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Melbourne MICE reports strong FY2019/20 despite pandemic

by TM staff writer

The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) has outlined a solid performance in the 2019-20 financial year in its Annual Report released today, despite the disruptive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Victoria’s lead agency for acquiring and delivering business events, secured 145 business events reinforcing the State’s reputation as Australia’s event capital. These events are expected to inject $234.3 million in economic contribution to Victoria’s visitor economy in the coming years.

Speaking at the company’s Annual General Meeting held virtually, MCB Chief Executive Officer Julia Swanson reflected on the year that evolved into two halves – the time pre-COVID-19 and the months after its onset and the bureau’s swift response in navigating the challenges presented by this situation.

“We responded quickly to rapidly changing market conditions with our number one goal to maintain as much future business as possible. This involved continued support to the industry and significant digital transformation with an active focus on maintaining long-lead business.

“MCB has worked tirelessly with our clients to reschedule their business events, rather than cancel. We’ve had success here, with 70 per cent of planned events rescheduled into future years, thanks to MCB’s strong client relationships and our partners’ flexibility,” said Ms. Swanson.

MCB announced that before the business events sector shuttered in March 2020, Melbourne hosted 140 business events previously secured by the bureau, attracting over 98,6000 visitors – 47 per cent more than the previous year and generating in excess of $295 million in economic contribution for the State’s economy.

Currently managing over $532 million worth of bids that have the potential to contribute 258,000 room nights for the hotel and accommodation sector, MCB confirmed 117 secured business events for Melbourne from calendar year 2021 to 2026[1].

“This is significantly more than usual so we feel confident in the long-term outlook for our sector,” Ms. Swanson said. “It is testament to the resilience of our industry, the can-do attitude of the MCB Team and Team Melbourne – our partners, and with support from the Victorian Government, Visit Victoria, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, City of Melbourne and Business Events Australia.”

Swanson also acknowledged the Victorian Government’s continued investment to support the bureau to bring visitors from Australia and the world to its business events as part of a $9.7 million boost to the Business Events Program.

“This year has been one of the most challenging for our industry and this commitment demonstrates that business events will play a large role in recovery efforts for our State and supports a broadened focus of MCB’s business event acquisition into the domestic business events market.

“It will support us to acquire as much business as possible and funnel the economic impact from these events to MCB stakeholders and partners.”

MCB already has a presence in the national business event space, with a strong pipeline of national leads and a team ready to activate in line with Victoria’s Business Events roadmap.

“What has defined the business events industry in Victoria has been the inspiring way it has reacted to the challenges presented by COVID-19. While we continue to work through these challenges, we are looking to welcoming business events visitors to Victoria as restrictions continue to ease.

“The best outcomes come from working together through difficult times. And together will continue to focus on strengthening Melbourne’s position as a global leader in business events.” said Ms. Swanson.

Ms Anne Jamieson, Chief Operating Officer, Saxton Speakers Bureau and Vice Chair of Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), was elected for a three-year term as Director, replacing outgoing Director, Ben Sington. Mr Peter King, Chief Executive Officer, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre was also re-elected for a further three-year term as Director.

Chris Barlow former MCB Board Chair who stepped down in early 2020 was acknowledged for the extraordinary support provided to the Board and the MCB team during his 12 year’s Board service.

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Daily NewsMICE

MICE NEWS: Australia events updates, CINZ changes, Auckland MICE award and more

by Kate Webster

The MICE market is looking to solutions for opening up across Australia and New Zealand. Here is the latest MICE news domestically and across the ditch in New Zealand.

Planning underway for Sell TNQ 2021

Plans are underway for Cairns & Great Barrier Reef’s educational program, Sell TNQ to be held in 2021, welcoming industry partners back to the region. Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef had great expectations for Sell TNQ 2020 after a record year in 2019 that saw the event oversubscribed by 3 to 1.  But the shift in dates allows the event to aptly celebrate its 21st birthday in 2021.

The peak event for showcasing the region’s capabilities to Australian and New Zealand meeting planners, Sell TNQ features a workshop day of one-on-one appointments with Cairns & Great Barrier Reef’s best business events suppliers and an educational program experiencing the region’s touring, food and beverage offerings, and attractions. The program highlights why Cairns & Great Barrier Reef is the natural place to meet.

Optimism for restarting domestic business events

Results are in from Tourism Australia’s second wave of business events research to understand attitudes of corporate decision-makers towards holding business events as coronavirus restrictions ease around Australia. Findings show an uptick in confidence since the first wave was completed in August, despite restrictions on attendees and travel hampering confidence. A summary and fact sheet of the findings can be found here.

Business Events Sunshine Coast welcomes $50m Business Events Grant Program

Business Events Sunshine Coast (BESC) is confident that the Federal Government’s $50 million Business Events Grant Program will revitalise the crucial business events industry. BESC Manager Maureen Brennan said the announcement will give business event organisers the confidence to plan and commit financially to events in 2021 and create demand for business buyers and sellers to participate at these events.

