29th November 2013
[email protected] www.businesseventsnews.com.au 1300 799 220
Editor: Jill Varley
business events news
WITH Christmas coming faster than Santas flying reindeer, so are the gift ideas - which is especially helpful for deciding on the right corporate gift or what to buy for the person who has everything. Sydneys Hyde Park Barracks Museum is holding a special Christmas market on Wednesday 18 December from 4pm, and whats more entry to the museum will be free all evening. The market, a collaboration between Sydney Living Museums and Real Food Projects, focuses on local, seasonal foods, handmade by Sydney-based artisans, chefs and urban farmers. Then theres Red Balloon with gifts that include everything from V8 experiences, hot air ballooning, skydiving through to cooking and massage. And, while its not something you can buy but you can hire from Melbourne based Place Settings, is this very desirable wine cooler, in the form of a yellow garden booze barrow.
What to buy?
MEETINGS organisations across the globe have been urged to speak with a single voice, as a key recommendation from the Joint Meetings Industry Council which met in Barcelona last week. Attended by a broad crosssection of industry leaders and advocacy experts, the daylong Conference on Industry Communications explored new strategies for advancing industry profile with key audiences. JMIC is a global organisation which represents the combined interests of 15 international associations including AACVB, AIPC, ASAE, ICCA and PCMA. JMIC president Philippe
Single voice for meetings
Shaping up for AIME
THE Australian leg of the popular Forum for Young Professionals has been confirmed for next year by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) as part of its commitment to the development of the industry. Being held immediately prior to AIME 2014, the two-day intensive program on the international meetings industry will be held 16-17 February, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This complimentary benefit to ICCA members is also open to a limited number of non-members for $385 per person. The Forum targets young professionals under the age of 30 who are keen to boost their understanding of the global meetings industry. The program offers newcomers unique exposure to some of the best minds in the industry. We leverage off the AIME trade show to develop a quality program using senior industry experts visiting Melbourne, says Forum manager Elizabeth Rich. The 2014 theme is The Shape of Things to Come with a focus on changing strategies and practices in the meetings industry. ICCA will also host a Forum for Young Professionals in conjunction with EIBTM in Barcelona from 22-25 Nov 2014. For more details contact
[email protected].
Koreas aim to inspire
THE Korea Tourism Organization is to sponsor the hosted buyer lounge at AIME2014, with the objective of inspiring buyers to host their next meeting, incentive, conference or exhibition in the country. Hosted buyers will be welcomed by women in traditional Korean costume and be able to try their hand at Korean fan making, take photos in the photo zone and try some traditional Korean tea and snacks. The overall Korean experience will also include the screening of promotional films of Korea. Additionally, a large team of Korean MICE industry specialists will join the Korea Tourism Organization stand 310. On the fast track to becoming a top destination for MICE events, Koreas MICE space has expanded 70% since 2000, with more facilities being developed in key hubs. Ranked fifth for the number of international meetings in 2012, Korea has nine major convention centres in major cities and has successfully hosted numerous international world-class events from the G20 Summit in 2010 to the Nuclear Security Summit in March of 2012.
MEANWHILE a number of people have commented on the hairy upper lips which have proliferated across the business events industry this month. Rosyln McLeod from arinex asked for a special mention for the inspirational industry men supporting Movember. It has been the topic of conversation at so many meetings and functions, she said. I wonder how much as an industry we raised - I bet it is substantial. She suggested that as there is always a cry for industry statistics this may be a fun way to gather some real data next year! Jill
Fournier said the gathering demonstrated a remarkable degree of consistency amongst industry leaders as to what our critical issues and messages need to be in order to gain traction with audiences that will continue to impact our collective future. Key recommendations included: addressing government and community priorities in order to engage their interest a need to build a greater level of trust within the industry to create a basis for joint action a shift of focus onto developing new initiatives that can be developed on a cooperative basis, rather than just revisiting the past the importance of clearly defining what is needed to support industry development the need to engage mainstream media more effectively; and the importance of an ongoing, consistent communications effort rather than periodic initiatives. Fournier said the outcomes would shape JMICs future strategy.
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business events news
Prague grants support
business events news
29th November 2013
AIMEing for platinum
AFTER several years of effort by the Prague Convention Bureau, the Prague City Council has approved incentive support for large international conventions held in the city. Grants for incentive support are intended for non-profit organisation congresses with 1,500 and more delegates with at least 50% of them being from abroad. To qualify, attendees must spend a minimum of two nights in Prague. Organisations can receive $12 per participant, up to an estimated $50,000 per event. This funding can be used towards the cost of the venue rental or for a welcome reception. More information available at www.praha.eu in the section of Subsidies and Grants / Urban Grants / Tourism.
crumbs!
