AIME Day 1 2014

DAY 1

OFFICIALAIMEDAILY22nd Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre • 18-19 February 2014

Business events vital for AustraliaMelbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) Chief Executive Officer Karen Bolinger has called on Victoria’s local and state governments to throw their weight behind the business events industry, following the release of the results of the The Melbourne Convention Delegate Study 2013.

Speaking at the launch of Business Events Week 2014 in Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME), Bolinger said that the research reveals business events are vital for furthering developments in research, as well as bolstering the state’s economy.

The study, which covers the period May to December 2013 and contains data from 3846 delegates attending five major international conferences in Melbourne, was commissioned to examine the conference delegate experience in Melbourne and the economic value driven from their attendance to the state’s economy. It found that international conference delegates are now spending over twice as much as a typical international leisure tourist.

“Delegates are spending more than $1019 a day on accommodation, dining out, domestic air travel and recreational activities in Melbourne, representing a 28 per cent increase from the 2010 Study,” Bolinger said.

“Much of this spend is going straight into Victoria’s small to medium businesses and delivering business into the tourism sector in traditionally off peak periods.

“The spending habits of international conference delegates make business events one of the highest yielding sectors in Australia’s visitor economy.”

The study also revealed that the majority of international delegates (71 per cent) were first time visitors to the country and half (50 per cent) would not have visited Australia in the next three years had they not been attending a conference in Melbourne. More than a quarter of all international delegates (28 per cent) were accompanied on their trip to Melbourne, with

the average number of accompanying persons standing at 2.8 per delegate.

“Visitors coming to Melbourne with delegates are husbands or wives, partners, family or friends who have no association with the conference,” Bolinger said. “They are instead out exploring Melbourne, dining in our restaurants and bars and visiting our attractions.”

In addition, international delegates perceived the key benefits of attending the conference to be obtaining information that would enhance their personal and business performance (69 per cent) and exposing themselves to new knowledge for educational purposes (63 per cent).

“This research reveals that business events are critical in furthering developments in scientific and medical research, as well as fuelling ongoing growth for the state’s economy,” Bolinger said.

“This alone presents a very strong business case to local and state government and other stakeholders to continue to support the industry.”

Jacqui Timmins, Exhibition Director at AIME and CIBTM, Karen Bolinger, Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Officer, and Sallie Coventry, Portfolio Director for the IBTM Global Events Portfolio, at the launch of AIME 2014.

Do you want this kind of result for your event? At Business Events Sydney, we bring a tailored approach to each event. We make it a priority to understand clients and their needs, and to craft bespoke solutions. Whether it’s government representation at a gala dinner or the chance for delegates to experience a local secret, event organisers want to deliver a program that will be remembered as the ‘best ever’. We help them to achieve this!

Sydney is Australia’s global city and is the perfect choice for business events. With fresh, unique and memorable conference and meeting venues, touring options and team-building activities to cater for every event size, style and budget, Sydney is ever-changing and definitely open for business. Come and see the team at stand 1522 to discover the full range of options available to you for delivering a spectacular Sydney experience for your delegates. Be sure to ask us about the latest updates on the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney).

businesseventssydney.com.au

Have you ever wanted to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge?For this year’s show, we’ve brought this city icon to you! Take the simulated challenge for your chance to experience the real thing. BridgeClimb Sydney and accommodation prizes will be drawn during networking drinks and canapés at our stand (1522) today from 4.30 pm (you must be present to win). See you there!

“Last year, when we announced that the 2013 incentive destination was Sydney, many of our wholesalers worked really hard, hoping to be able to come to beautiful Sydney. Therefore, last year, we achieved about 20% growth in performance. Accordingly, there was also a 20% increase in the number of people who have come to this Sydney seminar.” Kent Yu Assistant to the President of Perfect China Co. Ltd.

Photo: Geoff Jones - BridgeClimb Sydney, image courtesy of Tourism Australia

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AIME • MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

AIME set to impress

Making the most of AIME

More than 500 Hosted Buyers and Media from 29 different nations were officially welcomed to this year’s Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) at a Welcome Breakfast at Peninsula at Central Pier, Docklands yesterday. The breakfast featured a traditional welcome to country and entertainment from local world music act Neda and the All Colour Project.

Welcoming the delegates to the “world’s most liveable city”, Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Officer Karen Bolinger said that “Melbourne is constantly evolving which makes it ideal for business events”.

More than 3800 delegates are set to descend on Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre for the show, which starts today.

With two days of business meetings, professional development sessions and networking opportunities, this year’s AIME is focused on partnership and collaboration

to support the growth of the business events industry, according to Reed Travel Exhibitions Director for AIME, CIBTM Jacqui Timmins.

“AIME is well known for being a great place to do business and this year we are taking this further by fostering strategic partnerships to open the event up to new audiences while adding value to those that have been attending the event for many years,” she says.

“Our new partnerships with Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) and Sabre Pacific complement our alignment with other associations including Exhibitions and Events Association of Australasia (EEAA) and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).

“They also enable us to achieve our strategic objectives of developing our presence in the business travel sector, showcasing new technologies to our audiences, and ensuring attendees can benefit from having the opportunity

Now in its 22nd year, AIME is as popular as ever, with many Hosted Buyers and Visitors returning year after year, according to Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Officer Karen Bolinger.

“People come to find out what’s new in the market but also to catch up with colleagues that they might not have the time to see otherwise,” she says.

With so much to see and do at AIME this year, making the most of your time while you’re at the show is vital.

“If you’re an Exhibitor it’s all about preparation – understanding who your buyers are, doing your homework and targeting the ones you want to talk to,” says Bolinger.

“If you’re a Hosted Buyer or Visitor, it’s about

understanding who is on show, identifying new products and exhibitors who might have something different for you and making sure you’re prepared for your appointments.

“It’s also about attending the social events. If you don’t have the time on the show floor, they’re a really good platform for people to network and do business.

“I would also try to make sure you attend some of those AIME Knowledge sessions. There are some really good sessions on the program, such as how to best integrate new and old media to achieve effective marketing communications, which will really enhance your time at AIME.”

to meet with key figures in the industry.”

This year’s event has seen an increase in the number of Hosted Buyers and Visitors that will be attending the show, and with 54 per cent of Hosted Buyers attending for the first time.

The AIME Knowledge education program has been expanded for 2014, offering 3,800 attendees even more opportunities to develop their professional and personal skills.

Attendees at AIME will also have the opportunity to experience the latest event technologies and discuss technology trends in the Innovation Zone, sponsored by Sabre Pacific. Featuring sessions examining the impact of virtual technologies such as webcasting and elevator pitch presentations from leading event technology companies, visitors to the Innovation Zone will also be able enjoy a live stream of the Saxton Ultimate Event Experience, which is returning to AIME for the fifth consecutive year.

Extending the range of networking opportunities available to AIME attendees is a new event, the AIME Farewell Bubbles, which will take place on Wednesday at the International Food Market from 3.30pm- 4.30pm. The AIME Awards will be presented during this event, recognising the most innovative and environmentally sustainable stands.

AIME is the centrepiece for Business Events Week 2014, an initiative of the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB), the owner of AIME, to showcase the value of business events to Australia.

“Over the course of two days, Exhibitors have the opportunity to share in excess of $250 million worth of business by meeting with Hosted Buyers and Visitors that attend the show specifically to book events and business travel,” says Karen Bolinger, Chief Executive Officer of MCB.

Bolnger spoke at the launch event along with Jacqui Timmins, Exhibition Director at AIME and CIBTM, and Sallie Coventry, Portfolio Director for the IBTM Global Events Portfolio.

