Spice issue 98 Spring 2022

Issue 98 – Spring – 2022

HOT 100

The best services & suppliers revealed!

DESTINATIONS

Rockhampton Adelaide Brisbane Christchurch Northern Territory

THE FUTURE OF EVENT TECH Forward-thinking tips & trends

VICTORIA PAVILION AT MELBOURNE SHOWGROUNDS Bringing your events to life

MELBOURNE CUP LUNCHEON Celebrate the race that stops the nation at an iconic location TUESDAY 1ST NOVEMBER 2022 12:30 pm

to

4:00 pm

Inclusions:

5 Course Luncheon, overlooking the Domain Beverage Package Live Entertainment & Big Screen TV's Door Prizes & Sweeps TICKET PRICE Only $149pp (For groups of 10 or more)

Dining on the Domain

Strangers' Restaurant at NSW Parliament House 6 Macquarie Street, Sydney Limited availability Book Now 02 9230 2124 www.parliamentarycatering.com.au

Contents

36

Spring 2022

REGULARS 5

Going up, going down

6

New and noteworthy

8

Cover story: Victoria Pavilion How the Melbourne Showgrounds venue is bringing events to life.

34

Event law expert Matt Crouch gives you the checklist.

CASE STUDIES 36

08

22

came back with a bang.

The results are in for the top event

ICMSA visits Australia’s heartland

industry businesses of 2022.

The PCO brought its teams

The new frontiers of event tech

together in Alice Springs.

Hot 100: Services & Suppliers

Embracing the innovations of the future.

26

Mega venues and technology How leading large-scale venues

38

DESTINATIONS 42

packs a punch.

48

progressing at a rapid rate.

56

What to expect over the next few

32

48

Five ways to make your event more engaging Mums & Co’s Carrie Kwan shares her top tips.

Brisbane’s most beautiful venues Endless options and world

years on the aviation front.

TIPS

Adelaide: A city in transformation Collaborative, innovative and

OPINION Airline demand and the MICE industry

Remarkable Rockhampton This proud country town

are transforming their events.

30

Events Uncovered The beloved industry events

FEATURES 10

Five things to consider for your events contract

class facilities.

62

Check into Christchurch Where to meet, eat, play and stay in this cool and vibrant city.

66

Northern Territory Meaningful delegate experiences. spicenews.com.au 3

Editor’s letter

A time to flourish

W

Lana Bogunovich Editor Chairman Simon Grover Publisher Paul Wootton pwootton@intermedia.com.au Editor Lana Bogunovich lbogunovich@intermedia.com.au National Sales Team Katherine Ross, Charlotte Marshall Production Manager Jacqui Cooper jacqui@intermedia.com.au Production Assistant

hile every season is beautiful in its own way, spring is my favourite. Aside from the usual flowery cliches that would have Miranda Priestly rolling her eyes (“Florals, for spring? Groundbreaking.”), spring represents a time of transition, renewal and the hope that sprouts from new beginnings before it flourishes.

After the you-know-what of the last couple of years, a lot of transformation has taken place and the business events industry has emerged with fresh new offerings and a strong outlook.

The latest research from Tourism Australia says overseas decision makers are showing strong interest and intent to hold an event or incentive here over the next two years, with attributes such as being a safe destination, having clean cities with good infrastructure, quality accommodation options and an appealing climate contributing to this sentiment.

Add to these our excellent business events facilities, which decision makers have ranked number one in the world.

That ought to be applauded, as should the hardworking businesses and professionals in our annual Hot 100: Services and Suppliers on page 10.

As it’s also our annual tech issue, we speak to industry experts on the evolution of event tech on page 22 and look at how mega venues are pushing the creative boundaries on page 26.

Held fully in-person for the first time since 2019, Events Uncovered was back with a bang and we can’t wait to do it again next year – turn to page 32 for all the highlights.

Travel has also returned with a vengeance, taking me to Rockhampton (page 42) and Christchurch (page 62) for the first time. Both cities have so much on offer and know how to put on a fantastic event, whether it’s a Pop-Up Polo or a major trade event at the newest convention centre.

I also returned to Adelaide (page 48) and Brisbane (page 56) and was astounded by the transformative amount of new development since my last visit just a few years prior. Now that is groundbreaking.

Enjoy the destination inspiration along with everything else our spring issue has to offer!

ON THE COVER

Victoria Pavilion at Melbourne Showgrounds. Image credit: Melbourne Royal®

Spice Magazine Team Group sales and marketing manager Katherine Ross

Sales and marketing manager

Graphic designer

Charlotte Marshall

Alyssa Coundouris

Natasha Jara

+ 61 2 8586 6176

+61 2 8586 6216

+61 2 8586 6152

njara@intermedia.com.au

kross@intermedia.com.au

cmarshall@intermedia.com.au

alyssac@intermedia.com.au

Graphic Designer Alyssa Coundouris Prepress Tony Willson Subscriptions

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 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 Spring 2022

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by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

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Trends

Kindness With the event industry being one of the most stressful, a little bit of kindness goes a long way! From your suppliers to your delegates, make sure you sprinkle kindness through your event.

Immunity boosters

Augmented reality

Companies incorporating

AR glasses are perfect at road

Vitamin C juices and

shows and expos to make

turmeric shots to help boost

potential clients feel like they

immunity as well as açai

are having a personal site

bowls for antioxidants.

inspection while miles away.

Going up, going down Staff shortages Lead times

You know there is a staff shortage when a venue can't

While it’s exciting to have events

take your booking because

back in full swing, having two weeks

they don't have the staff!

to pull a full-scale conference together is testing even for an experienced event planner.

Attracting guests in winter With everyone so comfy working from home, it is hard to get attendees in person on a rainy day. Bring on summer!

spicenews.com.au 5

Upfront The Porter House Hotel – MGallery, Sydney

InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula Taking inspiration from its popular seaside location and the 1875 heritage building in which it resides, this coastal retreat-style hotel is bright and breezy with touches of Art Deco throughout.

There are 108 rooms and one- and two-bedroom suites within the original limestone building and newly built wing which features private outdoor terraces and penthouses. Onsite you’ll also find a 24-hour fitness centre, an expansive pool deck, thermal bathhouse and wellness centre, a beer garden, front bar, speakeasy venue and two restaurants, including seafood joint Audrey’s by Melbourne chef Scott Pickett. Meetings and events are well catered to with four spaces, including the restored Grand Ballroom which can host up to 150 guests. Event planners can also take advantage of the Insider Collection service, which offers a range of bespoke, locally inspired event and delegate experiences exclusive to InterContinental Meetings.

Located within the historic Porter House precinct on Castlereagh Street in Sydney’s CBD, this hotel occupies the first 10 floors of the new 36-storey mixed-use tower, with a four-level dining and bar destination housed within the restored 1870s heritage-listed building. The two buildings are connected via a walkway, creating a bridge between old and new, while the modern design pays homage to the location’s tobacco and leather merchant history – the hotel has even created a bespoke scented candle, capturing nostalgic notes of leather, smoke and florals. The 122 guest rooms and suites include six interconnecting rooms, six disability rooms and one pet-friendly room, and guests can enjoy a well-appointed fitness centre and heated pool surrounded by a rooftop garden. There are eight meeting rooms, accommodating up to 60 guests, as well as a range of private dining and function options, including two luxe dining spaces complete with fireplaces and libraries for 8-16 guests.

New + noteworthy New openings worth getting excited about Novotel Devonport, Tasmania Accor will open a newly built 187-room Novotel in Tasmania’s northwest, marking one of the most significant tourism investments in the region in years.

Conveniently located on the city’s waterfront close to the Spirit of Tasmania terminal, the hotel overlooks the Mersey River and has direct access to the paranaple convention centre. It will offer a variety of spacious, well-appointed accommodation options, including standard, superior and deluxe guestrooms, as well as executive suites. The 4-star hotel will be tailored to suit both leisure and business travellers, offering a restaurant and bar, 24-hour room service and fitness centre, and a meeting room for up to 20 delegates.

6 Spice Spring 2022

Upfront

The Langham, Gold Coast After nearly eight years in the making, the Langham Hospitality Group has swung open the doors to its highly anticipated new hotel on the golden shores between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. As the first development with direct beachfront access to be built on the Gold Coast in 30 years, this opulent property boasts uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean or hinterland from its 169 hotel rooms. Oozing The Langham Hospitality Group’s signature 5-star luxury, the

light and airy hotel features lavish designs and amenities, including two swimming pools, a health club overlooking ocean views, Chuan Spa, an array of casual and premium dining options, and 11 event venues with a total event space of 1,198 square metres. The property comprises a trio of stunning high-rise towers with the hotel in the tallest and the Langham-managed Jewel Residences in the other two, for luxury coastal living at its finest.

spicenews.com.au 7

Cover story

Victoria Pavilion bringing your next event to life

Your next unforgettable experience awaits at Victoria Pavilion at Melbourne Showgrounds.

A

s the home of Victoria’s largest and most iconic annual event, the Melbourne Showgrounds has continued to deliver unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories. This state-of-the-art venue offers opportunities and flexibility that no other space has on offer.

Victoria Pavilion is the perfect space to host your next event. Hosting up to 1,980 guests, its pillarless design was created as a blank canvas for your to reimagine you next memorable experience - leaving your attendees amazed and inspired.

Victoria Pavilion offers state-of-the-art lighting and sound alongside a timeless, neutral colour palette that will inspire your creative flair. Whatever your needs, a sophisticated, unexpected and exciting solution, including world-class catering and cutting-edge technology, is at your fingertips.

Capturing 1,920 square metres of wide-open space, Victoria Pavilion can be tailored for you. For added wow factor, the space is complemented by a 595-square-metre architect-designed atrium that features floor to ceiling windows – creating a stunning sense of arrival perfect for pre-dinner drinks and unforgettable cocktail parties, product displays, and so much more.

8 Spice Spring 2022

Cover story

“Whatever your needs, a sophisticated, unexpected and exciting solution… is at your fingertips.”

The venue boasts an outstanding food offering designed by Moonee Valley Racing Club’s catering group, Dean and McPherson, that champions topquality ingredients and award-winning products.