“The Sunshine Coast business events industry is open for business and pleasingly the criteria for regional events under this program suits the Sunshine Coast profile as a fresh destination for hosting business events with a diverse range of venues located in our region. This funding will form a critical part of recovery for our industry and is a great opportunity for the Sunshine Coast region to get business events up and running again.”

Changes to board and constitution for CINZ

Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) held its Annual General Meeting online, taking the opportunity to change the constitution and structure of the Board to reflect the future needs of the industry. CINZ Chair Tony Gardner said ”These changes reflect CINZ’s need to meet future issues at a governance level in an agile way, while still ensuring that our members maintain the power base.”
At the AGM, CINZ also announced a name change to Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), which will take effect on 1 December 2020.

The new board structure sees two seats elected from the Platinum member category, and one seat from each of the Gold and Silver member categories. In a new rule, two seats will be appointed by the Chairman and elected Board Members following the Annual General Meeting, who may or may not be a Member of the Association. There will also be one non-voting seat for an Air New Zealand representative, and one non-voting seat for someone nominated by Tourism New Zealand.

Auckland named Oceania’s best meetings and conference destination

Auckland has been named best meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) destination in Oceania at the inaugural World MICE Awards 2020. The award, part of the World Travel Awards, sees votes cast throughout the year by members of the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry internationally as well as high-end MICE consumers to determine category winners.

Head of Auckland Convention Bureau, Anna Hayward, says the award and nominations for Auckland businesses across other categories is testament to Auckland’s reputation as a desirable business events destination.

“It’s wonderful to have this recognition, indicating that Auckland’s reputation as a leading business events destination still holds strong with international industry and clients, despite the challenges our industry has faced this year.

“When the time is right, we look forward to extending our manaakitanga and seeing the world’s great minds gather here to connect, share knowledge, and create opportunities.”

Two of Auckland’s newest hotels were also nominated in Oceania’s Best New MICE Hotel 2020 category: Park Hyatt Auckland and SO Auckland Hotel. In addition, Crowne Plaza Auckland won New Zealand’s Best MICE Hotel 2020.

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Daily NewsMICE

International Men’s Health Day Industry Webinar

by Kate Webster

This Thursday, 19th November is International Men’s Health Day and, in conjunction with ‘Movember’, you are invited to join the industry for a session on Men’s Health in Travel & Tourism.

Aptly named, “Pausing a Mo-ment for Men’s Health”, the event is hosted by  Walter Nand and is open to everyone.

“This has been an incredibly challenging time for everyone in our industry, and wWe’d love to have as many people as possible join us for this opportunity to learn a little more or simply show your support for men’s health,” Nand explained.

The panel includes three well known industry personalities including; Pete Rawley, Evolution Travel Collective, David Reeves, Ride the World Motorcycle Tours & Richard Taylor, The Travel Industry Hub. They’ll chat about some of their personal challenges in the past, those that are ongoing and some of the lessons learnt along the way.

As part of the discussion they will cover how to recognise the signs of depression or anxiety, how to engage in open and honest conversation, and some places where professional help can be found for those in need.

The event will be this Thursday 19th November at 1pm AEDT. You are invited to join and register for the event HERE.

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MICE NEWS – Vbase award, MCEC adapts and more

by Kate Webster

As business events open up to new experiences in New Zealand, so does Melbourne adapt to Coronavirus restrictions. Here is the latest MICE news from Australia and New Zealand.

Vbase wins prestigious Best Food Experience award

Christchurch’s Vbase has won ‘Best Food Experience’ at the New Zealand Event Awards for its catering at TEDxChristchurch 2019: Tūrangawaewae—A Place of Belonging, at Christchurch Town Hall. An innovative hāngī lunch, using the newly constructed hāngi pits in the Town Hall’s neighbouring Commons site, ensured 1,400 guests were safely and quickly served in just 10 minutes. All produce was locally and ethically sourced, responsibly harvested, and produced in house by the Vbase kitchen team in collaboration with Ngāi Tūāhuriri, through their subsidiary Matapopore.

Vbase Chief Executive, Caroline Harvie-Teare says the award reflects Vbase’s deep connection to its local culture, food and people, and is a wonderful example of the social, cultural and economic impact of its celebrate and source local procurement strategy.

“An inclusive and planned approach with Matapopore, TEDxChristchurch and Vbase allowed us to design a food experience to celebrate mahinga kai, the interconnected beliefs and practices relating to the environment and gathered food,” she says.

MCEC’s response to pandemic sees new uses for venue

Coronavirus restrictions have seen Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) explore new ways to use their award-winning but unutilised spaces, including the filming of a Hollywood blockbuster starring Liam Neeson, and the training of Victorian Guide Dogs. MCEC closed its doors in March due to the pandemic, but as a major contributor to the Victorian economy, the venue has been exploring new ways to contribute to the community.

One example of using the enormous venue’s space differently includes as a film studio – an idea that was originally floated as part of an innovative new idea-generating ‘hackathon’ held by MCEC in August called ‘Unconventional Ideas’.

Since that event, MCEC has been working with the Victorian screen industry, and is now hosting the production of a major Hollywood film called Blacklight, starring Liam Neeson. Directed by Mark Williams (co-creator of Ozark and director of box-office success Honest Thief), the production is expected to bring more than 500 local jobs for cast and crew back to the local film sector.

