Business Events Tasmania

Massive Year for Business Events in Tasmania

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 04:11:00 GMT

Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Nettlefold said “This is an incredible achievement for such a small team.”

“Business Events Tasmania conducted nearly 60 site inspections, hosted two familiarisations and prepared over 80 bids - and we have no intention of slowing down!”

“We have had a great start to the 2010/11 financial year having just won the International Association of Antarctic Tourism Operators conference and the International Cool Climate Wine Symposium.”

“The Professional Conference Organisers Association Conference is taking place in Hobart in December and we will be conducting pre and post familiarisations in all five regions across the state.”

“The scope of our bidding opportunities has also now broadened, with the team able to bid for events of up to 1500 PAX for Hobart with the iconic Princes Wharf Shed 1 redevelopment in full swing.”

“Business Events Tasmania is also focusing more strategically on securing corporate meeting and incentive business for the state. With exciting new high end product coming online all the time, such as MONA, Saffire on the East Coast, Grand Mercure Hadleys redevelopment in Hobart, The Charles in Launceston and Eagles Eyrie in the Derwent Valley, there is no shortage of drawcards.”

“This is certainly an exciting time for Tasmania’s business events industry. We look forward to working closely with event planners and our members in 2010/11 for another successful year.”

Beauty and the Bees

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 04:10:00 GMT

The skincare formulas are made with our wilderness island's unique healing Leatherwood beeswax and honey, found nowhere else in the world, and possessing an intense floral aroma. Open the jar... warm just a little in your hands... breathe in the mysterious, rich aroma of the Tasmanian temperate rainforest.

Beauty and the Bees products are ideal for delegate bags, pillow gifts, and corporate gifts or to thank conference speakers and VIP’s.

Try Honey and Coconut Cleanser, Flower Petal Toning Mist, Leatherwood Honey and Macadamia Moisturising Cream, Tasmanian Tiger Massage Balm, Leatherwood Honey Cream Bath or Leatherwood Honey and Beeswax Lip Balm.

For gentlemen, the Tasmanian Beer Shampoo bar is a hit with all hair types.

If you are spending time in Tasmania’s great outdoors, why not prepare your delegates with "Bugged - Outdoor Balm". A richly lemon scented blend of carefully chosen and blended oils, 100% chemical free insect repellent.

And why not select something to make your life as an event planner a little more relaxing – with the original pure essential oil Calm Balm!

These stunning Tasmanian products are also available conveniently packaged into gift packs.

The company has been in business (retail, wholesale and online) for 18 years, employing local women and men.   To view the full range of products, ideal for delegate bags or corporate gifts, visit the website www.beebeauty.com.

Telephone: 03 6274 1955

Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston announces the appointment of a new Conferencing Team

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 04:10:00 GMT

Glenn Robertson, General Manager is delighted to announce the appointment of this brand new Team who will be more than happy to assist with all your Conference, Meeting and Event enquiries.

Glenn Latham
Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston has recently appointed Glenn Latham as Conference and Events Manager to head its new conference team. Glenn brings a wealth of knowledge with 10 years General Management experience in Hotels and Resorts across Queensland and Western Australia. He was previously the National Manager for one of Australia’s largest Private Hospitality Training Organisations based in Queensland.

Nicole Hyde
With previous employment with Novotel in South Australia and Rydges in Cairns and extensive experience in the food and beverage industry, Nicole brings a depth of experience to the department. Nicole was most recently employed by Rydges South Park in Adelaide as Conference and Events Manager.

Charlie Shelton
Charlotte (Charlie) Shelton commenced at Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston in early June. She has been involved in co-coordinating functions from training events, conferences and weddings for the past 18 months at the Tailrace Centre. Prior to this, her background involved being in local television for 9 years, co-coordinating television programs and live sporting events.

Grand Hotels International owns and manages ten 4 - 4.5 star Hotel Grand Chancellor properties throughout Australia and New Zealand. All Hotels are in prime locations with a range of facilities offering accommodation for the most discerning guest as well as a host of conference and events facilities on a small to large scale, with three locations catering for over 1000 delegates. www.ghihotels.com

Christine Pritchard
Business Development Manager
Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston

New 'Catalyst Program' Launched to Secure Events for Tasmania

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 04:11:00 GMT

Business Events Tasmania Chief Executive Officer Stuart Nettlefold said, “A Catalyst is something that initiates or causes an important event to happen. We know that there are many Tasmanians who attend business events around the country and internationally every year that could be hosted in Tasmania.

“We are asking those Tasmanians that know of a conference, corporate meeting, incentive, seminar or exhibition, currently held elsewhere, to initiate for that event to be hosted in Tasmania.

“By providing Business Events Tasmania with information on the event, the Business Development Team can then prepare a comprehensive bid to win that event for the state.

“We call these Catalysts Champions. Catalyst Program Champions can be involved in the bidding process if they wish to, or they can simply provide information or an introduction.

“The ultimate objective of this program is to win more business events, and the subsequent economic and social benefits, for Tasmania.”

The Catalyst Program has also enlisted a Patron, Charles Wooley (pictured), to be the international ‘face’ and chief ambassador for the program.

“As a journalist, I have been around the world enough times to know that I live in one of the best parts of it. Those of us who travel professionally should take a little time to share Tasmania with the wider world by becoming a Champion. Don’t keep our island a secret.”

Business Events Tasmania CEO, Stuart Nettlefold, said that Charles Wooley was approached for the role of Patron because of his enthusiastic passion for Tasmania, his high profile locally, nationally and internationally, and his exposure to business leaders and decision makers.

“A series of high profile Ambassadors are also being sought for each of the State’s key industries. I have approached twelve industry leaders in fields that Tasmania excels in, to become Ambassadors for this program and Tasmania in their industry or sector” said Mr. Nettlefold.

Ambassadors have been approached to represent Tasmania in Agriculture, Aquaculture, the Antarctic sector, Arts and Culture, Finance and Economics, Innovation, Maritime, Medical Research, Tourism and Events, Forestry, Sport and Recreation and Education.

In the 2009/10 financial year Business Events Tasmania won 106 bids for business events, representing nearly 25,000, valued at over $31 million dollars.

“This is up 56% on the year before and we intend to win even more business in 2010/11 – particularly with the help of local champions.”

Tasmanians that would like to be in involved should contact Business Events Tasmania on (03) 6224 6852 or visit www.businessevnetstasmania.com.au/catalyst.

Video

Watch video from the launch online.

Southern Cross News footage of the launch.

New Inspirational DVD for Tasmania

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 04:10:00 GMT

The DVD can be utilised by event planners for delegate boosting to achieve maximum attendance at business events and also in bids to present to national and international executives. Event planners wanting a physical copy of the DVD can contact Claire McLaren

Hosted on the Business Events Tasmania website, sections of the DVD are used to highlight what Tasmania has to offer, and are accessible to all.

Follow the links to be inspired...

Tasmania. Exceed Expectations.

• Why Tasmania?
• Hobart & Surrounds
• Launceston, Tamar & The North
• The East Coast & Flinders Island
• The North West Coast
• Western Wilderness
• Relaxation & Rejuvenation
• Food & Wine
• Adventure Activities
• Nature
• Shopping
• History & Heritage

Business Events Expo - Tasmania 2010

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 22:53:00 GMT

To help you plan your next event - BEE Inspired! | BEE 2010 is a FREE event open to all Tasmanian event planners. This includes all people who organise events, would like assistance to organise an event or are thinking about bringing their industry's state or national conference, AGM or Christmas Party to Tasmania. Business Events Tasmania is here to help you be inspired!

BEE Involved!
Business events have a positive economic and social impact on our state. They provide our industry professionals with an opportunity for professional development and the chance to demonstrate to their peers the exceptional achievements within their sector in Tasmania.

BEE Part of the Experience!
BEE 2010 will give you the opportunity to personally meet venue managers, event organisers, audio visual companies, entertainers... and many more people who can make your business event a stand out success.

BEE Prize!
As a little sweetener, to help entice you to attend BEE 2010, you will also have the opportunity to win prizes - simply by attending. Light refreshments will also be on offer.

RSVP: ASAP
Please register for BEE 2010 as soon as possible by filling out and submitting the registration form below.

Need more information?
Contact kanderson@businesseventstasmania.com or call 03 6224 6852 and speak to any Business Events Tasmania staff member.


HOBART Tuesday 3 August 2010, 3.30 - 7pm Wrest Point – Tasman Room 410 Sandy Bay Road, Sandy Bay	LAUNCESTON Wednesday 4 August 2010, 3.30 – 7pm Hotel Grand Chancellor - Chancellor 1 & 2 29 Cameron Street,  Launceston

Registration Form

Registration for this event is now closed.

Calling All Champions

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 06:11:00 GMT

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Cruising Daily

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 01:14:00 GMT

Tasman Island Cruises provide groups with an unforgettable three-hour journey along the base of the highest vertical sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. The cruise features Tasman Island, one of the great landmarks of the Southern Ocean. Weaving in and out of deep sea caves and sitting below sea stacks such as the Candlestick and the Totem Pole, guests are also exposed to a range of local wildlife. Guests can organise a full-day tour from Hobart, which has an optional visit to the Port Arthur Historic Site - or they can join the cruise at the Port Arthur base.

Bruny Island Cruises explores the spectacular coastlines of South Bruny, cruising beneath high sea cliffs, observing marine wildlife and spotting albatross and sea eagles. Groups can commence the experience in Hobart or Adventure Bay on Bruny Island.

On both eco-cruises, Rob Pennicott's purpose-built boats provide a safe and comfortable ride, while top-quality all-weather clothing ensures that guests stay warm and dry.

Phone bookings can be made 24 hours a day or through the booking centre on Hobart’s waterfront at the entrance to Constitution Dock.

* Tours do not operate on Christmas Day

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys

Bruny Island Cruises www.brunycruises.com.au

Tasman Island Cruises www.tasmancruises.com.au

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys www.pennicottjourneys.com.au

Phone: (03) 6239 6878

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Meadowbank Celebrates

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 23:07:00 GMT

The evening will also launch the 2008 Ticklebelly Pinot Noir.

The anniversary celebration is just the first of a line up of winter events... there are seven additional opportunities to indulge in fine food, wine, art and entertainment in the warm winery venue.

Current scheduled events run right through until the end of August.

Click here to download the Winter 2010 Calendar of Events.

Iconic new space for Hobart’s waterfront business events precinct

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 04:08:00 GMT

The space will be available for events from August 2011 onwards and bookings can be facilitated through Business Events Tasmania now.

Business Events Tasmania CEO Stuart Nettlefold said that this development was exactly what Tasmania needed to facilitate business events of over 1000 PAX selecting Tasmania as a destination of choice.

"This multipurpose space not only provides an offsite dinner venue for 1500 PAX, but can also be adapted to any kind of business event, such as tradeshows, seminars and corporate events.

"The space is dividable to create smaller internal spaces, seating around 300 PAX in each, and includes an outdoor decked area facing historic Salamanca, ideal for cocktail functions.

"Onsite is a commercial kitchen facility designed for offsite catering, flexible technological and lighting infrastructure, tiered seating (500 capacity) and a portable stage.

"When the space is not being utilised for business events, it will be a hub of music, arts and culture – providing an ongoing attraction for delegates within easy walking distance of major conference accommodation venues and right next to the famous Salamanca Markets.

"This is an exciting development for Tasmania and the business events industry."

The space will also be utilised by iconic Tasmanian events such as the Taste of Tasmania, part of Hobart’s Summer Festival, MONA Foma and Beerfest.

For more information on this exciting development, contact Business Events Tasmania on (03) 6224 6852.

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Tasman Island Cruises

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 04:10:00 GMT

The award-winning cruise takes passengers on an unforgettable three-hour journey along the base of the highest vertical sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. The cruise features Tasman Island, one of the great landmarks of the Southern Ocean. Weaving in and out of deep sea caves and sitting below sea stacks such as the Candlestick and the Totem Pole guests are taken to a coastal wilderness of wondrous proportions.

The delicate ecosystem is home to wonderful wildlife including hundreds of seals, migrating whales and abundant bird species. At any time of year you’re likely to see the feeding frenzy of diving gannets, albatross and sea eagles, cliff-nesting peregrine falcons and playful dolphins surfing the bow wave of the boat.

Custom built for eco-cruising, the boats are ideal for viewing the spectacular coastline and wildlife of the Tasman Peninsula. Nicknamed the '4WD’s of the sea' for their unequalled sea-keeping abilities these boats are safe, comfortable and gentle on the environment due to their fuel efficiency, low emission and quiet operation.

The meeting point at Port Arthur is only 90 mins from Hobart. Passengers can drive themselves to meet the cruise or choose to take a Full Day Tour from Hobart which includes morning tea, lunch, a guided bus tour and an optional visit to the Port Arthur Historic Site.

Founder Robert Pennicott is passionate about preserving the coastline showcased on the cruise. In 2007 he co-founded the Tasmanian Coast Conservation Fund towards which he has donated $100,000 to date. The business is also 100% Carbon Offset, Ecotourism Australia accredited and an EC3 Green Globe Lite Operator.

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys has 6 boats in its fleet, each seating 42 passengers meaning groups of all sizes can be catered for. Tours operate daily all year round and private tours are available.

Tasman Island Cruises is located at 6961 Arthur Highway, Port Arthur. For more information, call (03) 6250 2200 or visit www.tasmancruises.com.au.

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Business Events Expo - Tasmania 2010

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 02:26:00 GMT

Hobart:
Tuesday 3 August 2010, 3.30 - 7pm
Wrest Point - Tasman Room
410 Sandy Bay Road, Sandy Bay

Launceston:
Wednesday 4 August 2010, 3.30 - 7pm
Hotel Grand Chancellor - Chancellor 1 & 2
29 Cameron Street, Launceston

Exhibitors will include conference and accommodation venues, caterers, entertainers and activity providers along with many other representatives from the business events industry in Tasmania.

Business Events Expo is free to attend for visitors, so if you'd like to receive an invitation to Business Events Expo Tasmania - email Krystal Anderson.

Port Arthur named Australian Gourmet Traveller’s Best Heritage Experience, third year in a row!

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 04:08:00 GMT

The Site was named Australian Gourmet Traveller Magazine’s Best Heritage Experience at a ceremony held in Sydney last month.

In its citation, the magazine wrote “The phrase “hauntingly beautiful” may be one of the most hackneyed clichés in travel journalism, but it captures perfectly the intrigues of Port Arthur.

This historic site is one of the prettiest ports in the country; on a sunny day there are few lovelier places to be than wandering its cottage gardens and elm avenues. But its natural beauty masks a tragic past – first as a hellish penal colony and then as the site of Australia’s worst massacre.