Ranging from elegant stand-up finger food and appetisers through to a sit-down three-course degustation, the menu options are as flexible as they are delicious. Your guests will not only have their taste buds tantalised, they will also remember and savour the gastronomic experience that presents the very best in food and beverage from some of the nation’s best producers, including award winning wines selected from the illustrious Melbourne Royal Wine Awards.

Victoria Pavilion has the ability to cater to your every need The pavilion can be divided into three distinct spaces, available individually or combined to give you the ability to make the space fit your needs.

Where can you find what is sure to be your next venue of choice? Located only seven kilometres from Melbourne CBD, Victoria Pavilion has it all when it comes to access. Public transport to the door, 15 minutes from Melbourne International Airport, and moments from major arterials. The ease of access only

Top left: Victoria Pavilion at Melbourne Showgrounds.

Top right: North Melbourne Football Club Syd Barker Medal 2019 held in Victoria Pavilion.

Above: NAB Rising Star Awards 2019 held in Victoria Pavilion.

Left: United Firefighters Union Gala Dinner, 2019, Victoria Pavilion.

Image credit: Melbourne Royal®

gets better with close to 2,000 on site car parks and coach access metres away from the stunning entrance.

Victoria Pavilion also provides solutions for hosting hybrid or fully online events with a TV-quality experience and excellent sound and vision, managed by the professional tech team, Encore. When you need a professional setting to record and host your virtual event, the onsite team can customise the setting and provide virtual stage management to get your event online seamlessly.

Melbourne Royal is the expert in delivering unforgettable corporate events at Victoria Pavilion. If you are looking to host a conference, awards night, gala dinner or roadshow at one of Melbourne’s best venues - get in touch with our team today.

Imagine the possibilities and bring your vision to life.

For more information on Victoria Pavilion at Melbourne Showgrounds, check out melbourneshowgrounds.com or send an enquiry to venue@melbourneshowgrounds.com n spicenews.com.au 9

Hot 100

Hot 100 Services and Suppliers

10 Spice Spring 2022

Hot 100

Spice readers have once again thrown their support behind the industry by voting for their favourite services and suppliers of the business events industry. From new edge technology platforms and award-winning caterers to all-star AV specialists, these are the top event industry businesses for 2022.

spicenews.com.au 11

Hot 100 Arinex

Best event management CIS Event Management ciseventmanagement

Sprintr

Arinex ar.in.ex Nectar Creative Communications nectar_cc Crisp Ideas Crisp Ideas This Space thisspace_

Best event technology eTechSuite eTechSuite Encore Event Technologies encoreapac Sprintr sprintr_australia EventsAIR eventsair01 Entegy entegy

Best virtual event platform EventsAir eventsair01 Encore Event Technologies encoreapac Delegate Connect delegateconnect Create Live Pro - Create Engage createengage Create Live Pro

12 Spice Spring 2022

Jomablue Jomablue

Hot 100

Best amusement hire Action Events actioneventsaustralia All Time Amusements all_time_amusements

QuizzaMe Australia

Bubbling with Energy Entertainment bubblingwithenergy Joyland Amusements joyland_amusements QuizzaMe Australia quizzameau

“Amazing service and always have the latest range in amusement hire” Action Events

KEEP YOUR FINGER ON THE PULSE. Stay up to date with breaking industry news on Spice Magazine’s social channels. @SpiceNews

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Read the latest industry news at

spicenews.com.au

Hot 100

“Delicious food.

Always consistent.”

Laissez-faire Catering

Best event caterer Laissez-faire Catering

Heyder & Shears heyderandshearscatering Laissez-faire Catering laissez_faire_catering Bayleaf Catering bayleafeventcatering The Fresh Collective thefreshcollectiveau Culinary Edge www.culinaryedge.com.au

Best exhibition construction Moreton Hire moretonhire ExhibitionCo exhibitioncompany Harry the Hirer harrythehirer Moreton Hire

Expo Centric expocentric ExpoNet exponet_aus

Best support services The Monday Group themondaygroup Jitjatjo Australia jitjatjo_au Clifford Wallace Agency – Hospitality Personnel cliffordwallace Event Recruitment www.eventrecruitment.com.au Clifford Wallace Agency

14 Spice Spring 2022

Our Boys & Girls ourboysandgirlsaustralia

Hot 100

Events Fantastic Australia

Kubarz

Best event equipment hire Events Fantastic Australia eventsfantasticaus Valiant valiant.events Funktionality Events & Experiences Functionality Event Hire Services eventhiresyd Excel Equipment Hire exceleventhire

Best beverage or bar supplier Kombi Keg kombikeg Kubarz – The Beverage Experience Experts kubarz Liquid Infusion Beverage Catering liquidinfusion Champagne Towers Sydney champagnetowersydney BARBAE barbae.sydney

funktionality.com.au spicenews.com.au 15

Hot 100

“Amazing team, very professional, enthusiastic and highly quality video makers.”

Vert Prod Pty Ltd

Best photographer or videographer Vert Prod Pty Ltd vertprod

Event Photos Australia

Musicland

Oneill Photographics oneillphotographics Event Photos Australia eventphotosau Create Engage createengage David Broadway davidbroadway

Best entertainment agency Jetpack Entertainment and Events jetpackevents SongDivision songdivision Musicland musiclandsyd The Groove Academy thegrooveacademyagency Butchers Daughter Catering

Melbourne Entertainment Company melbentco

Best event florist Poho Flowers pohoflowers Booshi designbybooshi Style By Nature stylebynatureflowers Butchers Daughter Catering . Florist . Venue butchersdaughterau BOUQUET Melbourne bouquetmelbourne 16 Spice Spring 2022

Hot 100

Sydney Prop Specialists

Best theming, props and design supplier

“Talented and creative staff producing an immaculate quality of work” Sydney Prop Specialists

Sydney Prop Specialists sydneypropspecialists DIVINE EVENTS divine_events JAK Creative & Events jakcreative Bennelong Event Hire bennelongeventhire The Prop House theprophouse_

BRISBANE’S BEST EVENT STYLING & PROP COMPANY

EXCITING NEW SHOWROOM SEPTEMBER 2022!

1135 Stanley St East, Coorparoo Q4151 theprophouse.com.au | 07 3555 8660

Hot 100 Best corporate gift and merchandise supplier Promo Pros promo.pros JAK Creative & Events | JAK Swag thesustainableswag Honeycomb Agency honeycomb_agency Maui Jim officialmauijim JAK Swag

YAY! Promos yay.promos

“High quality products that surprise with creativity.”

JAK swag

Best transport (bus, limousine, boat, vessel, etc) Hughes Australian Chauffeur Service Hughesaustralia Captain Cook Cruises

Captain Cook Cruises captaincookcruises Fantastic Aussie Tours www.fantastic-aussie-tours.com.au CTL Event Management ctl_event_management Wicked Limousines wickedlimousines

Best individual performer/speaker/DJ Brihony Dawson brihonydawson Rod Richards roddrichardspresents DJ Emma Peters dj.emmapeters Holly Ransom holly_ransom Anna Sheppard

18 Spice Spring 2022

Anna Sheppard bambuddha_group

Hot 100

“It’s so unique and fun.

Everyone always comes back feeling motivated and inspired” SongDivision

Best team building provider Be Challenged bechallenged Hidden Door Experiences hiddendoor_australia Rock and Roll Team Building rockandrollteambuilding SongDivision songdivision SongDivision

Cheeky Food Events cheekyfoodevents

Hot 100

“Very thorough and knowledgeable, able to pull off small and large shows without hassle.”

AV1

Best AV or staging Audio Visual Events

Audio Visual Dynamics audiovisualdynamics NW Group nw_group_australasia Megadeck Staging Systems megadeck_staging Audio Visual Events audiovisualevents AV1 av1_australia

Best fireworks, lighting or visual effects Howard & Sons Pyrotechnics Displays howardsfireworks Foti Fireworks fotifireworks Howard & Sons Pyrotechnics Displays

Show FX showfxaustralia Fireworks Australia fireworksaustralia Xplosive Art xplosiveartfireworks

Best PR and marketing Eight Communications eight_communication Milestone Creative Australia milestonecreativeaus ZADRO zadro_agency Progressive PR & Communications progressivepr Milestone Creative Australia

20 Spice Spring 2022

BLACK Communications blackcommunications

From large corporate events to intimate gatherings our décor will help you celebrate your story, achievements and milestones.

Let's create event experiences worth sharing.

™

Backdrops Fantastic | Modular Backdrops | Light Up Letters

We bring your event ideas to life.

Backdrops, props, decor and more. eventsfantastic.com.au

1800 737 037

Gold Coast Based Australia Wide Delivery

Technology

The new frontiers of

event tech

After years of helping organisations navigate disruption, event tech now promises a wave of strategic opportunity, Matthew Sainsbury writes.

T

he appetite to return to in-person events demonstrates just how important presence is to shaping human interactions. Events over the past three years have demonstrated that virtual events are possible, and can indeed be highly effective, but nonetheless we do want to go back to meeting people in person where possible.

However, the investment into the virtual was a good learning curve for events organisers. Going forward, rather than move away from these technologies, EventsAir global sales and marketing director Joe Ciliberto says they will continue to be a source of innovation for forward-thinking organisations and should be embraced.

“Don’t be afraid of the future of event tech. Use it to increase content accessibility, enable higher participation and engagement, and increase the ROI on your event,” Ciliberto says.

“For example, the hybrid approach will continue to be critical in ensuring you keep content accessible and meet your audience’s expectations both on a sustainable and financial front.”

Thanks to the prevalence of streaming and cloud services in their daily entertainment, audiences now expect “bingeable”, on-demand and perpetual access to content, and it will be important that event technologies preserve not only the content of the event, but also the experience.

However, delivering the hybrid and modern approach to content has its challenges. Events need to find ways to utilise technology to reduce 22 Spice Spring 2022

costs and manpower while maintaining the skillsets to deliver an experience that allows online and remote participants to feel as involved.

“This is what EventsAir aims to deliver through a singular platform that can handle anything from check-ins and QR codes for those attending inperson, to those consuming the content via mobile or online.”

Stepping stones to the metaverse The innovations happening around hybrid delivery will eventually lead the forward-thinking events organisers to the metaverse. As Sprintr director of business and innovation, Chris Schlueter, says, events are already experimenting with augmented reality to enhance the experience.