As well as the economic benefit the venue is providing, MCEC is also supporting the community by providing Guide Dogs Victoria a safe, contained space and free-of-charge space to train Guide Dogs. This will ensure people with low vision or blindness can continue to receive essential services during restrictions.

Business events industry welcomes appointment of new Minister of Tourism

Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) welcomes the appointment of Hon. Stuart Nash as the new Minister of Tourism. CINZ Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins says the business events industry is looking forward to working with Minister Nash and having direct dialogue on the role this sector will have in supporting New Zealand’s economic recovery.

“Business events are a significant part of tourism and we were the first to feel the impact of the global pandemic with the cancellation of large gatherings and border controls,” she says.

“The appointment of a senior Minister signifies the relevance and importance of the broader tourism sector to New Zealand’s recovery.”

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Zurich Insurance introduces World Travel Protection for business travel

by TM staff writer

Risks associated with business travel are changing and becoming more complex as exemplified this year by the COVID-19 pandemic, a rise in civil unrest, as well as extreme weather events and related catastrophes. As employees become increasingly exposed to such risks, companies have a greater obligation to ensure the health and safety of their workforce.

As a result, Zurich Insurance has announced it will now offer comprehensive business travel solutions, including a larger international servicing network, broader insurance coverage and new capabilities to support travellers and risk managers through technology.

Zurich Insurance Group’s Business Travel Solution will utilise World Travel Protection’s (WTP) assistance and advisory services to enhance its offering, which will help bolster WTP’s Australian arm.

Drazen Jaksic, Zurich’s Global Head of Accident & Health, said, “COVID-19 demonstrated how quickly a localised risk can become a global crisis affecting not just business travellers and employees, but the global population. Although the pandemic has significantly reduced business travel for now, it is slowly re-starting as companies in some industries have to look after their assets, equipment and customers abroad and deliver on projects.”

WTP’s Australian-based CEO, Adrian Leach, said the company had managed six air evacuations in only the past few weeks, illustrating that necessitous business travel was still being undertaken.

“COVID-19 adds extra complexities that an organisation like World Travel Protection is well poised to handle with its network of providers and tailored technology,” Mr Leach said.

“For example, we recently evacuated an Australian client from a remote part of the Solomon Islands after he experienced chest spasms and dizziness, which was extremely involved and included working with the High Commissioner of Solomon Islands via DFAT.

“We also had a client with a foot infection in Ivory Coast who was deteriorating due to border closures limiting his access to specialists. After his condition worsened, WTP arranged for an air ambulance to transfer him home to Italy.

“Over the last 12 months, despite the challenges of a global pandemic, the WTP team with the support of our parent company Zurich, have invested heavily in our technology and capability to build a global, leading, full- assistance service from our operations in Brisbane, Toronto and Shanghai.

“Being integrated into the Zurich offering to support corporations in navigating their travel risk management obligations marks another milestone for WTP.”

Zurich Business Travel Solution is supported by WTP’s innovative technology and data, including a mobile application with country risk information and geolocation alerts for business travellers, and a comprehensive travel portal for risk managers.

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MICE NEWS: Trivia in the tropics, Business Events NZ, EVENT nabs new hotel and more

by Kate Webster

It is slowly getting back to business across the MICE industry, here in Australia and across the ditch in New Zealand. Here is the latest MICE news you need to know in small bite size chunks.

If you have any updates or news you want to share, please email [email protected].

Trivia in the tropics wows business event planners

Australian conference and incentive organisers experienced the business events offering in Cairns & Great Barrier Reef with a fun new format, an online trivia game. The live online trivia game replaced the annual networking lunch and was an outstanding success with the fun and competitive format a winner in keeping everyone engaged with learning about the region’s business events offerings.

Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef General Manager Rosie Douglas said the challenge was to stand out from the succession of online meetings that the decision makers in the business events industry faced each week. “We had 29 enthusiastic members promoting 36 Cairns & Great Barrier Reef products via video presentations for Regional Showcase Connect 2020,” Rosie Douglas said.

Ms Douglas spoke to the meeting planners about the interest in Cairns & Great Barrier Reef as a regional destination where delegates could enjoy space and be assured that the industry was operating under COVID-safe guidelines. Work is well underway transforming the Cairns Convention Centre into a much larger adaptable events space with the opening scheduled for April 2021.

Melanie Bowie of Key Conference in Melbourne won a five-night holiday including return airfares to Cairns for two people plus activities including a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef, luxury day spa package, scenic helicopter flights, dining at award-winning venues, and numerous day trips around the region to explore Kuranda, Port Douglas and Mossman.

Business events a go ahead across New Zealand

The announcement by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern that Auckland has moved to Alert Level 1 is great news for the business events industry and will “give decision-makers confidence across the country” according to Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) Chief Executive, Lisa Hopkins.

“We have been given the green light to meet, with the country fully opened up to domestic groups, and Aucklanders again welcome to any region,” Lisa Hopkins says, adding that “Now is the time to rebuild the industry, and deliver confidence back to organisers who have been holding off planning and booking their events.”

