<< Back

PROGRAM: The program was a balanced mix of conferencing, an industry film festival, themed exhibition, a social program for networking, and a little time for leisure. Meetings consisted of a main plenary room and various breakout sessions plus pre-satellite meetings for major sponsors.

EXHIBITION: Exhibition space for 35 booths was set in and around La Fontaine restaurant, foyer and linkways. Themed to La Piazza ( building on the existing environment and décor), fountains, signage, plinths, large pots, a café and lots of red gingham turned the area into a vibrant Italian market place.

SOCIAL: A sailing regatta provided a break on the free afternoon for competitive fun and the opportunity for sponsors to network with key clients while enjoying the beauty of the region. Sponsors ‘owned’ a yacht and trophies were awarded. Function experiences provided broad variety, all with the Hayman special touch and quality. Due to the weather we explored just about every corner of the many function options around the facility. The planned ‘Masquerade in Venice’ would have turned the famed Hayman pool area into the streets of Venice.

SPECIAL TOUCHES: An evening of seafood indulgence for 120 commenced with 10 minute helicopter scenic flights, landing on a private deserted island for sunset cocktails – a moment to remember! A children’s program including dinners and babysitters was designed allowing parents the opportunity to enjoy the entire program.

CHALLENGES: The one thing, totally out of everyone’s control - the weather! Although The Whitsundays is traditionally stable during winter we hit the jackpot with the mist and rain preventing a special host from arriving and having to move three of the functions indoors. Luckily Hayman has the capacity for these plan B options and a staff totally capable of turning things around in a short period of time.

COMMENT: Hayman is a destination many PCOs don’t consider because of the venue’s size and location. The ability to have sole use of the island enables flexibility and cost savings and the area for a large exhibition. The events team on Hayman were one of the best we have worked with and we developed a great working relationship with all of them. Having this relationship enabled us to run a seamless meeting with many ‘on the spot’ changes due to weather and our client’s on-site needs. Feedback from delegates has once again confirmed another overwhelming success.

Jenny Boden, Managing Director, Corporate Communique