“It’s always exciting when seemingly small elements create a lasting memory, as was the case with an event using QR codes on decals throughout the exhibition which when scanned through an app, triggered an augmented reality experience,” Schlueter says.

Meanwhile, virtual attendees at another event were able to provide direct “reactions” feedback to the speaker via a virtual display. This was live and allowed the speaker to proverbially “read the room,” as they presented.

US-based tech research and consulting firm, Gartner predicts that by 2026, one-in-four people will spend at least one hour per day in the metaverse. These learnings that Schlueter 

“The hybrid approach will continue to be critical in ensuring you keep content accessible and meet your audience’s expectations both on a sustainable and financial front.”

Joe Ciliberto

Technology mentions – the ability to provide rich digital media experiences and an authentic “presence” for virtual attendees – will directly feed into the metaverse experiences as they emerge.

Meanwhile, all the data being generated by these digital applications is going to assist events organisers to better understand their audiences and plan better events, Schlueter adds.

“We’ve come a long way from an event app simply being a repository for an agenda.”

“Implementing this in the right way can cover all areas of an event from ticketing, contactless checkin, content streaming, in-door navigation and lead capture, to heat maps and the all-important post event reporting which can be digital gold when planning next year’s event.”

Putting sustainability at the core

Addressing the drastic skills shortage

Sustainability is no longer a “nice to have” in events. People are more aware than ever of humanity’s impact on the planet and the expectation is there that the activities they participate in are equally cognizant of that.

This is something that Huddle has been focused on using technology to address, the company’s director of operations, Rod Vowell, says.

“We have developed a reporting tool called HERO that allows our customers to view their meetings and events data all on one easy dashboard including tracking the environmental impact of their program,” Vowell says.

On the event management side, this ability to track environmental impact right down to an individual level also means that the overall impact of the entire event can be tracked and reported on.

This is a critical step in being able to measure and take steps to set and meet sustainability goals.

“This is on top of the smaller, practical ways that events are now able to reduce their carbon footprint through technology,” Vowell adds.

“The enormous strides made in virtual event capabilities help reduce the per-attendee impact of events and opens them up to those working in remote areas where travel to a particular hub might be costly and inefficient.

“Additionally, paperless events have become the norm as clients and attendees alike have become more comfortable with apps being an essential part of every event.”

Technology innovation is also helping organisers beyond the attendee experience and sustainability.

The unemployment rate in Australia is just 3.4 per cent – an almost unprecedented low – and this is disproportionately affecting businesses in the venue, events and hospitality spaces. Finding good employees in this environment requires innovative thinking, Jitjatjo co-founder and chief executive officer, Tim Chatfield, says.

“It has become abundantly clear that employers need to rethink how they handle and interact with their workforce. Employees no longer simply want flexibility, they demand it,” Chatfield says.

“If employers want to be successful going forward, they need to accept this reality, create policies, and invest in technology that allows for it.”

In Chatfield’s view, the key to attracting top talent is to not only embrace flexibility, but also be seen as an employer that pays quickly and rewards good work. This is what the Jitjatjo platform for ondemand hospitality staffing focuses on enabling, he says.

“Our platform leverages AI and Empathic Intelligence to ensure the entire recruiting, hiring, and management process is efficient and unbiased.

“When workers arrive on time and do a good job, they get access to instant payment at the end of their shift to reward them for their work.”

As far as event technology is concerned, the past three years have been a story of accelerated innovation. The challenging conditions of the market meant that organisations needed to undergo years of transformation in a matter of months. That was reactionary, however, and an effort to adapt to global disruption.

Now, however, those technology investments have become a strategic opportunity. Events organisers that continue to build on their foundations and look for opportunities to innovate will find that event tech is set to explode in the coming years and provide unprecedented value to events of all scales. n

24 Spice Spring 2022

Above: Gartner research predicts that by 2026, one-in-four people will spend at least one hour per day in the metaverse.

Bottom left: Implementing event apps in the right way can cover all areas of an event from ticketing and contactless check-in, right through to post event reporting.

“The enormous strides made in virtual event capabilities help reduce the per-attendee impact of events and opens them up to those working in remote areas.”

Rod Vowell

MYTH 1

Advertorial

Hybrid event myths

How are you feeling today in one word?

debunked Myth #2

49 responses

Myth #1 You can’t create an engaging digital experience Creating engaging experiences in a digital and hybrid setting pays major dividends for the virtual attendee experience and it’s not that hard. It’s all about creating the same positive experiences as soon as digital delegates “step through the door”.

Use technology to interact and connect your digital audience to your content with live Q&As, emcees, polls, virtual breakout rooms and games.

Hybrid is here to stay.

Events have engaged a larger national, and in some cases international, footprint and diversified revenue streams by servicing greater numbers. But some organisers are still hesitant and missing out on untapped potential.

Event technology expert Sprintr sheds light on the biggest myths across the industry.

Technology isn’t smart enough We’re beyond simple chat functions and one online meeting room. Virtual event technology can utilise person-to-object matchmaking software, including audience engagement tools and market-leading platforms for your community to meet, connect and do business year-round.

Multilingual software can even help bridge language barriers.

MYTH 2

MYTH 3

Curators of great event tech

Myth #3 It’s too hard and expensive If you plan to have a hybrid event from the get-go, the process is much simpler and can be worked into your overall event budget. With the right team supporting you, a digital element to your event can be as simple as downloading and using an app or installing software so all your event communications can be streamlined.

Sprintr - Curators of great event tech First, Sprintr revolutionised registration, now its sights are set on facilitating easy and innovative event experiences with great event technology. Event organisers don’t have the time to uncover the detail of every new and innovative solution out

there. But Sprintr does. The team will discover which technology solutions work best for you, then implement and manage them, so you don’t have to. www.sprintr.com.au hello@sprintr.com.au

spicenews.com.au 25

Mega venues

Mega venues and technology Leading mega venues are investing big in the latest event technology and tapping into its power to create cutting-edge, memorable experiences, Matthew Sainsbury writes.

Above: CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park.

F

rom heat maps to wayfinding, increasing sophistication around virtual attendance and mixed reality media, the role of technology within events continues to evolve – and rapidly.

It started as a series of investments to deliver resilience through the severe disruption of recent years, but it has left leading events spaces with an appetite for technology and the memorable experiences that it can deliver.

“Through the pandemic, we invested $46 million into the new Winx Stand at Royal Randwick. As part of that in the tech overlay, we’ve got a giant, modular screen that can be transformed or configured in any way possible,”Australian Turf Club (ATC) executive general manager, Melinda Madigan, says.“It’s already being considered for a major film premiere next year.

This is because of the flexibility that technology can add to the venue.”

The overarching purpose of this investment by large venues is to build differentiation. Creating truly memorable events means giving attendees something they can’t experience elsewhere, according to CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park's in-house event staging manager, Corey Bulley of MicroHire.

“Great events are created by asking ‘what’s your vision?’, and not ‘what do you need?’”, he says.“Are you out to entertain your attendees? Do you want them walking away saying this is hands down the best event I’ve been to? Then we get creative.”

Creating memorable experiences Bulley’s team recently helped clients, including the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), SportNXT, Committee for Melbourne and Destination Australia, create awe-inspiring encounters for thousands of guests.

26 Spice Spring 2022

For AIME 2022, this included utilising the venue’s 15 metre-wide, 700-kilogram LED walls, plus working with in-house rigging experts, ShowTech, to suspend a grand piano and aerial performers metres in the air.

It was an event that attendees were certainly not going to forget in a hurry.

“Incorporated into their act we had a large, portrait, LED wall that showed the branding of the event,” Bulley says.“Once the aerialist dropped out of the ceiling, they interacted with the LED wall, where they knocked on it and it turned into two large doors which parted into the second half of the room.”

Bringing the capabilities of delivering these hightech, differentiated experiences in-house is another trend that has been key to venues unlocking the value of their technology investments, ATC’s Madigan says.

“The Australian Turf Club is investing significantly into bringing our own in-house tech capability, to make sure we’re delivering the highest standard of customer service with a one-stop solution featuring state-of-the-art technology, from AV to production and broadcast,” she says.

“We’ve even invested $20 million into our own new bespoke on-site broadcast hub, which gives us the opportunity for potential partners to capture and distribute event content worldwide.”

The appetite for in-person returns Naturally, much of the technology investment in recent years has been focused on building platforms for the virtual delivery of content. While it will be important to continue to provide the opportunity to broadcast and service remote attendees, Madigan says the appetite to return to face-to-face events is extreme, and the goal now needs to be to ensure a smooth event in which attendees can feel comfortable and safe. 

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Mega venues

The Winx Stand at ATC.

MicroHire team at work.

Five event tech

innovations to watch 1

Virtual reality – The ability to put on a pair of goggles and become immersed in a completely different world will allow us to move beyond the venue and take attendees into the past, future, and anywhere on earth or even in space.

2

Personalisation – Through the use of the cloud, and technologies such as wayfinding and IoT sensors, it’s going to be possible for an event to guide every attendee to what they want to see and experience, on their own terms.

3

Digital swag bags – Everyone likes free stuff, but swag bags are a sustainability issue.

Technology will come to the rescue with digital “bags” of goodies that are just as good as the physical equivalent.

4

Crowdsourcing of content – So much incredible content happens via social media posts and reactions at events. Event venues are going to start to find much more sophisticated ways of capturing and using this data in real time.

5

The Metaverse – Currently events are being livestreamed to those that cannot attend in person. Soon, that will be replaced with a duplicate, digital creation in the Metaverse, allowing attendees to participate as though they are there.

28 Spice Spring 2022

“For those first 30 seconds of showtime, where you see people walk in the room and their eyes light up, their smiles – it’s why we do it.”

Corey Bulley

“We were the only sporting event to continue globally throughout COVID-19, and one of the things that enabled that was the use of technology,” Madigan says.“We were doing infrared screening and had all the tools that were required to make sure that our race days were COVID safe.

Then we were the first in market to take that into the non-race day event space, so that when meetings and events started to come back, we were already well established to deliver to the expectations of the ‘new normal.’”

Showcasing modern events To meet the global expectation for hybrid and online events, CENTREPIECE has factored in things like videoconferencing platforms that can be overlayed with a brand or title and for presenters to be beamed in (or out) in real scale, too.