Both dark episodes are treated with respect and gravity by guides and by fixed displays that don’t shy away from telling the chilling truths about the site's history.”

The Port Arthur Historic Site is Tasmania’s iconic cultural heritage experience – something no visitor to Tasmania should miss.

The site caters for small conferences, meetings, private group tours and cocktail functions, in outdoor and indoor venues, with full catering and equipment hire available onsite.

Outdoor Venue

Museum Coffee Shop Courtyard (65 seated, 85 standing)

Indoor Venues

Junior Medical Officer's House - Main Room (44 seated, 60 standing)
Museum Coffee Shop (80 seated, 120 standing)
Asylum Hall (100 seated, 150 standing)

Ideal for a Corporate Meeting and Incentive experience or a small conference, Port Arthur has many complimentary business events products in the surrounding area, such as Tasman Island Cruises, Navigators and Stewarts Bay Lodge.

Groups can access the site by coach in 90 minutes from Hobart or by luxury modern catamaran from Hobart’s Sullivans Cove or Wrest Point Convention Centre. The two hour private catamaran charter with Navigators takes in the stunning sea cliffs of Cape Raoul before entering Port Arthur from the sea as the convicts did.

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Bright future ahead for Australia’s leading meetings and event management company.

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 02:27:00 GMT

The addition of Hobart brings Event Planners’ Australian offices to five: Hobart, Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane with a national staff of over forty.

Next was receipt of the prestigious Meetings & Events Australia Award for Excellence as Australia’s best meetings management company (over 8 employees) at the MEA Awards held in April 2010. In accepting the award Ray Shaw, Chairman commented “Event Planners Australia is a world-class meetings and event management company. Over the past 31 years we have strived to raise the bar of service levels and this award is recognition of our achievement in doing so”.

Perhaps then it was little surprise when the company announced in May 2010 the next chapter in its success story - Event Planners Australia would merge with MCI, the world’s leading globally integrated communication, association and event management company.

As part of the MCI Group, Event Planners will now have access to global resources with an additional 38 offices across 20 countries worldwide. This provides significant advantage for Event Planners’ clients in delegate boosting, in-country marketing and international promotion for Asia Pacific and international meetings.

"The merger enables us to provide clients access to an array of complementary services, our staff with long term global career opportunities and the Australian business events industry access to a pipeline of MCI managed international meetings and events", Ray said. "Given the size of the Australian market is can be difficult to achieve the economies of scale that MCI can now offer and we look forward to tapping into these resources to continue to design and deliver successful events for our clients."

Robin Lokerman, President MCI Asia Pacific was pleased to announce Event Planners Australia as MCI’s Australian partner. "Ray and his team have consistently played an important thought-leadership role in the business events industry in Australia. Their commitment to providing highly tailored, local service and their 100% client focus is well aligned with MCI", he said.

Event Planners will remain an Australian company under the same Executive Management Team who have become shareholders in MCI and members of MCIs Management Board and Team of Directors, contributing to the development and implementation of MCI’s global vision.

For further information please visit: www.eventplanners.com.au and www.mci-group.com/australia

The Sebel Launceston unveils new conferencing space.

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 04:09:00 GMT

The new addition to The Sebel Launceston stable of function rooms was recently unveiled and it is now the largest of the hotel’s 4 function rooms, with its capacity for up to 80 cocktail style and 60 theatre style.

With natural light and fresh air, the Cataract Suite offers a refreshing and stylish venue with the convenience of Blockout Blinds, ideal for presentations, plus a built-in projector and screen.

The Cataract Suite will complement the existing event spaces at The Sebel Launceston including the Cornwall Suite, Penthouse, Market Square Restaurant & Bar and Private Suites.

The Sebel Launceston is located within walking distance of the city centre, beautiful Cataract Gorge and the colourful seaport precinct. Combining boutique elegance with style and convenience, the hotel comprises 51 fully self-contained 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom suites, all with a private balcony, separate bedroom, spacious bathrooms and many feature a spa bath or laundry facilities.

When hosting a function at The Sebel Launceston, take advantage of an innovative menu created by French-born Executive Chef Daniel Tourancheau. Combining classic French flavours with traditional Australian cuisine using local Tasmanian produce to deliver fresh new dishes which are sure to impress your guests.

Showcasing natural Tasmanian stone and timbers throughout the interior and locally commissioned art, the hotel offers charming, contemporary accommodation and unrivalled service in one of Australia’s oldest and most picturesque cities.

Book your next event in the Cataract Suite and take advantage of this fabulous offer.

HOT MICE DEAL

Book a full day delegate meeting or event before 30 September 2010 and receive one voucher for overnight accommodation* in a one bedroom deluxe suite.

To book your next event at The Sebel Launceston phone 03 6333 7555 or email events@tsl.mirvac.com

For further information visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-launceston

*Some conditions may apply. Valid to 30 September 2010.

For more information, please contact:

Katrina Moutia, Assistant Communications Manager, Mirvac Hotels & Resorts

T +61 2 9080 8313 or 0437 403 720

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High Definition IP Video Conferencing Arrives in Tasmania

Thu, 27 May 2010 03:19:00 GMT

HFCC, with the help of their AV suppliers HAVE Audio Visual, is the first venue in Tasmania to offer full 1080 HD IP video conferencing as part of their audio visual services. Using technology that has only just been released in Australia, Hobart's stunning waterfront venue now offers face to face interaction and communication with video of the highest quality, and crisp, clear audio without echo or delay.

HFCC already has a broadband connection that is equal to or faster than any other venue in Tasmania, and plans to take advantage of a direct fibre optic connection when the National Broadband Network is rolled out in Tasmania, making it one of the fastest connections in Australia. This, coupled with the new HD VC equipment represents a significant addition to conference and meeting services in Tasmania, bringing people from all over the world together by allowing them to interact successfully and effectively.

Earlier this month, HFCC and HAVE Audio Visual operated the first ever commercial HD 1080 video conference in Tasmania. The participants were blown away by the quality, and by the way seeing clear facial expressions, body language and gestures enhanced their ability to communicate.

Nick Crawford of HAVE Audio Visual says that after 35 years in the industry, it takes more that just a shiny new box to get him excited about a new product. "Almost every time something new is released in this industry" he says "it is claimed to be „ground breaking new technology‟, but this really is, and it‟s definitely got me excited. It uses a recently developed top secret codec, and as it is all done over a high speed broadband connection, there‟s no need for the expensive ISDN lines that previous technology depended on".

HFCC's General Manager, Niall Mitchell, says the affordability of the new technology will bring video conferencing to the mainstream and sees it being used for much more than high profile meetings. "We've been able to offer video conferencing for some time now" he said, "but the equipment used was expensive and relied on ISDN data lines which are also expensive, so the costs were often prohibitive for many. This new technology not only delivers full HD, but does so at a much more affordable price. I can see it becoming commonplace in meetings and presentations, and also being used for training, interviewing and many other applications."

For any enquiries please contact the venue on 03 6230 8979

www.hfcc.com.au

www.have.com.au

New Appointments at Leishman Associates

Thu, 27 May 2010 03:19:00 GMT

Nicole Amato has joined Leishman as a Conference Coordinator and Natasha Stagg has been appointed as Sponsorship and Exhibition Coordinator. Nicole hails from Adelaide, where she has been working in hospitality and tourism for many years. Along with her boundless energy, Nicole brings a wealth of experience to Leishman Associates, with her most recent posting as an Event professional at Events Corp in Adelaide.

Natasha has also come from a strong hospitality and tourism background. However, as a Tourism and Marketing Graduate of the University of Tasmania, she has also worked in the marketing field - being employed as Marketing Manager for a Tasmanian based ICT company previous to her appointment at Leishman Associates.

www.leishman-associates.com.au

ATEC Gives Tassie a 97 Percent Approval Rating

Thu, 27 May 2010 03:18:00 GMT

ATEC is Australia’s peak industry body representing the country’s $26 billion export tourism sector, so winning the ATEC Symposium was a coup for Tasmania. With 600 delegates from around the country descending on the city - this was our chance to shine. And shine Hobart did.

The delegate exit survey returned a 97% satisfaction rate with the Tasmanian experience. This result is right up there and comparable with the best results the conference has secured in its long history. The survey looks at all aspects of the 4 - day event including the conference program, speakers, social events, business to business workshops and the performance of the host destination.

ATEC were extremely pleased with the feedback received during the event and of course the delegate surveys back this up. The Tasmanian industry came together to showcase the destination in the best light to the cream of the inbound tourism industry from across Australia. Delegates also took advantage of the pre and post touring options to explore the quality tourism experiences on offer in the State.

www.atec.net.au

Business Events Tasmania - the new Tasmanian Convention Bureau

Thu, 06 May 2010 06:18:00 GMT

The new brand represents the broader and more dynamic nature of the business events industry - one that encompasses not just conventions, but incentive travel, exhibitions, tradeshows and corporate meetings.

Business Events Tasmania CEO, Stuart Nettlefold, said “The role of the Tasmanian Convention Bureau was not well understood. That is something we intend to change. The new brand, Business Events Tasmania, is the first step in the process.

“As Tasmania’s peak marketing body for business events our role is to market Tasmania as a destination of choice for business events and to provide free assistance and advice to event planners considering hosting their next event in Tasmania.

“Tasmania is on the first wave of Bureaux making the transition from “Convention Bureau” to “Business Events” across the country, securing Tasmania’s position as an industry leader.

“The new logo for Business Events Tasmania has incorporated the Brand Tasmania brand mark, which is currently being utilised by other peak Tasmanian marketing bodies including Tourism Tasmania.

“The Tasmania brand mark was created to reflect the islands core values – trustworthy, resourceful, creative, pure, friendly and distinctive quality.

“These values reflect Tasmania’s offering as a business events destination as well as the service provided by Business Events Tasmania.

“All promotional material will now carry the new branding, including the 2010-11 Meeting and Incentive Planners Guide, which is hot off the press” said Mr. Nettlefold.

Eagles Eyrie, Maydena Tasmania - an extraordinary venue not yet discovered...

Thu, 06 May 2010 04:18:00 GMT

Photography by Richard Bennett.

Located on the edge of the pristine South West World Heritage Wilderness, the Eagles Eyrie is a 75-minute drive from Hobart. The design brief was to create a building that blended into the landscape yet offered unparalleled views of the ‘rooftop of Tasmania’.

This amazing building 1100 metres above sea level achieved both minimising its footprint and creating a low profile while maximising the sweeping vistas of this unique landscape. The building developed by Forestry Tasmania is also a celebration of timber in its construction while demonstrating the potential of sustainably sourced local species.

This exclusive venue will be available for events of up to 80 people. While the location will take your breath away, the dining you will experience with in-house caterer Waji Catering will showcase the very best of Tasmanian produce, creativity and excellence.

Whether it's a board-room lunch for 20, full dinner, a wedding, gourmet barbecue, birthday or cocktail party, your client’s expectations will be surpassed. With over 20 years experience in the hospitality industry, Waji Spiby has a reputation for delivering innovative cuisine.

Waji’s contemporary style and exotic blends of French, Asian and Mediterranean flavours will ensure that your next function is anything but ordinary.

Forestry Tasmania and Redbanks have teamed up to bring a range of exciting Olympic sports to the site. Clay target shooting, archery, sling shot and target rifle shooting can all be arranged for an exclusive team building experience in the stunning surrounds of state forest.

The Maydena Adventure Hub also offers a unique opportunity for day trips and adventures including reclining trikes, our all terrain four wheel drive bus and even an opportunity to visit the area of the last Tasmanian tiger sighting.

This very private location will be sought by many, but experienced by few.

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If you would like further details please contact Liz Smeekes.

Email: liz.smeekes@eftel.net.au
Tel: 0419 104060
Web: www.adventureforests.com.au

New Delegate Boosting Program launched for Tasmania

Thu, 06 May 2010 06:18:00 GMT

Delegate Boosting tools now available include a 3mx3m portable promotional display, an inspirational DVD, a series of postcards, new website pages for delegate boosting resources and pre and post touring advice, an ambassador program, electronic newsletter and a research project into delegate experiences in Tasmania.

Event planners should visit the website at www.businesseventstasmania.com/boost to register for delegate boosting support.

Delegates should visit www.businesseventstasmania.com/touring to learn more about the career and personal benefits of attending a business event; and why pre and post touring in Tasmania is a must.

Tourism Australia provided $50,000 towards funding this program as part of a stimulus package to assist the Australian business events industry in recovering from the impact of the Global Financial Crisis.

Saffire - an iconic development for Tasmania

Thu, 06 May 2010 06:18:00 GMT

Its concept and design are like no other in the country, capturing the essence of this unique region and connecting with its environment to bring an authentic and enriching experience for its guests.

Distinct in its design, exclusive in its features and set apart by its approach to individually tailored experiences and service, Saffire’s approach is not constrained by traditional five-star ratings and standards, but instead sets a bold new direction for holidays and accommodation in Australia.

Saffire features 20 accommodation suites, each with sweeping views of Great Oyster Bay and the Hazards Mountains and complete privacy from the neighbouring suites.

Tasmania’s freshest produce and finest wines and beers will be showcased in Palate restaurant and The Lounge bar. All guests can restore their wellbeing in the premium spa facilities and on-site gym. Exclusive Signature Experiences are being developed accessing little-known areas of the Freycinet Peninsula, and a range of other activities can be tailored to suit guests’ desires.

Exclusive Use. Saffire offers tailored exclusive use options for special occasions, small conference gatherings and incentive options. The restaurant dining room seats up to 40 guests and offers degustation, à la carte or tailored dining options featuring the best in local produce.

Set around a beautifully crafted board table, designer made from Tasmanian timbers, The Boardroom hosts 20 delegates; alternatively, the room can be arranged in theatre style for 40. It features state-of-the-art audio visual technology and communications, including 160cm LCD screen, Video Conferencing, PolyCom, and personal Wi-Fi connectivity for up to 20 delegates. This area can even be converted into a cinema. The Boardroom is available for hire exclusively to Saffire guests. Included in the rate is tea and coffee, morning and afternoon tea.

A range of incentive activities are also available exclusively to Saffire guests (purchase on arrival). These include wildlife cruises to nearby Schouten Island and helicopter tours to secluded fly-fishing spots, or you can even play a round of golf at the internationally renowned Barnbougle Dunes Golf Links.

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Visit the website.

Clarion Hotel City Park Grand – a grand old venue with grand new facilities

Thu, 06 May 2010 06:18:00 GMT

Photography by Tiger Media.