Hosted Buyers enjoy a performance by Neda and the All Colour Project.

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Australia’s business events sector is on track to achieve its Tourism 2020 target of reaching $16 billion annually in expenditure by the end of the decade.

New research, conducted by BDA Marketing Planning for Tourism Australia and released yesterday at AIME, confirms Australia’s reputation as a leading destination for business meetings and events amongst key major decision makers overseas.

The research looked into the perception of Australia for business events and involved interviews with 550 senior corporate decision makers in 10 markets including New Zealand, India, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, the UK, North America, China and Japan.

Tourism Australia Acting Managing Director, Frances-Anne Keeler, said Australia rates very highly in all 10 markets, due largely to competitive advantages such as its natural environment, high quality venues and a proven track record in hosting exceptional business events.

“Australia is investing more than ever in its business events and incentive offerings, with a robust strategy and an extended global trade and marketing program,” she said. “We are listening to key decision makers, and identifying opportunities to build on our already solid reputation for providing excellence.

“We are very fortunate to live in such an inspiring country, one that has made us a global leader in food and wine experiences, destination choices and event spaces. It not

only inspires those of us who live here, but also everyone who visits,” Keeler said.

The research confirmed that safety and security, excellent business event facilities, a range of quality accommodation, quality food, wine, and local cuisine were consistently top of the agenda for business events decision makers globally.

Keeler added that Tourism Australia would continue to work closely with the local business events industry to ensure the experiences delivered on-the-ground continue to exceed the high expectations of delegates.

“Australia’s strong competitive advantage in the international market for corporate meetings and incentives, despite our distance from many of the markets and the associated costs, is something we can further capitalise on by continuing to punch above our weight in the experiences and service we deliver when delegates are here,” she said.

“We continually hear from our customers that Australia’s ability to tailor corporate meeting and incentive programs, combined with our can-do attitude and money can’t buy experiences, make it a great business events destination – and the positive word-of-mouth this generates will no doubt convince others why they should meet and do business here.”

Business events currently contribute $13 billion annually to Australia’s visitor economy and has been identified as a critical sector for achieving the broader Tourism 2020 targets to grow overnight visitor expenditure to between $115 and $140 billion annually by 2020.

Melbourne continues to be a popular destination for international association conferences, with Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) Chief Executive Officer Karen Bolinger reporting that the city is half way through its most successful two years on record in terms of international association conferences.

By the end of this year, Melbourne will have hosted 70 international conferences secured by MCB and welcomed more than 85,000 delegates to the city, which will contribute almost $420 million to the state’s economy. This represents a 37 per cent increase of events compared to 2011 and 2012.

“This success is largely due to the fact that Melbourne will be the first city in the world to host three of the largest and most prestigious health-related conferences in the space of a year,” Bolinger says.

“In December 2013, the 22nd World Diabetes Congress attracted more than 10,000 delegates from 140 countries and generated approximately

$63 million for the state’s economy.

“In May, the city will welcome 9000 delegates for the World Congress of Cardiology, and in July, in excess of 14,000 delegates for the 20th International AIDS Conference, which will be the largest health-related conference ever hosted in Australia.”

Of the 70 international association conferences being hosted in Melbourne in 2013 and 2014, almost 40 per cent of them fall into the category of medical or health related events.

However, Bolinger said that while she believes it is important to celebrate success, MCB must continue to stay abreast of the challenges that arise and adapt accordingly.

“We will continue to build on our success by realigning our strategies, strengthening our stakeholder relationships and capitalising on the legacies created by these major international association conferences,” she said.

Melbourne’s record breaking run

Three of Australia’s most inspiring leaders in design, advertising and science are heading to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s (MCEC) Plenary stage on Thursday 20 February for Open Space.

The free public event, held during Business Events Week, will feature the ABC’s Gruen Planet panellist and CEO of advertising agency Leo Burnett, Todd Sampson, renowned designer and founder of agIdeas International Design Week, Dr Ken Cato, and leading scientist and Chief of CSIRO's Materials Science and Engineering Division, Dr Cathy Foley presenting thought-provoking talks around the event’s theme of innovation.

Guests can also join the discussion by taking part in a Q&A session via the live event Twitter feed.

“Last year our guests came along ‘expecting the unexpected’ and left genuinely surprised at what we can deliver, and this year we plan to amaze and inspire our guests again,” says MCEC’s chief executive Peter King.

“At MCEC’s Open Space you will be educated, entertained and enjoy sensational catering from our talented kitchen team so don’t miss out and register now for your free ticket.”

Attendees can also experience a sensory smorgasbord of colour, feeling, taste, sound and sight as they take a culinary journey through the lively hawker-style food market and urban-inspired installation in the MCEC foyer, featuring recycled milk crates and vertical gardens, and enjoy a complimentary taste of MCEC’s in-house catering.

Room to think at Open Space

Don’t miss out, register for your free ticket to Open Space at openspace.mcec.com.au

Date: Thursday 20 February

Time: 11.30am-2.30pm

Place: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Business events on track to achieve 2020 target

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Australia on the menu

Australia has come a long way from throwing a shrimp on the barbeque. There’s nothing wrong with flame grilled seafood, but you could just as easily ask for a fillet of sous-vide wagyu or tuna sashimi to be accompanied by a world-class wine from the Yarra Valley, Barossa Valley, Margaret River or Hunter Valley.

A recent Tourism Australia survey revealed Australia is regarded as one of the best culinary destinations in the world. After experiencing Australia first hand, visitors from the UK and France ranked Australia as number one for its food and wine offering among 15 key markets. According to visitors from Europe in general, Australia is ranked second only after culinary giant France, and ahead of Italy, (third). For visitors from China, the US, France, India, Indonesia, Malaysia the UK and South Korea, Australia is ranked as the number one destination for food and wine. That doesn’t even

touch on our coffee culture!

It is no surprise that Tourism Australia has been putting our national culinary scene in the global spotlight with their Restaurant Australia campaign, positioning Australia as a country where the best and most unique food and wine experiences are being served in remarkable locations every day.

And it’s not just the myriad of top restaurants, bars and cafes that are attracting so many visitors to or shores, with markets across the country also showcasing the best regional gourmet produce available. TripAdvisor has revealed the top 10 markets in Australia, as rated by travellers around the world, with Noosa Farmers Market on the Sunshine Coast coming in at number one spot. Melbourne also rated well with three markets coming in the top 10, South Melbourne Market, Prahran Market and Queen Victoria Market.

Visitors to AIME don’t have

to step outside the venue to sample some of Australia’s best produce, with Malaysia Kopitiam, sponsored by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau, the International Food Market, and pop-up food stations on the show floor showcasing the best of regional Victoria’s produce.

“Exceptional experiences and world-class destinations are two of the main reasons Australia consistently ranks as a preferred business events destination,” says Penny Lion, head of Business Events Australia at Tourism Australia. “While these attributes remain high on every event planner’s list, it is increasingly our reputation as a culinary destination drawing business events to Australia, and our operators are tapping into that by offering food and wine experiences that are second to none.”

• Business Events Australia, stand 1928


With Tourism Australia promoting Australia overseas as one of the world’s top food and wine destinations, Melbourne’s reputation as the nation’s gourmet capital makes it an ideal city to host Australia’s premier event in the Asia-Pacific region for the meetings, incentives and events industry.

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Gourmet food and wine w Chauffeur-driven service* w Exclusive airport lounges

Rub shoulders with some of the most interesting people on the planet at 40,000 ft. Enjoy good company, sparkling conversation, and suprising service in our A380 Onboard Lounge.