“With the tech world constantly evolving, our aim is to keep up with it and use CENTREPIECE as a venue to showcase what’s out there,” Bulley says.

At the recent DreamHack Melbourne festival, the gaming community came together at CENTREPIECE. The space was transformed to accommodate an influx of people, their computers (it was a bring-your-own-computer event) and a range of tech and connectivity requirements.

It meant a massive number of people with high bandwidth requirements looking for a seamless and stable experience simultaneously, and for a hobby where highly visual media is the norm, the space itself needed to look and feel appropriate. Bulley says CENTREPIECE’s design, including its soaring 8-metre-high ceilings and customisable spaces, allowed for “weird and wonderful” ideas to be brought to life.

“You have all this opportunity to activate this space. Smaller venues are still using the same technology – but it’s scaled down and what they can do to create that point of difference is minimal in comparison,” he says.

“For those first 30 seconds of showtime, where you see people walk in the room and their eyes light up, their smiles – it’s why we do it.”

As mega venues invested big in technology to bring resilience to the business and allow operations to continue as normal, one of the big questions over the last few years has been what happens as life returns to normal? Would the appetite to invest in technology continue and where would it be directed?

The answer is that the accelerated transformation has provided a platform for further differentiation and deeper experiences, and in the years to come, we’re going to see some incredible innovation in the events that we attend. n

Event news straight to your inbox For the latest event industry news, subscribe to the Spice newsletter.

Opinion

Airline demand and the MICE industry PCOA22 featured speaker, Ailevon Pacific Aviation Consulting director of global markets and aviation expert, Matthew Findlay, shares what the next few years will bring from our aviation friends.

A

t this current point in time in the recovery post COVID-19, aviation’s leading organisations have been in the news regularly, and not always for the right reasons in their view.

Airlines have had trouble rebuilding their flight services to what they were and getting ‘matchready’ for the deluge of consumers that want to travel. That’s a great problem to have. What hasn’t been helpful is the higher cost of fuel (and a great number of other input prices going up), a competitive jobs market, and an ongoing array of new and everyday challenges that arise (footand-mouth disease to name just one).

For now, airlines are fortunate to have a lot of people that demand their service, which is a blessing that has been able to compensate for the large number of challenges they face.

30 Spice Spring 2022

If current domestic schedules – which are always changing to adapt to the challenges we’ve already noted – are to be believed, the current six-month period up to 31 Dec 2022 will see only -3.6 percent fewer seats flown than in the same six-month period ending Dec 2019.

The following six months after New Year’s is looking much better though, with a stonking 9.2 percent leap in seats – that’s an increase of 3.6 million seats! Or, 19,820 more seats available in the domestic market, each day – and that’s before Bonza adds its schedules into the market. Put another way, that’s about 106 more Jetstar aircraft flying each day.

Australia is not much different to some other markets today. What is dragging, is the connectivity between domestic markets, across borders. International flight capacity has lagged,

Opinion as travel barriers have inhibited airlines returning schedules to what they were. Our connectivity to other markets is still down by -22.6 percent for the six months ending 30 June 2023. However, with demand from consumers, airlines place flight schedules back into focus.

MICE occasions create that demand – and typically at a premium, as participants are required to arrive or depart at specific times, which drives airline revenues. In the MICE industry, knowing your schedules, and being able to advise airlines in partnership with your destination marketing team or economic development agency, not only enables greater volumes of consumers to potentially attend, but also at more competitive prices.

Flights to your event destination, at affordable prices is an enabler and a powerful tool for airlines to profit from.

So, what do you share with them? And how often?

Join us at PCOA22 in Hobart for the latest update from Matthew Findlay! pcoaconference.com.au Maxine Tod Director Business Partnerships PCO Association E: maxine@pco.asn.au M: 0435 103 912

spicenews.com.au 31

Tips

Five ways to make your event more engaging Mums & Co is a digital community designed to support business owning mothers. Co-founder Carrie Kwan regularly hosts in-person and online member events, including the annual national hybrid conference ‘Be MPowered’. She shares her tips for delivering engaging events.

1

Empower ambition

The event manager’s dream is a full house.

Working back from this goal, consider your audience’s needs and remove any blockers. As a community of mothers, our audience’s needs are flexibility and family friendly, which is why our Be MPowered conference starts after school drop-off and finishes before pickup. While that solves the time problem, money can be another issue – business owners always have competing financial demands! Apply principles of human centred design to empower the ambition of your audience and make it easy for them to attend.

2

Deeply collectively care

Make event (and business) purchasing decisions that align with your values. For Mums & Co, which represents 345,000 business owning women across Australia, that means partnering with and procuring from female owned businesses, Aboriginal owned enterprises and regional suppliers. Whatever your business or brand, show how you care by delivering an event that represents your values.

3

Delight people

Often the best thing about in-person events is the spontaneous moments of delight. This can be more challenging when hosting an online or hybrid event, so increase your chances for ‘digital serendipity’. Creating purposeful micromoments can facilitate genuine connection and encourage ways to interact. Some of my favourites include pre-event introductions such as using the online chat available in most video conferencing platforms. Invite your audience to participate in ice breakers and utilise dynamic 32 Spice Spring 2022

real-time feedback loops like Menti. Continue the delight with well thought out follow-up communications and gifts that further build relationships between your event and delegates.

4

Harmonise

We’re accustomed to thinking about physical and audio accessibility, and now we’re blending more requirements of diversity and demographics into our events. Given 12 percent of business owning women are living with a disability, 30 percent are migrants and 33 percent live in rural and regional areas, it’s vital we’re attune to these nuances. It changes things like timing (our conference takes place in early October before the agricultural harvest begins), website accessibility for those that are visually impaired, and exploring ways to include a more culturally and linguistically diverse experience for migrant groups.

5

Top: Be MPowered by Mums & Co 2021 event.

Photo credit: Hipster Mum

Embrace hybrid

Hosting or adding an event to your business and day-to-day activities is a big step. Find a good technology solution that integrates well with your other platforms. Engage a professional who can spot risks allowing you to focus on the outcomes and the experience of your delegates.

Focus on the user experience and pay attention to way-finding, digital and physical. Blend pre-recorded and live speakers and embrace multiple locations to create a show that can go on empowering ambition, deeply collectively caring and delighting people.

The fourth annual Be MPowered by Mums & Co returns as a hybrid event on 13 October 2022. n

“Whatever your business or brand, show how you care by delivering an event that represents your values” Carrie Kwan

W MELBOURNE PRESENTS

GET WRAPPED UP From the ultimate dinner in the Great Room to a poolside cocktail party at WET, W Melbourne’s unique spaces and venues set the stage for epic end-of-year celebrations.

Cocktail party packages start from $88 per person or from $117 per person for a sit down soiree, and all of our beverage packages include a festive cocktail on arrival.

Book your Get Wrapped Up event at wmelbourne.com.

T&C’s: Subject to availability, minimum spends, venue hire fees, AV hire fees and event contract terms apply.

Tips

1

Ensure you have the right contract “model” if you are an event manager in private practice If you provide event management services to clients, what “model” of client contract do you have? The defining feature is the basis on which you will engage with third parties such as attendees, sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, venues and other suppliers. Do you “just” provide advice and the client enters into all those third-party contracts? Do you sign third-party contracts as agent for your client? Or do you sign as a principal, in your own name? Your client contract must reflect one of these three models. For example, if you are going to sign as agent for your client, you will need appropriate authority and much more.

Five things to consider for your events contract (so you can get a good night’s sleep) Event management has its risks, perhaps not up there with tightrope walking (though it may feel that way sometimes), but they are real! Do your contracts - with your client, attendees, sponsors, exhibitors, suppliers and venues properly protect you? Event law specialist Matt Crouch from Matt Crouch Legal shares five of the most important things your contracts need to address.

2

Your fees: Beware underwriting the event Fixed fees and hourly rates usually reflect the commercial value of your professional skills and volume of work needed to do your job. On the other hand, if your fees depend on the number of attendees, or the “profit” generated by the event, you are, to some extent, underwriting the event. If the event is unsuccessful, you may end up being paid a lot less than the commercial value of your services – despite all your good work! We humans are afflicted with an illusion of control!

Many things can interfere with the success of an event.

Haven’t we seen that, big-time, over the past few years?

The one thing you should never do, is guarantee or promise financial success, or levels of revenue. Never promise outcomes, financial or otherwise. The event is your client’s business venture and it’s your client that should carry that risk of losses.

34 Spice Spring 2022

Tips

3

Specify the goods and services you supply When you specify your services, be accurate and thorough, describing exactly what you will do and when, allowing plenty of time to complete milestones. If you say you will do “x, y and z”, ask yourself whether your client might assume that you will also do “a, b and c.”

It can be just as important to specify what you will not be doing (for the agreed fee) as it is to accurately describe what you will be doing.

4

“Get all of these things properly written in your contracts, and you are well on your way to a good night’s sleep!”

Matt Crouch

Limit your liability Your contracts are the best place to limit your exposure to legal liability – ideally, to a sum less than your insurance cover. Make sure that you have a bespoke limitation of liability clause written by your lawyer! No two event managers operate identically, so never borrow from a colleague or just copy your contract from the internet!

5

Include proper cancellation, postponement… and Force Majeure clauses Events get cancelled, postponed and even changed to virtual – sometimes because of "Force Majeure" circumstances and sometimes for commercial reasons.

Event contracts need to consider these possibilities and their consequences. Are there cancellation fees, will refunds be provided, and will you be paid for the additional work that cancellation or postponement necessitates?

Get all of these things properly written in your contracts, and you are well on your way to a good night’s sleep! spicenews.com.au 35

Case study

Brass band from Musicland.

Events Uncovered 2022 The industry came together at the Sydney Masonic Centre on 28 July to explore the boutique exhibition and hear from some of the industry's leading experts on a range of topics.

T

aking place in-person at the Sydney Masonic Centre (SMC) in the heart of the city, Events Uncovered welcomed events professionals to discover the latest innovations, products and services across a range of industry sectors.

Attendees explored the exhibition before heading into the Grand Lodge to learn from some of the industry’s leading experts on a range of topics including technology, sustainability, mental wellbeing, case studies, an industry update and much more.

The brief The brief was simple – to create a unique, boutique event for Sydney’s most experienced, reputable and knowledgeable event professionals. No pressure, right?

