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MICE NEWS: Good Food and Wine Show Sydney, MGallery Hong Kong

by Kate Webster

Meeting spaces at MGallery in Hong Kong, opening end of 2019

Slated to open at the end of this year is The Silveri Hong Kong – MGallery, the MGallery brand’s first hotel in Hong Kong. The Silveri Hong Kong – MGallery will feature 206 guest rooms, a leafy arrival hall, three dining options and an executive lounge. For the MICE space there is one multipurpose meeting room of 62 m² or 667 ft² and 1 fixed boardroom of 50 m² or 538 ft², that can accommodate up to a maximum of 48 delegates. The meeting rooms boast natural daylight and are equipped with Nespresso coffee machine, TWG tea facilities and high speed internet access. They also offer build in state-of-the-art Audio & Visual equipment all controlled by a touch screen panel.

Macao eats at Sydney Good Food and Wine Show

Taste Macao at the Good Food and Wine Event

Macao and its fabulous fusion food will be one of the star attractions at the prestigious 2019 Good Food and Wine Show, International Convention Centre Sydney, from June 21-23. As a designated UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the Asian centre will have a virtual kitchen at the annual consumer show preparing and serving visitors such traditional Macanese favourites as African Chicken and Minchi along with ever-popular signature dessert, Serradura.

Macanese food is considered one of the world’s earliest forms of fusion cuisine, dating back to the 16th Century when the first Portuguese seafarers settled in this corner of China. Visitors to the Macao stand will also have a chance to win $2000 credit towards flights to Macao through leading online travel agent www.trip.com along with discounts on hotel options. It’s all part of Macao’s 20th Anniversary celebrations as a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China.

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AustraliaDaily NewsHotels & ResortsMICE

Marseille themed event showcases Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour’s MICE offerings

by TM staff writer

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour was the venue for a special event on Thursday night to showcase the diverse meeting and events spaces available at the hotel and to provide guests with a preview of the new menu introduced by Executive Chef, Eric Costille.

‘A Night in Marseille’ began with guests wending their way through nine stylish meeting rooms and boardrooms to the Magnifique Ballroom, where they were provided with inspiring design touches showcasing how well-suited the spaces are for hosting any style of event, from haute couture fashion shows to gala dinners and large-scale conferences with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology through to intimate business meetings.

Meeting Room Softiel Sydney Darling Harbour

A point of difference for Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour will be the new French-inspired menu designed to provide a stylish culinary underpinning for corporate events held at the hotel. In a departure from more traditional menus, guests were given a sneak peak of Chef Costille’s signature dishes including canapés of mini onion pissaladière, mini pan bagna buns, seared red mullet, black olive tapenade on toasted brioche and stuffed baby tomato and zucchini provençale. For something more substantial, a market display style grazing station was set up offering guests a Marseille style traditional bouillabaisse, freshly shucked oysters and cooked tiger prawns with aioli.

MICE Wedding Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

Adding to the French Art de Vivre, an indulgent chocolate fountain and a selection of hand-made guimauve (marshmallows) provided the perfect sweet indulgence in the hotel’s elegant Champagne Bar, which can also be booked for events. An assortment of cheese with freshly baked bread and French charcuterie was also a highlight.

To complement the French fare, guests were served Pink Waterlilies (cocktails) prepared by the hotels experienced mixologists and sipped on bubbles. They were also entertained by the dramatic ‘Sabrage’ ceremony – showcasing the art of slicing open a Champagne bottle with a cavalry sabre. This tradition, thought to have started with Madame Clicquot is available regularly at Champagne Bar.

MICE Talk Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

The opportunity to walk through the different styles of guestrooms available at the hotel was also on offer, along with Le Rivage bar adjacent to the hotels’ sparkling infinity pool and the recently re-designed private dining space “The Red Room” in signature restaurant Atelier. The experience concluded at Club Millesime Lounge located on level 35 so guests could take in the breathtaking views of Darling Harbour and the city.

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour has three special Meetings and Events Packages available to book:

Half Day Delegate Package – $105 per delegate which includes room hire, tea and coffee on arrival, morning tea, lunch, sparkling and still water and notepads with pens.

Full Day Delegate Package – $115 per delegate which includes room hire, tea and coffee on arrival, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, sparkling and still water and notepads with pens.

Winter offer – anyone booking boardroom meeting before end of August 2019 receives complimentary gin trolley service at the end of the function.

Meeting Room 2 Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

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Daily NewsMICE

MICE NEWS: IPW 2019, HK Dragon Boats, Melbourne Film Festival and more

by Kate Webster

This week’s MICE news has been wrapped up in a quick snapshot so you don’t need to go hunting for the cheese.

USA held IPW 2019, there are dragon boats racing in Hong Kong and more. This is the latest news on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events from the travel industry.

