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Dear Industry Partner
As we head into the last quarter, the Bureau has already started its planning for the next financial year. And for the first time ever - the whole PCB team joined the Board for this annual planning session. The strategic input of Directors combined with the expertise of staff ensured that the day was both creative and productive. As a result, I look forward to sharing the 2011/12 business plan and the new initiatives that will lay the foundation for further strong results next year.
If there was one overriding issue that came out of our session, it was the lack of awareness of the role of the Bureau within the community. And while you might question the rationale for educating the wider community, it is precisely the general public who are university academics, members of associations or employees of the large corporations that are the source of our core business.
As a Bureau, we pride ourselves on our industry 'reputation' but - as was pointed out by our independent facilitator at our planning session - how far does this reputation extend to the wider community? Many people either don't know about us, or think we are the 'convention centre'.
So, industry partners, we're taking our message to the people of Perth! We are working on an exciting new campaign that will draw public attention and ultimately generate more business for all of our industry partners and stakeholders. I'll keep you posted..
And with only three months left in this financial year, we still have much to do. The inaugural Perth Event Show will launch on Friday 6th May, coinciding with regional famils and site inspections. We have also planned a major lift-out feature in The West Australian, dedicated to business events and profiling PCB members in the run up to the Show. Make sure your business is featured in this mass publication.
The start of a new year often brings changes and opportunities, and for us at PCB this year it means a few staff changes, a couple of weddings and the announcement of an important milestone for the Bureau. I look forward to sharing all of this with you over the coming months and I sincerely hope your year is shaping up well.
Christine Allen
MANAGING DIRECTOR
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Gaining momentum... The Perth Events Show 2011
The inaugural Perth Event Show to be held 6-7 May 2011 is moving forward with sponsors and exhibitors signing on for this unique opportunity. This forum will allow WA's burgeoning industry to update buyers on what Perth and Western Australia has to offer as a business events destination. The event, managed by CMS Events with PCB as the major collaborator and the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre as venue partner, is expecting to attract at least 3,000 people.
Exhibitor numbers are growing and you are encouraged to participate; there will be a broad range of exhibitors from audio visual experts, unique venues and caterers, to restaurants, conference organisers, transport providers - and more.
Leading up to the show an extensive schedule of marketing activities is planned, including a direct mail and email campaign to PCB's database of 4,000 plus local, national and international buyers. The event is supported by radio, magazine and newspaper advertising in Australia's top publications, such miceNET, miceBTN and Spice Magazine, with local campaigns using The West Australian and Nova radio.
PCB will be organising two familiarisation trips surrounding the special event to both the North West and South West regions, to showcase WA's regions. The 15-strong PCB famils will bring a national focus with further, post-event coverage via the aforementioned media contacts.
Please click here for further information and details on special packages for PCB members.
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PCB's new 'Perth has never been closer' campaign
PCB's exciting new national marketing initiative with Virgin Blue targeting the corporate and incentive market is now live. Members are welcome to pass this information on to any groups travelling to Perth in the future that have not yet made flight or hotel arrangements.
Groups (ten or more) travelling to Perth can take advantage of two great offers:
- PCB is offering a $50 per delegate 'land bonus' to national corporate meetings who confirm their next meeting for Perth before 30 June 2011.
- Low fares flying Virgin Blue to Perth from Melbourne or Sydney;
The campaign targets east coast corporate decision makers via a direct email campaign and various online media. Note that the two offers can be purchased separately and that PCB is not actively assisting with the airfare component - Virgin Blue's contact details are on our website. Terms and conditions apply; please click here to view full details on the PCB website.
If you receive any queries from potential corporate clients regarding this please forward them to Kara Coote, Business Development Manager on 9218 2904.
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PCB's 2011 Photo Shoots - thank you!
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| PCB members volunteer for the City Shoot, at The Greenhouse on St Georges Terrace |
PCB's photo shoots were a roaring success, thanks to the strong support of our members who donated their time, energy and smiling faces to help us defray the very high on-going cost of employing professional models.