There’s nothing quite like creating an industry event where the guests themselves are experts at creating incredible events. You can’t rely on a simple canapé style menu or floral arrangements to impress. Instead, a well-crafted program, carefully curated exhibitors and a finger-on-the-pulse is what is required to deliver an event that inspires.

36 Spice Spring 2022

The challenges Like many events during the pandemic, Events Uncovered 2020 pivoted to a hybrid style.

While we have been fortunate to hold the event at all during that time, it still wasn’t the Events Uncovered that our guests have known and loved over the last seven years, and we wanted to make sure that it was back with a bang for 2022.

As anyone in the industry knows, it seems that every day there’s a new concept or solution for navigating current challenges such as labour shortages, COVID outbreaks and event reschedules, and as a result, the trends, insights and learnings that come along with this are constantly changing.

The team pulled out all the stops to make sure the content shared resonated with the current state of the events industry.

The event The unique and intriguing SMC was the perfect location for this event and offered guests to experience one of Sydney’s most unique and intriguing spaces.

Case study

Roving entertainers from Musicland.

The exhibition was held in the Banquet Hall, which hosted a range of exhibitors including Kubarz, Media Wall, Rentertainment and Venues NSW. Guests were able to explore the exhibition and check out the latest trends in catering, technology, staging, venues and merch while sipping on complimentary espresso martinis, courtesy of SMC. Meanwhile, the Spice Knowledge sessions kicked off in the Grand Lodge, a room steeped in history and a little mystery. Guests were inspired from the get-go with a keynote address delivered by Bambuddha Group chief executive officer, Anna Shepherd, on creating events that are kind for people and planet.

This theme wove throughout the program with conversations on creating events with a conscious and celebrating and embracing indigenous culture within events, inspiring attendees to embrace ethical and sustainable event delivery.

As the day drew to a close, the party lights were switched on for the Wrap Party in the stunning Marble Foyer where guests enjoyed bubbles and a giant cheese platter created by the SMC chefs that took centre stage.

Spice Knowledge Sessions.

Wrap party in the Marble Foyer.

Musicland entertained with live painting, acrobats, DJs and a surprise brass band that made its way through the crowd, while the expert glam team at One Tribe’s make up activation offered touch-ups to ensure that everyone could let their hair down in style.

Images are courtesy of Oneill Photographics.

The results An amazing day all-round, Events Uncovered reaffirmed the message that events indeed are Better Together.

With overwhelmingly positive feedback, attendees commented on their elation to connect with one another and explore the exhibition in one of Sydney’s most fascinating venues. The content of the Spice Knowledge sessions resonated with attendees, with comments praising the commitment to produce content that is informative with a focus on sustainability and ethics.

Overall, the return of Events Uncovered was truly a success and we can’t wait to do it all over again in 2023!

Save the date: Events Uncovered will return to SMC on Thursday 10 August 2023. n

Events Uncovered Exhibition.

spicenews.com.au 37

Case study

The ICMSA team embraced the ‘Priscilla’ theme at The Old Quarry in Alice Springs for their final night dinner.

ICMSA visits Australia’s heartland This year, the PCO chose Alice Springs as the location of its annual conference, bringing its teams together to connect and learn amidst the striking Northern Territory landscape.

About the event ICMS Australasia (ICMSA) is Australia’s oldest Professional Conference Organiser, having been in operation for 56 years. The annual ICMS Australasia Staff Professional Development Conference gathers together the company’s entire team from its Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne offices.

Why the NT? With the conference theme being “Reconnecting in Australia’s heartland”, Alice Springs was selected as the host destination due to its geographic location in the heart of Australia.

Highlights and special NT experiences ICMSA indicated that the destination had definitely contributed to the event’s success. The nature of Alice Springs and the variety of things to see and do in the region enabled business sessions to be blended with a wide range of experiences that simply could not be undertaken anywhere else.

The diverse activities included an early morning hot air balloon ride over the desert landscape, which drew ‘rave’ comments from attendees. Alice Springs Desert Park provided a meeting venue for one of the workshop sessions and included a private viewing of the Park’s renowned bird show and guided tour. The final day’s featured activity was a camel ride across the desert, before delegates departed the NT. The ICMSA group engaged in several CSR activities while in Alice Springs. These included a dot painting workshop hosted by Ayeye Atyenhe Art, an art collective supporting Aboriginal artists from around the Northern Territory. Another activity was a bush balm-making workshop at the Aboriginalowned Alice Springs-based social enterprise known as The Purple House, which provides kidney dialysis services for Aboriginal patients.

38 Spice Spring 2022

The most memorable aspect of the entire event was deemed to be the Gala Dinner staged at The Old Quarry, an outdoor venue approximately 20 minutes from town. With delegates fully embracing the ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’ theme, the venue impressed with its sheer rock walls and stunning sunset views, as well as the fine food and wine catered by the Alice Springs Convention Centre.

Feedback ICMSA owner and managing director, Emma Bowyer said: “The decision to take the entire ICMS Australasia team to Alice Springs as both a reward and professional development trip was not made lightly. The experiences and opportunities we have now all shared together will stay with us forever.

A truly unique and quintessential Australian destination, aligning perfectly with our own corporate value compass.” n

Emma Bowyer receives an original artwork that was created for ICMSA as part of the dot-painting workshop.

Quick facts Event name: ICMS Australasia – Staff Professional Development Conference 2022 Destination: Alice Springs, Northern Territory Venue: Crowne Plaza Alice Springs, Alice Springs Convention Centre, Alice Springs Desert Park

Event. Full.

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Let’s Get Intimate

Book an event at Ovolo The Valley or The Inchcolm By Ovolo and receive a Gift Card up to the value of $500*.

Incentive Spend $2,500.00+ per contracted event at any Ovolo Hotel throughout Brisbane and receive $100 Ovolo Gift Card Spend $5,000.00+ per contracted event at any Ovolo Hotel throughout Brisbane and receive $250 Ovolo Gift Card Spend $10,000.00+ per contracted event at any Ovolo Hotel throughout Brisbane and receive $500 Ovolo Gift Card Stay.inchcolm@ovolothotels.com Stay.thevalley@ovolohotels.com T&C

Valid for new & pending hotel enquiries for all AU hotels Event booking window till 1 Nov – 30 September 2022 for materialise events Valid for all social events / wedding / C&E events Voucher not transferable for cash Blackout dates apply Voucher claimed once event materialized and account paid / settle in full

Simpsons Gap, Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park

Feel connected

The Northern Territory offers a multi-sensory experience that transcends the physical and connects you to the land, the ancient culture and the people.

We are a destination that empowers delegates to reconnect to what matters.

Guided cultural tour in Kakadu

ntbusinessevents.com.au Supported by

Destination

Images credit: Rockhampton Regional Council.

Remarkable Rockhampton Whatever you think you might know about Rocky, leave it at the door and prepare to be surprised and impressed by the quality and choice on offer. By Lana Bogunovich.

W

hile it may be known for its ‘Beef City’ status, Rockhampton, home of the Darumbal people, is a progressive and creative destination with so much on offer for meetings, events, conferences and incentives.

Located in Central Queensland at the heart of the Fitzroy Basin, this riverside city has so much to explore and experience. From unique modern and historic venues throughout the revitalised Riverside Precinct to immersive cultural and nature experiences in Mount Archer National Park, there’s plenty here to enrich any type of event.

Add to this the award-winning accommodation, world-class dining, stateof-the-art facilities and a talented and collaborative community of events professionals, and you’ll soon understand why ‘Rocky’ is leading the way when it comes to meetings, events, conferences and incentives in the region.

A host of extraordinary venues While it may not have a major dedicated convention centre, Rockhampton packs a punch when it comes to the variety of venue options, including some surprising ones you may not have expected.

Take advantage of the warm, sub-tropical climate and host an event within the lush paradise of Rockhampton Botanic Gardens. This heritage-listed park has several outdoor spaces including a stunning courtyard sheltered by a canopy of giant 150-year-old Banyan fig trees, ideal for long-table dinners.

The centrepiece of the region’s performing arts and entertainment, Pilbeam Theatre provides an elegant backdrop for performances and private events in its modern proscenium arch auditorium, with seating capacity for 972. The venue includes a bar, foyer and mezzanine level alongside several outdoor spaces which can also be utilised for pre- or post-event drinks.

Nearby, the recently refreshed Mercure Rockhampton has one of the largest conference spaces in the city centre. There are six versatile spaces on offer including Parklane (70 pax) which has its own bar, and the largest, Archer – a flexible, theatre-style function area that can host up to 150 delegates or be subdivided into three smaller rooms.

One of the most exciting dining and event destinations in the city is Headricks Lane, comprising a café, bar, restaurant, microbrewery, a private dining room, and an incredible events space upstairs. With its exposed brick walls and arched windows, this gorgeous space lends itself perfectly to elegant dinners, cocktail functions and presentations.  42 Spice Spring 2022

Destination

Nurim Circuit elevated treetop walk in Mount Archer National Park.

spicenews.com.au 43

Destination

Where to stay

Rockhampton riverfront.

Superbly located in the heart of the CBD and Riverside Precinct, Empire Apartment Hotel is a multi-award-winning 4.5-star hotel. As the city’s largest hotel, it offers 120 spaciously appointed studio, and one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, all with balconies or ground floor courtyard with city or river views. There’s also 24-hour reception, a gym and outdoor pool, three onsite dining options and a modern conference space for up to 120 pax.

Larger events such as trade fairs, expos and conferences will be well catered to at the Rockhampton Showgrounds.

Offering close to 20 indoor and outdoor spaces across a combined 117,775 square metres, this multi-purpose venue is Rockhampton’s largest and hosts some of the region’s biggest events, including Beef Australia.

With a history spanning 160 years, the Great Western Hotel is one of Rockie’s most popular visitor destinations thanks to its cowboy culture, exciting atmosphere and rodeo events. The Arena hosts several professional bull riding events throughout the year and business events can get in on the action with corporate VIP and group bookings as well as the option of a dedicated rodeo for large groups of 500 or more. With capacity for up to 2,500 patrons, the Arena offers a range of seating configurations for events of all styles and sizes.

Riverside Precinct Highlights

Darumbal cultural performance.

