets to the conference program. Limited discount tickets are available.

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by

Technology

COVID-safe tech

With a renewed spotlight on hygiene comes a new wave of technology to keep delegates safe at business events of the future, writes Brittney Levinson.

I

f you cast your mind back to 12 months ago when futurists were predicting the top tech trends to watch, thermal imaging, social distancing wearables or sanitising gadgets certainly weren’t on the agenda.

But fast forward to today where hygiene and health are an organiser’s top priority, those are just a handful of the technology innovations to surface in 2020. Here, we take a deep dive into some of the technology you can expect to see as events return to the fore in a post-COVID world.

Thermal imaging

ABOVE: Brightgreen UV-C ceiling lights TOP RIGHT: Congress Rental’s thermal imaging in action RIGHT: Harry the Hirer’s social distancing e-badges 12 Spice Spring 2020

Thermal imaging is one form of COVID-safe technology that has surfaced in recent months.

Designed to take delegates temperatures as they enter a venue, thermal imaging can identify people with high temperatures in a non-invasive way, reducing the risk of COVID-19 within an event.

Amid the pandemic, audio visual supplier Congress Rental has begun supplying thermal imaging technology for the events sector. Set up at the entrance of a venue, the scanners can capture up to 30 people’s temperature per second as they pass through in single file, with an accuracy of 0.3 degrees celsius.

Congress Rental managing director Jeremy Ducklin says the key to its accuracy is a fixed temperature module, called a black body, that sits behind every camera frame.

“As the person walks past, the black body is always in the background making a comparison between the black body temperature and the body temperature of the person.”

Attendees that are found to have a high temperature can be easily identified and provided with further testing or denied entry to the event.

Already, the product has been deployed at a handful of events, including a large consumer exhibition in New Zealand.

As the technology evolves, Ducklin says it will be particularly useful for moving high volumes of people in and out of venues and stadiums.

While he doesn’t expect thermal imaging to become mandatory for events, Ducklin says it will become an optional added level of security for planners.

“There’s all these different levels and layers of security that you can add on,” he says.

“The more layers your event has, the more comfortable people will feel and the more likely they are to come back to events.”

UV-C disinfection UV-C light, a non-chemical disinfectant that kills bacteria, is emerging as a sanitising solution for hotels, convention centres and other public spaces amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

When COVID-19 hit, Australian-based UV-C specialist GERMii re-engineered its equipment to offer handheld and chamber devices to treat a range of spaces. Founder Shan Patterson says the technology is becoming more popular as companies realise the growing need to protect staff and attendees.

“We particularly recognise, with extensive events backgrounds ourselves, that just one outbreak for an event centre can cause serious impact and we want to be able to help mitigate that risk,” he says.

Technology

“It’s about playing our role in this pandemic and working with our clients to do what we can so that together we can get back to business.”

– Paul Elliott

GO-GO GADGET! Expect to see these gadgets and tech as events return.

Hand sanitiser units

enough to fit on a lanyard, plastic

No event is COVID-safe without a surplus of

door openers may become the norm

hand sanitiser for delegates to use. Expect

for event-goers.

to see branded units placed at entries and exits, as well as high-touch areas like cafés.

PPE vending machines

Door opening gadgets

Melbourne company Techbox Australia

Forgot your mask or hand sanny?

Many doors in large event venues are

has adapted its vending machines at a

automated but for those that aren’t,

number of Aussie convention centres to

there’s a new gadget in town. Small

dispense COVID-safe supplies.

Melbourne-based lighting design company Brightgreen offers a range of UV-C ceiling lights designed to kill viruses in offices and hospitality venues during overnight disinfection cycles.

While UV-C exposure can cause damage to humans, Brightgreen CEO David O’Driscoll says his company has mitigated the risk by linking the lights to presence monitors and making the system fully automated.

The lights can also be used in elevators to destroy airborne pathogens or installed in escalator handrails to sanitise on each rotation.

“It’s an ongoing product evolution as we step up our COVID response,” says O’Driscoll.“We want to contribute to the community and we’re developing new products as the situation calls for them.”

Social distancing wearables Wearable technology, while not a new concept, is emerging in an event landscape to assist delegates maintain appropriate social distancing at events.

Event supplier Harry the Hirer recently trialled its new social distancing e-badges at the National Convention Centre Canberra (NCCC), a first for the region and Australia.

On arrival, delegates were given a lanyard or wristband that was programmed to alert them when they were within 1.5 metres of another person, either with a gentle vibration, flashing light or subtle tone.

Harry the Hirer state manager for NSW Paul Elliott says the e-badges take existing technology and apply them in a new, unique way for the event industry.

“The intention was to provide an initiative that can help the industry get back to work,” he says.

“It’s about playing our role in this pandemic and working with our clients to do what we can so that together we can get back to business.”

The trial received a positive review from NCCC general manager Stephen Wood, who says the tech provides a noninvasive reminder for delegates to keep their distance.