The shoots over the last month or so have gathered an invaluable portfolio of business events images at locations throughout Perth, including Kings Park and the City, Swan Valley, Fremantle, Cottesloe and Mandurah. Highlights included a cruise along the Mandurah estuary with a pod of four dolphins, beers at Little Creatures in 'Freo', drumming with Human Rhythms in the vines at Sandalford, enjoying the stunning views of C Restaurant with a glass of bubbles, and canapés at Cottesloe Beach Hotel.
A huge thank you to all those who attended the jam-packed shoots; everyone agreed it was a fun experience and a great way to network with fellow members. The photos will be uploaded onto the PCB website's image gallery over the coming month which - as PCB members - you have exclusive access to when promoting Perth as a business events destination.
If any members have images that they would allow PCB to use freely (especially regional members) then feel free to email through to Shenade Unicomb, at: sunicomb@pcb.com.au.
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PCB Engaging with Members
PCB Member networking event at The Breakwater
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| PCB's Managing Director Christine Allen welcomes members |
Thank you to all members that attended 'Rhythm on the Water', the Bureau's member networking event held on 22 March at the spectacular Breakwater, situated at Hillary's Boat Harbour.
PCB Managing Director Christine Allen welcomed guests to the plush Akoya Suite where the professional team at the Breakwater served drinks and sumptuous canapés. We had over 80 guests attend the event, a fantastic turnout and all proceeds raised on the night - $1750 - went to the Lord Mayor's Distress Relief Fund for WA. Our idyllic West Australian weather provided a perfect backdrop; the room was abuzz with smiles and conversation.
Mickey Shaked from Human Rhythms and his band provided laid-back tunes, and a highlight was Mickey turning the room into a sea of colour and rhythm with his vibrant musical tubes. Thanks again to all members that came along - we can't wait for the next member event!
Images courtesy of Brooke Miles Photography
Digital Media presentation for PCB members
PCB extended an open invitation to members to join us at a free workshop and light breakfast on the 28 January at St Catherine's College in Nedlands. Veteran Digital Strategist Andrew Dalton of the Vivid Group discussed the new realm that is the online marketing world.
Topics discussed included social media, the Google phenomenon, mobile phone technology and tips on customer conversion and online customer service.
Feedback from members was that it was an eye-opening presentation that afforded them a good overview of the valuable tools on offer in the 'dark science' of the digital media world. Thank you to our kind sponsors Vivid Group and St Catherine's College.
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Connecting with Clients
AIME wrap-up
The Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) was held at the Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre, 15-16 February. The event attracted approximately 3,849 trade visitors including 670 hosted buyers from more than 20 countries. There were 848 exhibitors.
Once again, PCB coordinated the award-winning Western Australian stand from which a total of 14 exhibitors participated. There was a terrific buzz on the AIME trade show floor this year and stand partners reported good business leads being discussed.
PCB-gathered post-AIME statistics, showing that there was:
- 350 visitors to the stand (includes PSA appointments and "walk-ins")
- 260 with potential for bringing business to WA
- 51 leads (defined pieces of business)
- 4 pieces of confirmed business so far valued at approximately $185,000
Exhibitors felt that although foot traffic seemed lower than last year, the leads were more qualified, providing good quality medium and long term opportunities. No-shows were also at a minimum. Thanks to all members who ensured the stand was a vibrant 'space to connect'.
Post-AIME Famil
The 2011 Perth and Fremantle post-AIME famil was conducted from Thursday 17 - Sunday 20 March. The famil group consisted of four international hosted buyers from Europe and the US (mainly incentive travel) and 1 journalist from New Zealand who writes for Travel Inc Magazine.
A variety of Western Australian product was showcased over the 4 days as the group covered areas of Perth, Fremantle and the Swan Valley. Highlights included Swan River sailing, wine blending at Sandalford Winery and a helicopter flight over Perth.
In addition to other national editorial coverage and placed adverts, NZ Journalist Kathy Ombler's account of the famil will be published in the April issue of Travel Inc, and also on the Travel Inc website and e-newsletter. This was the first visit to WA for most of the group, therefore this was largely educational. With this in mind 3 pieces of business have been outlined as potential leads.
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| Swan River Sailing - in 40+ degrees with minimal wind! |
The TWA & PCB Singapore office
Staff from the Singapore office of the Perth Convention Bureau and Tourism Western Australia organised a special delivery combining Asian and Western traditions. Gifts were personally delivered to our travel partners on Valentine's Day which also coincided with Lunar New Year.