44 Spice Spring 2022

With its heritage-listed buildings and tree-lined sandstone boulevard running alongside Fitzroy River, Riverside Precinct is one of the most charming spots in the city.

Quay Street is the longest heritage listed street in Australia and alongside its bustling cafes, pubs and restaurants, is Queensland’s largest regional collection of heritage buildings.

Among this is the landmark Customs House, a beautifully preserved historic building complete with columned portico and enormous copper dome. Underneath the dome is a charming event space which can accommodate 80 people seated or up to 120 cocktail style, while the ground floor has two smaller spaces for meetings and breakout sessions.

Destination

Rockhampton Museum of Art.

“Rockhampton packs a punch when it comes to the variety of venue options, including some surprising ones you may not have expected.”

Next door to this old beauty is a new and modern one – the newly opened Rockhampton Museum of Art. As the largest art gallery in regional Queensland, it houses a significant collection of historic and modern art and offers several versatile spaces which can accommodate meetings and workshops for 12 right through to gala dinners and cocktail functions for up to 250. A standout feature is the floor-to-ceiling glass, bathing The Foyer, Long Gallery and The Deck in an abundance of natural light and affording great views over the precinct. Catering is also available from the onsite café, Hummingbird.

Across from the gallery, Boathouse is a premium waterfront restaurant and event venue boasting one of the most enviable locations in the city. Perched right over the riverbank, this stunning indoor-outdoor venue features an expansive 140-square-metre deck with sprawling views across the river, ideal for alfresco sunset soirees. Combined, the indoor dining room and deck can host up to 200 seated or 300 standing, with the option of being hired separately.

On the menu you’ll find fresh, seasonal dishes that celebrate local ingredients, with a range of catering options that can be tailored to your event.

Another notable spot is Riverston Tearooms, loved by locals and visitors alike for its decadent high teas and incredible pastries and desserts. 

spicenews.com.au 45

Destination

Pop-Up Polo A major highlight on Rocky’s special events calendar is the hugely popular annual Rockhampton Jaguar Land Rover Pop-Up Polo, which attracts more than 2,000 spectators.

Aside from being a day of fun and fabulous fashion, it’s an incredible showcase of Rockhampton’s events capabilities and testament to the talent, professionalism and collaboration of its organisers and suppliers in putting on a major event of this calibre.

Boathouse Rockhampton waterfront venue.

46 Spice Spring 2022

View from the Fitzroy River with Empire Apartment Hotel to the left and Neville Hewitt Bridge ahead.

“The local Darumbal people and elders are proud to share their culture and offer unique On Country experiences.”

Uniquely Rockie experiences Invigorate your morning with fresh mountain air and a nature-immersive walk on Mount Archer. Nurim Circuit is a 500-metre-long elevated treetop boardwalk with unbeatable vistas over Rockhampton and beyond. There are several other walking trails throughout the national park as well as an amphitheatre which provides a great spot for group activities like yoga.

Give your delegates an opportunity to connect with Darumbal Country and its culture. The local Darumbal people and elders are proud to share their culture and offer unique On Country experiences, such as guided tours through significant sites, dreaming stories, and traditional dance and didgeridoo performances, as well as Ceremony Services to enrich any event.

Visit the meerkat enclosure at Rockhampton Zoo for an unforgettable animal encounter with the six resident meerkats. This friendly and curious mob will hop and skip all over you to get a treat while their keeper tells you all about this fascinating species and the zoo’s conservation work.

For a fun team activity, head to The Whiskey Lounge at CocoBrew Rockhampton for a whiskey tasting – their impressive collection features more than 75 drams from around the world. This swanky lounge is also available for intimate events and there’s also a restaurant, conference room, and boardroom for meetings and private dining.

Step back in time with a tour of Rockhampton Heritage Village and get a feel for what life was like between 1850 and 1950. Set across 11 hectares, this historic little village features an incredible display of vintage cars, cottages, artefacts and real live farm animals, as well as charming event spaces like The Australian Shearing Shed, which can accommodate up to 500.

As the day winds down and the sun begins to set, take your delegates on a river cruise for the ultimate sundowner. River Cruises CQ offers a range of tours including a one-hour Sunset Cruise and after-dark City Lights cruise.

Enjoy a beverage and complimentary nibbles as you take in the sights from the Fitzroy River, keeping an eye out for wildlife.

For the ultimate surprise, treat your delegates to a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town centre – have the camera ready because Capricorn Carriage Ride’s strong and stunning Clydesdale horses are a sight to behold. n

The success of events today relies on great event technology.

Finding the right solution is a specialist skill.

Event organisers don’t have the time to uncover every solution out there.

+

But we do.

Sprintr has its finger on the pulse of the very best event tech.

We scour the globe uncovering the latest innovations, so you don’t have to.

We’ll help you choose, implement and manage technology solutions for a successful event.

With expert knowledge and an abundance of industry experience, Sprintr will match you with the right event technology to get your event up and running fast!

+ +

Curators of great event tech

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Destination

Adelaide

A city in transformation With its collaborative and innovative spirit, this progressive city has set its sights firmly on the future and shows no signs of slowing down, as Lana Bogunovich finds out.

O

ver the last ten years, Adelaide has transformed incredibly. From a slew of new hotels, growth industries and infrastructure developments to the redevelopment of its major precincts – including Adelaide Convention Centre – and much more to come, South Australia’s capital city is firmly positioning itself as a leading destination for business events.

Consistently recognised as one of the world’s most liveable cities and bordered by 760 hectares of parkland, Adelaide is clean, green, walkable and accessible. The airport is just a ten-minute drive from the CBD, allowing for one of the quickest transfers in the world, while most business and leisure precincts are within easy walking distance of one another. Event organisers will find planning their events a breeze, while delegates will enjoy the ease and convenience of getting around and exploring the city on foot.

With the most well-connected business, events and entertainment precinct in the country, Adelaide lends itself extremely well to business events and the extraordinary amount of recent developments

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have further enhanced its capabilities for servicing the sector, making it a future-forward complete convention city.

Collaborative and connected At the heart of the city’s transformation is the multibillion-dollar redevelopment of the Riverbank Precinct.

Attracting millions of visitors every year, this dynamic precinct connects the city’s cultural, medical, sporting, education, entertainment and conference centres, with a range of hotels and restaurants right at its doorstep.

It includes the expanded Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide Oval, Festival Centre, SkyCity Casino with luxury hotel Eos by SkyCity, and the new BioMed City, with all of these interconnected by walkways and a river footbridge.

“Adelaide is a small city but with big city infrastructure and it’s got everything for presenting a business event – the world-class venues and facilities, entertainment, the social side, it’s clean and green, it’s walkable, and it’s a really safe city,”Adelaide Convention Bureau chief executive officer Damien Kitto says.

Destination

Where to stay Sofitel Adelaide Merging local culture with the brand’s signature French art de vivre, this five-star hotel features 251 spacious guestrooms and suites, ultra-chic bars and Garçon Bleu restaurant, functional meeting spaces, exclusive Club Millésime floor, gym and heated indoor swimming pool.

Eos by SkyCity This glamourous hotel has all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a high-end casino hotel – opulent décor, luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, swish bars and restaurants, luxury spa, and outdoor pool with sprawling views.

Crowne Plaza Adelaide

Adelaide Riverbank Precinct.

The innovation precincts sparking new ideas and inspiration

With a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem and new, world-class knowledge precincts, Adelaide is making its mark as a global leader in innovation across a number of industries such as health and life sciences, space, defence, agriculture and many more.

Just a short stroll from Adelaide Convention Centre to the West End of the Riverbank, lies the $3.6 billion BioMed City – one of the largest and most significant health and science hubs in the Southern Hemisphere and home to the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI).

A short distance away in the city’s North Terrace, is the city’s newest innovation precinct – Lot Fourteen. With a focus on the fastest growing industries of the future, including cyber, machine learning, space and defence, it’s here you’ll find the Australian Space Agency alongside world-renowned global companies such as the Institute of Machine Learning and a Stone and Chalk Group managed start-up hub. This newly developed seven-hectare precinct is supported by a $757 million State and Australian Government investment and has several major projects in the works, including Tarrkarri – Centre for First Nations Cultures – a state-of-theart architectural masterpiece which is scheduled to open in 2025.

Designed as a retreat for work and rest, this hotel in the city’s tallest building offers jaw-dropping views from its 329 rooms and suites, thoughtful workspaces, a popular Japanese restaurant, fitness centre and heated rooftop infinity pool with adjoining bar.

Coupled with Adelaide's collaborative culture and accessibility, these thriving innovation precincts offer business events immense opportunity to tap into some of the best minds in the biz and allow for knowledge exchange to take place beyond the conference room.

“We’ve always had really smart, creative people and with the innovation districts – particularly with BioMed City and Lot Fourteen – the way we tend to pursue business events, is we align them to our key economic sectors,” Kitto says.

“More times than not, the event will be at Adelaide Convention Centre, then it’s only a five-to10-minute walk to BioMed City or a 15-minute walk to Lot Fourteen where you can meet industry leaders in those districts, tour the spaces and facilities, attend lectures, have meetings and network. It ends up being much more than just presenting a business event in a venue but extending the opportunity to see and experience these technology and innovation districts as well.”

Team Adelaide

Adelaide prides itself on its unified, collaborative culture and it all starts with the Adelaide Convention Bureau which Kitto says takes a “Team Adelaide” approach with its industry partners when working with event organisers.  spicenews.com.au 49

Destination

Rooftop drinks at Eos

by SkyCity’s Sôl Bar.

“We’re really proud about working together as Team Adelaide – the venues, the hotels, the professional conference organisers, the expo builders, the whole supply chain,” he says.

“Especially in going through the postCOVID economic recovery, having that trust and credibility in the event delivery service is really important and the event solution can be highly tailored to the needs and requirements of the client. The people here really care and want to deliver a great experience for business delegates coming to Adelaide.”

The Bureau also offers a ‘Conventions Adelaide’ program which features a network of 80 South Australian industry leaders from key sectors who are committed to successful convention programs.

“That’s the beauty of being a small city – we all communicate and work and collaborate together, and nothing is impossible. We really live by that and I think we’re really well known for it.”

World-class venues and facilities From its state-of-the-art Convention Centre to a variety of high-end and unique venues in the heart of the city, Adelaide offers something for any and every type of event.