“It’s taking people a little bit of time, particularly in a meeting environment, to get used to what one and a half metres means,” he says.

The wearables can also be programmed to a particular length of time, for example only alerting the wearer after they’ve been in close proximity to another delegate after 10 minutes.

“It’s about controlling your longer exposure to people and it allows delegates to far more easily manage their own experience,” says Wood.

Following the trial, Harry the Hirer is now looking to further develop the technology to include contact tracing abilities. Beyond COVID-19, the e-badges have future use in geo-mapping to gather data on where and how delegates move throughout a venue.

Elliott says while the devices were initially specific to business events, they have potential use for large-scale public events such as the Grand Prix or Melbourne Cup. “We’re not trying to overcomplicate it, we’re looking for accuracy, efficiency and application of a device that’s universal,” he says. n

www.spicenews.com.au 13

Advertorial ATC venues offer spectacular views

Turning an event into an occasion As the event industry restarts, planners will be tasked with creating memorable occasions that really make an impact.

A

s we inch closer to the restarting of events, corporate teams are preparing to host their first gatherings since the pandemic.

Expectations will be high for these first events back, so planners will be tasked with turning any corporate event, whether it’s a team dinner, Christmas gathering or conference, into a memorable occasion that leaves a lasting impression on guests.

For the team at the Australian Turf Club (ATC), which operates four prestigious venues stretching from the Eastern Suburbs to Sydney’s West, creating an impressive event all starts with the venue.

ATC’s two hero venues, Royal Randwick and Rosehill Gardens, have played host to some of the most memorable events since 1833 and are well-versed in delivering memorable occasions.

Today, ATC’s ethos is to ensure every event is befitting of a royal standard. The event spaces at Royal Randwick and Rosehill Gardens offer exclusivity with licenses to 2am and enviable outlooks over the city skyline or perfectly manicured grounds.

Exquisite flourishes It’s the finer details that take an event from ordinary to extraordinary and ATC is renowned for adding unique touches to make any event unforgettable. Think a Champagne moment at the Moët Tuk Tuk, a private venue tour, cooking class or a photo opportunity with one of the Clerk of the Course horses.

Fit for a queen ATC are renowned for playing host to dazzling corporate celebrations and social occasions, a reputation that was reinforced when Queen Elizabeth II visited Royal Randwick in the Eastern Suburbs three times between the 1950s and the 1990s. On her final visit in 1992, she officially granted ATC permission to call the racecourse Royal Randwick.

14 Spice Spring 2020

The Moët Tuk Tuk will add a sophisticated touch to any event

Food and beverage is another makeor-break component of any event, and it’s something ATC venues are known for nailing time and time again. The awardwinning culinary teams are committed to producing locally driven menus, paired with premium beverages and attentive service to impress your guests. Whether it’s a plated meal, canapés or conference catering, ATC can tailor the food and beverage experience to suit your event.

State-of-the-art technology ATC recently unveiled a $6.5 million technology platform at both Royal Randwick and Rosehill Gardens including 800 digital displays, two experiential LED Cubes and 700 square metres of high-impact LED. The upgraded digital platforms allow brands and corporates to engage with audiences in new ways.

With exquisite spaces, premium service and plenty of experience up their sleeves, the team at ATC know how to turn any event into an unforgettable occasion.

Enquire about your next celebration or party with the Australian Turf Club. To speak with an event specialist, please contact: meetingsandevents@australianturfclub.com.au 1300 729 668 australianturfclub.com.au

Technology

Virtually connected Three tech leaders share their expertise on the opportunities and challenges of virtual and hybrid events and why they believe the future is (partly) online. By Brittney Levinson.

T

he impact of COVID-19 and the ensuing halt on in-person events has seen a sharp rise in virtual events, those delivered fully online, and hybrid events, which combines both in-person and virtual components. With organisations looking to take their conferences and meetings online, the industry has seen a new wave of virtual event platforms emerge, creating new opportunities for engagement and audience growth.

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, event software provider EventsAIR launched its new virtual events platform OnAIR with the goal to encapsulate all the elements of an in-person event.

“It’s not just about delivering content like a Zoom session,” says EventsAIR CEO Trevor Gardiner.“It’s really about engagement and creating a memorable experience, long-term connections and an exchange of ideas.”

Jomablue CEO David Haysom-McDowell

Touchpoint, which traditionally provides on-site registration and technology services for events, was thankful to find demand for their services has remained strong, despite the move to virtual.

“Pre-COVID, we very much specialised in event services and bridging the gap for event organisers between event operations and event technology,” says managing director Chris Buckley.

“Very quickly we realised it’s really the same sweet spot for us – it’s just the virtual landscape rather than the in-person events.”

Event technology provider Jomablue has found success with its new virtual platform, Jomablue Community, which aims to deliver events that put the audience first.

“Where you used to go to a summit-style event and engage with the brand for a day, now you’re able to engage with that event for several weeks,” says CEO David Haysom-McDowell.