Make friends in high places

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Don’t miss the AIME 2014 appEnsure you don’t miss a thing at this year’s AIME by downloading the free AIME 2014 mobile app, packed full of useful information about the show, its Exhibitors and events.

Visitors to this year’s show will be able to browse the full list of Exhibitors, view a detailed program of events running throughout the show, read up on AIME Knowledge seminars and speaker bios, manage appointment diaries and navigate the show floor.

The AIME mobile app also provides access to social media conversations across Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn, offering additional networking opportunities online.

The new app is available for download by searching “IBTM Events” in each mobile device’s app store or use the QR codes below.

Apple devices Android devices

It’s become somewhat of a tradition at AIME for hundreds of Visitors and Hosted Buyers clutching their coffees to arrive at the Centre before the show floor opens to be inspired by the Saxton Ultimate Event Experience.

Across 2.5 hours, the audience is taken on not just one journey, but 12 journeys by the incredible range of speakers and entertainers who in their own way illuminate how we can all make a positive change in our lives. Whether it is a better way to do business, a better way to live or simply a better way to have fun, you are sure to come away with a new outlook on the day ahead.

The Saxton Ultimate Event Experience has become so popular that this year saw registrations reach capacity some four weeks before AIME opened. This year has another stellar line-up with some household names among them, most notably fitness guru Michelle Bridges (pictured), who will be sharing her own blueprint to success. Other business-related speakers include Forbes columnist Margie Warrell who will talk about how to lead more courageously; entrepreneur Matthew Michalewicz presents the “Science of Success”, five evidence-based fundamental

drivers for attaining business, career, and personal goals; business etiquette expert Danielle Di-Masi speaks about the effect digital communication is having on our changing business landscape; and advertising guru Craig Davis will introduce attendees to Brand Karma: a new way of doing business.

Inspiring stories come from singer Ciaran Gribbin who presents his story of growing up in war-torn Northern Ireland to performing throughout the world as the frontman of INXS. While best-selling author John Peters will talk about the insights he gained during his time as a prisoner of war in the 1991 Gulf War under Saddam Hussein’s brutal regime.

On a lighter note magician Vinh Giang will illuminate the psychology of magic and

illusions, musician Darren Percival will be back with one of the soul-stirring performances that brought him so much acclaim on TV show The Voice Australia and TEDx Sydney 2013 sensation Tom Thum will astound as he

pushes the limits of the human voice to create incredible soundtracks of impossible beats and phenomenal sounds.

The Saxton Ultimate Event Experience is on at 7.40-10.10am, Wednesday 19 February in Plenary 3.

Double shot of inspiration

Top things happening todayAIME Knowledge education program

When: Various session times

Where: Auditorium and Clarendon Room D&E

The AIME Knowledge education program is back, with speakers ranging from TEDx’s Roger La Salle to adventurer Graeme Joy and Olympic athlete motivator Dr Adam Fraser. Individual tickets are $55 or book a Visitor All Access Pass for $175. Tickets can be purchased from the Registration desk on the Concourse.

Crown Pamperzone (By invitation only)

When: 10am-6pm

Where: Show floor

Hosted Buyers are invited to take a break and relax with a complimentary 15 minute neck and shoulder massage or a hand massage in the Crown Pamperzone, sponsored by Crown Spa. Book by emailing [email protected], or drop by the Crown Pamperzone to book an appointment.

Taipei City Government Relaxation Zone

When: 10am-6pm

Where: Show floor

Need a break? Why not take time out from your schedule to visit the Taipei City Government Visitor Relaxation Zone for a complimentary head, shoulder or foot massage?

A LIST Open House

When: 10am-6pm

Where: Show floor

Back for a second year, A LIST Open House is a dedicated area where Visitors and Hosted Buyers can meet with new event suppliers and boutique venues to gain inspiration.

Innovation Zone, sponsored by Sabre Pacific

When: 10am-6pm

Where: Show floor

New at AIME in 2014, the Innovation Zone, sponsored by Sabre Pacific, is the place to check out the latest event technologies and innovations, get hands-on with emerging products set to revolutionise the industry and access key experts in this arena.

Malaysia Kopitiam and International Food Market restaurants

When: 10am-5.45pm

Where: Show floor

Hungry? Don’t miss Malaysia Kopitiam, sponsored by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau, and the International Food Market restaurants.

Networking Hour

When: 4.30-6pm

Where: International Food Market and various stands, show floor

Catch up with old and new friends at AIME’s networking drinks at the International Food Market, or at one of the many exhibitor events held on the show floor.

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Treat your crew to theworld ’s most exciting

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Spotlight on… Graeme Joy


AIME Knowledge ‘best yet’This year’s AIME Knowledge education program is promising to be the best yet, featuring a can’t-miss line-up of industry-specific and personal development sessions, and top international and national speakers from the business events

industry, media and beyond.

Kicking off today, speakers include business productivity expert Debbie Mayo-Smith; advertising executive and founder of the Earth Hour initiative Todd Sampson; and Forbes columnist,

master coach and bestselling author Margie Warrell.

One of today’s highlights is set to be “Leading the High Performance Team”, presented by motivational speaker Graeme Joy, best known as joint leader and navigator of the

International North Pole Expedition where he became the first and only Australian to ski to the North Pole.

To find out more, AIME Daily chatted with Joy about leadership qualities, motivating teams and his greatest achievements.

Want to buy tickets?Individual tickets are $55 or book a Visitor All Access Pass for $175. Tickets are available at the registration desk on the concourse.

Q: Can people learn leadership qualities or are they innate?

A: The most successful leaders are a combination of both. To be a great and effective leader you must firstly have the desire to be a leader. You also need the qualities of openness, honesty and generosity. However many leadership skills can be acquired or improved through reputable courses and institutions. Having a good mentor is also very beneficial.

Q: What are some of the most common mistakes managers make?

A: Micromanaging; not trusting or empowering people. Not defining responsibilities of team members clearly. Not communicating clearly and effectively enough, thus leaving team members unsure and in the dark.

Q: What’s the secret to motivating teams to want to achieve more?

A: Have the right people in the right roles with the right tools to do their job. Then it’s about clear communication, with empathy and recognition of people’s contribution to successful outcomes.

Q: Does success really breed success?

A: It can do though there is no guarantee. The positive is that

you have a template for what works and how. It is important to understand the factors which lead to success. It didn’t just “happen”. Also most people get a positive buzz from success and are thus more likely to want to achieve it again – providing they feel that their contribution has been recognised. The potential down side is that teams and individuals can become overconfident and not pay enough attention to the factors which led to success.

Q: You’re a well-known adventurer. What parallels can you draw between the success you’ve had in the expeditions you’ve gone on and success in business?

A: The first and foremost parallel is that the key to success lies in the calibre, quality and commitment of your people. In essence it’s about creating a culture for success. In North Pole terms this means that if you don’t see North Pole success in the way we do then you should go on a different expedition! This of course does not mean that we always agree, great teams – high performance teams – recognise that healthy disagreement can be very productive in achieving the best possible course of action. Once a decision is made it is vital that all team members contribute 100 per cent to the implementation,

even if they don’t agree with the decision. For some people this can be difficult as it’s hard to let go of your own beliefs. Failure to achieve this will very quickly lead to discontent and fragmentation within the team. In turn this will lead to a diminished level of performance and often mistrust among team members. Great teamwork doesn’t just happen, there are real skills in achieving this and all team members must be familiar with these skills.

Q: What do you count as your greatest achievement?