Adelaide Convention Centre

Situated on the banks of the River Torrens, Adelaide Convention Centre opened in 1987, making it Australia's first purposebuilt convention centre. In 2017, the Centre completed a major expansion project which added two new buildings, expanding its 50 Spice Spring 2022

Precinct vision of Lot Fourteen in Adelaide’s North Terrace (indicative April 2021). Image courtesy Lot Fourteen.

overall footprint to 20,000 square metres. In the East Building, the flexible Plenary Hall offers 3,000 square metres of floor space for exhibitions and banquets, or tiered seating for up to 3,500, and can also be sub-divided into more than 15 different configurations.

This awe-inspiring space also has a “Starry Night” ceiling panel which features more than 35,000 fibre optic lights, adding a touch of wonder and intrigue to your event.

The Centre’s high-end capabilities make it one of the most modern, flexible and technologically advanced centres in the country, while its stunning design, complete with elevated “Skyway” walkway which connects all three buildings, and sprawling river views, make it one of the most beautiful too.

Light Adelaide

Founded by local husband and wife duo Nick and Sophie Dunstone the midst of the pandemic and launched in February 2021, Light Adelaide is one of the city’s newest and most innovative spaces. Combining technology, hospitality and the performing arts, this not-for-profit organisation was created as a philanthropic venture with the aim of giving the local arts community access to cutting-edge audio-visual technology. Housed within an old 1880s building in the artsy West End precinct, the hub features the highly-acclaimed Aurora restaurant, an outdoor bar and dining area, and The Lab – an immersive performance and events space for up to 150 pax cocktail, featuring a 50-square-metre LED screen. 

“That’s the beauty of being a small city – we all communicate and work and collaborate together, and nothing is impossible.”

Damien Kitto

Where to wine and dine • Sôl Rooftop for creative cocktails, fresh share platters and stunning sunsets.

• Five Regions for an exquisite wine-matched degustation that showcases Adelaide’s wine regions.

• Aurora for sustainably sourced, local produce that shines.

• 2KW Restaurant & Bar for innovative, seasonally led dishes and rooftop views.

Upscale Events and Conferences in Adelaide

Events at Crowne Plaza Adelaide Glide from business to leisure with conferences and events at Crowne Plaza Adelaide. With a dedicated floor for events, Luna10 Bar and Koomo Restaurant, we have a space to suit. Functionality, comfort and innovation define our conference venue in Adelaide.

Your success matters and our dedicated Crowne Meetings Manager is on-hand and ready to make your event exceed expectations.

Looking for a vibrant events venue? We have you covered with memorable luncheons in Koomo Restaurant & Bar, with panoramic views over the Adelaide CBD and an Asianfusion curated menu.

TALK TO US ABOUT YOUR NEXT EVENT adelaide.crowneplaza.com.au crowneplazaadelaide.sales@ihg.com (08) 7077 2271 27 Frome St, Adelaide SA 5000

•

Rich natural lighting

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The latest in AV tech

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Energising F&B packages

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Access to our innovative Plaza Workspace

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Inspiring outdoor breakout spaces

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Destination

d’Arenberg Cube in McLaren Vale.

In November, Light will open two new spaces – a bar overlooking leafy Light Square, and Light Immersive Theatre, offering a fully immersive space amid 150 square meters of LED screens, ideal for any style of event for up to 100 people.

SkyCity Adelaide

Offering a luxurious setting, five-star service and exceptional dining, SkyCity Adelaide is the perfect venue for when you want to go all out. Its Level 2 dedicated events floor includes eight versatile spaces, including the SkyCity Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 450 guests seated or 650 standing and features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the River Torrens and bathing the space in natural light.

Below: Adelaide is clean, green and walkable, with the sporting, festival and convention precincts and BioMed City all interconnected with walkways and a footbridge over the Torrens River.

Adelaide Oval

The iconic Adelaide Oval is the place to be for an authentically South Australian experience. In

addition to its cutting-edge facilities, including 25 distinct spaces for up to 3,000 people, the venue stands out with its superb culinary offering, energetic atmosphere and range of unique experiences such as stadium tours, RoofClimb, lighting and ribbon boards, and much more.

Adelaide Zoo

Transport your delegates to the lush gardens of Adelaide Zoo, just north of the CBD. As well as being home to more than 2,500 animals, the zoo has a range of indoor and outdoor spaces, including the Bamboo Forest Pavilion where you can wine and dine up to 250 guests and treat them to a special Giant Panda guest appearance. Other special experiences include a whole zoo takeover at twilight for up to 3,000 guests, special animal encounters and private guided tours. n

Must-do experiences • Get the adrenalin pumping on top of South Australia’s largest stadium with Roofclimb Adelaide Oval.

• Discover, explore and be inspired by the future-focused exhibitions at MOD. • Blend your own wine and try a drop from the year of your birth direct from the barrel in the Barossa Valley.

• Embark on a whimsical wine adventure inside the d’Arenberg Cube in McLaren Vale.

• Experience memorable wildlife encounters and breath-taking natural scenery on Kangaroo Island.

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Centralised event reporting HERO provides a centralised location for all your event reporting needs. With easy access to live registration reports, rooming lists and transportation manifests, you will always know exactly what’s happening with each event as it unfolds.

Program wide visibility With HERO you can analyse your entire event portfolio at a glance, including spend per attendee, per supplier, and the sustainability score of each event.

Sustainability scores for each event HERO helps you set goals, implement meaningful initiatives and track and share your progress towards a sustainable events program.

Contact us for a FREE demonstration info@huddle-agency.com.au www.huddle-agency.com.au 1 800 Huddle (483 353)

NEXT LEVEL

EVENTS

Immerse yourself in the SkyCity destination, taking advantage of onsite access to luxury five-star accommodation, signature bars and dining, entertainment, pampering and relaxation.

Events at SkyCity Level 2 of SkyCity Adelaide is our dedicated events floor, ideal for all occasions from glamorous gala dinners, conferences, corporate meetings and special celebrations. Expect the most beautiful and unique creations from our specialty chefs that will have your guests talking as our team transforms locally sourced produce into remarkable dishes.

Enjoy a seamless technological experience with our high-tech inhouse audio-visual services, enabling you to concentrate on the real meaning of why you are holding your event.

Events at SkyCity scan for more information

Functions at SkyCity Looking for something on the more intimate side?

Wine and dine your guests with a small celebration or private dining experience at one of our unique specialty venues, Sean’s Kitchen, Madame Hanoi or Sol Rooftop.

Eos by SkyCity Discover a destination hotel where your every need is considered and experience the extraordinary. Award-winning Eos by SkyCity encompasses the finest in modern hospitality. From 120 opulent rooms & suites, to a unique range of signature experiences and resort style amenities, a new realm of luxury awaits.

Functions at SkyCity scan for more information

scan for more information

E: events@skycity.com.au L: North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5001 W: https://skycityadelaide.com.au/ P: (08) 8212 2811

Destination Brisbane CBD at sunset.

Brisbane’s most beautiful venues Whether it’s a world class convention centre, charming historic theatre or breezy riverside terrace with views for days, Queensland’s sun-soaked capital spoils for choice with venues that set the tone for memorable events, Lana Bogunovich writes.

D

riven by a passion for sustainability, creativity, culture and innovation, Brisbane is thriving with opportunities for business events.

Offering the type of world class facilities you’d expect from any modern capital city, Brisbane’s range of meeting spaces and venues are as vast and varied as its precincts, while its subtropical climate lends itself perfectly to alfresco events.

One of the best things about the city is how accessible and walkable it is, with most of its venues and accommodations a short walking distance to its many wonderful highlights and attractions, allowing delegates to easily explore the city on foot.

Throw in the Queensland hospitality, which is as warm as its weather, and you’ll soon be easing into the laidback vibe of this city by the river, where mixing business with pleasure comes naturally.

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South Bank: Where art, culture and sustainability meet South Bank’s verdant riverside parklands, year-round public events and myriad dining options make it once of the city’s most popular precincts. There are several green spaces that can be hired through council for private events, as well as Flowstate, which features a 300-square-metre open-air pavilion that can be booked for up to 500 people. Surrounded by greenery, this sheltered outdoor setting offers natural light, fresh air and digital capabilities.

In the heart of the precinct is the multi-awardwinning Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC). With innovation and sustainability at its core, the Centre operates at the highest international social and environmental standards and has achieved EarthCheck Platinum Certification. 

Destination

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

It offers 44 modern and versatile meeting and event spaces across seven levels and can accommodate up to 4,000 cocktail in its Exhibition Halls. It is also the only convention centre in the country with a permanent art gallery, boasting more than 50 artworks by Australia’s leading Indigenous and nonIndigenous contemporary artists. The Plaza Gallery features a priceless collection of Central Desert Art, offering an impressive art-filled space for up to 200 guests.

At the top end of South Bank is Brisbane’s cultural precinct, home to Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). These galleries hold more than 19,000 artworks from around the world and host a range of ever-changing exhibitions which set the scene for wow-factor private and corporate events. There are eight event spaces to choose from and whether it’s a cocktail soiree in the Sculpture Courtyard or a lavish dinner for 250 guests in the Watermall, the exceptional in-house catering team will have it covered with a range of menus that celebrate local produce and the beauty of art. Hosting an event here also offers the rare opportunity for guests to view an exhibition after hours.

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Tap into historic charm On the other side of the river in the eastern suburb of New Farm is Brisbane Powerhouse – one of the city’s most significant historic and cultural landmarks.

This former tram power station has been repurposed into a not-for-profit arts and culture hub and hosts upwards of 1,250 performances, festivals and events every year. Its eclectic indoor and outdoor spaces – complete with heritage-listed graffiti art – break away from the traditional and include two main theatres, galleries, meeting rooms, a rooftop terrace overlooking the river, and the Turbine Platform, which offers 120 square metres of floorspace for up to 175 guests. Opening in October, The Pleasuredome – an enormous sailcloth marquee erected on the lush green Performance Lawn – will offer nearly 400 square metres of canopy space for breezy summer events of up to 350 guests.

Another example of a beautifully preserved historic venue is The Princess Theatre in Woolloongabba. After lying dormant for a few years, it was meticulously restored and reopened in October 2021 as a live music and performing arts theatres. 

Brisbane Powerhouse.