IPW 2019 Brings Thousands of Buyers, Suppliers and Media to Southern California

This June, more than 6,000 attendees from over 70 countries gathered in Anaheim, CA for this year’s IPW—the travel industry’s premier international marketplace and the largest generator of travel to the U.S. IPW gathers travel professionals—including U.S. destinations, hotels, attractions, sports teams and transportation companies, and international tour operators, buyers and wholesalers from around the world—to meet in one place to help bring the world to America. At this year’s IPW, there were 110,000 prescheduled business appointments between suppliers and buyers, which is estimated to result in $5.5 billion in future international travel to the U.S. over the next three years. This has been revised upward from the $4.7 billion in future international travel to the U.S. estimated in past years. Additionally, more than 500 members of the media attended IPW. These journalists covered the event itself, and also met with business and destination leaders to generate stories encouraging travel to the U.S.

2019 Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival

The 2019 Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival, now in its tenth year, will descend on Hong Kong’s iconic Central Harbourfront and Victoria Harbour from 14 to 16 June 2019 with an action-packed programme of competitive racing and cultural activities. Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association (HKCDBA), the 2019 Event will welcome close to 5,000 paddlers representing about 180 teams from 16 countries and regions to Asia’s world city to compete by invitation only.

Melbourne International Film Festival comes to MCEC

The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) is an iconic annual Melbourne event showcasing the biggest and most highly anticipated films and cultural experience across Melbourne. This year, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is excited to be named as one of MIFF’s five new venues for 2019. A number of MIFF special events will take place at MCEC including the MIFF 2019 Opening Night Gala, Girlhood + Sampa The Great and Thurston Moore: In Conversation.

The World’s First AI Powered Luxury Travel Festival

TFest, the world’s first AI powered luxury travel festival, is a bold new event concept from Private Luxury Events that waves goodbye to the traditional tradeshow format. On The Palm, Dubai, in February 2020, it will bring together the most influential buyers and sellers in luxury travel in a vibrant festival that uses technology to create an experience that is both large-scale and personal. Throughout the three-day festival, AI matchmaking will help delegates connect with more people than ever before, giving them a personalised experience and a better return on their time and investment.  For more information please visit www.travel-fest.com

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FeaturedMICE

MICE NEWS: Sunshine Coast Convention Centre, Women in Tourism & Rendez-Vous Canada

by Kate Webster

This week’s MICE news has been wrapped up in a quick snapshot of the news. From new convention centre openings, events and campaigns, this is the latest news on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events from the travel industry.

Minister Opens Sunshine Coast Convention Centre

Queensland Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones has officially opened the $10 million Sunshine Coast Convention Centre at Novotel Twin Waters Resort.

Positioned in the grounds of the Novotel Twin Waters Resort, the convention centre has been purpose-built by Shakespeare Property Group, who purchased the Resort in September 2018 for $100 million.

Ms Jones said the 3,300 square metre convention centre, capable of hosting more than 2,700 delegates, would be a game-changer for the region.

The new-build Sunshine Coast Convention Centre, located within Novotel Twin Waters Resort, will offer a choice of six different dynamic meeting and event spaces across 3300sqm. The new Minyama room will cater for 1,500 delegates theatre style, or 1,000 banquet style.

The convention centre has been designed to seamlessly attach to the Wandiny Pavilion, an existing conference space located on the resort site. The Wandiny Pavilion can facilitate up to 1,200 delegates theatre style, or 80 exhibition booths (3×2 metres) making it an extremely versatile business events venue and taking the convention centre’s overall capacity to 2,700 people.

For more information on the Sunshine Coast Convention Centre visit www.novoteltwinwatersresort.com.au/conventioncentre.html

Women in Tourism Event in Sydney

Women in Tourism Sydney is set to host its first ever intensive workshop in combination with the mid-year lunch event.

The Rich Coach, Kait Rich, will run a three-hour workshop on ‘Asking for what you want and getting it’.

The workshop will be followed by the mid-year Women in Tourism Leadership Lunch, including a panel discussion where Kait will be joined by two industry heavyweights, Commercial Deals Negotiator Sam Trattles from The Other of the Table, and Ariane Virtue, Partner at FlexCareers.

The panel discussion will focus on negotiation fundamentals, how employers and employees need to create a new flexible paradigm, and how women (in fact, everyone) can win at creating balance in their lives to relieve the overwhelm that many working people experience.

Speakers will include Kait Rich (@therichcoach), Sam Trattles and Ariane Virtue. The event takes place 9am – 12pm (workshop) and 12pm – 2.30pm (lunch + panel), Friday 5 July, 2019 at Vibe Rushcutters Bay, 100 Bayswater Rd, Rushcutters Bay.

Tickets are on sale for $110 for the workshop and lunch and $75 for the lunch only. To book, click here: https://www.stickytickets.com.au/87906

Destination Canada Unveils Brand Evolution at Rendez-Vous Canada

Destination Canada revealed its renewed brand at the 43rd annual Rendez-vous Canada (RVC) lasy week, where more than 1500 travel industry professionals convened for Canada’s leading international tourism marketplace.

Speaking to the heart and passion of travel, Destination Canada’s evolved brand taps into what it means to be Canadian, to inspire even more international travellers to visit Canada.

The new tagline, For Glowing Hearts, inspired by the national anthem, and a distinctive heart-shaped logo, rooted in the country’s bold red and white iconography, are elements of an evolved brand architecture designed to create a strong emotional connection with travellers.