“Our message is it is safe to hold a conference, seminar, workshop, or team recognition event. We want people to understand that business events are the safest type of event that can be held, backed up by the World Health Organisation itself.”
CINZ has opened registrations for BE Reconnected, a free industry exhibition and networking day in Auckland on 1 December aimed at the throwing the spotlight on this $5 billion sector and rekindling vital industry relationships.

Event Hospitality & Entertainment & Tank Stream Hotel partner

Event Hospitality & Entertainment Limited (EVENT) and the Tank Stream hotel in Sydney will join Event as part of its growing Affiliate Hotel network, coming online in late October. The Tank Steam hotel will continue to feature its own branding while being part of the extensive EVENT hotel network. Supported as an affiliate partner, The Tank Stream will benefit from access to EVENT’s established distribution network, sales and marketing platforms and inclusion in the extensive Priority Guest Rewards loyalty program.

Norman Arundel, Hospitality & Entertainment Director of Hotels and Resorts said, “We are committed to supporting the Australian travel and hospitality industry and are thrilled to forge this new partnership with The Tank Stream hotel. Working together, we will support The Tank Stream team to drive business and achieve the best results possible in the market, delivering the benefit of our robust systems and industry knowledge to extend their market reach, while maintaining their unique brand identity.”

Marriott International F&B insights post COVID19

Marriott International has released “Reimagining F&B: Insights from the Inside”, and industry report offering 10 observations into how the pandemic is reshaping asia’s food & beverage scene. While there are no easy and ready answers in an unprecedented crisis like this, the report provides informed observations into how the pandemic is impacting and transforming the food & beverage industry in the short- and mid-term, especially in Asia.

From eminent chef-owners Gaggan Anand, Emmanuel Stroobant and Vicky Cheng to talented bar entrepreneurs Agung Prabowo and Tom Egerton, 55 key opinion leaders from key food cities in the region – Bangkok, Beijing, Hong Kong, Perth, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Taipei and Tokyo – shared their viewpoints, which formed the 10 emerging trends in the report. Prolific food consultants and editors as well as chefs from Marriott International hotels also contributed their perspectives to the report. For more insights in Reimagining F&B: Insights From The Inside by Marriott International, download the full report here.

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cievents to become FCM Meetings & Events

by TM staff writer

cievents has been an industry leader in the MICE market for over 30 years and will continue to deliver award-winning meetings and events under the new name of FCM Meetings & Events as it transitions to its new structure in the coming months.

cievents says that while many of the people and teams you know and trust will remain, the integration with FCM Travel Solutions will combine the unique expertise of cievents with FCM’s market-leading technology and extensive world-wide network. Customers will benefit from global reach, seamless travel, meetings, group travel and event capabilities, all under the FCM brand.

“… as we globally align cievents in its current form to FCM Meetings & Events … We will continue to keep you updated with this progress and changes to our branding over the coming weeks, however, in the meantime, it is business as usual.”

As part of this change, Global GM Natalie Simmons will be leaving the cievents brand after 21 years on Friday 16 October 2020, with a new leader to be announced in the coming weeks.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers for supporting and trusting cievents in managing so many of their events over the past three decades,” said Simmons. “I know that the team taking FCM Meetings & Events forward will continue to deliver the world-class events with the service you have all known and trusted. And as we see business events return, they will continue to be the industry leader they have always been.”

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MICE NEWS: Kakadu Bird Week, NZ events funding and more

by Kate Webster

MICE news from Australia and across the ditch in New Zealand all wrapped up in the one place, the Monday MICE news is back.

If you have any MICE news you want to share, do get in touch with Kate on [email protected]

Kakadu Bird Week Festival will take flight

Nature will be at its most spectacular during the annual Kakadu Bird Week which has scheduled to go ahead from 26 September to 3 October, 2020. The week-long celebration of nature offers visitors the opportunity to engage in free bird activities, join expert-guided tours and Aboriginal bird experiences, and cruise the wetlands. Confirmation of the event highlights the Northern Territory’s strength in holding major festivals and events, even in the current climate.

Kakadu Bird Week is held when the dry season is at its peak and the wetlands recede in advance of the arrival of the monsoon rains, making Kakadu’s rich variety of birds, crocodiles and other wildlife even more accessible to visitors.  The Festival will feature a packed itinerary of events designed for both dedicated bird watchers and those who just love seeing nature at its most spectacular, but it is also the perfect time for nature lovers to discover the rest of Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory.

Yellow Water Cruises and Kakadu Tourism will be offering visitors an exceptional opportunities to get close to Kakadu’s wildlife, with dedicated Bird Week cruises at 4.30pm daily (26-28 September, and 1-3 October) at $109 per person. The cruise will also take in the spectacular sunset over Yellow Water Billabong.  Kakadu National Park rangers will provide free daily walks at many of Kakadu’s major tourism sites, including Ubirr and Nourlangie. For more visit https://parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu/do/events/birdweek/. For all accommodation options, visit https://kakadutourism.com/accommodation/

Regional Events Fund for NZ business events

New Zealand’s business events industry has welcomed the Government’s drive to support domestic tourism through events with a $50 million Regional Events Fund covering nine major regional groups across the country.