The conference facility consists of two grandly appointed board rooms, a large conference room and breakout area, all decked out with royal blue carpet, solid timber furniture, leather boardroom chairs and huge flat screen televisions.

The best part about the renovation is the attention to detail. Renovated in the same vein as the Henry Jones Art Hotel and The Islington, Clarion Hotel City Park Grand, has flashes of history dotted throughout. From a wall of the original brick and the original warehouse doors to the huge grain wheel in the old stables (now spa suites), this is an impressive property retaining the historical aspects of the site.

Catering for conferences of up to 50 PAX and meetings of 12 PAX, the venue is still under development with plans for even grander renovations to come. The car park is to be converted to a lush courtyard filled with greenery and adorned with an atrium ceiling similar to that of the IXL Atrium. The hotel has also just opened the doors to a well appointed gymnasium.

A property dedicated to exceeding expectations, the Clarion Hotel City Park Grand offers touches of complimentary home style hospitality throughout the venue. An impressive espresso machine sits in the lounge with a pot of cookies, available for guests to make a cafe style coffee for free at any time.

An extensive DVD library is available to guests to select a film to watch in their room – in case the free Austar service isn’t showing anything that appeals. Large leather chesterfields are cleverly arranged throughout the venue for lounging about reading a book, sipping the free coffee or watching the gigantic flat screen TV in the guest lounge.

If you are not familiar with the Hotel City Park Grand, it is well worth a look. Located on Tamar Street in Launceston, it is right across the road from Boags and only a short walk from the mall.

An ideal venue for a small conference, overflow accommodation and breakout rooms for a larger conference at Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston and the Albert Hall, or the ideal central home away from home from which pre and post tourists can explore Launceston, Tamar and the North.

Photo Gallery: Click image to launch.
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Visit www.cityparkgrand.com.au for more information.

Clarion Hotel City Park Grand
New Conference Facilities
www.cityparkgrand.com.au
Tel: (03) 6331 7633

Claire Harrington Promoted to Director of Sales

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 22:19:00 GMT

Working under Claire’s direction is Christie Sweeting, Business Development Manager for the Association market, and Sarah Thomas, Business Development Manager for the Corporate Meeting and Incentive market.

Claire will continue to work with clients, conduct site inspections and familiarisations but in addition will coordinate the overall sales strategy and lead the team.

Krystal Anderson Joins the Team

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 23:15:00 GMT

Krystal joined the Business Events Tasmania team after 6 years of working with Peppermint Bay and Hobart Cruises, most recently as an Event Manager.

“I am very excited to have come onboard!”

Krystal’s email address is kanderson@businesseventstasmania.com.

New Chef Joins Moorilla in Preparation for MONA

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:07:00 GMT

Philippe Jacques Leban, 45, is the new executive chef at The Source Restaurant and he brings with him impressive French credentials. Leban was born on Paris but grew up in Sydney after his parents emigrated in 1970.

He says he looks forward to being part of Australia’s largest cultural tourism project. “David Walsh’s vision for MONA is what drew me here, and I want to be able to offer a food experience that matches his cultural challenge,” Leban said.

During his time at Hamilton House (2007 to 2009), Leban delivered a buffet of awards including a spot on Conde Nast Traveler magazine’s ‘100 Hot List Tables’ of worldwide restaurants for 2008, best new restaurant in Shanghai, 2009, and the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences Five Star Diamond Award for being one of Asia’s best chefs in 2009.

Prior to gaining international recognition, Leban worked with Guillaume Brahimi, as sous chef at Sydney’s Quay and also as head chef at Bennelong.

In France, he earned his chequered trousers at a number of three Michelin star restaurants: Alain Passard’s L’Arpège, Pascal Barbot’s L’Astrance and restaurants of Hôtel Plaza Athénée; along with the eponymous Hélène Darroze restaurant, one of Paris’s grand personalities in the world of cuisine.

“I want not only to create new dishes with our local produce but to look at the traditional French dishes, to give them my touch with a MONA twist.”

www.moorilla.com/thesource

ENDS

MONA is the Museum of Old and New Art and a particular approach to life’s sensual pleasures. While the Museum opens in January 2011, the Moorilla wines, Moo Brew beer, The Source Restaurant and the Pavilions accommodation already anticipate how MONA celebrates these pleasures – with a commitment to quality, joy, irreverence, intensity, humour and individual spirit.

For more information, please contact Delia Nicholls, 0430 308 161

Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart Prepares for Fastest Wireless in the Country

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 22:20:00 GMT

This installation will open Tasmania to a range of conferences that are otherwise limited to overseas destinations, where higher broadband speeds are more accessible. IT dependant organisations that have previously had to look abroad for quicker internet speeds and up to date hardware can now look to Tasmania to lead the way.

The system, utilizing the latest Ruckus technology will simultaneously allow over 900 delegates lightening quick internet speeds of 140Mbps which will be increased to up to 300Mbps when the National Broadband Network is activated later this year. It is estimated that the Hotel’s system will then be the quickest in the country with the distance between the conference centre and the states distribution point being less than 500 meters.

The Ruckus technology also opens up a whole new world of web 2.0 where a large amount of delegates can use applications such as Twitter and Facebook to make live comments on conference sessions. In the future we will look at further uses of Web 2.0 like a specific app for the conference that delegates can download to their iPhone or Blackberry. Conference session times, social functions and destination features can be accessed through the app – it would act like an electronic satchel bag on your phone. The possibilities for conference based apps are exciting.

The Hotel Grand Chancellor’s Conference and Events Sales Manager Andrew Best said “the Hotel already has two conferences that have based their destination decision on Tasmania because of the national broadband network. Giving organisers access to this type of technology can only strengthen Tasmania’s already strong reputation as a great conference destination.”

For further technical information on the hardware follow the link: http://www.ruckuswireless.com/products/zoneflex-high-end

Media contact details:

Mr Andrew Best
Conference and Events Sales Manager
Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart
1 Davey St
Hobart TAS 7000
Telephone: +61 (3) 6235 4535
Fax: +61 (3) 6223 8175

www.ghihotels.com

Adventure Forests Open for Business Events

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 22:20:00 GMT

Forestry Tasmania’s current market direction is to strengthen and grow the Adventure Forests brand making the forests accessible and exciting for all.

Forestry Tasmania are pleased to announce that they now have a centralised booking and administration office for Adventure Forests located at 15 Church Street Geeveston (previously operating as the Forest and Heritage Centre) phone 1300 720 507.

Adventure Forests Manager, Tracey Tomkinson, said ‘All our attractions, Tahune AirWalk, Maydena Adventure Hub and Tarkine Forest Adventures are unique in their own way and can each offer something different to the Conference and function market. These tourist attractions are an excellent option to conference organisers for off-site dinners, team building days, and even alternate conference venues.’ These stunning regions are an exciting alternative perhaps not previously considered in the Tasmanian Conferencing experience.

The Tahune AirWalk can cater for small to medium groups in their unique Bluestone function room, overlooking the Huon River. Combined with an outdoor entertaining area, the venue also offers amazing activities such as rafting, abseiling, walking and cable hang gliding.

Tarkine Forest Adventures starts an exciting new phase on 1st May, day or half day private group hire. Conference groups can have an off site lunch or dinner and combine their conferencing program with mountain biking and the exhilarating slide to the Blackwood forest floor.

The newest addition to the Adventure Forests brand, the Maydena Adventure Hub offers a range of adventure tours and activities including the Rail Rider, Trike hire and wilderness tours to the Styx Valley.

The Eagles Eyrie located on Abbots Peak on the edge of the pristine South West World Heritage Wilderness area will be the most exceptional function venue in Tasmania. While the location will take your breath away, the dining you will experience with Waji Catering will showcase the very best of amazing Tasmanian produce, creativity and excellence. An Olympic Skills course offering a range of activities including archery and clay target shooting, is available with Redbanks en route to Eagles Eyrie in pristine forest surrounds.

Visit the Adventure Forests website at www.adventureforests.com.au for information and images on each site.

For further information, sales kit, brochures or bookings please contact Liz Smeekes, Sales and Marketing Executive, Adventure Forests on 0419 104060 or email liz.smeekes@eftel.net.au.

New Appointments at Hobart Function Centre

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 22:20:00 GMT

Steve McGuire joins the crew on Elizabeth Street Pier as Executive Sous Chef and Olivia Troon is coming onboard as Events Coordinator. Ginny Webb has stepped up to the position of Events Manager, award wining chef Will Godman is now into his second year as Executive Chef, and former Conference and Banqueting Manager, Niall Mitchell took on the role of General Manager six months ago.

Stephen McGuire brings a wealth of experience to the HFCC kitchen having worked his way around Australia and the world at some internationally renowned establishments. Stints at several top restaurants in Kuwait were followed by time at The Athenaeum in London, and then The Grove in Hertfordshire. “The Grove was an fantastic experience” says Steve “I was working for Stephen Wheeler, who had been executive chef at Harrods and the new Wembley Stadium. The food was incredible and I learned some amazing things. I’m really looking forward now to working with Will and applying some of that knowledge to the food at HFCC”.

Olivia Troon has previously been employed in some of Tasmania’s premium properties such as Freycinet Lodge, The Country Club Launceston, and The Henry Jones. A former professional tennis player, she has represented Tasmania and competed individually at an international level, as well as coaching the Under 12s and Under 14s state teams. Her main responsibility at HFCC will be to focus on providing consistent and quality customer experiences. Olivia says she is really excited about her new role, and is looking forward to the challenge. “I’ve always wanted to work in an events-dedicated environment, and it seems to me that there’s a real buzz about this place right now.”

Ginny Webb is well known in the Hobart hospitality industry, having held management positions at venues such as Wrest Point and the Hotel Grand Chancellor, and she has earned a name for providing quality service second to none in the business. She has managed multiple venues at Wrest Point and coordinated offsite catering at locations such as the DEC and Hobart Town Hall. She has also been responsible for the smooth operation of high profile conferences such as APEC and MEA, and the widely acknowledged success of these events has enhanced her reputation. She is no stranger to the kitchen and for several years ran her own stall at Hobart’s Taste festival, delighting the crowds with her native Malaysian cooking. “Hobart’s a small place” says Ginny “and people remember things, so if you’re going to be remembered, you’d better make sure it’s for the right reasons”

Will Godman honed his talents in the kitchens of Hotel Grand Chancellor and Moorilla estate, before making his mark on the international scene at The Lodge at Tarraleah, where his food at Wildside restaurant earned the Lodge a place in Conde Naste Traveller’s Top 65 New Hotels in the World. Will says it is equally important to impress both the local market and interstate visitors. “The local market need to know there is a solid, dependable venue for their events where they can rely on great service and food,” says Will “while people visiting from other states have usually heard sensational things about the quality of the produce in Tasmania, so we desperately want to ensure they aren’t disappointed.”

Originally from Scotland , Niall Mitchell arrived in Melbourne on a holiday in 1998, and proceeded to spend the next ten years there running restaurants and hotels, before moving with his family to Tasmania to take up the position of General Manager of Tarraleah Estate. After a year in the Central Highlands wilderness, he is delighted to now be leading the team on the waterfront. “It’s an amazing venue” he says “The location is unique and the spaces are incredibly flexible. Now with Ginny, Will, Steve and Olivia all on board, I’m genuinely excited about where we go in terms of food and service.”

Another reason for Niall’s excitement is the refurbishment of the venue which is quietly underway. A new carpet has been laid, awnings have been installed along the side of the pier, the furniture is being upgraded and extensive repainting has begun. “There’s a real sense of progress at the moment” he says “It feels like we’re ready to take the venue to the next level”.

http://www.hfcc.com.au

Business Events Delegates up 24 percent

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 06:37:00 GMT

Tasmanian Convention Bureau Chairman, Tony Hart, said that he is thrilled with the result.

“Business events create an enormous economic benefit for the local economy, not only directly to the venues and services that the event employs, but also to the many local businesses that experience the benefits of Delegates spending – from retail outlets to the corner store.

“There are also significant social benefits to bringing a business event into the state, in particular, an improvement in Tasmania’s human capital – the knowledge and skills that our community members hold.

“When an international association holds their conference in Tasmania, they bring with them knowledge and skills from around the globe and share this knowledge with the Tasmanian community. Likewise, the skills of Tasmanian industry members are showcased on the world stage.

“Showcasing Tasmania’s industry strengths through a business event can lead to investment in these industries locally, international trade opportunities and international recognition for Tasmanians.

“As Tasmania’s peak marketing body for business events, the Tasmanian Convention Bureau competes on a global scale for national and international business events in a highly competitive marketplace. It is great to see Tasmania’s share of this lucrative sector on the rise.

“The Tasmanian Convention Bureau team has won bids for 76 business events this financial year.

“Most significant perhaps is the Professional Conference Organisers Association conference to be held in Hobart in December. Professional Conference Organisers are the primary target market for the TCB as these are the key decision makers for most the business events.

“This conference will provide an opportunity for Tasmania to showcase its strengths as a destination and the TCB will be hosting pre and post conference familiarisations around the state for approved clients.

“Tasmania is also host to the Australian Tourism Export Council conference in 2010 – another significant opportunity for the state to showcase its abilities as a sensational business events and leisure travel destination.”

ATEC Symposium – Hobart, April 2010

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 01:44:00 GMT

To find out how you can have your product advertised on the ATEC Symposium event website for delegates to book pre and post touring with you read on...

The Tasmanian Convention Bureau worked with Tourism Tasmania to successfully secure the right to host the ATEC Symposium in Hobart and has since continued to work closely with industry partners to ensure that all sectors of the industry benefit from the conference.

The conference program consists of plenary business seminars (including international market speakers), business breakout sessions, ITO/ supplier workshop sessions, social networking events and ITO familiarisation programs.

As host region of Symposium 2010, Tasmania’s tourism industry has the opportunity to showcase its product first hand to influential tourism professionals attending the event. Delegates registered for the Symposium plan ahead, and seek out activities and accommodation for their stay pre and post conference. You can provide delegates a greater incentive to experience your product by way of offering a special industry rate. Follow the link to find out how you can have your product advertised on the ATEC Symposium event website for delegates to book directly. Once your information is submitted to ATEC, they will actively promote you in correspondence to delegates. http://www.atec.net.au/473784_3.html

Delegates will also get to experience some of Tasmania's best during the Destination Showcase, to be held at the soon to open Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), while the Symposium Gala Dinner promises to be the biggest party of the year.

For operators who are not yet members of ATEC and are considering attending the symposium, Tourism Tasmania is offering a special package of benefits that includes a discount off the symposium registration fee and a rebate on the ATEC membership fee.

The ATEC Symposium will be held in Hobart from 20 to 23 April.