The brand evolution follows a five-year period of transformation for Destination Canada in becoming a more digitally focused, data-driven organisation. Extensive market research and industry consultation helped shape the latest journey of the Canada travel brand.

In a competitive global marketplace, Destination Canada is moving Canada from more than a destination on a map to an invitation to connect with Canadians, the land and local culture. In 2018, Canada welcomed a record-breaking 21.1 million international travellers to the country. Of that number, Destination Canada’s work is attributed to 1.39 million arrivals, $1.76 billion in international tourism spending and over 13,000 Canadian jobs.

Destination Canada will roll out the brand in its 10 leisure and five business events markets in the coming months. Leveraging the tagline, logo and concept of transformational travel, inspired by a pride for being Canadian, elements of the brand will be used to inspire Destination Canada’s content across digital and print platforms.

 

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Daily NewsDiveMICENICHE TRAVEL

102 diving doctors descend on the Solomon Islands for ‘underwater’ conference

by TM staff writer

IMAGE: Divers at Bonegi Beach

This week the Solomon Islands played host to the South Pacific Underwater Medicine Society’s (SPUMS) 48th Annual Scientific Meeting. The conference, held at the Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel in Honiara, attracted just over 100 delegates.

While many came from Australia and nearby Pacific nations, some came from as far away as South Africa, the Middle East, Washington DC and the United Kingdom. The five-day conference included practical underwater sessions each morning, with scientific meetings each afternoon.

Providing conference facilities for 100 delegates is not a challenge for most hotels around the world, even in small Pacific nations such as the Solomon Islands. The challenge for organisers Diveplanit Travel, however, was getting this large group of delegates diving every day – with only one small dive centre in Honiara that has a normal capacity of around 12 divers.

This enormous task was managed by Diveplanit Travel with help from many local businesses. Transportation for divers was provided by Travel Solomons, and dive guides were flown in from Dive Munda to assist the team at local dive centre Tulagi Dive. Help also came in various ways from other dive operators around the Solomon Islands, including Raiders Hotel & Dive, Dive Gizo, the Bilikiki and Solomons PNG Master liveaboards, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and Solomon Airlines.

Here are the numbers:

102 – total number of SPUMS delegates
124 – SCUBA tanks filled at Honiara Fire Station each day
68 – divers in the water every day (81 divers in total)
94 – day trips managed by Travel Solomons

According to Diveplanit’s Deborah Dickson-Smith, benefits to the tourism industry are already evident. “Thirty or so delegates chose to extend their time in the Solomon Islands on pre and post-conference trips visiting other dive-rich areas including Tulagi, Munda, Gizo and Uepi Island and many more have enquired about return trips.”

L-R Tourism Solomons Josefa Tuomatu and Fiona Teama, Diveplanit's Simon Mallender, Permanent Secretary Andrew Nihopara and SPUMS president Professor David Smart

L-R Tourism Solomons Josefa Tuomatu and Fiona Teama, Diveplanit’s Simon Mallender, Permanent Secretary Andrew Nihopara and SPUMS president Professor David Smart

Speaking of the mammoth undertaking, Diveplanit’s Simon Mallender acknowledged the tremendous support received from the Minister for Tourism & Culture and Tourism Solomons.

“We’re incredibly thankful to Tourism Solomons, the Ministry of Tourism & Culture and Solomon Airlines for their unwavering support, and to local business owners for stepping up to the challenge of managing such a large group of divers.”

Tourism Solomons CEO, Josefa ‘Jo’ Tuamoto, said that with tourism – growing in importance as a key economic driver for the Solomon Islands – the opportunity to host the SPUMS event represented a huge opportunity for the country.

“International divers make up a large percentage of the 30,000-odd international visitors we host every year and the positive feedback we know will emanate from our staging of this event will undoubtedly create major awareness of our dive capability within the international dive community.”

Wreck at Honiara

Wreck at Honiara

Dickson-Smith says while the SPUMS Annual Scientific Meeting is fairly unique conference, organisations are looking more and more to marine-based activities to compliment conferences and corporate events.

Last month, Diveplanit organised a charter for 100 delegates aboard Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s Reef Endeavour; members of the Sydney Chapter of the Entrepreneurs Organisation. The itinerary included three days of island-hopping, early morning yoga sessions, snorkel tours led by marine biologists, Discover SCUBA experiences and shark diving. Diveplanit is now in early planning stages for another similar event in Fiji’s Beqa Lagoon – raising the bar a bit higher, with the challenge of managing 120 divers every day for a week.

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FeaturedMICE

MICE NEWS: Raffles Shenzhen, ICC Campaign, CINZ Meetings and more

by Kate Webster

This week’s MICE news has been wrapped up in a quick snapshot of the news. From meetings in New Zealand to new MICE offerings in China and beyond, this is the latest news on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events from the travel industry.