The Regional Events Fund comes as a welcome addition to the government’s recently announced Domestic Events Fund, in which 20 of the 200 events receiving support were conferences and business events.

Conventions & Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) Chief Executive, Lisa Hopkins says the industry is pleased to see more support going into the events sector.

“It is good to see the sector has been recognised as an important driver of the domestic visitor industry, and business events have been acknowledged as a high-value contributor to regional visitation,” Lisa Hopkins said.

“This longer-term investment in events will support the rebuilding of the visitor economy and provide valuable assistance for the people who work within it.”

The mechanics of how the fund will be distributed is still being worked through with further announcements to come. CINZ will be encouraging the regional tourism organisations to ensure business events have a fair share of the fund and offer support to the New Zealand Convention Bureaux as they work through the process.

Pullman Sea Temple Port Douglas MICE offering

Delegates will be impressed from the moment they arrive into the expansive foyer at Pullman Sea Temple Port Douglas, overlooking the shimmering lagoon pool. Blending contemporary luxury and sophistication with a private waterfront setting on nearly 10 acres of tropical splendour, the Pullman Port Douglas is one of the premier meeting and event venues in Australia.

Specialising in conferences, events and incentives the flexible conference and events spaces can cater to groups from two people to 180 people and a range of event styles with ease. Enhance your event by taking advantage of the tropical climate in the variety of outdoor event venues at the resort, from a casual poolside welcome function to a gala dinner on the Lagoon View Terrace or an exclusive private breakfast or dinner on the spectacular Sunrise Boardwalk.

Treat your delegates to the abundance of natural wonders in Tropical North Queensland, experience the Great Barrier Reef, Cape Tribulation or the Daintree Rainforest; indulge in a relaxing treatment in the award winning Vie Spa or take in a round of golf on the neighbouring championship 18-hole course.  The choices are unparalleled in Port Douglas. Located only 55 minutes from the Cairns International Airport your tropical destination awaits.  Contact the professional events team at [email protected] for more.

 

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Aeronology offers free wholesale bookings until end of 2020

by TM staff writer

Aeronology has announced a free-of-charge implementation program of its wholesale flight booking services until the end of 2020 for the COVID period to ensure all travel wholesalers and MICE who need, or would like to add, flights to their products, be they cruise, tour, adventure, specialised or general travel wholesale services, can embed non-core flights into their customers’ services.

“The travel industry will never be the same, and the businesses who can keep their head above water, manage increased productivity and reducing operational costs will win, and they will win a much larger market share when the industry rebounds,” says Russell Carstensen, the co-founder and CEO of Aeronology. “There will be consolidation of distribution and all businesses need to start thinking about how they will exist at the end of COVID and thrive in the future.

“I’ve been inundated with enquiries by various wholesale businesses asking if our ticketing technology could be used within the current wholesale models, and I’ve advised of course, it can quite easily be,” “I know that most, if not all wholesale businesses have little to no air flight expertise – it’s generally a high cost, highly manual process and it is very difficult to procure and maintain experienced travel consultants to provide these services to their varied customer bases.

“In the current environment, even the big operators are being careful with their money, understandably so. This is an opportunity to rebuild your air team and move it to a profit centre, instead of running at a loss.

“Flights are a must have add-on that most wholesalers and travel suppliers don’t manage very well but will need to provide as we work our way out of COVID. Currently, flights are a non-performing cost to their core business, however they add significant value to the traveller experience, and flights need to be provided to stay in business.

“Aeronology’s business model is based on a very small transaction fee, a couple of dollars. It’s transparent, we don’t take commission and the relationship is between the customer and the wholesaler. Our business model is built on high volume production of transactions. Implementation normally costs many thousands of dollars depending on the size of the operation.

“While COVID is still out there and businesses need to remodel, we will not charge any implementation costs. It’s only small transaction charges that can be on-charged and if you don’t use it you don’t pay.”

The ticketing model is as follows:

Sabre, Travelport or TravelSky – Aeronology can use your existing GDS contract or use Aeronology’s GDS contracts if the supplier does not have one or doesn’t want one. It also means that based on the airline contract, travel agents can book and manage their own flights saving the wholesaler money and time. Amadeus is not available for this offer.

Aeronology will be NDC compliant with most NDC airlines by mid-2021.

Air contracts with any airline you want, it is your air contract.

All services are provided via the internet, they can be processed anywhere in the world.

If you do not have an IATA, we can provide help to get access to one.

What would normally take the wholesale travel consultant hours to do will now only take minutes, and this includes cancelations, refunds, reissue, and revalidation.

No special training required; model implemented within a couple of weeks.

If the Wholesaler or MICE business has a current flight team the cost of sale will drop by up to 80%, while running 24/7 globally, so it can be used in any market from one platform.

Aeronology’s Aero Tickets application will connect to any mid/back office, and if the wholesaler has API’s with direct connection to the wholesaler’s booking tools and traveller profiles, Aero Tickets can be incorporated as part of the booking process.