For more information, including details of the package of benefits see the Tourism Tasmania corporate website and the ATEC Symposium website.

ATEC is the peak industry body representing Australia’s $26 billion tourism export sector and the ATEC Symposium is Australia’s largest inbound tourism conference, with around 450 inbound professionals attending the four-day event.

The conference provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase Tasmania as a visitor destination, enabling Tasmanian export ready tourism businesses to meet influential Inbound Tour Operators (ITOs) who promote and sell Australian travel packages to overseas buyers.

The conference generates at least $1 million in revenue for the host destination and includes 1600 paid visitor nights plus pre and post conference holidays that will see delegates explore all of our state and discover first-hand what we have to offer.

Lois Ryan
Manager Stakeholder Communications and Public Affairs
Tourism tasmania

A Weekend of Indulgence at Quamby Estate

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 06:38:00 GMT

A once in a lifetime experience, the weekend is offered as a complete food and accommodation package for just $1200 per person.

This exclusive experience includes hosted tours of renowned Tamar Vineyards and local produce suppliers; plus dinner at acclaimed restaurants.

Price includes:

2 night’s accommodation at Quamby Homestead
All meals and beverages (including an allocation of Tasmanian wines at dinner)
Full day tour of the Tamar Vineyards including lunch
Half day “hunters and gatherers” farm gate tour
Exclusive dinner at acclaimed Stillwater Restaurant

Space is limited. Book now!

T 03 6392 2211
E reservations@quambyestate.com.au

Note: Conditions Apply: Subject to availability. All prices quoted are per person, twin share.

TCB joins with the TCCI for networking in Launceston

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 06:03:00 GMT

Held at TCB member property Quamby Estate, the evening provided a fantastic opportunity for 55 members from the two organisations to come together and network.

Speed networking was a feature of the night; with a guest from each organisation having 30 seconds on the microphone to overview their product or service.

Discussions have already commenced for the next joint networking opportunity.

www.tcci.com.au

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Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 03:26:00 GMT

The AIME tradeshow is the largest business events tradeshow in the southern hemisphere attracting exhibitors and visitors from across the globe.

The tradeshow is designed to connect buyers with sellers (destinations, products and services) via a series of pre-scheduled appointments and networking functions over 3 days.

Appointments are generated through an intricate online process of client/exhibitor matching in advance of the event, resulting in a schedule of up to 30, 15 minute appointments each day with qualified buyers.

Qualified hosted buyers are made up of professional conference organisers, meeting managers, corporate in-house event managers, incentive organisers, destination management companies and the like.

TCB Business Development Managers conducted two full days of back to back appointments for the Corporate Meeting and Incentive industry and the Association market, totalling over 60 appointments a day!

The Tasmania custom built display is also designed to attract passing foot traffic with an entertainment area serving gourmet Tasmanian produce and wine.

Seven Tasmanian Convention Bureau members joined the TCB team on the display to promote the destination and their respective products.

Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart, Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston, Scene Change Tasmania, Waji Catering and The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel all conducted two days of pre-scheduled appointments with clients from around the globe. Moorilla, Meadowbank Estate and Top Gun Tasmania shared the entertainment area of the display to talk shop with passing buyers.

A pre-tradeshow promotion was conducted with the full TCB client database promoting the TCB members invested in the display. Clients had to visit the Tasmania display and fill out a survey, which entered them into a draw to win a Tasmanian getaway for two.

A post-tradeshow familiarisation was also conducted in Tasmania with 5 clients attending from Australia, China, Singapore, Russia and India. Clients were flown into Launceston, explored the East Coast and finished their famil in Hobart.

To find out how you can get involved in AIME in 2011 contact Claire McLaren, cmclaren@tasmaniaconventions.com or call 03 6224 6852.

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December Famil Knocks Clients Socks Off

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 22:20:00 GMT

Words: Claire McLaren, Images: Tiger Media

When it was their turn, the guests were greeted by airport manager Mike Wells who lead the clients down the stairs to their waiting limousines and they are whisked away up the tarmac. Arriving at an aeroplane hangar at the back of the airport the limos glided to a halt in front of Tom Cruise wearing a full fighter pilot flight suit and his aviator sun glasses... sorry, did I say Tom Cruise? I meant Dan Duggan from Top Gun Tasmania.

This was the beginning of the Tasmanian Convention Bureau four-day Tasmania Familiarisation. A familiarisation (or ‘famil’ for those in the know) is the Bureau’s opportunity to showcase the state to potential clients that have business events that they could be hosting in Tasmania. The objective? Knock their socks off with all that Tasmania and the Tasmanian Convention Bureau members have to offer. And we did.

The Tasmania Convention Bureau hosts two famil’s per year, in different locations around the state. This famil showcased the North West Coast, Cradle Mountain and Launceston.

After driving through the patchwork quilt of lush pasture, crops and red soil of the North West Coast the convoy made its way to the Table Cape lookout where they were met by the Mayor, Kevin Hyland, a glass of bubbles and an airshow above the North West Coastline. Priscilla, from event planners was onboard the Top Gun warbird with Dan Duggan, a flight won earlier at the airport.

Travelling North West, the limos then flanked right down a windy “village” road before emerging in front of the most idyllic white sand beach being caressed by turquoise water. Azzure Beach Houses at Boat Harbour Beach – the accommodation for the evening. The clients dined on a seafood feast created by master chef Waji Spiby before retreating to the decks of their Azzure Beach House. Who would have thought this was only an hour from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne.

Waking up to the sound of the waves, 30 minutes of thai chi preceded a delicious breakfast before the drive to the Mountains.

At Cradle Mountain, the group was split into three after lunch at Dove Lake. One group hiked the Dove Lake bushwalk, one group headed into the wilderness with renowned Tasmanian master photographer Richard Bennett for a wilderness photography workshop, the others head back to Cradle Mountain Chateau for an afternoon of indulgence at the spa.

Dinner was non traditional. A moving feast – for the eyes and the taste buds. Wandering through the Wilderness Gallery at the Chateau, guests were treated to a different flavour (both wine and food) in each room before reclining in the bar for a night cap. It is fair to say the clients were blown away by this innovative take on a degustation.

The next morning it was off towards the city. But not before exploring the North’s stunning living history. First stop – Quamby Estate. Homemade lemonade on the sandstone balcony, a peak at the luxuriously appointed accommodation rooms, a snippet of golf and a delicious afternoon tea. This was a place to spend an afternoon... but there was more to see.

A famil is a fine balance between showcasing as many member products and venues as possible and allowing the clients to relax into the destination and actually get a feel for the place.

Brickendon and Woolmers were next. A true farm experience is found at Brickendon. Proud mother hens are often hurriedly encouraging their downy little chicks across the path in front of you as you enter. Here, the guests were treated to a shearing demonstration before wandering through the grounds and finding a pianist playing and singing from the stained glass chapel. Then on to the bake house to get their hands dirty learning the art of damper. Lunch was served in the barn atop white linen table cloths – a stunning contrast to the raw timber walls.

Woolmers is just around the corner. A time capsule of Tasmania’s colonial past captured by one family in exquisite detail. The private tour of the house ended with a Devonshire tea in the courtyard– naturally!

The afternoon was spent exploring Launceston Hotels - The Sebel Launceston, Peppers Seaport Resort, Clarion Hotel City Park Grand and the Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston. After checking in to their accommodations, guests were greeted with a feather boa, masquerade mask and a note... “wear me tonight.”

A pillow gift each night is customary on a famil. Usually this might consist of some local produce, chocolates, a cheese plate and a small bottle of wine with a hand written note from the Venue’s general Manager. But this night the gift had a dual purpose.

The gala dinner at the Albert Hall was a grand affair. After being led up the stairs of the main entrance the doors swing open to reveal... darkness, broken only by the penetrating glow of a hundred candles. A long table stretched out into the hall and the dramatic song of the organ playing Phantom of the Opera pierced the silence. This venue truly is breathtaking. Drinks were served before the organ concluded its piece and a spot light found another target on the balcony above... “I am the ghost of Albert Hall...” the illuminated figure bellowed. Michael Edgar, in full Shakespearean brilliance, recounted the history of Launceston and the Albert Hall. A three course dinner was then served by the Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston as the clients chatted and laughed on into the night. It was certainly a night to remember.

The last day began with breakfast and activities at the Country Club before splitting into two groups for the day’s activities – Hollybank Treetops Adventure and the Tamar Valley Wine Route.

Flying through the treetops or sampling Tasmania’s stunning Tamar Valley wines is not a bad send off from Tasmania. Coming together at Josef Chromy Vineyard, the clients were exhausted! With just enough energy to toast Tasmania and say our goodbyes we made our way to the airport. “So, what do you think of Tasmania?” we asked.

Here are what some of the clients had to say:

You guys "nailed it".........

What can I say except that you ,Christie S, & Claire Mc, provided a carefully managed & documented tour that provided the events dudes with a range of activities that took us mainlanders on a tour & journey of discovery. .....great fresh & natural food & wine, locations & venues that stopped us in our tracks, of which the WOW factor was evident..

Now as for the Tasmanian salmon, I think that I am now addicted to this new for me taste sensation & have sent my guys out on a mission this morning to not come back to the office until they have secured "the product" for a post work taste tonight with an appropriate Tasmanian white.....

SO CONGRATULATIONS, to all the team, as not only was it great & certainly more than I ever expected, but the level of energy that the team of 3 expended with us all was impressive, & thank you all for kindly laughing @ my puns in a polite manner........

OK onwards & upwards & keep the energy flowing in 2010.

Richard

This was the best planned famil I’ve attended and I’ve attended a few! Congratulations on taking on board the needs of a diverse group and incorporating into the program. Thank you for a worthwhile and enjoyable experience.

Aghi

Fantastic, Fantastic, Fantastic!

I have to say that that was the best (and most exhausting) famil I have ever been on! I hope you all had some time to recover and rejuvenate once we all left!

Thank you again for such a great opportunity to get a taste of what we can offer our clients and delegates in the future. It was truly an eye opening experience and I am extremely grateful to have learnt and seen what Tassie can offer!

Priscilla

I wish all famils were like the one I just had!!!!.....

Looking forward to working in Tassie next year.

Mila

Congrats on another entertaining and well-organised visit...

Graeme Kemlo

Thank you for looking after us so well and showing us such exciting products and destinations. You and Claire and Christie all did a superb job and your enthusiasm was infectious.

I look forward to working with you in the future.

Johanna

Click here to see the Advocate Newspapers coverage of the famil.

More Famil images from Tiger Media (click to launch and view gallery):

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PCO Conference Coming To Tasmania!

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 22:15:00 GMT

This is quite a coup for Tasmania as the Professional Conference Organisers Association membership is Tasmania’s primary target market! The win was announced at the opening plenary of the 2009 PCO Conference, being held in Canberra this week.

The TCB sales team were on site at the conference this week representing Tasmania, happily fielding questions about our wonderful state and encouraging the professional conference organisers to pre and post tour either side of next year’s conference.

To find out more about the PCO Association, click here www.pco.asn.au.

New Name, Apartments and GM for Hadleys

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 22:15:00 GMT

The new modern addition to the heritage hotel is in an idyllic location at 123 Hampden Road. Click here for a sneak peak.

Joining the hotel at an exciting time - the new General Manager, Kat Little, joins the Grand Mercure Hadleys Hotel and Apartments after working as General Manager of the Rydges hotel in Melbourne. Click here to read more.

The changes at Grand Mercure Hadleys Hotel and Apartments don’t stop there – we still have the $30 million expansion at the adjacent site on Inner Collins Street, due for completion late 2010, to look forward to!

New GM and Conference Manager for HGC Launceston

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 22:15:00 GMT

Mr Robertson has held senior management roles with GHI both in Australia and New Zealand over the past 6 years, with his most recent role as Hotel Manager at Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide on Currie. The appointment comes at an exciting time at the Launceston property with rooms’ refurbishment plans well underway.

Mr Robertson replaces Mr Kym Fell, who has been appointed General Manager of the newly acquired Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide on Hindley.

Mr Robertson said “I am pleased to be joining such an experienced team at Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston and I look forward to working closely with the local community. We are also delighted the Federal Government has confirmed $1million in funding for the Albert Hall, which, as operators, will enable us to attract more state, national and international events and conferences.”

Meanwhile, Juanita Trickett has been appointed as the new Conference & Events Manager on a full time basis. Juanita has been with the Hotel for over 18 months, starting out Supervising in Conferencing & Events. In February this year Juanita took on the role of Food & Beverage Logistics Manager for the hotel, maintaining a close connection with the Conference & Events team.

Juanita will be the Hotels first point of contact for all Conference & Event needs, and can be contacted via email or telephone (03) 6334 3434.

Download the Hotel Grand Chancellor's Conference Brochure.

New French Chef At Sebel Launceston

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 23:18:00 GMT

His introduction to the industry was at the tender age of 16 when Daniel was seeking casual employment to earn pocket money…he applied for a waiter position at Le Relais de la Dinanderie in France, however when he arrived the position had already been filled. Instead he was offered a trial as a kitchen-hand and once he stepped foot into the kitchen, he never looked back.

Twenty years later, Daniel has worked his way up the ranks and around the world. He was classically trained in France, then worked his way across the coast of America, to the capital of the United Kingdom, North Island of New Zealand and aboard international cruise ships.

“I’ve had the opportunity to cook in many different countries for many different cultures, I’ve developed my skills by learning from some of the best chefs in the industry and I’ve discovered that creating new flavours and inspiring dishes is my true passion,” Daniel said.

A career highlight for Daniel was the privilege of being Chef de Partie at France’s La Bonne Auberge when the team was awarded a Michelin Star.

After visiting Tasmania on his honeymoon recently, Daniel fell in love with the state and its fresh local produce….this prompted his move to Launceston.

Now as the Executive Chef at Market Square Restaurant, Daniel is combining classic French flavours with traditional Australian cuisine using local Tasmanian produce to deliver fresh new flavours in the heart of Launceston. "I want each and every plate to express my passion for the dish and the freshness and quality of the local produce, without being overworked. I keep it simple to bring out the best flavours in the food,” Daniel said.

This is precisely what Daniel has achieved with the introduction of a new, eclectic and seasonal menu at Market Square Restaurant which currently features homemade baguette; avocado & crème fraiche roulade; Moroccan spiced quail; cotechino, baby spinach & mushroom feuillete; Duck breast tarragon; Lamb rack braised parsnip & carrot; and cotechino, baby spinach & mushroom feuillete; and Grilled green tiger prawns marinated in lemon grass, garlic & ginger.