Touchpoint managing director Chris Buckley

EventsAIR CEO Trevor Gardiner

www.spicenews.com.au 15

Technology

“My advice to meeting planners is to first of all understand that this is absolutely the future and the way to get going is to be brave and actually put on an event."

- Trevor Gardiner

“It’s about creating good, engaging content and content that is on the money for the person, rather than this broad stroke approach to someone’s engagement.”

Greater reach without the eco impact One of the most significant opportunities for virtual and hybrid events is the ability to reach new and greater audiences.

Events that were once based in metro cities can now reach regional attendees, and similarly, national events now have the potential to go global.

Gardiner says in previous years organisers might have been reluctant to incorporate a virtual component due to concerns that it would strip revenue from the in-person event. However, he says attendance rates at virtual events are proving to be higher than at their in-person counterparts and in some cases, two or three times higher.

“There’s a lot of people coming into this industry “There’s a huge capacity to thinking there’s lots of money to be made and they’re increase the size of the event pushing all sorts of products to event organisers,” for their client, if they can be warns EventsAIR’s Trevor Gardiner. He says avoid quite strategic about how they being influenced by the flashy marketing and do it and that’s really about being opt for a reputable provider that meets all the privacy and security requirements. creative in how you construct an agenda,” he says.

Already the OnAIR platform has delivered major international conferences, including an association event based in

Hot tip: Don’t be influenced by ‘flashy marketing’

16 Spice Spring 2020

Hobart that ran around the clock for five days to accommodate a global audience.

Gardiner says the growth opportunities are especially beneficial for associations, who by adopting a virtual component can attract attendees who otherwise couldn’t afford to attend.

Despite the opportunity to attract larger attendee numbers, virtual and hybrid events have the ability to lower the environmental footprint of a meeting. Haysom-McDowell says this evolution of events is an opportunity for the industry to have “far more sensitivity to the environment”and hopes it will make people reconsider their need to travel as often.

“I really hope that we are more considerate of the environment when we return to in-person events and don’t forget that this is an opportunity to reach lots of new markets and to be better for the environment,” he says.

Be brave and jump right in For organisations or associations looking to take their events virtual, Buckley says the first thing to consider is your program format.

“Just because something worked in an inperson format doesn’t mean it will translate into a virtual or hybrid format,”he says.

Avoid the exhausting full-day, multiday programs and consider a staggered approach that recreates a live, connected

Technology experience. Live polls, Q&As, live chats or video functionalities are effective ways to engage attendees and recreate the live event experience.

“Think about how you can give people the sense they are watching something alongside other delegates and that it’s actually a conference they’re attending, rather than a video they could watch on YouTube any time,” says Buckley.

The best way for planners to transition to virtual events is to embrace the change and start with some test events first, says Gardiner.

“My advice to meeting planners is to first of all understand that this is absolutely the future and the way to get going is to be brave and actually put on an event,” he says.

“We ran a whole lot of test events as we were building the OnAIR platform.

Some were spectacular failures, but a huge learning experience for us and a chance for customers to get their mind around what a virtual conference is all about.

“Once they’ve done their first virtual event, all their skills as event managers kick

in and they realise a lot of the fundamentals absolutely still apply to a virtual event.”

The future is hybrid

Hot tip: Content is king

While virtual events are necessary right now, the consensus is that once people can meet in person again, Much like in-person events, good content is the they will – though the events won’t key to any successful virtual event. Better yet, content can be personalised to each attendee. look quite the same.

Jomablue’s David Haysom-McDowell says “The moment people can meet “automated content triggers” can ensure physically again I think as humans we attendees are shown relevant content for will always tend to do that,”says Buckley. a more tailored experience.

“Having said that, there are elements that have come out of this experience with virtual meetings that have innovated the event landscape and are here to stay.”

Haysom-McDowell says there is a great opportunity to embrace the change that has been forced upon the industry.

“Instead of just delivering events that are an in-person, single or two-day activity, I think this is a fantastic opportunity to seize upon the moment and say events don’t have to be a moment in time anymore, events can be a journey,” he says. n

by

eventsair.com www.spicenews.com.au 17

Advertorial

“In addition to being a contactless and efficient way to register attendee arrivals, facial recognition provides an extra level of security.”

Registration revolution Event registration is evolving amid a changing landscape.

S

elf-service event registration isn’t a new concept, in fact it’s become somewhat of a prerequisite for many event planners in recent years, offering a seamless and efficient check-in experience, saving organisers valuable time and resources.

Known for their sleek, self-service registration kiosks, Sprintr by AV1 is aware of the need to eliminate as many physical touchpoints at an event, as hygiene and safety become the top priority for organisers and delegates alike.

Utilising the QR scanning functionality, attendees simply walk up to a Sprintr kiosk, scan using their own device and collect their badge. The process is quick and efficient, meaning minimal queues and crowds, putting delegates at ease.

With attendee safety top of mind, Sprintr has been working to evolve and enhance the technology to offer a COVID-safe check-in option for delegates all over the world.