Raffles Shenzhen state of art MICE offering

Raffles Shenzhen is the new innovative icon located at One Shenzhen Bay. It is the most prestigious address in Shenzhen. The hotel features 168 luxurious guest rooms and suites, six restaurants and bars and more than 1700 m² of state of the art banquet, convention, and meeting venues.

With a total space area of 1,700 m², including a Grand Ballroom & 8 meeting rooms, we offer a selection of tasteful, luxuriously modern venues to suit all types of meeting and occasions.State-of-the-art technology includes high-definition video conferencing & projection, video & lighting control, surround-sound audio, cutting-edge touch-screen display systems and wireless microphones.

ICC Sydney launches More Than a Venue campaign

International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) has launched a compelling new multi-platform marketing campaign – More Than a Venue – at leading international business events trade show, IMEX Frankfurt.

The campaign reflects the venue’s growth since its opening two years ago and emergence as a symbol of global excellence, highlighting the unique combination of people, services, partners and features that set ICC Sydney apart from its competitors.

It has been designed to showcase ICC Sydney’s pledge to provide clients with More Than a Venue and deliver a world class Sydney experience – from its Legacy Program, which provides clients with a platform to give back while enriching delegate engagement, to its industry-leading Feeding Your Performance culinary philosophy, its spectacular collection of artworks and its reach into the creative, education and innovation hubs of the city.

New Zealand on show at CINZ Meetings

Best of New Zealand, Tamaki

International business event organisers will be converging on Auckland this week for New Zealand’s biggest showcase of conference and incentive products, on 29 and 30 May at ASB Showgrounds.
CINZ MEETINGS, organised by Conventions and Incentives New Zealand, is the largest annual event for connecting influential domestic, Australian and international buyers with New Zealand’s key regions, meeting facilities, accommodation, off-site venues and activities.

CINZ Chief Executive Sue Sullivan says New Zealand is moving up the ranks of global conference destinations and punching above its weight on the world stage, and interest from international buyers for MEETINGS reflects this.

“We are now number 12 in the Asia Pacific and number 46 in the world on the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) listing for 2018, up five places worldwide from 2017. We’re being talked about in the global arena, and it’s great to be bringing many of these of these influential decision-makers here to experience New Zealand for themselves,” Sue Sullivan said.

Gold Coast to host IASP

 

The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) has announced the Gold Coast has been selected to host its 31st World Congress in 2021.

The Congress will bring together around 800 mental health professionals, academics, crisis workers, teachers and suicide survivors from around the world.  Destination Gold Coast CEO Annaliese Battista said it was the first time the global congress would convene on the Gold Coast.

“Securing this event is a testament to the capabilities of the city to deliver world-class, large-scale business events in the heart of Australia’s playground. It also highlights the appeal of Gold Coast’s growing health and innovation sector,” Annaliese Battista said.

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AsiaDaily NewsHotels & ResortsMICE

HOTEL REVIEW: Movenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA

by Kate Webster

Conveniently located just 10 minutes to the KLIA and klia2 airports, 7 minutes to the Sepang International Circuit and 5 minutes to Mitsui Premium Outlet Park, the 333 rooms Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA offers the perfect stay for a stopover in Kuala Lumpur.

Staying longer is also a great option as the contemporary Kuala Lumpur hotel with Islamic design influences offers great views, complimentary Wi-Fi and complimentary shuttle transfers to and from the airport at every 2 hours.

The hotel is situated in Sepang district, opposite Mitsui Premium Outlet Park (5-minute drive) and next to it is the architecturally distinctive Masjid Sultan Abdul Samad (KLIA Mosque), the famous Sepang International Circuit is 7 km away. For shopping and sightseeing, take a 25-minute ride to Putrajaya, the Federal Government capital area. It will take another 45 minutes to the shopping haven of Kuala Lumpur.

The property

This hotel and the convenience to the Convention Centre makes it a great choice for business travellers while also offering the facilities required for leisure stays too. Take a quick dip in the swimming pool after a long day of meetings or sightseeing. Get pampered with a massage in the spa, or enjoy a workout in the gym. The open air feel of this hotel makes you feel as though you are in a much larger complex and intimate sitting areas around the property and gardens allow you space from other guests.

The rooms

There are varying room types, from the lead in Superior Room all the way to the Suites. Superior rooms boast size at 36sqm the room, allowing the flexibility of having either a king sized bed or two twins. The bathroom features a luxurious rain shower along with fluffy towels and make-up mirror. Other in-room amenities include a work desk, complementary tea and coffee facilities, minibar and Wi-Fi. Superior Rooms can accommodate 2 adults. All rooms are non-smoking. Interconnecting rooms available on request. The ultimate in indulgence, the 143 sqm Royal Suite offers stunning views over the lush gardens, and features a pantry, dining area and separate living room where guests can entertain family and friends throughout their stay. There are two separate bedroom. The master bedroom has a king bed and ensuite bathroom with bathtub and rainforest shower. The second bedroom has a twin bed. A guest bathroom is provided.

The dining

Savour great food from Malaysia and the wider region in one of the six restaurants and lounges. Explore the wide international food variety at Temasya, and head over to Bara for delicious barbeque kebabs. Order an expertly prepared traditional ‘teh tarik’ and sweet treat at Sira lounge. Unwind in the atmospheric Moorish ambience of Redup lounge. Of course, there is also in room dining on offer 24/7. Do note that there are no bars or alcohol served on site.