If the wholesaler hasn’t a hotel program, we can connect to our new Hotel Bed Bank supplier WebBeds free of charge.

Aeronology can be contacted at [email protected].

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MICE NEWS: MCEC plans, OurAfrica.Travel and more

by Kate Webster

Conferences are planning for COVID-19 Safe options, Africa events go virtual and Fiji does some fundraising. This is the latest in MICE news from Australia and our closest neighbours.

MCEC unveils VenueSafe Plan

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has launched its VenueSafe Plan, ensuring the venue is ready when it is safe to reopen.

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Chief Executive, Peter King, said “We’ve been working hard to ensure we have the right health measures in place to give our customers, visitors and people the confidence they need when our doors reopen. It is safe to say that things may look a little different. However, we’re confident that with new measures in place as part of our VenueSafe Plan, customers can continue to enjoy Melbourne’s leading destination for big ideas and inspirational events, when it is safe to return to our venue.”

For more detail on MCEC’S VenueSafe Plan visit mcec.com.au/venuesafe 

OurAfrica.Travel 2020 Virtual Conference

Africafambigpic Eclipse Travel

As the pandemic caused the cancellation of the African trade shows this year, OurAfrica.Travel is launching a global virtual conference to connect African suppliers with buyers from around the world. Taking place over three weeks in August to accommodate different time zones, pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings will take place from 11 – 13 August: Australia, New Zealand & Asia Pacific (3 days) and globally on Saturday 15 August 2020. Please use this link to secure your FREE ticket for your region and all three Global Saturdays. (The Global Saturdays are open days where any buyer may meet with any exhibitor, based on CAT). Once you complete your registration, the on-screen confirmation will come up and you will receive email confirmation. If you need more information please contact Rudi on [email protected].

Marriott International Fiji tees off for fundraiser

The Marriott International Fiji Resorts held a successful fundraising Golf tournament in support of “Solia Lesu” by Marriott foundation on the 25th July, 2020. The charity golfing event held at Denarau Golf and Racquet Club on Denarau Island received overwhelming support from the domestic market bringing together individuals, sponsors, businesses and sporting communities with 93 participants and a total of 23 teams who participated in the 18-hole game.

Marriott International and General Manager – Sheraton & Westin Resorts, Fiji, Multi Property Vice President, Fiji & Samoa, Neeraj Chadha, said “We would like to thank the teams who registered for our event in support of the Solia Lesu foundation and our very generous sponsors who contributed to the success of the event. The money raised from this event will further support our continued efforts with the “Solia Lesu” program over the coming months.”

‘Solia Lesu’ which means to “Give Back” in iTaukei was formed by five Marriott International Fiji Resorts (The Westin Denarau Fiji Resort & Spa, Sheraton Fiji Resort, Sheraton Denarau Villas, Sheraton Tokoriki and Marriott Momi Bay Fiji) to provide assistance to associates and the local community affected by COVID-19.

 

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MICE NEWS: Cairns open for business, IHG ‘Meet with Confidence’ and more

by Kate Webster

Operators are ready for the new way of business, from new offerings to welcoming flights. The business of MICE in the travel industry is opening up.

Here is the latest news from Australia and New Zealand in the MICE Industry.

Cairns welcomes interstate flights

Cairns is excited to welcome back interstate travellers, celebrating the arrival of the first flight from Sydney with a water cannon salute and tropical carnival themed welcome inside the terminal to greet passengers. More than 300 visitors from New South Wales arrived from Sydney within the first hour of Queensland opening its borders. Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Olsen greeted guests alongside members of the tourism and business industry. “Our small population base and wide-open spaces make the Cairns region a highly desirable destination for people or groups wanting to leave the crowds of the cities behind. Cairns and Great Barrier Reef is where you can swim with turtles, see cassowaries in the world’s oldest rainforest and dine on extraordinary regional produce in beautiful tropical resorts.” The interactive welcome event is a positive showcase of the region’s collaboration and hospitality that’s available to all travellers, business and leisure.

Business events operators in Cairns & Great Barrier Reef are also ready to greet the interstate travellers. Operators have been innovating while their doors were closed and now they are ready to take visitors on new journeys exploring superior venues and attractions, the largest reef on Earth, and the world’s oldest rainforest. Some of these include:

Taste the tropics

Taste locally grown wagyu beef and tropical delicacies at KUR-Cow Farm, Kuranda’s one-stop-shop for an authentic Australian cowboy experience. The magical offsite venue overlooks rolling mountain ranges and takes guests on ATV tours, an iconic hayride experience and horse riding. Breakfast, lunch, and sunset BBQ packages are available for laid-back offsite events.

Be mindful and safe

Cash is no longer king at the Crystalbrook Collection with the group becoming Australia’s first cashless hospitality company in response to COVID-19. Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort, will reopen with the group’s Mindfully Safe program which donates $5 from every direct booking to Beyond Blue. Guests can destress with relaxing Spotify playlists and meditations, as well as yoga, barre, Pilates and art classes on the in-room iPads.