Facial recognition on the rise TOP LEFT: Sprintr by AV1 kiosks at the 2019 PCOA Conference TOP RIGHT: Attendees can scan a QR code for contactless check-in ABOVE: Contactless registration for COVID-safe events

18 Spice Spring 2020

While Sprintr kiosks have had contactless capabilities since they first launched, more recently the team has been developing even more touchless offerings such as facial recognition.

“Attendees photos are uploaded into the software upon registration and when they arrive at a kiosk the camera recognises their face, immediately

printing their personalised badge,” explains Sprintr

by AV1 CEO Keith Findlay.

“In addition to being a contactless and efficient way to register attendee arrivals, facial recognition provides an extra level of security.”

As event technology continues to evolve, Findlay expects facial recognition to become more widely adopted across the Australian events industry.

“Whilst some event organisers and conferencegoers maintain some fears around privacy, as these concerns are addressed through regulation and safe measures are introduced to protect data, we believe facial recognition will be more widely used for event registration in the future,” he says.

Capture data in real time Attendance tracking features and real-time analytics are another benefit to self-service registration kiosks, says Findlay.

“Now and in the future, it’s even more important for organisers to know who is in attendance at their event at any one time,” he says.

“Sprintr makes capturing this data extremely easy and that’s what organisers love.”

Enquire with Sprintr for more details or for a quote: sprintrbyav1.com hello@sprintrbyav1.com +61 2 8310 0355

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Please contact the Australian Turf Club for details and bookings: 1300 729 668 meetingsandevents@australianturfclub.com.au australianturfclub.com.au

HOT 100 SERVICES & SUPPLIERS

There’s no time like the present to highlight the amazing work of event industry businesses all over Australia. Here are your Hot 100 Services and Suppliers, as voted by Spice readers.

Funktionality Events and Experiences

Best event management company AURORA CREATIVE AGENCY auroracreativeagency.com | @auroracreativeagency BELLE LAIDE EVENTS ble.com.au | @bellelaideevents FLYING RUBY EVENTS flyingruby.com.au | @flyingrubyevents FORUM GROUP EVENTS & MARKETING forumgroupevents.com.au | @forumgroup_ THE PRODUCTION HOUSE EVENTS theproductionhouseevents.com.au | @theproductionhouseevents

Best event technology company AV1 av1.com.au | @av1_australia CREATE ENGAGE createengage.com.au | @createengage ENCORE EVENT TECHNOLOGIES encore-anzpac.com | @encoreapac EVENTFROG eventfrog.com.au | EventFrog Australia NW GROUP nwgroup.com.au | @nw_group_australasia

Best AV or staging company

“

SPICE READERS LOVE: Aurora Creative Agency

“The best creative minds combined with a super hard working attitude.”

Encore Event Technologies

EventFrog

“Reliable, professional and consistent in their event deliveries.”

AUSTAGE austageevents.com.au | @austageevents BLUE SHADOW GROUP blueshadowgroup.com.au | @blueshadowgroupofficial ENCORE EVENT TECHNOLOGIES encore-anzpac.com | @encoreapac SCENE CHANGE scenechange.com.au | @scenechangeav TECHNICAL DIRECTION COMPANY tdc.com.au | @technicaldirectioncompany

Create Engage

Best virtual event platform/provider AV1 CONTROLROOM av1.com.au | @av1_australia CREATE ENGAGE CREATE LIVE PRO createengage.com.au | @createengage ENCORE EVENT TECHNOLOGIES encore-anzpac.com | @encoreapac PAV EVENTS pav.com.au | @hellopav ZOOM zoom.us | @zoom

AV1 ControlRoom

www.spicenews.com.au 21

“

SPICE READERS LOVE: SongDivision

“They use the magic of songwriting to bring teams together.”

Complete Function Hire

“Caring, personal and professional service every time.”

Best team building provider BE CHALLENGED bechallenged.com.au | @bechallenged CHEEKY FOOD EVENTS cheekyfoodevents.com | @cheekyfoodevents HIDDEN DOOR EXPERIENCES hiddendoor.com.au | @hiddendoor_australia SONGDIVISION songdivision.com | @songdivision XPERIENCES xperienceshq.com | @xperiences.hq

Best event equipment hire company COMPLETE FUNCTION HIRE cfhire.com.au | @completefunctionhire Harry The Hirer

GECKO geckoonline.com.au |

@geckoaus

HARRY THE HIRER harrythehirer.com.au | @harrythehirer PAGES EVENT HIRE pageseventhire.com.au | @pageseventhire VALIANT valiant.com.au | @valiant.events

Best event caterer THE BIG GROUP thebiggroup.com.au | @thebiggrouphospitalityagency THE FRESH COLLECTIVE thefreshcollective.com.au | @thefreshcollectiveau

Laissez-faire Catering

LAISSEZ-FAIRE CATERING laissez.com.au | @laissez_faire_catering PETER ROWLAND peterrowland.com.au | @peterrowlandau TRIPPAS WHITE GROUP trippaswhitegroup.com.au | @trippaswhitegroup