A: Surviving my teenage daughter. Just kidding; she is a delight. It’s difficult to categorise it in terms of one achievement. I would say it is about being able to deliver effective leadership or co-leadership to the teams, projects and expeditions that I have worked with, thus enabling them to be a success.

Q: Best advice you’ve ever been given?

A: When you have a major project, vision or expedition in mind which stretches beyond what others see as achievable you will often be confronted with the negative response beginning with “let me tell you why you won’t ...” Don’t be put off by this, surround yourself with talented people who share your vision for success.

Best known as joint leader and navigator of the International North Pole Expedition, AIME Knowledge presenter Graeme Joy explains the attributes of great leadership and how to apply them to your teams.

Session: Leading the High Performance Team

Where: Auditorium

When: 8:45-9:45am, Tuesday, 18 February, 2014

Meet and greet . More fun in the

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Macao has long been regarded as a luxury travel destination and a favoured place to host memorable meetings, business events and incentive programmes. The territory’s blend of Portuguese heritage and Chinese history creates a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.

Macao is an incredibly convenient place to hold an event as everything is easily within 15 minutes travel time or less. It is also a free port with no foreign exchange control regimes, and there is no VAT or sales tax in Macao.

Cotai Strip MacaoAt the heart of modern Macao’s accommodation, event and entertainment offerings, Cotai Strip Macao provides an unbeatable range of 9,000 guestrooms from its five international hotel brands: The Venetian® Macao; Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central; Conrad® Macao, Cotai Central; Holiday Inn Macao Cotai Central and Four Seasons Hotel Macao. With 120,000sqm of flexible and versatile meeting and exhibition space,

including 274 breakout rooms, every type of event, large or small, is catered for.

The Venetian MacaoThe Venetian Macao has been designed from the ground up with the requirements of MICE planners and delegates in mind. From large indoor international congresses to cocktail events held outdoors at our poolside or lagoon, we can assist you with the most comprehensive event services all available under one roof.

• 3,000 suites at 75sqm each

• Cotai Expo - 75,000sqm of exhibition space

• 6,500sqm of pillar free space

• 108 Meeting Rooms - 25,000sqm of flexible meeting space

• Cotai Arena - Seats up to 15,000

• The Venetian Theatre - Seats up to 1,800

• Over 30 restaurants

• More than 330 duty free retail stores

• 4,600sqm medical spa

Conrad Macao, Cotai CentralRated as the best hotel in Macao by TripAdvisor and World’s Leading Green Hotel by the World Travel Awards, Conrad Macao, Cotai Central offers Hilton’s largest meeting and conference facilities in Asia with over 6,500 sqm of versatile meeting facilities, comprising 53 separate meeting rooms. The Conrad Business Centre is an ideal meetings venue. Our flawless personalized service will deliver flexible options tailored to meet your needs.

Holiday Inn Macao Cotai CentralHoliday Inn Macao Cotai Central is the largest Holiday Inn in the world, with 1,224 guestrooms and suites. The hotel is part of Sands Cotai Central integrated resort. Here you will find the DreamWorks Experience, providing ideal features and characters to add to your event. Holiday Inn Macao Cotai Central offers access to 20,000sqm of meeting rooms and ballrooms, allowing event organizers greater choice and flexibility to cater to medium and larger groups.

Cotai Strip Macao, one destination for all meetings

Conrad Macao Meeting RoomHoliday Inn Macao

King Superior RoomCotai Arena

Cotai Strip Macao

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Event BackgroundThis is the 3rd Asia Pacific Sales Meeting for Cook Medical which occurs every three years. This year is extra-special as it is the 50th Anniversary and first time spouses are to be included.

ActivitiesA Delegate Lounge was built in Cotai Expo Hall A, where delegates and partners could relax for the duration of the program and enjoy complimentary coffee, fresh juices, cookies and snacks. A small “spa” corner was also set up where guests could get quick foot and back massages. Various activities took place in the delegate lounge for the partners including floral arrangements and mini-bazaars.

In between delegate sessions, partners were treated to various personalised Partner Activities including “Venetian Cooking Classes” which featured two sessions – a pasta making class by chef Katia Soujol from

Event: Cook Medical 50th Celebration and Sales Meeting

Venue: The Venetian Macao

Date: 26-30 August 2013

Attendees: 670 guests (470 delegates + 200 partners) from Australia, New Zealand, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Denmark, Ireland and US

Portofino Restaurant and a dim sum making class conducted by the Venetian’s executive chef for convention catering, Alen Chow.

EntertainmentThe Welcome Event took place at the Venetian Poolside with the theme “BBQs of the World”. Cook Medical showcased food from each region by building and designing themed food stations comprising of USA and Australia; Korea and Japan; Hong Kong and China; Southeast Asia; and India. The pool area was also decorated with hundreds of red lanterns and star lights for ambience.

The Party Night took place at Cotai Expo Hall D which was converted into an amazing “retro” party venue. The chef created a family-style Macanese-Chinese inspired menu with platter and cart service, while the entertainment featured impersonations from famous singers from different genres including The Beatles, Rolling Stones and Lady Gaga. The highlight of the night was a choreographed parade of over

100 waiters with birthday sparklers on hand and birthday cakes for each table to end the dinner and kick off the party band.

The Gala Night featured a “Venetian Masquerade” theme and a full-course plated menu. The ballroom was transformed with silver candelabras, huge red rose centerpieces and small masks on each table as giveaways. In-house entertainment included the iconic Three Gondoliers, Streetmosphere, String Quartet etc.

ChallengesPlanning the logistics on guest arrivals and departures and crowd movement was a challenge because delegates came from different parts of the world. Each guest or group arrival experience was of utmost importance to the client, so everyone was greeted upon arrival and ushered immediately to their delegate lounge or check-in areas. The Cotai Water Jet was chartered to and from Hong Kong to shuttle the delegates in the most convenient and comfortable way possible.

“What an incredible event we had at your hotel [The Venetian Macao], it was without any doubt the best event Cook Medical has ever had in its entire 50 years.”

Barry Thomas

Director Asia Pacific Cook Medical and managing director Cook Australia

Welcome BBQ at Venetian poolside

For more information, please contact Cotai Strip Macao on (+853) 8118 3388 or email [email protected]

“Meetings More Rewarded” PackageFrom now till 31 August, simply book a minimum of 25 rooms combined with a meeting package for 1 night at The Venetian Macao; Conrad Macao, Cotai Central or Holiday Inn Macao Cotai Central to get:

• 5% OFF MASTER BILL

• COMPLIMENTARY IN-ROOM WIFI

• YOUR CHOICE OF 2 FROM THE FOLLOWING:

3 One-way Cotai Water Jet ticket from Hong Kong

3 Dedicated coach transfer on arrival or departure

3 Welcome entertainment performance

3 1 complimentary room for every 25 rooms booked

3 1 complimentary upgrade for every 25 rooms booked

BONUS

3 Complimentary breakfast on selected dates

Valid for meetings until 31 December 2015 when contracted by 31 August 2014.

The Venetian’s stable of entertainers makes every meeting memorable

The Venetian Ballroom

14 AIMEDaily 2014


Melbourne is renowned for its rich history, cosmopolitan culture and exceptional culinary offerings, but it also offers visitors easy access to Victoria’s many regional delights including its world-famous wine regions, rolling landscapes and rugged coastlines, and picturesque villages.

Always one of the most highly anticipated parts of the Hosted Buyer program, AIME’s pre touring program sees Hosted Buyers and Media from around the globe experience firsthand some of the premium venues and activities available for business events in Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Following the pre tours, which took place on Saturday 15 February and Sunday 16 February Hosted Buyers also participated in a “Melbourne Showcase” yesterday morning, exploring some of Melbourne’s top event and accommodation spaces.