Conferencing

The convention centre and meeting rooms make this upscale Sepang hotel ideal for business meeting and all kind of events. The hotel offers direct access to the 2,386 sqm Convention Hall, the 777 sqm Astaka Circular Hall, Mentari ballroom accommodates up to 2800 max (theatre seating) and 1500 max (sit down dinner) when divided into 4 break-up rooms. There are six meeting rooms on first floor ranging from 24.3 sqm until 87.8 sqm (Bintang Room 1 to 6) and 10 Bayu seminar rooms on the first floor sized between 35 sqm and 45 sqm (Bayu 1 to 10). Beranda is the dining outlet at the convention centre, which offers power lunch options, as well as local and western delights.

Booking

Mövenpick Hotel and Convention Centre KLIA, Jalan Masjid KLIA, 64000, Sepang, Malaysia

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +603 8661 8661

Website: www.movenpick.com/en/asia/malaysia/kuala-lumpur/hotel-convention-centre-klia

 

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APPOINTMENTSDaily NewsDESTINATIONSMICEPacificTourism Organisations

New Caledonia Tourism appoints new BDM for MICE, Australia

by TM staff writer

New Caledonia Tourism has appointed Jackie Caldwell as Business Development Manager – MICE, Australia, effective immediately. She will oversee the growth of the destination’s MICE business within the Australian market.

Jackie steps into the role with more than 30 years’ experience in the business events industry in Australia, commencing her career as a Conference and Event Coordinator in Sydney with internationally renowned PCO, ICMS Australasia, before taking on high profile roles including as Manager of the Melbourne Ambassadors Program for the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, and Business Development Director AU/NZ for the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau.

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Daily NewsMICE

MICE NEWS: Solomons host SPUMS, Treasures of South Pacific events and more

by Kate Webster

This week’s MICE news has been wrapped up in a quick snapshot of the news. From across the South Pacific and beyond, this is the latest news on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events from the travel industry.

Solomon Islands hosts 2019 SPUMS Annual Scientific Meeting & Conference

The Solomon Islands has welcomed more than 100 members of the South Pacific Underwater Medical Society (SPUMS) for the organisation’s Annual Scientific Meeting and Conference.

A major win for the dive industry and tourism, the main event is being held from 20 – 26 May 2019 at the Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel in Honiara. Delegates are also staying at the Heritage Park Hotel and the Coral Sea Resort & Casino.

SPUMS is acknowledged around the world as the peak body for doctors specialising in hyperbaric medicine – the medicine used in SCUBA diving and also accelerated healing and plastic surgery. As part of the conference schedule, morning sessions will see delegates visiting the best dive sites in Honiara and Tulagi while afternoons will be spent attending the Annual Scientific Meeting sessions.

Diving at the conference is being coordinated by Australian dive travel specialist-Diveplanit Travel with the assistance and resources of Tulagi Dive, Raiders Hotel & Dive, Dive Munda, Dive Gizo and Bilikiki Cruises, each of which is providing dive guides, additional SCUBA tanks and other logistical support required for such a large group.

Diveplanit Travel has also reached out to a host of local organisations, all of which have been happy to provide additional resources, including Tourism Solomons, Solomon Airlines, Travel Solomons, Our Telekom and the Heritage Park Hotel.

The huge logistical effort required to ensure the event passes successfully is being managed directly by the Diveplanit Travel team’s Simon Mallender and Deborah Dickson-Smith. Describing the planning behind the event as a “mammoth task”, Mr Mallender acknowledged the tremendous support received from the Minister for Tourism & Culture and Tourism Solomons.

“All in all this is an excellent opportunity for the Solomon Islands to showcase just how a small Pacific nation can host a conference of 100-plus people and offer great diving at the same time,” he said.

“Local dive operators will benefit directly from income generated by the conference, and indirectly from the continued efforts of Tourism Solomons and Diveplanit Travel to promote the Solomon Islands as having the best diving in the Pacific and, in the process, help local dive operators slowly but surely grow their operations.”

Treasures of the South Pacific returns for 2019

Treasures of the South Pacific will return in 2019 giving travel agents the chance to improve their product knowledge by attending informative seminars and networking with tourism office representatives, airlines and hoteliers to gain insights into the type of traveller that best suits each destination.

Proudly sponsored by Fiji Airways and Pacific Trade Invest, Australia, the event will include representatives from the tourism offices of Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Solomon Islands, Cook Islands, Tahiti, Samoa, Norfolk Island, Fiji and some Hidden Treasures of the area.

The events are a great opportunity for agents to learn more about Australia’s closest neighbours, providing them with the tools to generate more interest and bookings for the South Pacific.