As Valentine's Day fell during the 15-day long Lunar New Year festivities which began on 3 February, the ladies organised deliveries of chocolate heart-shaped cakes accompanied by eight oranges, a customary gesture observed during the Lunar New Year that symbolises wishes for prosperity and fortune on the receiver.
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| PCB & TWA staff in Chinese outfits with staff of Gasi Holidays |
PCB at EAN
PCB exhibited at the first annual Executive Assistant Network (EAN) Perth Congress at Burswood on 5 and 6 February. Along with other PCB members, the stand targeted not only PAs and EAs but also potential local hosts via the corporate world. The team also promoted the WA Referrals Desk, encouraging the local market to use PCB as a reliable, fuss-free source of information for meetings in WA. We've already received a number of enquiries from delegates at the EAN event which been forwarded to members as leads.
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PCB Member News
New CEO for Tourism Council WA
Western Australia's peak tourism lobby group, Tourism Council WA, is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Chief Executive Officer, Mr Evan Hall. Mr Hall replaces outgoing CEO Graham Moss, who has been in the role for 3 years. Mr Hall joins Tourism Council WA from the Tourism and Transport Forum where he was National Manager Tourism and Policy Director for 5 years.
Perth Expo wins huge CHOGM contract
PCB Member and designer of the award-winning Western Australia stand at AIME 2010 - Perth Expo Hire and Furniture Group - has won a multi-million dollar contract for the design, build and fit out of all Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2011 venues. The CHOGM 2011 Taskforce announced the deal following an open tender process available nationally. Congratulations to Robin Rudaizky and his Belmont-based team.
CHOGM update
Prime Minister Julia Gillard has confirmed that Her Majesty The Queen will travel to Australia for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Perth later this year. Two new sporting events leading up to CHOGM: international netball competitions between Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Malawi, plus a newly formatted hockey tournament, known as the International Super Series that will be unlike any other hockey tournament in the world. Also announced is that Fremantle will host Youth CHOGM, an important event in supporting leaders of the future.
City of Perth launches new events and retailer website
The City of Perth has launched a new website - www.showmeperth.com.au - which provides a one-stop-shop for people looking for information about the city, including city retailers, new events and places to wine and dine. The website covers the CBD, West Perth, East Perth and most of Northbridge. Anyone planning a public event, large or small, is encouraged to contact the City of Perth with event details.
Qantas targets huge east/west growth
Qantas is targeting the growing demand from business travelers between the eastern states and Perth by deploying internationally configured wide-body aircraft to these routes including its Boeing 747 aircraft.
Qantas will increase its capacity into and out of Perth by more than 4300 seats each week, a direct response to the growing demand for travel to Perth particularly from business passengers. Qantas' significant capacity growth on these routes is a clear endorsement of Perth and WA's increasing reputation as both a corporate and leisure destination.
Virgin Blue reveals new Sydney-Perth pricing
Virgin Blue has released details of its pricing for its Airbus A330-200 aircraft, which are set to fly from Sydney to Perth from May 26 complete with a domestic business class product for the first time.
The Airbus A330s will debut Virgin Blue's domestic Business Class offering and introductory pricing on the Sydney-Perth route in Business Class is $1399 one-way. Initially, Virgin CEO and Managing Director John Borghetti said the airline will operate a daily A330 service each way, before moving to a twice-daily offering from June 6 and a thrice-daily operation from July 7.
Pan Pacific unveils $4.5M refurbishment
Pan Pacific Perth opened its doors in Perth on 6 January this year and on 21 March, the hotel unveiled the results of a $4.5 million Convention Level refurbishment to approximately 200 guests.
The upgrade to the Convention Floor encompassing 2120 sqm of meeting space includes the meeting rooms, pre-function areas and the distinguished Golden and Grand River Ballrooms. Bold and contemporary decor including opulent black crystal chandeliers and artwork, custom-designed carpet, the latest audio visual technology will provide creative scope to suit all events.