FORGET the penthouse suite in a five-star hotel or the villa overlooking the beach for a brainstorming retreat, South Africa has come up with an idea that will allow the team to experience living in one of the countrys shanty towns, in the sort of accommodation that millions of people who live in informal settlements experience every day. Usually consisting of old corrugated iron sheets or any other waterproof material, it is constructed in such a way to form a small house or shelter with nothing more than a paraffin lamp, candles, a battery operated radio, an outside toilet and a drum fire for cooking. Cant wait? You can experience this within the safe environment of Emoya Private Game Reserve, Luxury Hotel, Conference Centre and Spa in Bloemfontein. The only Shanty Town in the world, it accommodates up to 52 guests and is equipped with under-floor heating and wireless internet access, and is said to be ideal for team building, braais and fancy theme parties. Each Shanty sleeps four and is priced at R850 (A$92) with breakfast optional at R110.00.
LAST night more than 120 people from across the industry gathered at the Sydney Sofitel Wentworth for the second Platinum Networking Night. Convened by recruitment firm TMS Asia Pacific and sponsored by technology provider Travelport with the support of Tourism Ireland, Breakaway Travel Club and with prizes from Qantas and Accor, guests were encouraged to meet at least six new people each by TMS md Helene Taylor.
The event also coincided with TMS Asia Pacifics first anniversary of trading under new ownership, which Taylor told BEN had seen the firm morph from a traditional recruiter to Global Headhunters. Attendees included Delwin Kriel, recently appointed sales manager at AIME, whos pictured above with AIME director Jacqui Timmins and Anthony Cassar of Breakaway Travel Club. Lots more pics from the night at facebook.com/BusEvNews.
Dubai wins Expo 2020
THE announcement of Dubais winning bid to host Expo 2020 was revealed in Paris this week, during the 154th Bureau International des Exhibitions (BIE) General Assembly. Competing with cities in Brazil, Russia and Turkey, the mega event is expected to have a significant impact on the tourism industry of Dubai. To be held between October 2020 and April 2021 with more than 25 million visitors expected to attend, 70% are expected to come from outside the UAE the largest number of international visitors in Expo history. With the theme Connecting Minds, Creating the Future the bid is part of the governments long-term vision to ensure sustainable national development and a prosperous future for the UAE. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, director general, Dubais Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and ceo of Dubai World Trade Centre said the bid demonstrated the value in harnessing the collective power, resources and passion of all of our city stakeholders and the people of the UAE and we will ensure that the world is welcomed in style in 2020. Julie King, DTCMs Australia/NZ director expressed their delight at having been selected. We are thrilled, she said.
Heritage early bird
NEW Zealands Heritage Auckland and Heritage Queenstown hotels have early bird deals valid for bookings made before 16 December for a minimum of 10 rooms, and include daily in-room wifi, swimming pools, and a range of grand rooms and meeting spaces. Heritage Auckland conference accommodation special is NZ$159 per night for a superior room including in-room wifi and is valid for bookings made before 16 December, for an event held before 31 October 2014. Heritage Queenstown early bird special is NZ$179 per night for a deluxe room including wifi. It is valid for bookings made before 16 December, for an event held in the months of January, April, May, June and October 2014 only. Both early bird specials are available for new bookings only and subject to availability. For more info or to book email
[email protected].
Groups & Events Senior Consultant
Voyager is currently looking for a full time Groups & Events Senior Consultant with a minimum 5 years experience in effectively managing corporate clients Events, Conferences and Groups travel, whilst being able to take a strategic lead on a specific client portfolio to nurture and grow the business. Account management experience together with knowledge of fares and ticketing plus strong GDS skills is required, and experience with online registration software (such as Cvent) will be highly regarded. A competitive salary and attractive employee benefits will be rewarded to the successful candidate. This could be your dream role; and your chance to be part of a fun and growing team - dont wait, enquire now!! Please send resume and covering letter to:
[email protected]business events news
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Hurry, closing soon
business events news
29th November 2013 A champagne offer
SPICERS Retreats, with six stunning destinations in southeast Queensland and one in the Hunter Valley, NSW, has midweek rates available across all properties right now. And for every new conference booked and contracted by 31 January youll receive a complimentary case of Louis Roederer NV champagne. Offer available Sunday to Thursday with nine rooms and above per night, and delegates will enjoy award-winning restaurants and activities. To find out more call 1300 687 643 or email conference@ spicersgroup.com.au.