According to Karen Bolinger, Chief Executive Officer of the Melbourne Convention Bureau, the pre touring options and Melbourne Showcase itineraries for 2014 were created to showcase the diverse offering available in Melbourne and regional Victoria for business events.

“In developing the itineraries for both the pre tours and the Melbourne Showcase, we took a strategic approach and tailored the schedules specific to buyers’ needs, which will allow them to make the most of their time,” she said.

“These programs provide a great opportunity for us to work with our strategic partners and members in Melbourne and regional Victoria to showcase the fantastic business events capabilities across the state.”

One of the most popular pre tours this year was to Daylesford & Macedon Ranges, located just 90 minutes drive away from Melbourne, which saw 17 Hosted Buyers and Media explore one of Victoria’s most loved regions, known for its picturesque villages, heritage architecture and health-providing mineral springs.

Setting off from the ParkRoyal Airport Hotel, day one of the familiarisation saw participants head first to Living Legends and the Woodlands Historic Homestead in Greenvale, a heritage venue which is now home to retired former champion racehorses including Melbourne Cup winners Rogan Josh, Doriemus and Brew, as well as a host of racing memorabilia. Tours of the house and photo opportunities with the horses are available, as well as “guest appearances” by the Legends off-site, with fees going to the horses upkeep.

From Living Legends, the group travelled to nearby Emu Bottom Homestead, picking up a “hitch hiker” along the way who regaled the group with faux drunken tales of the region’s, and Australia’s, history which reduced them to tears of laughter. The homestead, Victoria’s oldest, established in

On the road

Photos: Daylesford

and the M

acedon

Rang

es, Visions of Victoria.

1836, is made up of a number of rustic farm buildings which offer any number of opportunities for atmospheric offsite events and fun team building activities.

With a boomerang throwing competition building up a thirst, next stop was Gisborne Peak Winery, one of The Age Good Food Guide’s Top 10 Cellar Doors in Victoria. Here the group were treated to a wine tasting of the winery’s semillion, reisling, chardonnay and pinot noir wines, led by supremely knowledgeable owner and winemaker Bob Nixon, with wood fired pizza slices on the side.

Nearby, the Grange Cleveland Winery sits in the heart of the Macedon Ranges wine country, offering spectacular views of the ranges themselves. Specialising in conference groups this architect designed winery also features an original 1890s historic homestead, sleeping 12 (twin share), which is ideal for an executive retreat or small event. Stop by for a wine tasting, let the winery’s chefs whip up a lunch featuring locally

sourced produce or settle in for a multiple day event.

Offering a change of pace is a visit to arguably the region’s most famous landmark, Hanging Rock, a rare volcanic formation located near the townships of Woodend & Mount Macedon. The rock formation was brought to international attention by Joan Lindsay’s evocative novel Picnic at Hanging Rock about a group of schoolgirls who disappeared during a picnic at the rock in 1900, later made into an equally eerie movie in 1975 by Peter Weir.

Upstaging the rock however was the surprise appearance of the Wild Action Zoo – “the zoo that comes to you” – a mobile native zoo (and zoologist) which can be hired to come to venues in the area. Guest appearances included a blue tongue lizard, kookaburra, black head python, joey and a koala, who quickly captivated not only the famil group but every child within 200 metres!

The final stop for the afternoon was Redbeard Bakery for afternoon tea, where the artisan

Daylesford.

AIMEDaily 2014 15

with breakfast and a tour of the Novotel Creswick Forest Resort before the group moved on to Sault Restaurant. Set on the banks of a small manmade lake amongst picturesque lavender fields and beautifully manicured acres of garden the

restaurant has a fast growing reputation as a spectacular restaurant and function venue.

Another of Daylesford’s lakeside venues is the Lake House, where co-owner and chef Alla Wolf-Tasker has been one of Australia’s most passionate advocates of local seasonal cuisine for more than 20 years. Best known for its two-hat restaurant and stunning accommodation, The Lakehouse also provides corporate boutique conference facilities. Husband and co-owner Alan, a well known artist, has a studio on the property, with “meet the artist” sessions possible, and there are also “forest and feast” teambuilding packages available for delegates.

After a delicious morning tea overlooking the lake, courtesy of Wolf-Tasker’s team of chefs, the group moved on to tour the Convent Gallery, nestled in six acres of gardens on the crest of Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, with stunning view of the Daylesford. This historic 19th Century mansion, which was once home to the Holy Cross Convent and Boarding School for Girls, offers three levels of fine arts, as well as a café, shop and function space.

Nearby is heritage-listed Edwardian building Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, where visitors to the area have been “taking the waters” since 1895. Visitors can enjoy traditional communal bathing in the “Bathhouse” and the “Sanctuary”, or privately in the spa. While there is now also a modern new facility, the original Edwardian bathhouse in now known as the Pavillion Café, which is available for private functions.

Home to another renowned spa in the area is Peppers Mineral Springs, an art deco hotel located in the picturesque village of Hepburn Springs. Featuring 40

accommodation rooms, the award winning Argus Dining Room and an onsite day spa, Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat is an ideal venue for boutique meetings, conferences and events. The original home on the site, the heritage-listed Villa Parma, built in 1864, is an ideal executive retreat with four bedrooms with ensuites and a cellar that lends itself to atmospheric dinner events.

Following lunch at Peppers Mineral Springs, the final stop for the day is Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, a historic Swiss Italian farm which has been beautifully restored to deliver a European experience complete with old stone farm buildings and extensive gardens. The farm grows lavender, olives and grapes, and visitors can meet the farm’s animals, play boules or simply stroll through the carefully tended gardens.

With so much more to see in the region, it was with great reluctance that the famil group boarded the bus for the journey home to Melbourne, unanimously agreeing that the region is well worth a return visit.

KLCC_Culinaria_AIME_0214.ai 1 12/20/13 5:24 PM

www.cimmagazine.com

bakers still use the bakery’s original 19th century Scotch Oven, and are happy to talk about the process to visitors.

A short stop at overnight accommodation venue, Novotel Creswick Forest Resort, the region’s newest four and a half star eco-friendly resort, saw participants freshen up before heading to dinner at Kryal Castle.

A favourite with kids for 40 years, this replica medieval castle and village offers events planners in a Game of Thrones era any number of possibilities, with animatronic dragons, real-life jousting and the opportunity to dress delegates in authentic period costumes.

Day two of the pre tour started

The Convent Gallery.

16 AIMEDaily 2014

Best place to get coffee in the CBD: As Melbourne is a coffee capital it is impossible to pick just one, so here are three options: Pei Modern at Collins Place, Cumulus Inc in Flinders Lane and Sofi’s Lounge at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins.

Restaurant to take a client to: No35 at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins is a beautiful restaurant that features some of the best views of Melbourne. Situated on the 35th floor of the hotel, the restaurant provides guests with a birds-eye view of our beautiful city, and also features a menu of marvellous modern Australian cuisine. The wine list is also impressive.

If you only have one free day in Melbourne: Depending on how much time you have head out to Heide, the Museum of Modern Art in Bulleen. It is a unique museum in a stunning setting and definitely worth exploring. Or, if you are looking for a longer day, head out to Healesville Sanctuary in Healesville and explore a bushland haven for Australian wildlife.

Melbourne’s best “wow-factor” activity: At the present time it would be Melbourne Now, the extraordinary contemporary art exhibition on show at the National Gallery of Victoria. It is big, ambitious and has something for everyone. It is a great showcase of the artistic energy and endeavour in this city.