Daniel’s new tapas style dessert menu is an ideal treat for the “sweet tooth” with homemade fruit tartlet; rhubarb, pear and almond cake; passionfruit & mango crème brulee; Bailey’s chocolate truffle, homemade tiramisu and crèpe Suzette.

Market Square Restaurant is open for dinner from 5:30pm Monday to Saturday. With a relaxed, yet stylish ambience and central location, Market Square Restaurant is popular for groups of friends, in-house guests and romantic dinners, alike. At Market Square Restaurant, the specially trained staff will match some of the finest Tasmanian and interstate wines with your meal selection to ensure a completely fulfilling dining experience.

To make a booking at Market Square Restaurant phone 03 6333 7555. For further information visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-launceston

For more information, please contact:
Katrina Moutia
Assistant Communications Manager
Mirvac Hotels & Resorts
T +61 2 9080 8313 or 0437 403 720

Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart Wins Award

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 22:15:00 GMT

The awards ceremony held in Sydney on the 13th of October announced The Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart as the winner of the Best Hotel in Tasmania. The award is a consumer award based on feedback from the general public on their stay at hotels in Tasmania.

HotelClub is a world leading global accommodation website offering hotel and accommodation bookings for up to 12 months in advance. Established in 1996, HotelClub provides consumers with over 48,000 accommodation choices in over 5,600 cities worldwide throughout 126 countries.

HotelClub awards are given to winners in each state based on the feedback of users of the HotelClub Website. The award highlights the large volume of positive feedback the Hotel Grand Chancellor has been receiving in the last 12mths.

With its ongoing refurbishments and commitment to delivering a superior accommodation and conference and events experience the hotel is sure to add more awards to this year’s HotelClub Best Hotel in Tasmania Award.

For more information, please contact:
Andrew Best
Conference & Events Sales Manager
Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart
T +61 3 6235 4535

Meadowbank Opens Friday Nights

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 22:15:00 GMT

During this period the centre will open for visitors at normal trading time of 10.00am and will run through to closing time of 10.00 pm.

Lunch 12.00 – 3.00pm
Platters 3.00 – 6.00pm
Dinner 6.00 – 9.00pm
Cellar Door and Shop 10.00am – 10.00pm

Bookings are recommended but not essential (although you will run the risk of being turned away if restaurant is fully booked).

Cellar Door and retail shop will be open for business as usual during this extended period.

Friday Night Christmas shopping at Meadowbank

Shop every Friday night until Christmas between the hours 5.30 – 7.30pm. Enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling whilst you shop the night away with Sharon in the Meadowbank Shop and Cellar Door, free gift wrapping service provided on the night. But why stop there... make a night of it and stay on for dinner and a glass of wine or two (we recommend you make a dinner reservation).

www.meadowbankwines.com.au

Clarion Hotel City Park Grand New Facilities

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 21:17:00 GMT

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The conference facility consists of two grandly appointed board rooms, a large conference room and breakout area, all decked out with royal blue carpet, solid timber furniture, leather boardroom chairs and huge flat screen televisions. The best part about the renovation is the attention to detail. Renovated in the same vein as the Henry Jones Art Hotel and The Islington, Clarion Hotel City Park Grand, has flashes of history dotted throughout. From a wall of the original brick and the original warehouse doors to the huge grain wheel in the old stables (now spa suites), this is an impressive property retaining the historical aspects of the site.

Catering for conferences of up to 50 PAX and meetings of 12 PAX, the venue is still under development with plans for even grander renovations to come. The car park is to be converted to a lush courtyard filled with greenery and adorned with an atrium ceiling similar to that of the IXL Atrium. The hotel has also just opened the doors to a well appointed gymnasium.

A property dedicated to exceeding expectations, the Clarion Hotel City Park Grand offers touches of complimentary home style hospitality throughout the venue. An impressive espresso machine sits in the lounge with a pot of cookies, available for guests to make a cafe style coffee for free at any time. An extensive DVD library is available to guests to select a film to watch in their room – in case the free Austar service isn’t showing anything that appeals. Large leather chesterfields are cleverly arranged throughout the venue for lounging about reading a book, sipping the free coffee or watching the gigantic flat screen TV in the guest lounge.

If you are not familiar with the Hotel City Park Grand, it is well worth a look. Located on Tamar Street in Launceston, it is right across the road from Boags and only a short walk from the mall.

Hotel City Park Grand will be hosting Member Exhibit on Thursday 29 October in the new conference facilities and conducting a site inspection for participating members.

Download the brochure or visit www.cityparkgrand.com.au for more information.

TSO Honoured in Awards

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 21:19:00 GMT

The TSO was honoured for its successful fundraising program which, established in 2002, is a crucial part of the orchestra’s sustainability.

Donations help to support educational events, commission new music and buy new instruments.

The AbaF Awards recognise innovation and growth through partnering, volunteering and giving programs.

Another Tasmanian award winner was the partnership between Tasmanian Regional arts and RACT Insurance for their support of young visual artists. The partnership was a finalist in the National City of Brisbane Encouragement Award. The National Regional Arts Conference will be held in Tasmania in 2010.

The Tasmanian Convention Bureau hosted clients at the TSO Opening Night in Sydney again this year, showcasing the talent of Tasmanian musicians to fifty clients in a superb evening of entertainment. Clients were led to the venue by a singing diva before enjoying pre dinner drinks, intermission drinks and then supper with the orchestra and conductor.

Business Events in Tasmania up 33 percent

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 22:46:00 GMT

Business events consisting of conventions, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, corporate meetings and incentive group travel, are a significant contributor to the Tasmanian economy and social capital.

“Business events bring millions of dollars into the state each year, generate jobs for the local community and bring thousands of visiting delegates to Tasmania with new ideas and skills to share” said Tasmanian Convention Bureau CEO Denise Bradley.

“On average, a business event delegate will spend five times that of a leisure tourist each night in a destination. An incentive with 250 delegates staying 3 nights will contribute in excess of $400,000 in direct expenditure to the local economy – not to mention the flow on effects.”

The Tasmanian Convention Bureau is Tasmania’s peak marketing organisation for business events with the charter of promoting Tasmania nationally and internationally as a business events destination and securing business events for the state.

“The TVS statistics confirm the trends that the Bureau has indicated over the past twelve months” said Mrs Bradley.

“The Bureau achieved 183% of its target for the association market and very close to 100% of the corporate meeting and incentive target. This represents almost $28 million direct injection into the Tasmanian economy.

“Considering that the Global Financial Crisis has significantly impacted on the corporate meeting and incentive market, both nationally and internationally, this is an exceptional result.

“The Tasmanian Convention Bureau team has worked very hard to achieve this outcome. New strategies were employed to ensure business increased through the economic crisis rather than decreased and we can now see that these strategies are working.

“The Bureau also has a new team and has implemented new initiatives to secure business for the state.”

One such initiative is the ‘Local Host Development Program’. This is a program designed to encourage locals that are members of an association or corporation to bid for their national of international conference, meeting or incentive event to be hosted in Tasmania.

The Tasmanian Convention Bureau staff work with ‘local hosts’ to prepare the bid to win the rights to hold their national or international business event in Tasmania. Hosting an event raises the professional profile of the local person globally, by giving them exposure in a leadership role to their peers. Further, local hosts can feel satisfied in the knowledge that they are showcasing Tasmania to the world, boosting the local economy and creating jobs.

“Business events also provide an opportunity for Tasmania to showcase our strengths and abilities to the rest of the world.”

“Anyone that knows of a business event that could come to Tasmania and would like free assistance to bid for that business event should contact the Bureau.”

“Alternatively anyone who has an idea for an inaugural business event and would like some free assistance in getting the idea off the ground should also contact the Bureau.”

“Tasmania is an excellent business events destination – I believe there is a lot of opportunity for growth to come for Tasmania in this lucrative market, especially as we get the message out there and Tasmania has new infrastructure coming online.”

“The redevelopment of Princess Wharf Shed No.1 in Hobart should provide an offsite, waterfront dinner venue for up to 1500 delegates, which will complement current infrastructure, enabling the Bureau to win more lucrative business events.”

ENDS

September 16, 2009

Contact:

Claire McLaren
Membership and Communications Manager
Tasmanian Convention Bureau
Ph: (03) 6224 6852
cmclaren@tasmaniaconventions.com

Further Information:

www.tasmaniaconventions.com

What is a business event?
A business event is the coming together of people in one location for the purpose of sharing information and ideas, generating business or improving their business.

What is the Association market?
The Association market is a group of people who come together for professional and industry development, to share knowledge and ideas about a particular area of interest.
e.g. The Pyrethrum Association of Australia

What is the Corporate Meeting and Incentive market?
The corporate meeting and incentive market is a group of people who come together from/for one organisation for the purpose of a meeting, team building exercise, reward or incentive program.
e.g. Tasmanian Alkaloids

Will Your Heart Be Racing?

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 01:24:00 GMT

Imagine gripping the rail of a Rolex Sydney to Hobart yacht, your legs hanging over the side, salt water spraying your face as you race through Hobart waters.

Or maybe, you can see yourself enjoying some of Tasmania’s most opulent, inspiring, unique and indulgent experiences.

Like the sound of that?

Contact the Tasmanian Convention Bureau between September 1st and November 30th to discuss a corporate meeting or incentive business event and you may no longer need to imagine – that could be you!

How to Enter

Identify a Corporate Meeting or Incentive Event that could be held in Tasmania.
Contact one of the following Tasmania Convention Bureau’s staff to discuss the options and benefits of that business event being held in Tasmania.

Claire Harrington
charrington@tasmaniaconventions.com
TEL: 03 6224 6852  MOB: 0418 170 305

Christie Sweeting 
csweeting@tasmaniaconventions.com
TEL: 03 6224 6852  MOB: 0419 002 530
You are now entered into the draw!

The Prizes

For every meeting or incentive opportunity you discuss with us between 01 September and 30 November, you will receive one entry into the draw to win an invitation for you and a friend to be on-board a yacht in Sydney Harbour at the start of the ‘Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race’ on 26 December 2009. Winners announced 15 December 2009.
In addition, if you provide the most number of opportunities in that three month period you will win an invitation for you and a friend to be on-board a yacht in Hobart waters at the finish of the internationally renowned ‘Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race’ in January 2010, courtesy of The Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania. Plus a signed yacht race print of Wild Thing from world renowned yachting photographer Richard Bennett. Winners announced 15 December 2009.
Finally, if your meeting or incentive becomes the highest yielding piece of business contracted before 30 November 2010, you will win an exclusive indulgent weekend for two, experiencing some of Tasmania’s unique, luxury and inspiring activities, venues and locations. Winner announced 15 December 2010.

Conditions

Winners will be notified by phone and published in the Tasmanian Convention Bureau Newsletter. Prizes are only available at the times specified by the TCB and cannot be held over for future years.

Main Photo: Wild Thing’s record-breaking run to Hobart in 1990 © Richard Bennett Photography

Federal Group New Sales & Marketing Head

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 23:21:00 GMT

The Federal Group owns a number of quality hotels and signature experiences marketed under their award winning Pure Tasmania brand, in addition to their iconic entertainment properties, Wrest Point and Country Club Tasmania. Pure Tasmania encompasses The Henry Jones Art Hotel, Strahan Village, Freycinet Lodge, Cradle Mountain Chateau, West Coast Wilderness Railway and Gordon River Cruises.

Mr Cuff has held numerous senior tourism roles in Australia and overseas, including Director of Operations for Contiki Holidays. In 1998 Mr Cuff was appointed General Manager of Tasmania’s Temptations Holidays and in 2002 became Tourism Tasmania’s Director of Distribution, responsible for the development of the state government’s tourism e-commerce strategy and the rationalization of their retail and wholesale operations.

Federal Group’s Director of Tourism, Mr Bernard Dwyer explained,

"In response to our ongoing expansion, we’re delighted to have appointed Len to lead the multi-faceted sales and marketing activities associated with the Federal Group’s entertainment properties and our growing portfolio of diverse tourism assets, marketed under the Pure Tasmania brand."

"Len is a passionate Tasmanian and, importantly, he possesses a deep understanding of tourism marketing and distribution. His expertise will help us continue to expand our local, interstate and international markets, particularly in respect to Saffire, our world class coastal sanctuary currently under construction at Freycinet."

Following his appointment, Mr Cuff stated,

"I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to join the Federal Group at this exciting time in their evolution. The company has been synonymous with the Tasmanian tourism industry for more than thirty years and is widely regarded for its innovation and market-led focus".

"Pure Tasmania embodies the group’s next phase of growth and while this branding has already established the company as a market leader in accommodation and experience based tourism, it will also be an important platform from which to successfully navigate our way forward in a dynamically changing industry".

Richard Crawford
Federal Group Manager PR and Sponsorship

Bill Lark Recruited by the Scottish

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 02:57:00 GMT

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In the Scottish town of Kings Barns, six miles south of St Andrews in the Kingdom of Fife, two men uncovered a tourist demand for a whisky distillery. After unsuccessfully researching throughout Scotland for advice on the set up of a small distillery, the two proponents, Greg Ramsey and Doug Clement, turned to internationally renowned whisky distiller Bill Lark.

The Lark Distillery has a proven recipe as a small scale distillery that can provide a unique and engaging visitor experience while still producing internationally award winning whisky.

Bill Lark jumped at the opportunity to be involved in the project and is now both consultant and share holder in the Kings Barns Distillery. Mr Lark will be working with engineers and architects over the next 18 – 24 months guiding the project through to completion.

So impressed are the Scott’s with the way whisky is produced at Lark Distillery, that they are having the two whisky stills for the new venture produced in Tasmania based on the design of the Lark Stills.

“The Scottish industry tends to think that making whisky is a big business and that distilleries have to be big. We think small can be better and can really involve people who are excited about hand-crafted whisky.”

“The distillery will be tourism-driven, while still making top quality whisky. We want to get people involved in every aspect of whisky making and play a role in producing whisky.”

Bill Lark will be conducting master classes at Whisky Live in Sydney between the 31st August and 6th September. To find out more and book a place at one of the master classes, whisky dinners or at the whisky tasting expo, visit www.whiskylive.com.au.

Waji Cooks Up New Website

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 01:13:00 GMT

Waji also looked to expand availability of his gourmet products from the retail shelf to be available online, of special interest to Waji's many interstate and international followers.

The new website, developed for Waji by fellow TCB member Tiger Media, also features cooking tips, recipes and videos for 'Waji's Kitchen' members.

Click here to visit the website.

Real Learning Experience Franchise Launch

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 23:23:00 GMT

The innovative, Tasmanian-based corporate training business is now assessing potential interstate franchise bids.

“My vision is to have one franchise up and running interstate in the first six months,” The Real Learning Experience managing director Simon Thiessen said.