Registrations for the Melbourne and Adelaide events are now open. For more information or to register visit www.tosp.com.au/mel and www.tosp.com.au/adl. For more information travel agents can refer to www.tosp.com.au or contact Greg Maloney on [email protected]

CINZ announces new MEETINGS’ dates for 2020

New Zealand’s largest annual business events trade exhibition MEETINGS, run by Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (CINZ) will be moving to an earlier date in April next year. Chief Executive, Sue Sullivan says CINZ wanted to announce the new dates before MEETINGS 2019, so everyone could diary them well in advance.

“With a busy Auckland venue scene for May and June, MEETINGS 2020 will be held a month earlier on 22 and 23 April 2020 at ASB Showgrounds, prior to the ANZAC Day long weekend,” she says.

“Our annual MEETINGS showcase is not to be missed. It is the stand-out event on New Zealand’s business events calendar. We are ensuring everyone has the 2020 dates locked in, and we are focused on delivering another world class event to all buyers and exhibitors.”

This year’s CINZ MEETINGS kicks off with a welcome function at Auckland’s new Aotea Centre on Tuesday 28 May. The two-day event at ASB Showgrounds on 29 and 30 May will showcase over 190 exhibitors from 17 regions across New Zealand to more than 700 New Zealand, Australian and international buyers. Exhibitors include venues, theming companies, hotels, AV companies, regional bureaux, attractions and activities.

Online registration is now open, and free for Day Buyers attending CINZ MEETINGS 2019.

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Daily NewsMICE

MICE NEWS: Emporium Hotel South Bank, Expo 2020 Dubai and more

by Kate Webster

This week’s MICE news has been wrapped up in a quick snapshot of the news. Including Expo 2020 in Dubai and beyond, this is the latest news on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events from the travel industry.

Emporium Hotel South Bank’s event space offering

A spectacular series of innovative event spaces at Emporium Hotel South Bank have set a new benchmark in luxury corporate hospitality in Brisbane. The range of elegant and architecturally designed spaces feature the latest technology and are combined with personalised service and outstanding food and beverage menus created by Executive Chef, Chris Norman.

Three state-of-the-art boardrooms, the Jacaranda, Wattle and Orchid rooms, offer the option of 8, 10 and 16 seat capacity respectively, and come complete with 70 inch plasma screens for presentations and digital entertainment. For larger functions and events, the spectacular, pillarless Frangipani Ballroom is a truly unique 410sqm space with cocktail event capacity of 400 and banquet capacity of 260. The Frangipani Ballroom also features operable walls allowing for smaller configurations up to 120 guests.

Emporium Hotel South Bank also offers a range of exquisite food and beverage outlets that are ideal for unique event experiences. The hotel’s breathtaking rooftop venue, the Terrace is available to reserve, providing the perfect place to start or end an event, offering panoramic views across the Brisbane River to the city skyline and beyond. In addition, the recently opened Piano Bar, an elegant, sophisticated bar featuring a stunning grand piano played daily from 4pm, caters for private functions of up to 100 guests whilst the hotel’s opulent French-style patisserie, Belle Époque can cater for up to 60 guests for intimate cocktail evenings.

Skift Forum Asia in Singapore this month

This year the Skift Forum Asia will be held in Singapore on 27 May 2019 at the Equarius Hotel on Sentosa Island. Skift Forum Asia is a fast-paced, one day conference featuring TEDstyle talks and Q&A’s with travel’s most insightful business leaders and creative thinkers. To mark the inaugural event, Skift has extended a 20% discount to fellow travel industry players, who can use the code TOURISM20 and save when they register.

Session topics will include: The scaling of global travel brands in the APAC region and their relationship with the most successful regional players, How destinations are managing rapid growth and adapting to changing consumer behaviour, Reimagining the cruise experience, new ships, classes, and destinations, Disruptions and disruptors in cross-border mobility from ride sharing, autonomous vehicles, airlines and rail and more.

Speakers will include Goh Choon Phong, CEO of Singapore Airlines Limited, Marsha Ma, VP & Managing Director, China at Booking.com, Yoshiyuki Takano, Head of Travel at Rakuten, Inc. and Sonia Cheng, CEO of Rosewood Hotel Group.

Expo 2020 heads to Dubai

Emirates Dubai

For those looking for an unforgettable holiday experience rich in culture, learning and discovery, there is one event that will unite people of all nations, cultures and ages; Expo 2020 Dubai. A must attend event, the Expo 2020 is will see a global collective of nations gather together, providing Australians with an opportunity to explore 190 countries, each showcasing the future of sustainability, connection, innovation and humanity in their own unique way.

Emirates will be the Official Airline and Premier Partner of Expo 2020 and will host visitors in its Pavilion, aimed at utilising technologies and design focused thinking on the future of commercial aviation. The Pavilion will be a three-storey structure, located in close proximity to the UAE Pavilion and the Al Wasl Pavilion, the epicentre of the Expo 2020 Dubai site.

 

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Daily NewsIncentivesMICETRAVEL Trade

Sofitel Wentworth Sydney offers event organisers holiday prize incentive

by TM staff writer

Event organisers who book a residential conference or event at the newly refurbished Sofitel Sydney Wentworth by 31 January 2020 have the chance to win a 7 night holiday in Bali, including 5-star beachfront resort accommodation, return flights from Sydney, daily breakfast for two and transport to/from the airport.