Melbourne wouldn’t be Melbourne without... The city’s incredible and highly prized calendar of major sporting and cultural events. There is always something happening, from the Australian Open, to White Night, the Melbourne Fashion Festival, the Australian F1 Grand Prix, the Melbourne International Film Festival, the Melbourne Festival, the AFL Grand Final, and the Spring Racing Carnival.

Shhhh, don’t tell anyone ... Actually, please tell everyone about Melbourne’s public gardens and green spaces. The Treasury Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and Royal Botanic Gardens are all vital and beautiful and well worth walking through.


Best place to get coffee in the CBD: Mill & Bakery, Central Pier Docklands. There is just something irresistible about the smell of freshly ground coffee and warm bread floating down Central Pier.

Favourite cheap eat: Fish and chips by the bay. I live in Williamstown and there is nothing better than looking back at the city as a backdrop across Port Philip Bay enjoying fish just caught.

If you only have one free day in Melbourne: I’d suggest a winery tour. There are so many beautiful options around Melbourne and it is a great way to build up a bit of Victorian wine knowledge for when you get back to decipher the wine list at one of our beautiful restaurants.

Melbourne’s best “wow-factor” activity: The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. Our food and wine culture is such a great manifestation of Melbourne’s multiculturalism, quality produce and culinary innovation so when we dedicate weeks to celebrate it you know it’s going to be amazing. I look out for degustation dinners and interactive experiences that take you on a journey of the restaurant’s philosophy. I also love the cocktail master classes.

Shhhh, don’t tell anyone ... Hidden beneath The Atlantic Restaurant at the Crown Entertainment Complex, the Den Cocktail Bar has an opulent yet very cool vibe, with a very alluring golden era-esque ambience. I love how it fuses old world and new world charm with its grand piano and DJs on the weekends. But most importantly, it has the best cocktails ever.

Have some spare time while you’re here in Melbourne? AIME Daily asked some Melbourne Convention Bureau members to spill the beans on the best coffee, food and things to do in and around Melbourne.

Insiders guide to Melbourne

Clive Scott, General Manager, Sofitel Melbourne On Collins

Best place to get coffee in the CBD: St Ali in South Melbourne, located in one of the “hard to find” laneway locations that Melbourne is famous for.

Restaurant to take a client to: Becco is an Italian powerhouse restaurant that is perfect for a business lunch. The restaurant is in a discreet laneway and the dining room is tiered, offering privacy.

The food and service are excellent and you will often see TV and sporting personalities here for working lunches.

Favourite cheap eat: Located in Flinders Lane, The Grain Store is busy, busy, busy. Serving restaurant-quality food at cafe prices keeps a line up out the door.

Melbourne’s best “wow-factor” activity: Lunch or dinner at Vue de monde is an experience you will never forget. Alternatively, pay a visit to the Fleurage Perfume Atelier to design your own custom scent made with entirely

natural botanicals and using age-old techniques.

Melbourne wouldn’t be Melbourne without: Its laneways filled with bars, cafes, restaurants, shops, galleries and graffiti. The best places in Melbourne are in the laneways and many places don’t even have a sign, so you just need to be in the know, or know a great concierge!

Shhhh, don’t tell anyone: Fitzroy; this uber trendy neighbourhood is filled with incredible graffiti, unique fashion boutiques, cafes, bars and restaurants that range from the trendy to bizarre. No matter your passion, chances are you will find it here.

James Ridenour, Chief Concierge Clefs d’Or, InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto

Sarah Seddon, Group Marketing Manager, Atlantic Group V

AIMEDaily 2014 17

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Best place to get coffee in the CBD: The Little Mule combines a café and bicycles. I love the quirkiness of this place. Their breakfast and lunch menu focus on slow cooked, satisfying home-style food.

Restaurant to take a client to: Donovans in St Kilda. The restaurant has been designed to

have the look and feel of someone’s home, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto the beach. I love the location, service, ambience and wine list.

If you only have one free day in Melbourne: Head to Daylesford for the spas, restaurants and the Convent Gallery. It’s just a great place – close to the city but far enough away to feel like you’ve had a break.

Melbourne’s best “wow-factor” activity: It would have to be a helicopter ride to the Yarra Valley for lunch. You get to see the city and regional Victoria all in one day with an aerial view – there’s nothing like it!

Melbourne wouldn’t be Melbourne without... AFL! Melburnians love the footy season and everything it means – footy tipping competitions, meat pies, winter and the great banter it creates around the city.

Shhhh, don’t tell anyone ... Mangana Arts and Crafts at Olinda. When wandering through the shop it’s like taking a journey through an old world. Their goods are sourced from India, France and the Americas, with every piece being individually selected. Take your wallet as it’s very hard to leave without purchasing something!

Anne Jamieson, Director of Sales, Marketing and Club Melbourne, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Best place to get coffee in the CBD: Brother Baba Budan is a great hole in the wall café for coffee connoisseurs. It only has a handful of seats and is always packed but the coffee is easily the best in the city.

Restaurant to take a client to: Charcoal Lane on Gertrude Street. This is a Mission Australia social enterprise targeting disadvantaged indigenous youth that Accor is involved in. Leaving aside the important social outcomes this is just a generally great restaurant in its own right.

Favourite cheap eat: Pop-up burger van Mr Burger at the Queen Victoria Market. The burgers are served wrapped in paper and foil, and are always amazing.

If you only have one free day in Melbourne: My tip would be to create a day of culture combining the National Gallery of Victoria and a show at the Regent Theatre.

Melbourne’s best “wow-factor” activity: No. 35 at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins is a magnificent restaurant but have a look at the bathrooms off the Atrium Bar. The view from the urinal is guaranteed to make you say wow!

Shhhh, don’t tell anyone ... Hotel Lindrum is Melbourne’s best boutique hotel. At the top of Flinders Street it is a classy tranquil oasis from the noise of the city.

Adrian Williams, Regional General Manager, Accor Vic, Tas, SA

18 AIMEDaily 2014

MORE THAN MEETING EXPECTATIONS

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NEWSBYTES TVTV Digital

and you thought we were just a magazine. Have we got news for you.

Come and visit us at on stand 2432.

...

Official publisher of the AIME Daily.


1. Download the AIME 2014 mobile app to keep ahead of the curve.

2. Only carry one bag and make sure it has room as there will be plenty of giveaways on the stands. There is a cloakroom for extra bags.

3. Wear flat shoes. If you’re going out after the show, pop your heels in a bag and check them

into the cloakroom.

4. Unwind with a complimentary head, shoulder or foot massage at the Taipei City Government Relaxation Zone.

5. Make sure you have enough business cards and then double it.

6. Take some time out at the Korea Tourism

12 step survival planFrom the moment you walk onto the AIME show floor you know it’s going to be full on, so make the most out of your day by being prepared.

Organization sponsored Hosted Buyer Lounge and enjoy some traditional Korean hospitality.

7. Fast track into the future in the AIME Innovation Zone, sponsored by Sabre Pacific, and check out the latest developments within the industry.

8. Sample delicious hawker-style food at Malaysia Kopitiam, sponsored by the Malaysian Convention & Exhibition Bureau, or Italian and South American cuisine or Victorian produce at the International Food Market.

9. Catch up on emails in the Taipei City Government Internet Hub, located on the show floor.

10. Get inspired in the A LIST Open House where you can meet with new event suppliers and venues to gain inspiration for their own events.

11. Boost your batteries at one of the MCEC’s pop-up juice and smoothie stations.

12. Whip out the peppermint foot rub and give yourself a quick foot massage before slipping into your heels. The day may be over but the networking has only just begun.