Three must-do experiences

1

See the city from the river with a scenic river cruise or venture to the islands of Moreton Bay. River to Bay offers a range of tours and its highspeed boats can be chartered exclusively for corporate events, incentive experiences and offsite getaways.

2

Get the team together and master the art of gin making by creating your own bespoke gin from a selection of 140 botanicals and mini copper stills at Brisbane Distillery Company.

3

Connect with local Aboriginal culture at Spirits of the Red Sand, an immersive experience where you can step back in time and witness a unique way of life prior to Europe settlement.

The beating heart of Brisbane’s events & entertainment scene 5 Boundary St, Brisbane City QLD 4000 events@hswco.com 07 3188 9090 howardsmithwharves.com @howardsmithwharves

Find your place here

Destination

The rooftop infinity pool at Emporium Hotel.

Howard Smith Wharves.

Stay in style 1

The Calile. This breezy boutique hotel in Fortitude Valley has stylish retro vibes, an outdoor pool with cabanas, lush day spa, bright and airy event spaces, and the popular Greek restaurant, Hellenika.

2

Hotel X. Fun and playful, with quirky yet stylish touches, a casual French bistro, a rooftop pool and a Spanish rooftop bar and restaurant.

3

Emporium Hotel. Glamourous and sensual, this luxurious 5-star hotel has all the bells and whistles, including state-of-the-art events spaces and a rooftop infinity pool overlooking South Bank.

A dinner event in the Watermall at QAGOMA.

But, this 133-year old heritage theatre has also become one of Queensland’s most charming private events venues, with five dedicated event spaces. For larger events, the Princess Auditorium can host up to 272 seated and 500 standing, and offers state-of-the-art AV, four bars, a rehearsal room, spacious greenrooms and backstage area, and is fully wheelchair accessible. The outdoor courtyard can also be utilised for arrival drinks.

It’s all happening by the river

The bougainvillea Grand Arbour walkway at South Bank.

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Set on the banks of Brisbane River, Howard Smith Wharves (HSW) is the place to eat, drink, play, stay, and of course, host an exceptional event. Thanks to an ambitious redevelopment project, this former abandoned wharf has been transformed into a thriving and everrevolving riverside precinct, packed with restaurants and bars, artsy hotels and eclectic events spaces with sprawling river views.

Whether you’re after intimate group dining, a waterfront cocktail function or a large event with hundreds of guests, this dynamic precinct boasts a plethora of options for events of any shape and size.

Highlights include Ciao Papi Glass House, a light-filled venue on the riverfront for up to 75 guests, and the Mediterranean-inspired Bougainvillea House with wrap-around veranda for up to 150 guests. For larger events, the heritage wharf building, Rivershed, can accommodate up to 595, while Felons Barrell Hall can be hired out for up to 800. For private group dining, head to Stanley – a two-storey Cantonese restaurant with a range of indoor and outdoor spaces. n

CONVENE IN BRISBANE’S HEART OF CIVIC PRIDE

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CONFERENCES FROM 20 TO 2,000 GUESTS WITH A CHOICE OF 11 SPACES

T: 07 3014 4705

EPICURE.COM.AU

Destination PUNT

Check into

Christchurch Having spent the last few years rebuilding and reinventing itself, Christchurch has become one of New Zealand’s coolest and most vibrant cities. From its world-class convention centre and thriving food scene to an array of fascinating attractions and experiences for corporate groups, the South Island’s largest city has endless opportunities on offer.

A visit to Christchurch would be incomplete without gliding down the tranquil waters of the Avon River in one of the city’s famous Edwardianstyle punts. A 45-minute private punting charter is available for groups, offering delegates a memorable off-site activity and the opportunity to view the city from a truly unique perspective.

SOAK Just an hour from the city, Opuke Thermal Pools & Spa is the perfect spot for post-conference relaxation.

Overlooking the foothills of the Southern Alps, this new wellness destination in Methven features a range of solar-powered pools, including adults-only areas, with spaces available for private group bookings. The onsite spa offers an array of treatments and experiences including float therapy and rasul steam room.

MEET As the location of MEETINGS 2022, Te Pae Christchurch Centre was able to show off its stunning modern design and state-of-the-art technology to more than 600 delegates. Located in the city centre, the multi-awardwinning venue can deliver any type of event thanks to two levels of diverse and flexible spaces, and prides itself on showcasing the beauty and culture of the region through its culinary offerings and warm Kiwi hospitality.

STAY Overlooking Avon River and Hagley Park, The George offers a personalised accommodation experience in a refined setting. This luxury boutique hotel features 52 plush rooms, a private three-bedroom villa, gym, an award-winning restaurant, and event spaces filled with natural light and modern capabilities. There are eight separate spaces catering for up to 150 with plenty of options for team-building and outdoor activities.

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Destination EAT Taste the flavours of the Canterbury region at the vibrant Riverside Market, selling local produce, baked goods, coffee and much more. The market is also available for private venue hire, offering a range of options for events of all sizes, including a unique after-hours market dining experience. For a fun team-building activity, head upstairs to Riverside Kitchen and put your culinary skills to the test.

SOAR From snow-covered mountains and rolling green pastures to weaving rivers and sprawling coastlines, Christchurch is surrounded by incredibly diverse natural landscapes. Take in all the spectacular sights this region has to offer with a scenic helicopter tour. GCH Aviation offers a range of flights to enrich any conference program as well as premium experiences for rewarding incentives.

WELCOME Welcome your delegates and set the scene as soon as they step off the plane. At Christchurch Airport you can now book a welcome package for your business event which includes a purpose-built welcome lounge in the terminal as well as digital options for publicising events and welcoming their delegates throughout the airport.

SIGHTSEE

EVENT Located on the banks of Heathcote River in Woolston, The Tannery is a boutique shopping, entertainment and bar and dining complex.

Housed within a historic former tannery dating back to 1874, it also offers four function spaces and a dedicated Events team that can cater to any style of event. The Atrium is an especially charming space for intimate dinners and cocktail functions for up to 600 guests.

Grab a hop-on-hop-off ticket and explore the city sights aboard one of the iconic Christchurch Trams. A full circuit takes just 50 minutes, or you can jump off and back on again at any one of the 18 stops.

Treat your delegates to a special dining experience on the Tramway Restaurant, New Zealand’s only restaurant tramcar.

spicenews.com.au 63

Destination INSPIRE With its wave-like shimmering glass façade and light-dappled lobby, Christchurch Art Gallery is undoubtedly one of the city’s most beautiful landmark buildings. In addition to its exquisitely curated collections and exhibitions, the gallery offers a range of inspiring event spaces suited to any type of event, from small cocktail functions on the balcony to large banquets in the grand marble foyer, with private gallery viewings also available.

BREATHE Conferences can be tough so when it’s time to break away, head to Soul Studio and realign both mind and body with a hot yoga session. There are classes to suit all levels and ages with health talks, workshops and special events also on offer. Soul Studio can also create a reset room at your event complete with chair massage therapy to revive tired delegates.

STAY Situated within The Arts Centre, The Observatory Hotel is a celebration of art and design, with each of its 33 rooms distinctly designed and decorated with furnishings and artworks from Canterbury and around New Zealand. Elegant and full of character, it features a fitness centre, stylish Library Bar and a convenient meeting room.

EVENT Built in 1908, Isaac Theatre Royal is a great example of beautifully preserved heritage architecture. Located in the heart of the city, this historic beauty features a classically ornate interior with a breathtaking dome ceiling painted with scenes from Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Aside from concerts and theatrical performances, the theatre easily accommodates private events with seven unique spaces.

DINE Stepping inside Eliza’s Manor is like stepping back in time. Established in 1861, this charming property comprises a boutique heritage hotel, function centre and a sophisticated fine dining restaurant. With a focus on exceptional service and local, seasonal ingredients, Eliza’s is ideal for group dining and private events in a timelessly elegant setting.

WOW Located at the historic former air base in Wigram, The Airforce Museum of New Zealand has seven spaces that cater to events of all shapes and sizes. Originally built as a hangar in World War Two, the 875-square-metre Aircraft Hall can host up to 790 guests surrounded by vintage military aircraft for a real “wow” factor event.

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Destination

NT connects delegates to what really matters The Northern Territory offers an array of meaningful and multi-sensory experiences that connect delegates to the land and its ancient culture.

Image credit: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia.

'Kakadu under the Stars' dinner.

Distinctive NT connections

Kakadu incentivises

At Uluru, the Gallery of Central Australia (GoCa) has recently been renovated and is available for cocktail functions for up to 100 guests. It provides an opportunity to mix and mingle while viewing authentic Aboriginal artwork sourced exclusively from Central Australian artists. Business event delegates can learn about the significance of the artworks on display, observe artists at work and also purchase items from the Gallery. In Darwin, Aboriginal Bush Traders, which now includes a retail store, gallery and café, is offering a Bush Food Tasting Platter and Gallery Tour.

Other new incentive experiences include those recently launched

by Kakadu Tourism. At 20,000 square kilometres, the World-Heritage listed Kakadu is Australia’s largest National Park and is a three-hour drive from Darwin, with air transfers just under an hour. Kakadu Tourism’s new incentive experiences include scenic flights over waterfalls, a Yellow Water Billabong cruise, art classes with Aboriginal painters, and bush food discovery cooking classes with traditional owners. ‘Kakadu under the Stars’ provides a unique dinner option for up to 100 guests at the Warradjan Cultural Centre in Cooinda.

Darwin Convention Centre.

Image credit: Tourism NT and Christopher Pollitt.

2023 an international year for the NT

Retreat to the NT

A busy and impressive international conference calendar approaches for the NT in 2023. Events include the 2023 International BioIron Society Congress, WaterMicro 2023, the 2023 World Conference on Ecological Restoration, the 2023 World Aquaculture Conference and the 2023 World Community Development Conference. In 2025, Darwin will host the World Federation of Neuroscience Nurses Quadrennial Congress.

Across the NT, lodges and retreats provide unique wilderness stays for small incentive groups. New accommodation offerings amongst these include ten premium eco-tents called ‘The Drovers Dream’ at Kings Creek Station, which is 36 kilometres from majestic Kings Canyon. Finniss River Lodge, located on a working cattle property approximately 90 minutes from Darwin, has also recently launched six new luxe suites.

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QUEENSLAND

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