The updated Wentworth Ballroom has hosted many big names in the past 52 years, including Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and is one of the few pillarless ballrooms in Sydney accommodating up to 1,100 delegates. Guests can select from 11 meeting rooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology by Encore Event Technologies and newly launched French inspired culinary delights by Executive Chef Boris Cuzon.

Residential conference guests also benefit from the 436 newly refurbished guestrooms featuring new upholstered bedheads, artworks, carpets and high backed fabric armchairs with matching ottomans.

Event organisers can also choose from a number of conference incentives and bonuses.

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Melbourne & Olympic Parks to showcase new conference and events centre

by TM staff writer

Melbourne & Olympic Parks (M&OP) will offer a sneak peek at its new conference and events centre during the upcoming Executive PA Summit, to be held in Brisbane’s Royal International Convention Centre next week (30 April 2019.)

M&OP’s new conference and events centre, on the southeast edge of Melbourne CBD, is scheduled for completion in 2022 and is now open for bookings.

The impressive architectural concept will pay homage to the classic Australian landscape and includes 8.5-metre-high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, projecting natural light across a generous 2000 sqm pillarless ballroom and 800 sqm pre-function area. Across two levels, the upper floor will feature a 250-seat auditorium, an abundance of breakout rooms and an outdoor terrace with uninterrupted views of Melbourne’s skyline.

Food and beverage offerings will include award-winning Victorian wines and locally sourced seasonal produce, promising to elevate the Parks’ capabilities.

“At the core of any event is experience. The industry has changed so much over the last decade, it has seen new challenges for both Buyers and Executive PAs alike. Our redevelopment is built for the future of events – giving event organisers the perfect canvas to create more meaningful, powerful and memorable moments,” said Lara Burnes, General Manager, Premier Events & Experiences.

“We’re proud to showcase our newest conference and events space at the Executive PA Summit. Located in the heart of Melbourne Parks, the new centre offers functionality and flexibility for both large-scale and intimate events – all while capturing the magnetic atmosphere of our dynamic city.”

Event bookings are now open for 2022 – for more information on M&OP CLICK HERE.

For expressions of interest or to book an appointment at the Executive PA Summit, contact Lara Burnes at [email protected].

IMAGE:Melbourne & Olympic Parks Central Terrace render

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MICE NEWS: Rendez-Vous Canada Trade Show

by Kate Webster

This week’s MICE news has been wrapped up in a quick snapshot of the news. From Canada on show and beyond, this is the latest news on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events from the travel industry.

Toronto to Host 43rd Annual Rendez-Vous Canada Trade Show

The stage is set for Canada’s largest city, Toronto, to host Rendez-vous Canada (RVC), the leading international tourism marketplace for Destination Canada.

From 28 – 31 May, more than 1500 travel industry professionals will network and make vital connections with members of the Canadian tourism industry, whose operations form the backbone of Canada’s visitor economy.

RVC 2018 achieved record attendance in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with 1,875 delegates participating, and this year is expected to be even bigger. Over four days, tourism industry leaders collaborate one-on-one during efficient, pre-scheduled appointments at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

RVC is a powerful magnet for international tour operators and wholesalers who seek out the innovative and authentic tourism products, services and packages that may give them a competitive edge.

Trade media will participate in famils taking place in various parts of the country, offering the chance to gain first-hand experience of Canada’s unique wildlife, diverse communities and outdoor adventures.

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MICE NEWS – Pullman adds to Fiji MICE offering, ATE wrap up and more

by Kate Webster

This week’s MICE news has been wrapped up in a quick snapshot of the news. From Australia’s ATE to Fiji and beyond, this is the latest news on Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events from the travel industry.

Pullman adds to Fiji MICE offering

The Pullman brand is set to make its debut in Fiji on the 19th of April 2019 with the launch of the Pullman Nadi Bay Resort & Spa – a vibrant new destination where local culture connects with all things contemporary. The multi-million-dollar Pullman Nadi Bay Resort & Spa sits directly on its own secluded corner of local-favourite, Wailoaloa Beach, a largely unexplored stretch of shore on Nadi Bay. For guests, that means 180-degree, uninterrupted ocean views, bookended by vistas of Fiji’s most recognised mountain, The Sleeping Giant.

Pullman’s Soqoni Ballroom is the resort’s standout indoor venue and can cater for up to 500 people (theatre style).  The ballroom’s entrance – located directly off the main resort foyer and boasting contemporary Fijian art – is an ideal enclave for upscale entertaining and hosted cocktails on arrival, before the main event. Two additional private meeting rooms – including the Wailoa Boardroom – cater to smaller meetings.  All event options are accompanied with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, Wi-Fi, dedicated event specialists and innovative catering, tailored to suit the exact style and requirements of each event.

The flexibility of having its own uninterrupted beachfront means endless possibilities for conferences and events in the open air. The duality of its restaurant and bars also allows for private, catered functions in adaptable spaces. The private beachfront can be adapted for other events incorporating traditional lovos and pop up tipis and marquees.