EIA launches new website and re-brands
The Events Industry Association of Western Australia (EIA) has undergone a modest re-branding including a new logo; the development of a new website (www.eia.com.au); industry wide research to determine the value of the event industry in Western Australia; a strong professional development program; and a review of the current membership structure.
A new Promaco
Well known Platinum PCB Member Promaco Conventions has closed its doors after 25 successful years in the industry. However, a new company called Success Events Management has bought the trading name of Promaco Conventions and will continue at the same address and same phone numbers. Lifetime PCB Member and former Managing Director of Promaco, Don Pearce, will continue as a consultant to the new owners. Livia Russell, formerly of the Esplanade Hotel in Fremantle, is the new Managing Director.
Busselton Jetty flourishing
The longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere - the Busselton Jetty has reopened after a $27 million refurbishment program. New features include interpretive nodes and fish cleaning bays, swimming and diving platforms, rain shelters, and heritage sculptures. The popular train service has also re-commenced. Visitors can also explore Geographe Bay's amazing marine life as they descend eight metres to the ocean floor via a spiral staircase at the jetty's Underwater Observatory.
New Foodie Haven at the Fremantle Markets
The City of Fremantle has carried out extensive conservation works reconstructing the corner of the market building that will once again take on the original appearance of the market when it was first constructed in 1897 - like stepping back in time. In June it will be home to local burger franchise, much-loved Jus Burgers.
"The Yard" within the Markets is a burgeoning haven for Perth foodies, restaurateurs and chefs. The 'Basic Demo Cooking Area' is run by well-known local chefs and celebrities, including Anna Gare, Sophie Budd and Russell Blaikie. The Yard also has live seafood, free range and organic meats, cheeses, a bakery, and organic fruit and veg.
Fraser's Restaurant... open for business
Fraser's, up high in Kings Park, is open for business and serving lunch and dinner daily, despite the 270-degree Observation Deck that sits up on top of the restaurant being completely shut-down and remodeled in time for CHOGM. The restaurant has undergone a complete facelift - for the first time since its inception in 1993. There's a new bar, new flooring, furniture and fixtures; new lighting and wall coverings, even a new roof. The menu and winelist have also changed so head up to Kings Park and check out this award-winning PCB member.
Bunker Bay refurbs
Quay West Resort Bunker Bay has completed part of an extensive three-stage refurbishment program with all of the resort's luxurious studio, one, two and three-bedroom villas now sporting new wooden floors, flat screen TVs, new bedding packages and re-upholstered lounges. Following the villa refurbishment, the reception, restaurant and bar has been completely made-over and by mid-2011, the resort's onsite spa - Mii Spa - will receive its new look.
Parmelia Hilton refreshed
All guestrooms at the Parmelia Hilton Perth now have new Hilton 'Serenity' beds, the latest electronic safes and new ergonomic desk chairs. In January the hotel opened its brand new gym with state-of-the-art gym equipment and in February pool area renovations were completed.
Burswood's latest developments
InterContinental Perth Burswood continues its multi-million dollar refurbishment to guestrooms, floor foyers, the refurbished Atrium Buffet Restaurant and the glamorous Lobby Lounge. Burswood's newest premium dining venue, Modo Mio Cucina Italiana, is set to open in early June 2011 once head chef Giampaolo Maffini arrives from Milan.
Hyatt Regency revamps
The first stage of the Hyatt's most significant upgrade in its history is now complete. Regency Club levels on floors 8 and 9 of the hotel now have been refurbished and guestrooms on floor 7 have been completely redesigned. Stage two will see further enhancements to guestrooms that received a soft upgrade during stage one. Advances to public areas are included with the pool already finished. Improvements to the lobby and corridors are also scheduled. All works are scheduled for completion in June 2011.
Human Rhythms - Perth's newest team-building idea
This specialist team building business now has an office in Perth. Director Mickey Shaked has moved to Perth with his family and has already rocked the PCB world with his unique method of using music and rhythm to inspire and motivate teams of people. Mickey appeared at PCB's Member event at The Breakwater last month and is keen to help out at any charity events in Perth.
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PCB member goes 100% green after seminar
PCB Member, Green Promotions, switched its entire promotional product range to 100% Carbon Neutral following PCB's 'Green Credentials' seminar in July last year.