Have a question? Don’t forget AIME’s mobile concierge service, which allows you to send a text with a question on seminars, networking, features on the show floor or what’s happening at the show, and receive a response immediately from one of the AIME team. Don’t forget this number – +61 418 517 180!

Or stop by the AIME information stand located next to the Taipei City Government Internet Hub.

AIMEDaily 2014 19

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With a world class conference centre opening in 2015 catering up to 1000 delegates and easy access to Australia’s most exciting theme parks, Sea World Resort will become your gateway to unique day and night conferences and events on the Gold Coast.

To discuss your next conference or event call 07 5591 0020 or email [email protected]. Visit us at AIME Gold Coast stand 1922.

SeaWorldResort.com.au/conferences-and-events

1402120 SEA WORLD ©

2014 & TM Sea W

orld Property Trust.

GOLD COAST’S NEWESTCONFERENCE CENTRE

PCMA shares its knowledgeThe Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) will present two high-level sessions as part of the AIME Knowledge education program.

The first, “Straight Talk from Meeting Professionals”, to be held on Tuesday, 18 February, at 10.30am, will cover how meeting professionals can be a part of the

development of the objectives and strategy for their programs. As well as taking a look at the evolving nature of meetings and the skills and expectations required for a successful meeting professional.

The second session, “Developments and Trends impacting Association Conferences and Events”, to

be held on Wednesday, 19 February, at 2.15pm, arranged by Associations Forum, will feature a panel discussion about developments and trends impacting association conferences and events.

PCMA is also co-sponsoring the CEO Summit. At the summit, chief executives will have the opportunity

to hear about exciting new growth opportunities for their organisations.

PCMA provides their 6300 members with a community of likeminded colleagues, innovative education and creative global solutions to enhance both their professional development and their organisation’s face-to-face and virtual connections.

MEA heads to Kuala LumpurAnticipation is rising for this year’s Meetings & Events Australia (MEA) Annual National Conference 2014, which will be held in Kuala Lumpur in May.

Expected to attract around 600 delegates from Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore, ranging from professional conference organisers (PCOs) and corporate meeting planners to event management companies and suppliers to the business events industry, it will be only the second time it has been held outside of Australia in the Association’s history.

According to Linda Gaunt, chief executive of MEA, the opportunity to connect with Malaysia’s business events community was one of the key factors in Kuala Lumpur’s favour.

“We felt that we really should be learning from what’s happening in Asia,” she says. “We’re losing so much business to Asia, let’s go and have a look at why. There are some things we can’t compete against, like pricing and staffing, but it is an opportunity for our members to benchmark themselves against their type of business, regardless of what sector of the industry they’re in, in Asia.”

One of the highlights of the program will be a business exchange between Asian and Australian delegates – an appointment program which facilitates the swapping of information and ideas between similar organisations.

“It’s not something we can do in Australia because we don’t have the variety amongst the delegates to be able to do it, and they don’t need us to do it, but by taking our membership into Asia we can facilitate a reasonable exchange program,” said Gaunt.

Ho Yoke Ping, general manager of sales and marketing for Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), believes that hosting the conference will also have a positive effect of the local business events industry.

“Apart from the economic benefit this conference will bring to Malaysia, we are confident that the convergence of meetings industry experts will create a multiplier effect for the country,” says Ho.

“MEA will definitely play an instrumental role in strengthening international business networks between Australia and Asia. And we will be able to leverage on the experience of Australia as a business events destination.”

Associations news

20 AIMEDaily 2014

your total travel solution

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A new star for MelbourneThe Melbourne Star Observation Wheel is set to be Melbourne’s star venue for special events in 2014.

The Melbourne Star’s exclusive caterer, Peter Rowland Catering, is now taking bookings for Melbourne Star’s dedicated function spaces designed to host both large and small gatherings, from cocktails for 400 guests to a sit-down dinner for up to 250 people. The Star Piazza, at the base of the Star, will have the capacity to host a cocktail reception for up to 1500 people.

Since opening in December 2013,

Melbourne Star Management Group said there had been significant interest from organisations in booking special events and functions.

“Clearly there is very strong support for a venue that can provide a unique and memorable guest experience, underpinned by exceptional dining options and impeccable service.” Melbourne Star Management Group chief executive Chris Kelly says.

Events guests at Melbourne Star Observation Wheel can enjoy the 30-minute ride on the Southern Hemisphere’s only

giant observation wheel, with the experience further enhanced by tailored in-cabin catering.

“Whether it’s enjoying the spectacular views and informative in-cabin commentary with a glass of pre-dinner champagne or with a special lunch hamper during a meeting break, Peter Rowland Catering and Melbourne Star will work together to deliver inspired solutions for all events and functions, large and small,” Kelly says.

• Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, stand 3006

Exhibitors news

There are any number of ways to inspire people and, according to Hawaii Tourism Oceania, you can find just about all of them in the Hawaiian Islands.

Offering astonishing land and seascapes, an incredible diversity of cultures and service inspired by the generous spirit of aloha which can be seen in an abundance

of smiles that greet delegates, Hawaii is the perfect place for everything from brainstorming to serious decision-making.

The islands also have everything to make meetings special for groups of all sizes – from executive-style boardrooms to lavish ballrooms for conferences and gala events. What’s more, the vast array of world class resorts and hotels can satisfy a wide variety of budgets.

And, no matter where you plan to meet in Hawaii, there’s more than enough to do before and after meetings. From a myriad of

activities, attractions, restaurants and lounges to world-class and highly diverse shopping opportunities or simply unwinding on a sun swept, white sand beach, Hawaii provides a stimulating environment, day and night.

Combine Hawaii’s natural beauty, diverse culture, year round sunshine, and legendary aloha spirit with the island’s wealth of tourism and meeting professionals, and easy to see why Hawaii meetings build attendance and achieve positive results.

• Hawaii Tourism Oceania, stand 2832

Business or pleasure? Why choose

AIMEDaily 2014 21

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POWERHOUSE OF IDEASHosting the world from the Northern Territory for five years now, Darwin Convention Centre has

put the tropical harbour city on the map as a fresh and unique “must go” for business events.

Darwin is the inspiration for innovative breakthroughs in mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, health, education and tropical knowledge.

Combine a world-class convention centre with Darwin’s unique expertise in specialist fields and the result is a perfect setting for exchanging ideas and breaking new ground in many

areas that will decide our global future.

Let’s connect www.darwinconvention.com.au

+618 8923 9000 | [email protected]

New corporate conference retreat for NoosaOutrigger Little Hastings Street Resort and Spa in Noosa has launched a new corporate conference retreat, adding to its existing meetings facilities, spread across a range of spaces within the 5-star, green star-rated resort.

The private executive-style Panozza Boardroom was unveiled in October 2013 and is located within one of the resort’s magnificently appointed deluxe ocean view villas.

The Panozza Boardroom offers a private setting away from the resort’s main conference centre yet has full access to all resort services and facilities.

The villa can be used exclusively for formal boardroom meetings for groups up to 18 or 30 in cocktail-style gatherings.

The four-bedroom villa can also accommodate senior executives throughout the duration of their conferencing program and is also an ideal incentive product for celebrity guests and keynote speakers.

Featuring sweeping coastal

views and the latest in multi-media technology, the Panozza Boardroom is serviced by a dedicated full-time resort host to ensure a smooth and efficient program for delegates.

Outrigger Little Hastings Street is one of Noosa’s largest conferencing destinations, and is equipped to host 350 delegates theatre-style, or up to 600 cocktail-style.