Top tower view

Tackle the new Tower Climb and Lookout at AJ Hackett, Cairns for picturesque coastal views from above the Wet Tropics Rainforest treetops. The 196-step climb provides the perfect view for delegates to watch their colleagues take the plunge off the 50m high platform during an epic touring day adventure or offsite function. It has uninterrupted views of the starry night-sky during a once-in-a-lifetime offsite dinner on the bungy platform or down below amongst the lush tropical rainforest.

Sip gin at the distillery

Rediscover the summer flavours of mango, finger lime and ruby grapefruit with the local Wolf Lane Distillery Tropical Gin during an afternoon cocktail making class or delegate after party. Three Wolves kickstarted Cairns city’s small bar scene when they opened their namesake bar in a laneway, followed by the below street-level Flamingo’s Tiki Bar, and have just opened their third bar at the Wolf Lane Distillery.

Introduce the kids to diving

Whilst Mum and Dad are conferencing, children aged from 8 to 11 who can’t wait until they turn 12 to learn to dive can now try scuba diving for the first time with Divers Den’s PADI-endorsed program for kids. The dive can be part of a partner program and is done in a pool where you can also snorkel and scoot about with an underwater scooter.

Hot outback stays

Mt Mulligan Lodge is the only Australian property to make the Conde Nast Traveller 2020 Hot List. The Northern Escape Collection property is an ideal reward for small executive groups wanting to connect offsite after a conference. Fish for barramundi in the weir, tour the property on an ATV and experience the day-to-day workings of a cattle property.

See stars underwater

Marine biologists at Reef Magic Cruises are installing Reef Stars at their Marine World Pontoon. These provide a stable base for coral to grow on with the aim of increasing coral cover. Guests will glide over the Reef Stars on the glass-bottom boat tour, the ultimate Great Barrier Reef touring day that has something for delegates.

IHG launches ‘Meet with Confidence’

Meeting and events planners can help clients to deliver safe and creative solutions with the launch of IHG offers that don’t compromise on the experience. Aptly named ‘Meet with Confidence’, the offer combines a commercial reassurance for all guests (including zero cancellation fees or attrition fees at participating hotels), along with cleanliness reassurance thanks to an overhaul of IHG Way of Clean in partnership with Cleveland Clinic.

‘Meet with Confidence’ is instilled with maximum flexibility and includes:

  • No cancellation fees
  • No attrition fees for rooms that are not booked
  • Up to a 5% rebate towards the master bill
  • Short-form contract
  • IHG Business Rewards points applicable on all bookings

The offer applies when booking 10 to 50 rooms for your next meeting or group event at participating hotels, with or without a meeting room. Valid when booked by 31 December 2020, with meet or stay dates by 30 June 2021.

CINZ and TNZ renew long-term commitment

The ongoing agreement between Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) and Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) will continue to be enhanced to market New Zealand as an international business events destination. The two organisations have renewed their longstanding commitment to promote business events to New Zealand by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) confirming cooperative activity. TNZ’s Global Manager for Business Events, Lisa Gardiner says a key focus of the renewed partnership will be TNZ’s expertise in the management of international tradeshows as a platform to showcase the industry to the world. Tourism New Zealand will continue to drive global marketing activity in support of the sector and operate the Conference Assistance Programme (CAP) as a key tool in securing large scale international conferences.

CINZ Chief Executive, Lisa Hopkins says coordination across the sector delivers significant benefit for the New Zealand industry and the economy as a whole. “Now, more than ever, we are demonstrating the united approach and commitment New Zealand has to securing business events globally, as we prepare for open borders in the future.  The economy needs our industry to be part of the recovery story and this MOU ensures full collaboration on the most meaningful opportunities between the business events industry and TNZ,” Lisa Hopkins said.

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FeaturedMICE

MICE NEWS: MEETINGS 2021 announced, Fairmont’s intimate events

by Kate Webster

While normality is still a time off, the MICE market is adapting well to the new restrictions and regulations, with planning already underway for 2021 events. Here is this week’s MICE news from Australia and across the ditch in New Zealand.

New Zealand counts down to MEETINGS 2021 in Christchurch

MEETINGS 2021 has announced new dates for the event to be held – 30 June and 1 July – at Te Pae Christchurch, the city’s new world-class convention centre in Ōtautahi. MEETINGS was last held in Ōtautahi in 2008.

MEETINGS is New Zealand’s premier business events exhibition, run by Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ). CINZ Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins says Ōtautahi Christchurch will be a stunning location to relaunch MEETINGS and to showcase New Zealand’s best to a high-profile audience.

“Working together with Christchurch NZ, Te Pae Christchurch, Vbase, Tourism New Zealand, Air New Zealand and Christchurch International Airport we will be bringing influential buyers into the heart of the South Island for an unforgettable experience. We are anticipating more than 180 exhibitors and over 300 domestic buyers from all over New Zealand, plus 115 from Australia and Asia-Pacific regions once our borders reopen. There is so much interest globally for what New Zealand has to offer, and this will give buyers the opportunity to meet all of New Zealand under one roof in a stunning location.”

Christchurch NZ General Manager of Destination and Attraction, Loren Heaphy, says the city is thrilled to be hosting MEETINGS 2021. “With the opening of Te Pae next year, and exceptional venues and accommodation already in place, Christchurch is set to be at the forefront of business events in New Zealand.”