Best beverage or bar supplier KOMBI KEG kombikeg.com/australia |

@kombikeg

LIQUID INFUSION liquidinfusion.com.au | @liquidinfusion PINEAPPLE JAM pineapplejam.com.au | @pineapplejamhospitality SWEET&CHILLI sweetandchilli.com | @sweetandchillidrinks Pineapple Jam

22 Spice Spring 2020

TROLLEYD trolleyd.com | @trolleyd

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Hot 100 Skylighter Fireworks

Sol RED

Best theming, props and design supplier FUNKTIONALITY EVENTS AND EXPERIENCES funktionality.com.au | @funktionality

Best fireworks, lighting or visual effects company THE ELECTRIC CANVAS theelectriccanvas.com.au | @the_electric_canvas

JAK CREATIVE & EVENTS jakcreative.com.au | @jakcreative

FOTI FIREWORKS fotifireworks.com.au | @fotifireworks

THE PROP HOUSE theprophouse.com.au | @theprophouse_

JETPACK EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT jetpackentertainment.com.au | @jetpackevents

SOL RED CREATIVE EVENT SERVICES solred.com.au | @solredcreativeeventservices

SHOWFX showfx.com.au | @showfxaustralia

STAGEKINGS stagekings.com.au | @stagekings_au

SKYLIGHTER FIREWORKS skylighter.com.au | @skylighterfireworks

Camera Creations

Milestone Creative Australia

Best photographer or videographer

Best PR and marketing company

CAMERA CREATIONS cameracreations.com.au | @cameracreationssydney

BASTION EBA bastioneba.com.au | @bastioneba

JAMES THOMAS PHOTO jamesthomasphoto.com | @james.thomas.photo

FRANK PR au.welcometofrank.com | @welcometofrankaus

MR.W PHOTOGRAPHY mrwphotography.com | @mrwigleyphotography

MILESTONE CREATIVE AUSTRALIA milestonecreative.com.au | @milestonecreatv

ONEILL PHOTOGRAPHICS oneillphotographics.com.au | @oneillphotographics ZOOM IMAGES zoomimages.com.au | @zoomimages 24 Spice Spring 2020

THRIVE PR + COMMUNICATIONS thrivepr.com.au | @thrivepr ZADRO AGENCY zadroagency.com.au | @zadro_agency

Hot 100

“

SPICE READERS LOVE: Brihony Dawson

“Great ability to interact with a crowd.”

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EVENTS Virtual Event Platform | Hybrid Events Contactless Registration Kiosks Event Technology solutions available for your events now and in the future.

Scott Pullen

Best individual performer/speaker/DJ BEN PRICE benpricecomedy.com | @benpricecomedy BRIHONY DAWSON brihonydawson.com | @ladyhoodmusic RODD RICHARDS roddrichardspresents.com.au | @roddrichardspresents SCOTT PULLEN scottpullen.com | @thescottpullen SHELLY HORTON shellshockedmedia.com | @shellyhorton1 Jetpack Events & Entertainment

Best entertainment agency FUNKTIONALITY EVENTS AND EXPERIENCES funktionality.com.au | @funktionality THE GROOVE ACADEMY thegrooveacademy.com.au | @thegrooveacademyaus INSTINCT EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT instinctmusic.com.au | @instinct_events_entertainment JETPACK EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT jetpackentertainment.com.au | @jetpackevents ONSTAGE ENTERTAINMENT onstage.com.au | @onstage.entertainment

WWW.EVENTFROG.COM. AU

Best exhibition construction company DECORATIVE EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS decorativeevents.com.au | @decorativeevents EXPO CENTRIC expocentric.com.au | @expocentric HARRY THE HIRER harrythehirer.com.au | @harrythehirer_expos Pyramid Displays

MORETON HIRE moreton.net.au | @moretonhire PYRAMID DISPLAYS pyramiddisplays.com.au | Pyramid Displays

Best amusement hire ACTION EVENTS actionevents.com | @actioneventsaustralia AUSTRALIAN AMUSEMENTS australianamusements.com | @austamusements Pyramid Displays

BUBBLING WITH ENERGY ENTERTAINMENT bubblingwithenergy.info | @bubblingwithenergy

Expo Centric Frankly Social

FRANKLY SOCIAL wearefrankly.com.au | @frankly_social RENTERTAINMENT rentertainment.com.au | @rentertainmentaus

Best support services THE CONFERENCE SHOP theconferenceshop.com.au | @theconferenceshop EVENT DRAW eventdraw.com | @eventdraw

“

SPICE READERS LOVE: Murrays Coaches

“Professional, on-time service.”

The Conference Shop

“Great team, great energy and brilliant service!”