THIS is a reminder that the Inspire EX Early Bird special is finishing soon with only 14 working days left to secure a high traffic location at the best price. Contact Andrea Manookian on [email protected].
Ben on BEN
Each month Business Manager for inPlace Recruitment, Ben Carnegie, writes his observations from the recruiters perspective to help job hunters find the perfect job. Ben has over 15 years working in 5 star hotels and the MICE industry and has worked on some of Australias biggest events.
Norfolk welcomes PCOs
WIN NIGHT TRAIN TO LISBON TICKETS
This week, BEN and Pinnacle Films are everyday giving one lucky winner the chance to win a double pass to the new movie, Night Train to Lisbon, due for release on 5th December. After a chance encounter with a Portuguese woman, Swiss professor Raimund Gregorius quits his job and embarks on an adventure to Lisbon that will take him on a journey to the very heart of himself. Check out the trailer here: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=9Ds5L7qS85s. To win, be first person to email the correct answer to the daily question below to:
[email protected].
Name another another film film Jeremy Jeremy Name Irons has has starred starred in? in? Irons
Wednesdays winner was Jessica Riches from EMG. The answer was Portugal.
MUCH has been written about Norfolk Island of late, so a MICE trade famil last week for a group of high-end planners went a long way to dispel fears of its imminent demise. Come what may, were not going anywhere, one Islander confirmed. Hosted by Norfolk Island Tourism, Air New Zealand and SEIT Norfolk Island, it allowed the group to immerse themselves in the spirit of the island, meet its people, enjoy its extraordinary beauty, its living history, unique culture and colourful penal and colonial heritage. It was an adventure that included the group either staying or visiting the three main resorts with conference facilities - The Governors Lodge Resort Hotel, Paradise Hotel & Resort and South Pacific Resort Hotel and also staying at Poinciana Cottages and Broad Leaf Villas. There were visits to the brand new and very designer Tin Sheds and the stylish White House Villa, morning tea at Onions place to learn of his History in the Making enterprise, cooking lessons at Hillis - Mastering Taste Chef School and Garden Tour, an amazing massage with Heidi and lunch at her Bedrock cliff top restaurant. Also included were pre-dinner drinks at Diamonds Exclusive, an atmospheric dinner and a spooky
ghost talk at No.9 Quality Row, an original colonial cottage, a boat cruise around Phillip Island, a lively treasures race organised by SEIT and a Murder Mystery dinner, hosted by NI Tourism and Pinetree Tours. The final day meant stocking up on duty free shopping and lunch at Norfolk Blue Restaurant, Grill & Bar where they specialise in Norfolk Blue beef, unique to Norfolk Island. The group is pictured above from left: Noor Saloumi, Egencia; Jill Varley, BEN; Jeanette Kriletich, Travel Logistics; Kathy McCoy, SEIT; Jessie Skeen-Fisher, Air New Zealand; Tania Anderson, Norfolk Island Tourism; Svetlana Jovanovic, The Unique Tourism Collection; and Sarah Misdom, PriceWaterhouseCoopers. Back row: Alice Chamoun, Voyager Travel; and Tim Coughlan, Incognito Events.
CONTACT US: Publisher Bruce Piper
TIS the season to be jolly nearly! This is an excellent time of year to make new contacts as everyone has had a hard year and is looking to let their hair down. The business events sector is no different, and it is now that many companies are keeping their eye out for new staff to cope with the demands of the year ahead. Use these opportunities well and you could be top of mind for the people you would like to work for next. Always take your business cards and dont be afraid to work the room. Everyone there has the same fears as you do about approaching people they dont know. Make the first move and others will respect this. Remember that job hunting is like dating - its all about confidence! Always remember you are there to represent your company and personal brand, and if the next Christmas party has a theme, get into it! Have a great festive season and see you round the traps. Ben Luigi Carnegie
Editor Jill Varley
For advertising enquiries email Christie-Lee Lachance: [email protected] P: 1300 799 220 F: 1300 799 221 PO Box 1010 Epping, NSW, 1710
Business Events News is part of the Travel Daily group of publications which also include: Travel Daily, Cruise Weekly & Pharmacy Daily.
Disclaimer:While every care has been taken in the preparation of Business Events News no liability can be accepted for errors or omissions. BEN takes no responsibility for the opinions of its contributors/columnists. Information is published in good faith to stimulate independent investigation of the matters canvassed.
business events news
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