The resort is an ideal venue for a destination wedding in Fiji and engaged couples can take advantage of Pullman’s beachfront wedding chapel, accompanying ceremonial lawn, or palm-lined direct beachfront location, to tie the knot in front of family and friends. With an enviable northwest facing location, the chapel and beach guarantee perfect Fijian sunset views, with picture-perfect vistas of Fiji’s famous ‘Sleeping Giant’ mountain range beyond.

ATE wraps up in Perth, heads to Melbourne in 2020

Princes Bridge and Yarra River

More than 2,000 delegates will descend on the Victorian capital next year for the premier tourism event, Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE), which will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 10 to 14 May 2020.

ATE 2020 will be delivered by Tourism Australia in partnership with Visit Victoria. This is the ninth time that ATE has been staged in Melbourne, having first been held there in 1991 and then again in 1992, 1997, 1998, 2003, 2004, 2009 and 2015.

Tourism Australia Managing Director, John O’Sullivan said the event offers a valuable platform for Australian tourism operators to sell their world-class offerings to global travel buyers.

“I am very pleased that ATE will be making a return to Melbourne in 2020. The event will see tourism buyers from more than 30 countries descending on the city for four days of face-to-face meetings with key Australian tourism operators, networking opportunities and educational famils.”

“The economic benefits of ATE are significant and wide reaching. Not only can Melbourne expect an immediate economic injection of close to $10 million during the event, but the business-to-business relationships established will ensure valuable links between Australian operators and the global distribution network which will help us to realise our Beyond 2020 goals.”

Victoria’s Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Martin Pakula, said that ATE will provide an opportunity for the city to showcase its exceptional tourism offerings to delegates from around the world.

“It’s great to see the Australian Tourism Exchange returning to Melbourne in 2020, giving Victoria another opportunity to take centre stage and host thousands of tourism and industry leaders from across the globe.”

Turon Gates launches bush retreat events space

NSW eco-bush retreat, Turon Gates, now has The Pavilion – a large 150 square metre glamping tent that accommodates up to 100 seated or 120 standing guests. Just 3 hours’ drive from Sydney, in an idyllic bush location with an expansive deck overlooking the trout stream that runs through Turon Gates’ 6000-acre property, it is a unique venue for offsite corporate meetings, leadership workshops and wellness/yoga/artistic retreats.

The Pavilion has a cool neutral-toned teak and canvas interior, wood floors and is fully insulated with window coverings that roll up to make the most of the views and Blue Mountains breeze. With gas heating for the cooler months, it can be booked all year round. At night, the magical lighting creates a glow over the surrounding bushland – just perfect for a party, buffet or luxurious sit-down dinner. Get the party going with a local band or DJ, or for a more relaxed vibe, gather around a campfire under a million stars.

Small event groups can stay in the six luxurious riverside glamping tents (each with its own king-sized bed and lounge area, contemporary bathroom, kitchenette with Nespresso coffee machine and Danish wood burner stove) or larger groups in cosy log cabins, which sleep up to eight and are particularly good value with prices starting from just $89 per head per night for share accommodation and include use of the event space for groups.

Turon Gates is also available as a location for film, video and photographic shoots. Wi-Fi is available at the Pavilion tent and around the glamping site. Groups seeking more of an unplugged experience will enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Turon Gates log cabins.

Brisbane wins bid for ATEC conference

For the first time, Brisbane will host the Australian Tourism Export Council’s (ATEC) Meeting Place, where more than 400 export tourism leaders head to Queensland 25 – 27 November.

Announcing the winning bid, ATEC Managing Director, Peter Shelley said Meeting Place was an invaluable opportunity for Brisbane and Queensland to profile its latest tourism offerings.

“Meeting Place is the platform where the people who sell Australia to the world come to hear about the latest and most exciting new product available,” Mr Shelley said.

 

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Townsville conference space reopens after refurb

by TM staff writer

Rydges Southbank in Townsville, QLD, has opened the doors on its new conference and events space after a refurbishment that brings a new standard of conferences and events to the city.

The Rydges Southbank Convention Centre Townsville offers a selection of flexible spaces including joint rooms, balconies, a stunning new Foyer and Ballroom as well as various Boardrooms, allowing Rydges to tailor events to the specific needs of guests, from corporate events and weddings to relaxed cocktail parties.

Features of the Convention Centre include:

The Grand Ballroom – this space has been transformed into a modern and elegant event space to accommodate up to 500 people, brightened with white panelled walls, feature wall lighting and a breathtaking grand chandelier.

The Foyer – this space reflects a tropical oasis with floor to ceiling timber window frames to bring the outdoors in, and polished timber flooring set against a heritage fireplace taking pride of place.

Conference Rooms – for smaller meetings and events, the Convention Centre’s meeting rooms provide a quiet space for small groups of up to seven people.

New technology – new AV equipment and projection screens have been installed, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the entire venue.

Dining – food and beverage packages are available, in addition to the hotel’s signature restaurant Southbank Bar & Grill. New menus will be released in the coming weeks to coincide with the re-opening.

re.

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