EZITAG SYSTEMS ezitag.com | @ezitagsystems THE MONDAY GROUP mondaygroup.com.au | @themondaygroup PRIAVA priava.com | @priava

Best transport company AGILITY agility.com | @agilityaustralasia CTL EVENT MANAGEMENT ctl.com.au | @ctl_transport_logistics LIMOSO limoso.com.au | @limosoaustralia MURRAYS COACHES murrays.com.au | @murrays.com.au

The Conference Shop

26 Spice Spring 2020

PALMER’S COACHES palmerscoaches.com.au | @palmerscoachesandtours

Hot 100

The Goods Tube

Best corporate gift or merchandise supplier

Style By Nature

Best event florist

BEST GIFT CARDS bestgiftcards.com.au | @bestrestaurantsaustralia

DESIGNS BY BOOSHI booshi.com.au | @designsbybooshi

THE GOODS TUBE thegoodstube.com | @thegoodstube

FLOWERTRAP flowertrap.com.au | @flower_trap_blooms

THE HAMPER EMPORIUM thehamperemporium.com.au | @thehamperemporium

KATE DAWES FLOWER DESIGN katedawesflowerdesign.com.au | @katedawesflowerdesign

HONEYCOMB AGENCY honeycombagency.com.au | @honeycomb_agency

STYLE BY NATURE stylebynature.com.au | @stylebynatureflowers_

MERCHGIRLS merchgirls.com.au | @merchgirls

SUSAN AVERY FLOWERS AND EVENTS susanavery.com.au | @susanavery

COVID-safe venues

Clean slate

A fresh wave of hygiene and safety guidelines are being introduced across Australian venues to ensure they’re ready to welcome events back again soon.

V

enues right across Australia have been making use of their downtime in events to overhaul their hygiene and safety protocol in line with new COVID-safe guidelines.

While each state and territory follows their respective protocols, the four main pillars are the same: physical distancing, hygiene, cleaning and contact tracing.

Across the 64 venues within the Village Roadshow Theme Parks (VRTP) portfolio, COVID safety is the top priority as the Queensland properties begin welcoming event delegates back.

“All our venues, outdoor and indoor, are open for conferences and events across VRTP, including all conference rooms and accommodation at Sea World Resort,”says VRTP head of conferences and events Caroline Duveau-Clayton.

“Since restrictions eased in June we have been hosting conferences and 28 Spice Spring 2020

events and we are well and truly ready to welcome groups.”

The venues are working in line with the Queensland Government’s COVID Safe Business Framework to ensure the safety and wellbeing of guests and team members.

“This plan includes maintaining social distancing, heightened cleaning and operational standards to ensure cleanliness and thorough sanitisation in all our venues and team training,” says Duveau-Clayton.

Meanwhile on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas has also been revisiting and elevating its hygiene protocols under Accor’s new ALLSAFE label.

The new initiative provides validation of enhanced cleaning standards, team member training, food safety standards and new guest physical distancing measures.

ABOVE: Aerial view of Sea World Resort BELOW: Sea World Resort, a Village Roadshow Theme Park

REMEMBER WHEN EVERYTHING WENT TO PLAN?

Located within a lush and serene rainforest, Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas is home to one of the largest conference and event facilities in Queensland’s beautiful Sunshine Coast, offering a range of flexible event spaces, the latest multimedia technology, hatted on-site restaurant, and the highest level of guest service, all just a few minutes’ walk from Hastings Street and Noosa’s stunning main beach, Laguna Bay.

SAVE 20%* ON YOUR DAY DELEGATE PACKAGE & ACCOMMODATION YOUR HEALTH AND SAFETY IS OUR ABSOLUTE PRIORITY Accor has now established some of the most stringent cleaning standards and operational procedures in the world of hospitality to ensure guest safety, with the introduction of intensified hygiene and prevention measures.

Accor’s ALLSAFE label, developed with and vetted by Bureau Veritas, represents our new elevated cleanliness protocols and standards, and provides assurance that these standards have been met.  Social distancing enforced in all common areas and meeting spaces  New virtual/hybrid technology available  Contactless check-in and check-out  Sanitiser provided in meeting space and public areas and many more

Experience Peppers.

Call (07) 5455 2200 or email noosa.events@peppers.com.au 33A Viewland Drive, Noosa Heads, QLD *Terms and conditions apply. Valid for new events only, must be booked by 31 December 2020. Block out dates apply. Accommodation discount only available in one and two bedroom apartments, Sunday-Thursday and must take place by 30 June 2021. Not valid with any other offer. Subject to availability. Minimum $5000 spend. Quote ‘2020 offer’ when enquiring to qualify for the discounted rates.

COVID-safe venues “We want to reassure all guests that we are prioritising the safety and wellbeing of our guests and team members every day,” says Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas executive assistant manager Scott Freund.

The resort has made various changes in its meeting and events spaces, including a review of all room setups, briefing staff on capacity restrictions and introducing attendee logs for contact tracing.

“All square metre, minimum table separation or table size maximums have been applied to event and meeting room setups with the team reviewing table setups and table top design to ensure we are meeting protocols,” says Freund.