“Our business plan involves steady growth, but based on finding the right franchisees – partners in our vision and goals of excellence and performance delivery to clients.

“In the next 18 months, I would like to have established three franchises interstate and in the next 2-3 years around 10 franchises.

“After five years, if we are on track, we will then look to New Zealand, then Asia, the UK and the USA.”

Thiessen and The Real Learning Experience have been working with PWC Franchising in Melbourne to create this major, next step for the business.

“Normally, Tasmanians become franchisees – The Real Learning Experience is becoming a franchisor of our business – the achievement of which we are very proud.

“It has taken some five years’ hard work and more than $250,000 in outlay to get to this point.

“We have produced some 30 training programs/modules for potential franchisees, as well as designed operations manuals, policies and procedures.”

Thiessen has been running The Real Learning Experience since 1993.

“Most years, I do 85-90 per cent of my business interstate.

“This year, however, I have done only 75 per cent interstate, because the volume of my Tasmanian business has increased dramatically – and I am headed for my best year ever.”

The Real Learning Experience specialises in Experiential Learning.

“One of the first things customers ask is: ‘What can we offer that other organisations can’t?’

“The key difference when you use The Real Learning Experience is that we believe in combining serious learning with serious fun.

“At The Real Learning Experience, we specialise in corporate training, workshops, conferences and public seminars that deliver strong and lasting results for real life.”

Thiessen said Experiential Learning allows customers to participate in dynamic and engaging experiences that allow them to experience the training, rather than just learning as a spectator.

www.reallearning.com.au

Tattersall's Park was Banging!

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 23:27:00 GMT

It takes more than a cold winter’s day to keep the TCB members away from a networking function.

Friday 24th July was no exception! Greeted by a man on stilts, forty TCB members turned out to experience Tattersall’s Park Function Centre fully themed. The Cruise Ship theme created by Display Works Australia (with lighting and production by Scene Change) was a tropical oasis in the middle of a chilly winter. And the evening just got hotter from there... Island Entertainment really got the venue banging with a Taiko Drumming performance followed by a drumming workshop with some of the guests.

It is a testament to the quality of this all Tasmanian act, that they had this brave group of TCB members performing a synchronised Taiko drumming routine, complete with solo performances, to a room full of guests with just under 30 minutes practice!

Tattersall’s Park really showcased the versatility of the venue and generously donated a lunch for two in the Terrace View Restaurant on a race day, which was won as a lucky door prize by Rick Marton from Coyote Special Events. All guests were treated to a gift bag at the end of the night full of merchandise and gifts showcasing TCB member product.

Watch this space for details on the next TCB Member Function.

Video

Photos

Tattersall’s Park Function Centre
6 Goodwood Road, Glenorchy
Contact : Fiona Ransley
T: 6272 9492 E: events@tasracingclub.com.au

Island Entertainment
Contact: Andrew Brassington
T: 0408 445 562 E: andrew@ient.com.au

Display Works Australia
Contact: Lyn Thomas
T: 6234 9684 E: display@bigpond.net.au

Scene Change Tasmania
Contact: Gareth Percey
T: 6229 5822 E: gpercey@scenechange.com.au
www.scenechange.com.au

Tiger Media
Photography & Video, Web Design & Delivery
Contact: Simon Brooke
T: 6239 6629 E: simon@tigermedia.com.au
www.tigermedia.com.au

Mt Paul on Freycinet

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 05:22:00 GMT

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When British tourists Virginia Cowie and Phillippa Denne visited the Freycinet Peninsula in 2000 it was a life changing experience.

So strong was their appreciation of the place, that their short stay marked the beginning of a two year mission for Australian residency, the purchase of a stunning piece of farm land and the creation of a tourism masterpiece – Mt Paul on Freycinet.

Opened on Sunday the 26th April by Heather Butler MP, the new tourism property has 360 degree views of Freycinet’s signature emerald green waters and pink hazards. The Arc and Barn function venues, part funded by a Tourism Promotion Plan grant, have been designed and project managed by Phillippa and Virginia, the owners of Mt Paul, acting as “owner builders”.

“Mt Paul is contiguous with the Freycinet National Park, with the sites for both venues overlooking the peninsula, so it was important that the buildings should belong to, and live up to the landscape. Hence the colours and shapes have been chosen to blend with the landscape, whilst at the same time taking best advantage of the views.” Said Ms.Cowie.

“The views from the Arc extend from the Tasman Sea to Great Oyster Bay, and the site offers a particularly good vantage point for watching the ever changing colours of the Hazard Mountain range. The Barn looks West over the Swan River Estuary to the Eastern Tiers, so the views are spectacular at sunset.”

“The Arc can accommodate up to 120 people in a formal function room measuring 180 sq m, with associated toilets and commercial kitchen (including a cold room). It is ideal for weddings, gala dinners, corporate gatherings or association meetings.”

“The Barn meanwhile is more rustic, having barbecues, wood fired pizza oven and fire pit, and is designed to accommodate groups of up to 40 for a function, or 24 for overnight camping in a purpose built standing camp. Allied to the Barn is an orienteering course. The flexible use of the Barn makes it suitable for a whole range of activities including weddings, corporate getaways, training, or incentive programs.”

“Also at Mt Paul is some accommodation consisting of one original cabin (Saltwater Shack) and two purpose-built cabins or Lodges. Viewed as a whole, Mt Paul can provide a comprehensive range of facilities for a destination wedding or retreat.”

“We emigrated from the UK to Mt Paul in 2002 following a holiday to Tasmania two years earlier. We absolutely fell in love with the State and began to dream about moving here. An internet search turned up a large property in Freycinet promising grazing and wood production, but it also had views. Following a couple of visits, we had put our suburban bungalow on the market and had signed a contract to buy Mt Paul.”

“Swapping court shoes for Blunnies, and tailor made suits for T shirts, we now accessorise with tools and have learnt to tackle everything from chain-sawing to tractor driving. The previous owner taught us some bush skills, and over a couple of years we learned to live with a 19kb/s radiophone over which any email attachment became a major project, and hot water heated by a temperamental woodstove.”

“We conceived of a development plan for Mt Paul, some of which has been realized in the form of the two accommodation units, a house, and more lately the two venues and the standing camp.”

“All of these have been constructed with environmentally sustainable design principles in mind, a low impact theme that has run through the development of a property which would otherwise have been in primary production, but which has now been restored as a haven for wildlife.”

There is still scope for further development, so to progress things further, Virginia and Phillippa will be looking for investors.

HFCC Announces Open Evenings

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 22:37:00 GMT

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Enjoying a waterfront location and spanning one hundred meters out over the sparkling waters of the Derwent River, this venue has been delivering excellence in weddings, conferences, gala dinners, product launches, training sessions and more since 1999.

The HFCC is pleased to announce that it will be hosting two open evenings, showcasing the best that this terrific venue has to offer.

The first will be focused on the variety of ways that the venue can cater for corporate events and Christmas parties, and the second evening will showcase how the Hobart Function and Conference Centre can create an engaging and memorable atmosphere for weddings and gala dinners.

Corporate Events and Christmas Parties

The first of the two open evenings will take place on Thursday 23rd July at 6:30pm.

The aim of this event is to showcase the many possibilities afforded by the waterside venue for meetings, training, presentations and conferences.

All six rooms will be open for viewing, and they’ll also be presenting a couple of special sets to show you what they’re capable of.

If you are ever called upon to organise meetings, don’t miss this informal opportunity to familiarise yourself with the venue.

And if you haven’t yet booked your work Christmas party, make sure you head down to the pier to get the date you want and a very special deal.

Weddings and Gala Dinners

The second open evening will take place on Friday 24th July at 6:30pm.

The HFCC team are excited to show off their new range of table decorations and theming equipment and they’re ready to unveil the many new looks that this stunning venue can take on.

They’ll be showing off the rooms set with reflective trees, hanging lanterns, giant martini glasses, LED spotlights and much more.

You’ll have the opportunity to sample some of Chef Will Godman’s food, and they’ll be matching it with some fine Tasmanian wines.

The HFCC team will also be offering some very special deals on catering and theming, only available to those who attend.

Attendance at both events is open to all and is absolutely free of charge.

Booking is not required, but to put you name on the door, and to make yourself eligible for some great deals and discounts, please call the Hobart Function and Conference Centre on 03 6230 8979, or send an email to info@hfcc.com.au.

Winter Warmers from Lark Distillery

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 04:45:00 GMT

The Lark Distillery, located on Hobart’s waterfront, is one of Australia's leading distilleries, producing high quality, premium distilled products using traditional methods.

Lark produces a range of scrumptious whiskeys, liqueurs and spirits, and to celebrate joining the TCB membership team are sharing some of their favourite cocktail recipes using Lark products - guaranteed to “knock your socks off!”

Cherry Max Sparkling

Sparkling Wine
½ nip Cherry max
Fresh Strawberry

Sweet Apple Martini

1 nip Apple Liqueur
1 nip Pepperberry Gin
Squeeze of lemon or lime, or a dash of bitters
Serve neat or shaken with ice

Dry Apple Martini

1 nip Apple Schnapps
1 nip Pepperberry Gin
Squeeze of lemon or lime
Serve neat or shaken with ice

Dry or Dirty Martini

Rinse the inside of a glass with a good Vermouth
1 or 2 nips of Pepperberry Gin or Pepperberry Vodka
Serve neat or shaken over ice with some nice big olives

Cosmopolitan

1 nip Vodka
½ nip Apple Liqueur
½ nip Bush Liqueur
Cranberry Juice

The TCB team will be enjoying a social drink at Lark Distillery this Wednesday 1st of June from 5pm and would love our members to come along for a casual drink and catch-up.

This will be a great opportunity to try some of these deliciously decadent cocktails for yourself!

To find out more about Lark Distillery and their products visit www.larkdistillery.com.au.

TCB launches new advertising campaign

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 04:43:00 GMT

The campaign was born from data that shows that client’s perceptions of Tasmania are changed dramatically, in a positive way, when they participate in a familiarisation or site inspection. Most clients had negative misconceptions about the destination before their visit and left with Tasmania clearly on the map as a destination for future events.

The ad is imageless, asking clients to forget ‘what they think they know’ about Tasmania and take another look.

The TCB has purchased the domain name www.knockyoursocksoff.com.au, which the ad directs clients to. The new webpage will be used to track the effectiveness of the ads before directing clients to the TCB website.

The ad will appear in the next addition of MICE.net Magazine.

Click here to see the ad.

New TCB Database - iDSS

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 04:46:00 GMT

The iDSS database was created by Bureaux for Bureaux and as such has a lot of functionality that is specific to the activities of the business events industry. This database will benefit both TCB staff and members.

The new database is being installed this week and staff will be training out of the office on the new system from Wednesday July 1 to Tuesday July 7. For urgent inquiries please contact the relevant staff member on their mobile and leave a message.

Denise Bradley
CEO: 0414 585 449

Claire Harrington
Sales Manager: 0418 170 305

Christie Sweeting
Business Development Manager: 0419 002 530

Claire McLaren
Membership and Communications Manager: 0410 763 940.

Lia LeGrove
Executive Assistant/Office Manager: 0416 256 911.

The change over to the new database will be as smooth as possible, but with technology there are always challenges! The staff ask for your patience through the roll out over the next few months.

For more information on the iDSS database contact Lia Le Grove on (03) 6224 6852 or via email.

Tasair Flying Between Hobart & Devonport

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 06:27:00 GMT

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The service operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Flights depart Hobart at 6:55am and arrive in Devonport at 7:30am. The return flight leaves Devonport at 6:00pm and arrives in Hobart at 6:35pm.

Being fully pressurised, the 2 Pilot, 18 seat, BAe Jetstream airliner operates at altitudes where weather conditions are generally much smoother resulting in a flight time of around 35 minutes.

The service is already attracting regular business users. In the past, a business trip to Devonport would have required an overnight stay or around 7 hours traveling in a car.

Business travelers can now arrive without feeling fatigued and be back for dinner the same day. If there is sufficient demand, plans are in place to extend the operation to a full weekday service.

For details of schedules visit www.tasair.com.au or contact Tasair reservations on TEL: (03) 6427 9777

Simon Hunter
Tasair Business Development Manager

MIPG - Make Sure You're in for 2010!

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 05:38:00 GMT

The timing of the re-print has been changed to fit in with a launch of the new document at the Asia Pacific Incentive and Meetings Expo (AIME) in 2010

The planner is a ‘must have’ document for all PCO’s nationally and internationally, functioning as the first point of a call for business events decision makers when planning an itinerary in Tasmania.

The MIPG is the TCB’s flagship publication and is a major marketing tool for both TCB members and general industry members.

The MIPG is distributed to the full TCB client database, is included with all TCB bids for business and is distributed at tradeshows nationally and internationally.

Make sure it is in your budget for 2010!

A free listing is given to all TCB members in the MIPG but advertising is available for greater impact.

Advertising rates are as follows:

Full Page $3100 plus GST
Half Page $2100 plus GST
1/4 Page $1200 plus GST
1/6 Page $950 plus GST
Inside Back $3650 plus GST
Back Cover $4000 plus GST

Corporate Communications manages the preparation of the MIPG and can be contacted on (03) 6210 5200 or via email for enquiries or to make a booking.

Mice.net Famil Showcases Tasmania

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 22:06:00 GMT

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The TCB promoted the familiarisation through MICE.net, one of the biggest business events magazines in the Asia Pacific region. Through a series of email advertisements the famil was promoted across the business events industry in Australia, with nearly 80 business events professionals from around the country expressing an interest in attending. This list was shortened to those most likely to bring business events to Tasmania and as a result 23 clients were treated to an all expenses paid showcase of our island.

The clients were split into two groups based on their typical group size and interests. Clients with smaller incentive based groups experienced the East Coast and Hobart and Clients organising larger conferences experienced Hobart and Surrounds.

Many TCB members including DMC by SHE, who helped run the famil, contributed significantly to ensuring that this famil was a success.

Feedback from the clients has been very positive, indicating that Tasmania is set to receive plenty of business as a result in the future.

Here is what the clients had to say:

Thank you all for the phenominal hospitality, ultimate professionalism, comprehensive programming and clockwork precision.

This has been without doubt the most productive and stimulating Famil I have ever participated in. It has definitely opened my eyes, and has given me opportunities that I have never imagined.

Michael Pun, Bosch Communications Systems

Many thanks for a fabulous famil ; met some great local characters that would sell their product on their personalities alone. The programme was so well arranged and hospitality was wonderful. Looking forward to selling what we experienced to our clients.

Laura Richards, The Conference Business Pty Ltd.