Managing Director Johnathan Johnston attended the seminar which highlighted 'triple bottom line accountability' - people, planet and profit. The seminar's ethos really hit home with Johnathan who initiated change across the entire company immediately.
"Since we've made each cap, shirt, USB drive - indeed every branded promotional product we sell 100% Carbon Neutral, we've had nothing but support from both new and existing clients" explains Johnathan. "The beauty of it is that, as we wear this cost as part of our company ethos, it comes at no extra cost to our customers."
"Now, by choosing Green Promotions our clients can demonstrate their commitment to addressing climate change in a way that makes it easy for everyone," Johnathan explains. Find our more at: www.greenpromo.net.au
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Johnathan proudly displaying the Green Promotions Carbon Reduction Certificate
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Convention Scene
Conferences secured by PCB coming to a venue near you...
The Perth Event Show 2011
5-6 May
Perth Convention Exhibition Centre
Hire and Rental Association Ltd Convention and Exhibition 2011
10 - 13 May
Perth Convention Exhibition Centre
Estimated delegates: 725
Australasian College of Dermatologists 44th Annual Scientific Meeting
15 - 18 May
Perth Convention Exhibition Centre
Estimated delegates: 400
International Congress on Innovations in Nursing 2011
18 - 20 May
Perth Convention Exhibition Centre
Estimated delegates: 300
Australasian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Annual Conference 2011
20 - 22 May
Mercure Hotel Perth
Estimated delegates: 125
2011 Annual National Bonsai Seminar
20 -23 May
Esplanade Hotel Fremantle
Estimated delegates: 270
Toastmasters District 73 Annual Convention 2011
20 - 22 May
Parmelia Hilton Perth
Estimated delegates: 300
Franchising and Business Opportunities Expo 2011
21 - 22 May
Perth Convention Exhibition Centre
Estimated delegates: 5,000
Australasian Therapeutic Communities Association (ATCA) National Conference 2011
30 May - 03 June
Esplanade Hotel Fremantle
Estimated delegates: 250
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New Members
Who's new to PCB?
PCB extends a warm welcome to the following new members:
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Arrivals & Departures
New Director of International Marketing at TWA
Congratulations to former PCB board member, Kelsie Johnston, who has been appointed to the role of Director International within the Marketing Division at Tourism WA. Kelsie has had extensive international tourism marketing experience over the last eight years with the Esplanade Hotels Group and was formerly Sales and Marketing Manager at Esplanade Fremantle.
Changes to Esplanade Fremantle
Jeanette Friedrich is now Conference & Banquets Business Development Manager for the Esplanade Hotel Fremantle, replacing Dawn Harrison who has moved to the position of Banquet Sales Manager. Dawn replaces Livia Russell who has left the company for Promaco.
Hilton's staff moves
After 36 years with Hilton International including two spells as General Manager of the Parmelia Hilton Perth, Ruth Harrison has decided to leave the Company and the hotel to make beautiful Perth her permanent home, declaring there is no better place to live.
Parmelia Hilton Perth welcomes Kim Boyd to their Business Development team. Kim joins the Hilton with 15 years hospitality experience, her most recent role with Assured Hospitality as Business Development Manager of Ascot Quays and Waterside Apartments.
Kendrick joins EECW
Grace Kendrick has recently joined EECW in the role of Director, Marketing & Business, bringing extensive industry experience in the sales and marketing sector, particularly within the hotel industry. Grace was most recently Director of Sales and Marketing at the Rydges Perth.
BBC's Bresland moves on
After four years of service to BBC, "Entertainment Guru" Cheryl Breslund will be leaving the company on 21 April, to move on to "the next sparkly chapter". Cheryl said, "To my valued clients, thank you for your support and quality events, I have some amazing memories to treasure and have developed friendships that will last for many years to come. Best wishes to all."
New face for Goodearth and Ambassador
The Goodearth and Perth Ambassador Hotels have appointed a new Functions Coordinator, June Spicer. June has been a part of the hotels' team for two years as a Front Desk Supervisor and is making the logical step to contribute to the functions team. June aid, "I am excited about taking on the role with new challenges and promoting the hotels' diverse range of conference, meeting and function facilities."
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