“All meetings and event spaces and hightouch points are disinfected at all break periods, as well as having an appropriate number of hand sanitiser stations provided in event rooms.”

Changes to food and beverage have also been introduced, including adopting a service model rather than self-service and individually wrapped options in place of buffets.

South of the border, Sydney’s SMC Conference & Function Centre (SMC) has had stringent COVID-safe practices in place for some time now. Registered with NSW Government as a COVID-safe Business, the venue’s plan covers everything from social distancing requirements, regular sanitisation, catering protocols and staff training.

Back in April as the COVID-19 outbreak took hold of the country, SMC partnered with Create Engage and Audio Visual Events to develop ON AIR, purpose-built studios for virtual and hybrid events.

COVID-safe plans are in place across both the ON AIR studio and green room, and continue to evolve based on current health advice.

“The space is deep cleaned every morning and every evening, but as an extra measure all high-touch surfaces, such as lift buttons, railings, desks, tables are all cleaned on a regular schedule throughout each day,” says Create Engage director Tanya Brown.

“Sanitiser is a given for any strict hygiene procedures but ours is automated so no touching is required. For a bit of fun, we even have a branded ON AIR measurement ruler to highlight distancing to staff and clients in a visual way.”

While things may look a little different in event venues as a result of the pandemic, organisers and attendees can rest assured venue operators are doing everything they can to get people meeting again. n 30 Spice Spring 2020

ABOVE: Movie World Star Pavilion BELOW: Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas has overhauled its catering protocol BOTTOM: Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas

READY TO REOPEN Perth gets green light Plans are in place for the reopening of Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre in late August, with GM Nigel Keen saying “every precaution” will be taken to maintain the safety and wellbeing of patrons.

United front VenueShield, a comprehensive hygiene and safety protocol, will be rolled out across ASM Global venues worldwide, including Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, ICC Sydney and Darwin Convention Centre, just to name a few.

Melbourne gears up Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre has also launched its VenueSafe Plan, ensuring the venue is ready when it is safe to reopen.

SYDNEY’S MOST EXPERIENCED LIVE STREAM TEAM An ON AIR live stream is the only way to guarantee connection and engagement in this current COVID climate

www.onairstudio.com.au | Phone: 02 9284 2888 | Email: onair@smcfc.com.au

Destination Canberra might be small, but it’s a mighty destination that’s advancing its recovery in the hope of bringing events back soon.

By Brittney Levinson.

Vibe Hotel It seems the five-year-old Vibe Hotel hasn’t aged a day – the Guggenheim-inspired architecture and warm colour palette still invites guests in. Just steps away from the airport, the hotel offers 191 accommodation rooms and conference spaces for 120 people.

Forging ahead View of Canberra from the National Arboretum

C

anberra, Ngunnawal Country, has earned a reputation for its picturesque open landscapes and considered layout, but it’s the city’s innovation and forwardthinking approach that is set to leave a mark on the destination long after this global crisis is over.

Leading the charge Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Canberra has been at the forefront of health and safety innovations.

Canberra Airport was the first airport in Australia to trial body temperature scanning at security, while the National Convention Centre Canberra (NCCC) was chosen to trial new social 32 Spice Spring 2020

distancing technology by Harry the Hirer (read more on page 12).

After a successful initial trial of the social distancing e-badges, further developments are now underway to add a contact tracing element to the technology. Canberra Convention Bureau CEO Michael Matthews says the enhanced tech will give the government reassurance that “we’re doing everything we can to help them, should there be an outbreak.”

He says the COVID-safe measures will also help event organisers feel comfortable bringing groups to Canberra in the future.

“We’re trying to do things that we’re not being told to do but that we

Mercure Belconnen Mercure Canberra Belconnen has opened with 125 vibrant guest rooms, adjoining the Canberra Labor Club. Plans are underway to transform the top level of the hotel into a conference space with potential capacity for more than 300 guests.

Destination think are important to help people understand we’re adhering to all the health protocols and we’re going that step beyond to do what we can to make them feel like this is a good, safe place to come,” says Matthews.

New developments await Alongside Canberra’s existing state-of-the-art hotels, conference venues and national attractions, an influx of new development is on the horizon to further enhance the territory’s business events appeal.

The 132-key Adina Apartment Hotel development is well underway in the new suburb of Denman Prospect, while plans are in the works for a Meriton property in the CBD with more than 200 luxury suites.

Refurbishments are also planned or underway for a number of venues.

Canberra Rex Hotel is refreshing its rooms and adding new dining and bar concepts, Crowne Plaza Canberra has a three-stage renovation plan that includes adding a Holiday Inn Express and the NCCC is getting an internal repaint.

Meanwhile, the National Arboretum has major plans to develop the site further with a new accommodation offering, a 180-seat restaurant and an outdoor live event space.

While some delays on these projects are inevitable due to COVID-19, Matthews says there are still about 2,000 new hotel rooms projected for Canberra in the next couple of years.