Te Pae Christchurch General Manager Ross Steele says, “We’re looking forward to working with CINZ and ChristchurchNZ in showcasing the very best of the Canterbury region to the business events community, and revealing New Zealand’s newest world class convention venue as the hub of MEETINGS 2021.”

The most recent MEETINGS, held in 2019, generated over $62 million during its two days. In the same year the business events industry contributed $477M* to the New Zealand economy and it is seen as a significant economic driver in New Zealand’s post-COVID recovery.

Intimate events at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

As hotels around the world reopen to the public and restrictions on travel and gatherings are increasingly relaxed, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts says it is taking “…a thoughtful approach to celebrating special occasions, milestones and other important gatherings.” Intimate gatherings amid grand settings are the focus as families, friends and colleagues eagerly regroup and celebrate the many personal milestones and annual get-togethers that were put on hold during the global pandemic lockdown.

Fairmont Brand, Vice President Sharon Cohen said “At this unprecedented moment in time, we feel fortunate to be welcoming back guests and are happy to help them create intimate moments of togetherness that focus on quality over quantity, where something small can be truly beautiful. With smaller social gatherings, people are observing the less is more philosophy right now, that bigger isn’t always better or that grandeur isn’t defined by size. A stunning natural vista or a rich, historic setting adorned with exquisite luxuries can be just as meaningful and powerful when shared with a select, hand-picked group of loved ones, where each and every guest feels special, valued and important.”

If you have any MICE news, please send it in to us by emailing Kate on [email protected]

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AGENTSAustraliaDaily NewsHotels & ResortsMICETRAVEL Trade

W Melbourne will unveil mega events space at opening – December 2020

by TM staff writer

W Melbourne, scheduled to open in December 2020, will unveil 426sqm of pillarless and adaptable events spaces, with conference equipment, world-class audio-visual facilities and bold cuisine from an expert in-house catering team.

The Great Room is the jewel in the crown and the largest of W Melbourne’s event spaces and features a large original artwork by local Melbourne artist, Ash Keating, spanning nearly 30m across the ceiling.

Each of the eight dynamic meeting spaces can be tailored for any occasion, whether it be a stand-up cocktail function, business meeting or a formal sit-down dinner. Four separate bright and bold Studios allow for limitless event options and perfectly accompany the Great Room as breakout areas. To live it up in serious style book out the Extreme WOW Suite (on the 15th Floor) for VIP treatment, or soak in the gold-roof adorned indoor pool at WET for ultimate party beats (overlooking the city).

W Melbourne has also partnered with Microhire to provide new and next audio-visual services and fully adaptable conference equipment for your next epic event.

IMAGE: The Great Room – W Melbourne

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AGENTSDaily NewsIndustry News - GeneralMICETRAVEL TradeUpcoming Events

Cievents’ online debate – ‘Nobody Cares What Your Brand Thinks’

by TM staff writer

Filmed live in front of a COVID-19-safe studio audience in Sydney, and broadcast online, cievents will host a special debate event – “Nobody cares what your brand thinks” – on Thursday 25 June 2020 at 3pm [AEST], bringing together speakers from all walks of the event industry – agency, supplier and celebrity speakers, to explore the idea that nobody cares about your brand.

“Part fact, part opinion and all attitude, this battle royale is essential viewing for anyone who’s been wondering what the future looks like for brands in a post-COVID-19 landscape,” says debate Host and Moderator Natalie Simmons, Global General Manager cievents.

“The post-COVID-19 world is going to be a very different one, and no brand can afford to be inconsistent with their messaging and the actions that follow. This debate is a fantastic opportunity to explore both sides of the argument with personality, humour and intelligence.”

Host & Moderator: Natalie Simmons – Global General Manager, cievents
Panelist: Ben Weir – Executive Creative Producer, cievents
Panelist: Carolyn Miller – Director, The Honeycomb Effect
Panelist: Nicole White – General Manager, Rock’n’Roll Team Building
Panelist: Bim Ricketson – Executive Creative Producer, George P Johnson
Panelist: Peter Berner – Presenter & Comedian

The broadcast is sponsored by ICMI Speakers & Entertainers and will be LIVE by NW GROUP in front of a COVID-19 safe studio audience from The Venue, Alexandria.

To register to attend in person or online CLICK HERE.

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AGENTSAustraliaDaily NewsHotels & ResortsMICETrainingTRAVEL Trade

COMO The Treasury Perth and Tourism WA host MICE webinar

by TM staff writer

Unique Tourism Collection’s Jonica Paramor will be facilitating a Zoom Webinar with Jesse Tibert, COMO The Treasury’s General Manager and Gabi Vincent, Director of Sales & Marketing.

Joining the COMO MICE Connect webinar will be joined by Tom Upson, International Market Manager, Tourism Western Australia. The trio will expand on Perth and Western Australian itineraries for groups and incentives.

Zoom Webinar | Thursday 25 June 11.30am – 12.30pm AEST

Register HERE.

IMAGE: COMO The Treasury

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