Thanks again for the many hours of effort and planning you must have put in – it paid off and Tas is front of mind for all of our briefs. Hoping also we can send a few more briefs your way.

Stephen Blake, Adrenalin

Thank you so much, I absolutely loved Tassie, and it’s now high on our hit list. Thank you again.

Paulette Crowder, Encore Business Tourism Pty Ltd

Thank you so much for organising and hosting a great trip – I think I could stay for 2 weeks and not see it all. I really enjoyed Hobart and what it has to offer and would quite happily live there myself – we’re seriously considering it!

I’ve also spoken to the client that I had in mind for Hobart for either 2011 or 2012 – he’s told me no decision until July as that’s when the new round finishes and new organisations are given the go-ahead, but that’s not too far off.

Please pass on my thanks to Denise and all the suppliers that provided us with such great hospitality, a warm welcome and an insight to what they can offer groups.

Look forward to catching up and hopefully booking a group there soon.

Caroline Jones, PCC Event Management

The tassie famil was brilliant and i have not been able to stop telling people about the extra splendours you guys served up.

It was tremendous – we are now in the process of setting up a website and pdf with packages to promote thrill events in Tasmania.

The knowledge, locations and people you put us in contact with was immense.

You will hear more from me shortly and I really hope to bring some incentive groups as soon as the weather hits the spring cycle.

Konrad Lippman, THRILL team events

A VERY BIG thank you to you all for organising such an insightful trip to Hobart & the surrounds. Having never been to Tasmania and hearing only stories of how similar it is to New Zealand I was completely blown away with how spectacular the city and surrounding areas were. It’s amazing that we have such a gorgeous city on a harbour front surrounded by beautiful picturesque mountains… what more could you want.

The program you put together showcased a glimpse of the city's diversity and it is certainly a destination that I know will appeal to more than one of my clients. To pin point my favourite experience would be too difficult as they were all thoroughly enjoyable and worth speaking of upon my return to Brisbane.

Please pass on my thank you to the team, and I look forward to working together soon on a pitch for Tasmania!

Kristyn Liddelow, KLO Innovations

Photos
Graeme Kemlo

TCM Member Functions... anything but ordinary!

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 01:56:00 GMT

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The primary purpose of the two member functions was to talk about the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) held in Melbourne last month. But no member function is complete without showcasing some TCB member products, engaging with some potential members, providing a great opportunity to network over Tasmanian food and wine and doing something out of the ordinary!

TCB member Coyote Special Events ran both the Northern and Southern functions and did a sensational job in engaging guests.

Launceston

Walking into the Launceston Sports Arena on a red carpet is an unusual experience, but then there is nothing ‘normal’ about a networking function in a room dedicated to circus training. After a discussion about AIME, guests sipped wine and nibbled on delicious canapés prepared by Matson Catering while watching a private performance on the flying trapeze!

It’s one of those things that you never think you’ll do – fly through the air hanging from a single bar, forwards, backwards, upside down and a dismount with a back flip. Guests watched in awe as the circus trained stars flew through the air with confidence… but it wasn’t until it became clear that the guests were being invited to go next that the adrenalin really started pumping!

Guests were offered the opportunity to put on a harness and fly. Having used the trapeze at an event in the past, Rick from Coyote Special Events, wowed the audience with a mid-air catch!! It was then the role of the Membership and Communications Manager to break the ice and have a go.

“At first, gripping white knuckled to the bar, ten meters above the ground, it is hard to concentrate on the man yelling instructions below. But once you stop yourself thinking about self preservation and do as you’re told, it miraculously comes together.

And then you’re just flying through the air upside down thinking – I can’t believe I’m doing this!”

After trapeze, the TCB group were treated to boxes of hot, freshly cooked popcorn from a van that miraculously appeared from behind a roller door to eat while watching “The Heist”.

“The Heist” is a game-show developed by Coyote Special Events that involves the crowd as contestants and allows one lucky participant to possibly end up with a windfall of gifts. It’s also a lot of fun for the audience, complete with silver cases, blue up-lighting and game show music.

Hobart

With the Launceston function proving to be such a huge success and on such a grand scale, Coyote Special Events would have been forgiven for running a slightly smaller function in Hobart later in the week. But it was not to be the case.

New TCB member, Syrup Nightclub, was the venue for the knock out event that is sure not to be forgotten in a hurry.

The evening started with a run down on AIME while guests were treated to a fine selection of Moorilla wines and Moo Brew and platters prepared by Catch Restaurant and Catering.

“The Heist” followed with Phil Holmes taking the lion’s share of the gorgeous gifts prepared by another new TCB member “Say Thank You”.

But it was the next performance that really turned heads. You see, Syrup Nightclub features a pole dancing pole in the centre of the dance floor – and the TCB made the most of it! Sarah Mure, a Hobart based pole dancing instructor, danced through the audience on cue in a long black jacket before throwing her jacket to the floor to reveal a cute little outfit and an unbelievable talent.

The audience of around 40 TCB members, staff and potential members, watched on in total awe as Sarah skilfully performed moves requiring unbelievable strength.

But in true TCB style there is always an opportunity to participate. Through the rest of the night guests were entertained by fellow TCB members taking turns on the pole under Sarah’s instruction.

What a night. As the last guest walked out the door at 9.30 (when it was supposed to finish at 8 PM, and only then because Syrup was opening to the public at 10 PM) it was clear that the event had been a hit!

New International Marketing Alliance

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 06:12:00 GMT

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The MOU provides for a working partnership between both Bureaux under which lead generation activities, information sharing, sales and training support will be undertaken for the mutual benefit of both destinations. The MOU signing was witnessed by YB Datuk Michael Manyin, Minister for Urban Development and Tourism.

The role of both the Tasmanian Convention Bureau and the Sarawak Convention Bureau is to secure business events and the resultant economic benefits for their respective destinations. Sarawak and Tasmania share many similarities in drawcards and challenges in attracting business tourism.

Tasmanian Convention Bureau Chief Executive Officer, Denise Bradley, said “If an organisation or association travels to Sarawak for a business event, it is fair to say that they would be attracted to Tasmania as a destination and visa versa.”

“This partnership will allow the two Bureaux to share market intelligence and work collaboratively to increase business events tourism to both Sarawak and Tasmania.”

Minister of Urban Development and Tourism, YB. Datuk Michael Manyin AK. Jawong in welcoming visiting Chief Executive Officer of the Tasmanian Convention Bureau, Mrs Denise Bradley and Sales Manager Claire Harrington to Kuching for the signing ceremony said:

“Our respective Convention bureau’s each have similar objectives and it makes good business sense to work in partnership. As convention destinations Sarawak and Tasmania have much in common. Both are tranquil and green locations sharing an abundance of natural resources and thriving industries such as forestry, agriculture and fisheries.”

Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Convention Bureau, Mrs Jill Henry added: “As International meetings are unlikely to return to the same destination for at least ten years, those organisations that have already met in Tasmania or Sarawak are great potential business leads as the host organisations have already demonstrated their willingness to meet beyond Gateway cities.”

“Importantly, In addition to the sharing of business leads, staff from each Bureau will provide logistical support when operating within their respective countries. Staff exchanges will also be undertaken to provide on the job training and help improve cultural awareness.”

Further Information

The Sarawak Convention Bureau was established by the Sarawak State Government in 2006 to attract more conventions and meetings to Sarawak. The Bureau provides free assistance to meeting planners and promotes Sarawak’s meeting venues and industry suppliers to potential clients. Last year it achieved a bid success ratio of 68 per cent, securing 28 new conventions for Sarawak. These events are expected to deliver 51,000 delegate days and over RM 35 million in direct delegate expenditure at conventions to be held over the next three years. Sarawak’s international profile as an emerging convention destination was boosted by the Bureau winning four international awards for its creative destination marketing.

The Tasmanian Convention Bureau was established in 1990 and has consistently performed well in a competitive market. The Bureau provides free assistance to meeting planners and promotes Tasmania as a business events destination. It has a staff of 8 with offices in Hobart, Launceston and Melbourne. It is funded by its 140 industry members, State and Local Government and co-operative industry support.

As at 28th February 2009, eight months into the financial year, the Tasmanian Convention Bureau had secured 163% of their annual target for the business Association market. This represents 14,690 delegates, 55,485 room nights and $23,196,300 revenue for Tasmania.

For the same period for the corporate meeting and incentive market the TCB had achieved 65.72% of the financial year target, which equates to 1183 delegates, 3814 room nights and $1,834,300. The TCB has just launched a new international marketing campaign to secure more business for Tasmania from this market.

Links

Sarawak Convention Bureau
Sarawak Tourism Board
Sarawak Government Portal

Old Woolstore Achieves National Recognition

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 06:21:00 GMT

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The Old Woolstore – a 242-room accommodation and conference facility located in central Hobart – triumphed against tough competition from all states and territories. It’s an achievement that operator Richard Sattler says reflects a successful culture and the hard work of associates who oversee day-to-day hotel operations.

“There is no doubt that the team at the Woolstore are crucial to the success of the property”, Mr Sattler said. “The ongoing consistency in occupancy and conference business is confirmation of the high standard of service that we strive to offer and it’s fantastic for this to be recognised at a national level.”

Mr Sattler has operated the property since its’ opening in February 1997, when the re-development of the old Roberts Ltd wool storage warehouses into a 118-room apartment hotel complex was completed. In October 2001, a further 124 apartments and major conference facilities were added, completing the project that now operates as an iconic Tasmanian tourism and hospitality provider.

In 2005, Sattler also opened the now famous Barnbougle Dunes golf links among towering sand dunes on his farming property at Bridport in Tasmania’s North-East. Barnbougle has consecutively been confirmed as Australia’s number one public access course and is currently rated the 35th best golf course in the world. Construction of the second course on adjacent land commenced during 2008.

For further information on The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel please contact Ben Targett, Commercial Manager, on 0410 575 457 or via email.

For further information on Barnbougle Dunes and the second course development please contact Biz Sattler on 0438532147 or via email.

Ben Targett
Commercial Manager
The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel

Tasmania AIME's Higher!

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:39:00 GMT

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The display, at 60m2, was bigger than it has ever been in the past and had more TCB members flying the flag for their organisations than ever before. The entertainment area at the front of the display, set up as a swanky Hobart bar, had Waji Catering preparing and serving tastings of fine Tasmanian produce, while Andrew Stack from Moorilla wowed the crowds with tastings of Moorilla’s pinot and riesling. Needless to say – Tasmania’s stand drew the crowds!

Not only was Tasmania’s display the biggest ever, the tradeshow itself drew record numbers. Exhibitor numbers were up 5.5% on last year and a record 3,584 trade visitors, including 467 hosted buyers, visited the two- day event (up 9.6%).

In addition to the drawcard of fine food and wine, the TCB carried out a pre-AIME marketing campaign that proved very successful. An email was sent to the full TCB client database in the week leading up to AIME with a survey attached. Clients that filled in the survey and brought it into the Tasmania display at AIME went into the draw to win a 10-day Tasmanian Adventure! Clients that weren’t going to AIME could email the survey back to go into the draw to win a hamper of delicious Tasmanian products and produce.

Nearly 100 surveys were received and are now being summarised by Clemenger. The market intelligence will be used to assist the TCB in overcoming any misconceptions about Tasmania and honing in on Tasmania’s biggest drawcards.

So who created the display that everyone is talking about? TCB member Red Arrow designed and built the display, while new TCB member Tiger Media created the art work and the show-reel. They should be congratulated – with a relatively small budget the Tasmania display knocked everybody’s socks off and certainly generated a lot of business for Tasmania.

Next year, with increased interest from members, the TCB stand is set to be bigger still. To find out how to be involved and generate leads for your business come along to one of the TCB member functions in March and hear, from the members who participated this year, why this is a not to be missed opportunity.

AIME Briefings:

10th March, 6.30 – 8 PM Launceston
12th March, 6.30 – 8 PM Hobart

For more information contact Claire Bennett via email or phone (03) 6224 6852.

Here’s what some of the TCB members had to say:

"The whole look, feel and energy on the stand was brilliant - a great improvement on past years and easily setting the scene for clients to confidently book Tasmania."
Ralph Freckelton – Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart

"Thank you to you for all your efforts putting together the “Team Tassie” stand. The team here at the hotel all commented on how great the stand looked and how well it dragged in the punters. This was AIME number three for me and the stand was by far the best it has been."
Andrew Best – Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart

“As a Hosted buyer at AIME this year, I was involved with many appointments at the various stands of exhibitors from NT, QLD and New Zealand in particular, although I did visit many other exhibitors. Naturally I visited the colleagues I had who were part of the Tasmanian exhibit, and hence formed an opinion about how well the Tasmanian stand compared with other States. Quite simply, it stood out as a must visit destination (ie the stand as well as the State!). Consequently I referred a number of buyers from overseas and mainland Australia I met during AIME to the Tassie stand, mainly on the basis that they should taste our wine and sample our fine foods if nothing else. Let me say that I was quite proud of how Tasmania and its industry members were showcased to prospective visitors to the State. I am now working out how I might be involved next year.”
Phil Holmes - Convention Wise

Member Functions are on the Climb!

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 01:10:00 GMT

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After meeting in the car park on Melville Street and finding ‘the man in the orange hat’, guests embarked on a short amazing race through the city to find themselves at a venue with a difference. There was food and wine like a normal networking function but for those that normally find themselves climbing the walls 30 minutes in to these type of do’s, this venue was custom made. The Climbing Edge in Bathurst Street is an indoor climbing gym with a mezzanine level ideal for socialising.

First guests were treated to a short insight into the talent of a local personality. Robyn Moore is an entertainer and motivational speaker. Robyn’s talent for voices combined with a personality brimming with positivity, empathy and a knack for story telling, has landed her the title of most booked female public speaker in Australia. Strangely, the one place Robyn rarely works is in Tasmania – that’s something the TCB team plan to change!

Then there was the man in the orange hat. Phil Harris from Aardvaak Adventures had more than a small hand to play in the evening’s excitement. Designer of the TCB amazing race and an ice braking activity that had all the guests tied up (at one point it seemed indefinitely), Phil brings more than a pinch of adventure to any function.

After the ice was broken, guests donned a harness and took to a rope of another kind. Taking to the walls of The Climbing Edge, TCB members went to new heights in what is sure to be a metaphor for the year ahead.

The next TCB functions will be held in Launceston on Tuesday March 10 and Hobart on Thursday March 12. For more information about attending or hosting a TCB member function, contact Claire Bennett via email or phone (03) 6224 6852.