“We’ve got new hotels coming and that’s why business events as part

of the [COVID-19] recovery will be really important, to support that new inventory,” he says.

Ready to welcome events back For organisers looking to plan their initial comeback events, Canberra is perhaps one of the most ideal destinations in the country, not only due to the city’s innovation but its design.

“The opportunity in Canberra is that it is a well spread out, well-designed city, which enables you to have a high degree of control over your delegate movements,” explains Matthews.

“Without that congestion you can really manage the experience, which reduces risk.”

As the home of the Australian Parliament, Canberra’s access to key government decision-makers, industry and association leaders is also set to be a drawcard for business events groups once the industry gets back on its feet. When the time comes for groups to meet again, Matthews expects activity to come back slowly with reduced numbers.

“Then when people start to feel comfortable and they feel like the destination, the venues, hotels and airlines are all doing the right thing to manage their safety, I think people will then start to come back,” he says.

“Because when you meet in person you can accomplish a lot more and I think people will quickly see what they’ve been missing and will slowly return.” n

Midnight Hotel Located in the buzzing Braddon district, Midnight Hotel boasts 199 brand new guest rooms and event spaces for 120 delegates.

Part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, this stunning property also offers a contemporary yet cosy bar and restaurant.

Bradley Cummings Photography

Australian Parliament House Put your delegates in front of decision-makers and leaders at one of the few parliamentary buildings in the world that offers private use of its function spaces. The versatile spaces can cater to banquets for up to 650 guests or cocktail events for up to 1,000.

Pialligo Estate

Hotel Realm

Set on 110 acres, Pialligo Estate is a must-visit for corporate groups, with a range of dining and events spaces on offer. Pialligo Fields is the newest addition to the estate, offering a bright, rustic event space with views over the fields and Canberra skyline.

The luxury Hotel Realm offers 163 rooms and suites, alongside expansive event spaces. While the 800-capacity ballroom is ideal for larger gatherings, the High Courtyards are unique spaces for more intimate meetings, breakouts or private dinners. www.spicenews.com.au 33

Opinion

“We now have a multibillion-dollar industry on its knees and whilst many venues will survive, it’s the suppliers I’m most concerned about.”

CHANGE IN THE AIR

Event industry stalwart Peter Jones shares his predictions on how the event landscape will change post-pandemic.

T

here is a long list of world events that make us say “I remember what I was doing when that happened” and whilst they all had a massive impact, nothing has had a greater impact on our industry than Friday, 13 March 2020 at precisely 8.45am.

That was the moment the Australian Grand Prix was called off and it became the catalyst for what was about to happen. Four hours later the Prime Minister banned gatherings of over 500 people, which progressed to only 10 people and then none at all over the following weeks.

March seems like a lifetime ago and yet it hasn’t got any better; here in Victoria it’s even got worse. At the moment you can’t even visit your family or a friend, let alone go out and run an event. We now have a multi-billion-dollar industry on its knees and whilst many venues will survive, it’s the suppliers I’m most concerned about. AV companies, stylists, caterers, entertainers, logistics experts – the list goes on and they are all currently out of work.

34 Spice Spring 2020

Some of these suppliers have been able to change direction, but not all of them can. Many have just shut up shop for the time being but the big concern is what does it all look like in another three, six or 12 months, especially if we still cannot meet in large groups.

So what does this all mean for us?

1 There will be a new world of what clients want and expect from the industry. Clients will be asking how to do things differently and more cost effectively.

2 As many suppliers may not be able to operate at full capacity, organisations will need to look at their supply chain to ensure they can deliver the required service.

3 At the moment it’s all about being online, but not every event can work this way. I do believe we will get tired of virtual events and will want to go back to live experiences as soon as we can.

4 The next generation of graduates are in a harder position than anyone trying to get their foot in the door. We need to ensure they have the right skills and confidence in the industry.

5 Event and meeting organisers will be hesitant to put their full staff back on and will look more towards working with freelance staff than ever before.

6 The smaller events will come back first and vary from state to state, but my biggest fear is the time it takes for larger events in excess of 1,000 pax.

So all this said, it’s a matter of how best to redesign your business and be able to regroup and that’s exactly what I’m doing. I’ve gone from seven staff to three and if it wasn’t for JobKeeper I’d be a one-man band like I was 29 years ago.

I’m fortunate that I can ride this out for the time being, but one can’t sit back and just expect it all to magically return the way it was.

Organisations who have been running their own events pre-COVID-19 will likely return with smaller teams, as events will take so long to restart. They’ll be asking how to run events with two staff instead of seven. And that’s why I have launched PJSE Consulting at this time. Our aim is not to come in and run the event, but to help create a structure and strategy that allows organisations to deliver in the most cost-effective way possible.

Peter Jones Special Events will still have it’s ongoing role to play, but I believe this will be an area of the business that will grow over time. I’m even employing myself at the moment as PJSE Consulting is working with Peter Jones Special Events on how to operate in the new world. I’ll let you know if I’m happy with the results! n

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