According to general manager, Niel Mason, Outrigger Little Hastings Street is generating solid repeat custom amongst both smaller and larger scale conference and meeting organisers.

“The fact that we are in the heart of the UNESCO-designated Noosa Biosphere and are an official partner of the Biosphere enables us to draw more environmentally focused conferences based on our own sustainable design features and extensive energy saving practices.”

• Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort & Spa, stand 2222

American Express Meetings & Events have collaborated with the Innovation Zone, to create the “American Express Meetings & Events Corridor of Innovation”. This dedicated area on the show floor showcases the latest event technologies and innovations as well as providing a forum to discuss the latest trends and challenges of the industry.

As part of the company’s collaboration, they will conduct a series of education sessions on “The Evolving Landscape of Virtual Technology in Meetings”, to be held in the Innovation Zone at 11am and 2pm on both days of the show.

The session will discuss virtual meeting trends, best practices for using webcasting including

meeting types and meeting elements that best lend themselves to a virtual or hybrid experience, and ways to effectively improve the overall effectiveness of your meeting program through the integration of webcasting.

The company will also be demonstrating our American Express Meetings & Events Hybrid Solutions, powered by NASDAQ OMX Corporate Solution, a global provider of webcasting for thousands of companies. This collaboration enables a meaningful hybrid event experience with both immediate and lasting impact, customised to clients’ needs and those of their audience.

• Innovation Zone

AMEX Meetings & Events to host education sessions

Business events website EventConnect.com is celebrating 10 Years in 2014 by giving you the chance to win a pot of gold up to the value of $10,000.

EventConnect.com is formally launching this exciting competition at AIME, along with a fresh new-look for the website. Those attending the tradeshow will have the exclusive opportunity to collect gold tokens from supporting gold partner exhibitors, enabling them to fill their virtual pot of gold for the chance to win the maximum

$10,000 of gold bullion.

Follow the rainbow and pick up a “gold collection card” which can be found in your Visitor or Hosted Buyer bag, at the registration desk, lounges and dining areas.

Registered users of EventConnect.com can activate their virtual pot of gold as part of their free registration and continue to collect gold tokens and gain extra entries in the draw by visiting EventConnect.com over the next 10 months.

• Event Connect, stand 1628

Celebrate 10 Years with $10,000 of gold bullion

22 AIMEDaily 2014


STOPat Stamford booth 1904

CAUTIONyou might get

carried away by Andrea’s sweet talk

GO for our Pick’n’Mix Conference Deal!

Go on! Come over and you’ll feel like a kid in a candy store!

Andrea has a selection ofgreat conference deals along

with jars filled with candy for people to pick‘n’mix.

Contact Andrea Werner Group Director of Sales – MICE

on (+61) 402 971 216

STOP

CAUTION

GO The Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA) is leveraging its presence at AIME 2014 to promote the messages of its “Power of Exhibitions” campaign. In a new stronger partnership with AIME, the EEAA is helping Reed Travel Exhibitions to educate exhibitors about how to get more out of the exhibition.

The Association represents major organisers, venues and suppliers and will spread the campaign messages via activities on its stand and also through its involvement in Business Events Week.

EEAA chief executive Joyce

DiMascio says AIME presented the ideal platform to remind buyers, visitors and exhibitors of the strength of exhibitions and events as channels for doing business.

“AIME is a most successful B2B exhibition – it generates benefits to the buyers and sellers who meet during the event and also to its host city, Melbourne,” she says. “It is an ideal platform for our Association to spread the message about the Power of Exhibitions.”

This year EEAA’s stand will reflect the campaign. The Association will also make available the campaign assets to help

exhibitors get more out of their investment in the showcase.

“We will take the opportunity to share the Association’s latest news with the aim of building greater government, media and community awareness about the importance of business events,” she says. “Exhibitions like AIME are powerful drivers of business, trade, employment and visitation – and this was a message the Association would continue to promote through its work in 2014.”

• Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia, stand 1940

EEAA promotes the Power of Exhibitions

Maple Event Group have relaunched Melbourne’s Fenix as an exclusive event venue, following their purchase of the venue last year. Encompassing a contemporary yet classic new interior look and feel, Fenix is a space

designed to cater for the modern corporate client.

Fenix now offers four individual event spaces, which can accommodate from 12 guests boardroom-style up to 300 guests theatre-style. The venue features

floor to ceiling glass windows throughout, offering river views, and built in AV facilities.

Maple Event Group also owns iconic Melbourne event venue Leonda By The Yarra, which continues to operate as one of Melbourne’s leading event venues, accommodating up to 1000 guests across two modern event spaces and offering exceptional, personalised service.

Directors Carly and Eric Cohen have a clear direction for the Maple Event Group venues, stating they are “committed to delivering exceptional experiences through first class hospitality, food and design.”

• Melbourne Convention Bureau, stand 2700

Fenix Events relaunched

AIMEDaily 2014 23

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The Royce Hotel, situated on one of Melbourne’s most famous boulevards, St Kilda Road, has opened two chic new boardrooms seating 10-14 guests, which are ideal for anything from meetings to an intimate dinner.

Renowned architects and interior designers SJB have created the boardrooms with the ceiling, which imitates a European palazzo ceiling in aged oak panels, contrasting with the contemporary Melbourne street art hung on the walls.

Steeped in history, the Royce Hotel building was originally designed in the 1920s as Melbourne’s first prestige car showroom.

Bryan Dixon, general manager of the Royce Hotel, believes that the boutique hotel market has

grown in popularity over the past 10 years.

”Since the hotel opened in the year 2000, we have noticed a real change from both local and international visitors in their perception towards boutique hotels,” he says. “There is a recognition now of the quality, value and point of difference in boutique hotels that has seen a trend towards people choosing to stay in these types of hotels versus the more traditional franchise hotels. Guests are seeking a more unique, warm, personalised experience. This is certainly reflected in the conferences and events we deliver our clients here at the Royce.”

• Melbourne Convention Bureau, stand 2700

Royce Hotel opens new boardrooms

Don’t miss these promotions from AIME’s exhibitors*.

Pan Pacific Hotels Group – stand 2028

Ask for a quote to go into the draw to win five nights’ at Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali Resort.

Escarpment Group – Stand 1016

Go in the draw to win one night’s accommodation in a Deluxe Valley View room including buffet breakfast for two and a three-course dinner for two with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV.

RACV Royal Pines Resort – Stand 1922

Receive a case of Moet, signature spa treatment for two, or overnight stay and dinner with celebrity chef Matt Golinski for new business.

Mornington Peninsula Conference Bureau – Stand 2401

Leave your business card for a chance to win a Mornington Peninsula escape.

Yarra Valley – Stand 2508

Win a two night stay for two in the Yarra Valley, including a sunrise balloon flight, Segway tour, bed and breakfast for two, lunch both days, and a wine and cheese experience.

Ungerboeck Software International – Stand 1028

Send in your free demo request, for your chance to win an iPad Mini.

*Conditions may apply.

Activities on the show floor

Official AIME Daily Publisher Alexandra YeomansManaging Editor Ylla Wright Journalist Sheridan RandallSales & Marketing Manager Jo RobinsonAccount Managers Stephanie Rowen Michelle CullenDesign/Production Manager Bin ZhouDigital/Production Assistant Xin JinEditorial Assistant Anna-Louise McDougall

Creative Head Media Pty LtdSuite 202, 80-84 Chandos Street, St Leonards 2065Tel: 02 9438 2300Web: www.cimmagazine.com

ACN 147 436 280

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AIME Day 1 2014

Documents

Transcript of AIME Day 1 2014