Hadleys Breaks New Ground

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:57:00 GMT

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In what will be Tasmania’s biggest tourism development in 2009, the expansion will add a further 128 luxury suites and extensive food and beverage outlets including an a la carte restaurant, a casual dining restaurant catering for families and a stylish café.

For business travellers, the addition of a Grand Ballroom will see the hotel’s capacity increase to 600 delegates. A new four-level car park will cater to the increased number of delegates utilising the new conference facilities.

“To see the plans for the Hadleys expansion come to fruition is extremely satisfying and pleasing for the Doherty Hotel Group,” Managing Director Michael Doherty said.

“The new extension will ensure Hadleys remains the key meeting point for both visitors and our loyal customers in Hobart.

“Our partnership with Accor ensures that the Grand Mercure Hadleys Hotel and Inner Collins project will be promoted throughout the national and international marketplace.”

Grand Mercure Hadleys Hotel General Manager, Brian Walsh, said the $30 million Inner Collins project will take place on an adjacent site to the existing hotel.

“This means that there will be no disruption to current guests with all hotel facilities and services operating as normal.

“The new developments will remain faithful to the historic style of the hotel while providing modern facilities and service expected by travellers of today.”

The Inner Collins project, being constructed by Tasmanian builders, Hinman Wright and Manser, is expected to be completed by 2011.

Hadleys is owned by the Doherty family and managed by Accor Hotel Group, the largest hotel group in Australia, under its Grand Mercure brand. Accor have worked closely with Doherty’s on the future plans for the hotel.

Accor Area Manager, Erkin Aytekin said that the extensions to Grand Mercure Hadleys would provide even greater benefits to the hotel, which has already enjoyed a successful Christmas period and excellent forecasts on occupancy for the coming year.

“Hadleys is one of Tasmania’s and Australia’s best known heritage hotels and with the new extension we believe that we can greatly increase the hotel’s position and reputation in the market place,” he said.

“Accor is also a leading operator in the meeting and conference market, which will be of significant benefit as Hadleys extends its function and conference facilities and we will be actively promoting the hotel throughout the Accor network in Australia and overseas, which will put the spotlight on Hobart and promote additional tourism to the State.”

The expansion will complement an earlier renovation of the existing building, which saw the exterior fully restored and refurbishment of all rooms and public areas, undertaken by Doherty’s Hotel Group following their purchase of the hotel in 1999.

Grand Mercure is a 4½ star brand present throughout the Asia Pacific region in cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Queenstown, Bangkok, Singapore, Shanghai and Beijing. The brand includes other historic hotels, including Grand Mercure Mt Lofty House in the Adelaide Hills.

Hadleys Hotel - The History

The Murray Street hotel dates back to 1834, when it was established as the Golden Anchor Inn, and has Australia’s longest continuing hotel licence. It has played an integral part in Tasmanian and Australian history, noted in the Constitution minutes as the venue for meetings in Tasmania on the formation of the colony. It has also played host to a Royal wedding when local girl, Pauline Curran, married exiled Russian noble, Prince Maximillian Melikoff and many famous Australian and International guests including Tasmania’s favourite son, Errol Flynn; entrepreneur Henry Jones; and explorers Douglas Mawson and Roald Amundsen, who all make a note of Hadleys in their memoirs.

The current building was built by convict labour and began trading as the Marquis of Waterford in 1849, later to be known as Webb’s Hotel, after being purchased by a pardoned convict John Webb.

Webb was sent to Van Dieman’s Land for housebreaking and following his release he became the official caterer to Government House – hence, the hotel’s rich tradition in hospitality was born. Webb’s reputation as a caterer spread quickly and the hotel drew many of the town’s fashionable citizens during the late 1850’s, looking for entertainment away from the now famous Salamanca region. This area was a common place for the entertainment of seamen in the whaling fleet.

Ever the entrepreneur, Webb developed the Hotel and even had an icehouse on Mt. Wellington from which he carted ice to the hotel twice a day. Webb also added innovations like a ballroom and ice-skating rink at the rear of the hotel.

The hotel’s social prominence was highlighted in 1861 when the Tasmanian Club made its headquarters in the hotel.
After Webb’s death in 1881, J.C. Hadley bought the hotel and renamed it Hadley’s Orient Hotel.

The Hadley family operated the property for another 55 years, bringing a range of innovations including electric lights installed into every room and telephones on every floor. They also installed one of Australia’s first electric elevators.

After falling into disrepair in the 1980s the hotel was purchased by the Doherty’s in 1999 and has undergone major refurbishment to restore it to its original grandeur.

It is now managed by Accor as a Grand Mercure hotel. Accor, the European leader and a major global group in hotels, the global leader in services to corporate clients and public institutions, operates in nearly 100 countries with 170,000 employees. It offers to its clients over 40 years of expertise.

Accor Hotels include the Sofitel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, M Gallery, Novotel, Mercure, Suitehotel, Ibis, All Seasons, and Formule 1, representing more than 4,000 hotels and nearly 500,000 rooms in 90 countries.

Further Information:
A.Mark Thomas, CPR
TEL: 0422 006 732

The TCB Welcomes Christie Sweeting

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 01:30:00 GMT

Christie, who will be based in the Hobart office, has worked in marketing, account management and business development roles across a number of business sectors within Tasmania. The most recent of these include the Performing and Visual Art and Design sector and the health sector.

“I have lived and worked in Tasmania for most of my life but I’ve spent enough time on foreign shores to realise that Tasmania is both a fantastic place to live and work.

“I have a passion for Tasmania and I’m looking forward to working with all the Tasmanian Convention Bureau members to attract ongoing business to our state.”

Christie will be getting out and about to meet all the TCB members in the near future. Christie’s email is csweeting@tasmaniaconventions.com.

The Incentive Island

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 01:43:00 GMT

The global economic crisis may impact on Tasmania's traditional corporate meeting and incentive travel (C&I) market but has also opened the door to a whole new opportunity.

Traditionally Tasmania has secured C&I business from organisations that travel within Australia. This form of C&I travel is being scaled back as a result of the economic crisis. So too is the non-traditional C&I market for Tasmania – the corporate market that traditionally travels overseas. This market will be looking for a C&I experience within Australia that can substitute for international travel.

Somewhere different… Somewhere exotic… Somewhere boutique… Enter Tasmania.

The TCB is launching a C&I marketing campaign to broadcast Tasmania's capacity to exceed the expectations of this discerning market. Members will be invited to buy into this campaign.

The TCB is in the process of producing a brochure that will showcase each of Tasmania's tourism zones and provide a sample itinerary and cost that will take the hassle out of planning for key decision makers.

The brochure will be sent electronically to the full TCB database and hosted buyers at the AIME tradeshow in February. A hard copy of the brochure will be distributed on the TCB AIME display and utilised as a marketing tool throughout 2009.

The key message of the campaign is that Tasmania is the incentive island – an island of inspiration, rejuvenation and adventure.

For more information on this campaign please contact the TCB Membership and Communications Manager, Claire Bennett, ph: (03) 6224 6852.

TCB Famil equals a new found love of Tasmania

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 22:22:00 GMT

The Tasmanian Convention Bureau December familiarisation of Hobart and surrounds was a whirlwind showcase of Hobart that knocked their socks off.

It was only a snapshot of the amazing product to be found here, but the experience, consisting of heritage, adventure, wilderness, art, food and wine, is sure to secure business events for Tasmania.

Day One

The itinerary commenced with “How to be a wine snob” and lunch at Meadowbank Estate.

Joining the PCO’s from Sydney on the first day of their itinerary were three incentive travel buyers from Indonesia.

It was hard to draw the group away from lunch at Meadowbank Estate. Gerald Ellis had organised a fabulous feast and it was clear that the TCB guests could have stayed much longer than time permitted.

Next stop Port Arthur. A Navigators cruise around Cape Raoul was first on the agenda.

As the TCB guests and staff gasped wide eyed at the splendour that is cape Raoul it was hard to believe the timing as Dan, in a Top Gun Tasmania fighter jet dived above the cliffs. It was clear that the wow factor sought on “famils” had been achieved for day one of their trip.

A tour of the Isle of the Dead at Port Arthur followed. The Port Arthur guide Heather was an attraction in her own right, so enthusiastic about the history and stories of Port Arthur; she really brought the experience to life.

By dinner time the group was hungry. After all the sea air and literally running behind Heather around the Port Arthur site, Taylors Restaurant at Stewarts Bay Lodge was a welcome site. The dinner was a spectacular showcase of peninsula fare.

The group was on the strictest instructions to be back at Port Arthur by 8.30 PM for the Ghost Tour, well, 8.29 actually. It seems no-one told the Ghost Tour guide that Port Arthur was no longer a penal colony. Steve runs a tight ship! With the fear of the wrath of Steve, the chef at Taylors Restaurant, Ian Taylor and his wonder waiter have surely never moved so fast, as the group was back at Port Arthur with one minute to spare.

Steve was a brilliant guide. Beside the ghost experiences and laughter, Port Arthur looks phenomenal at night. It was obvious to the guests that this would be a spectacular venue for a business event.

Day Two

After not enough hours sleep the group sleepily made its way back onto our Walkers Coach and out to Moorilla. Nobody was sleepy for long. The presentation by Operations Manager Andrew Stack on MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, was an eye opener. The breakfast that followed also got the group to their feet – the best Burcher muesli in Australia was the feedback from one of the TCB guests – a frequent traveller and Burcher connoisseur.

The fact that everyone could not help but over eat at Moorilla set the group in good stead for the first adventure of the day.

Tasair, a new TCB member and Tasmania’s longest running airline, flew the group deep into Tasmania’s South West Wilderness World Heritage Area.

The four light aircraft flew in convoy over the spectacular and rugged Tasmanian coast line, around South West Cape, the bottom tip of Tasmania, and up Bathurst Harbour to touch down at Melaleuca.

At Melaleuca, a place that can only be accessed by air, sea or seven days walk, Waji Spiby of Waji Catering prepared a three course lunch on the banks of Bathurst Harbour. A feast such as this is rarely seen so deep in the Wilderness. It was a site to be seen.

It was at this point that one of the TCB guests remarked that although she spends three out of every four weeks of the year travelling and has done a huge number of famils, this was the best itinerary she had experienced.

When the group arrived back in Hobart four hours after they had taken off, they couldn’t believe that there was more to experience on this day.

A Henry Jones Art Hotel tour soon showed the group why you need to keep moving if you only have two and a half days in Tasmania. You could visibly see the jaws drop.

A tour of Wrest Point was quick to follow before the guests stepped aboard the Sydney to Hobart yacht Helsal IV. A twilight sail on the Derwent River drinking champagne and eating canapés was a fitting way to end a beautiful day in Tasmania. Everyone agreed that this would be an early night.

As the group laughed and chatted in the Wrest Point revolving restaurant overlooking the city lights enjoying the third course of a spectacular custom menu it was hard to believe it was after 11 pm. So good was the dinner and the company and the stories of the day, that no-one noticed how much time had passed.

Day Three

No-one questioned why they needed to be up early on Saturday morning. The group were greeted with a freshly squeezed juice in the lobby of the Hotel Grand Chancellor, which had been the accommodation for the duration of the trip, by a bubbly Spencer Hendricks and Andrew Best.

After a tour of the facilities, breakfast was enjoyed overlooking one of the best views in Hobart. A chef on standby flipped made-to-order omelettes as the TCB guests imagined their next function in the space.

Breakfast was followed by free time. As most of the TCB guests gladly wandered the world famous markets, one Sydney based professional conference organiser used the opportunity to scribble ideas for his next itinerary for incentive travel. There have been so many great experiences and ideas that I need to get them down and get the ball rolling, he exclaimed.

For the final afternoon, the group took to the water again, but this time on the Peppermint Bay vessel. The cruise was followed by yet another amazing feast. The Peppermint Bay experience was very well received.

At the final location on the Tasmania familiarisation, over a delicious Barrilla Bay oyster platter, the banter amongst the group was filled with mixed emotions.

Although tired and exhilarated, it was unanimously agreed that they would need to return to Tasmania, and with clients.

Introducing the new TCB Board of Directors

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 22:36:00 GMT

The TCB is overseen by a seven member Board of Directors, consisting of business tourism executives and an independent Chairman.

The TCB membership, made up of nearly 200 Tasmanian businesses, elects four directors to the board.

At the recent TCB Annual General Meeting, Ralph Freckelton from the Hotel Grand Chancellor, Gerald Ellis from Meadowbank Estate and Nicholas Heyward from the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra were re-elected as Directors of the TCB.

Mr Freckelton, Mr Ellis and Mr Heyward join Bernard Dwyer from Federal Group, who has one year remaining on his election to the TCB Board of Directors.

The Hotel Grand Chancellor, the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Meadowbank Estate and Federal Group are all long running members of the Tasmanian Convention Bureau.

In addition to the four Directors elected by the membership base, Tourism Tasmania, as the TCB’s primary stakeholder, appoints a director to the board.

Felicia Mariani, CEO Tourism Tasmania, will continue her board position as the Tourism Tasmania representative.

It is the role of the five elected directors to appoint two independent representatives to the Board. Tony Hart, from Clemenger Tasmania, and Ruth Lilian, a Professional Conference Organiser from Sydney, have subsequently been re-appointed to the Board.

The newly elected board as a whole is required to appoint an independent Chairman to head the Board of Directors. Tony Hart has been re-elected as Chairman for 2008/09.

This will be Mr Hart’s seventh year as Chairman of the Tasmanian Convention Bureau.

Lonely Planet Names Tasmania Number One!

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 22:14:00 GMT

Lonely Planet has an unmatched reputation for producing well-researched, up-to-date information that travellers can depend on. In 2006, Lonely Planet printed their 80 millionth book!

Each year, Lonely Planet publishes its much anticipated “Blue List” of hot destinations. The 2009 travel manual features 850 of the world's hottest travel trends, experiences and emerging destinations and Tasmania is on top of the list!

The guide says: “White beaches of hourglass-fine sand, Bombay Sapphire sea, an azure sky - and nobody. This is the secret edge of Tasmania, laid out like a pirate’s treasure map of perfect beach after sheltered cove, all fringed with forest. It’s not long since the Bay of Fires came to international attention, and the crowds are bound to flock. Now is the time to visit.”

The Bay of Fires is situated on Tasmania’s East Coast and extends from Binalong Bay in the south to Eddystone Point in the north. A wide range of activities are able to be pursued in the Bay of Fires area, including camping, beach activities, boating, bird watching, fishing, swimming, surfing and walking.

To find out more about the Bay of Fires please visit: www.bayoffires.com.au, www.bayoffirescottages.com.au, and www.angasi.com.au, or purchase the Lonely Planet “10 Must see regions for 2009” which will be available to purchase from next month.