2018 - 2019 Annual Report SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD

CONTENTS

Company Profile & Background 04 Chairman’s Report 05 General Manager’s Report 06 Corporate Governance 07 Board of Directors 08 Ambassadors 10 Volunteers 11 Organisational Chart 12 Centre Management Team 13 The Events Centre Team 17 Strategic Charter Goals 20 Cultural, Economic and Social Value 21 Community Arts Support 22 Creative Programming 23 Engaging with the Community 26 Supporting the Community 27 Quality Service Delivery 28 Business and Corporate Events 28 Corporate Information As at November 2019 Patron Satisfaction 29 Safety 29 Sunshine Coast Events Centre Pty Ltd ABN 38 127 655 510 A Premier Facility 30 20 Minchinton Street CALOUNDRA QLD 4551 Financally Sustainable Organisation 35 PO Box 5 CALOUNDRA QLD 4551 Management Accounts 36 Phone: (07) 5491 4240 Fax: (07) 5491 4944 e: [email protected] SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTDwww.theeventscentre.com.au ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 3 COMPANY PROFILE AND BACKGROUND

The purpose of the Company is to facilitate participation and enjoyment of performing arts, and to provide first class venues for performances, conferences and exhibitions.

The facility was officially opened in 1980 by the former Landsborough Shire Council in response to community needs.

Recognising the value the Centre was contributing to the economy and cultural community, and adapting to changes in governance and community demands, the Caloundra City Council established the Sunshine Coast Events Centre Pty Ltd (SCEC) in 2004 as a separate governance structure to operate The Events Centre, the Sunshine Coast’s premier performing arts, commercial entertainment and convention facility.

The Sunshine Coast Events Centre Pty Ltd, the statutory body that operates The Events Centre, was formed to manage the facility for the conduct of community and civic events. The Centre has evolved to now provide diverse cultural programs and activities that support regional cultural, economic and community development.

The Company has two streams:

• entrepreneuring, creating and presenting cultural events and performing arts activities; and

• providing professional creative event management services to support hirers with planning, marketing, ticketing, technical, staging and hospitality services for conferences, business events and performances.

During 2018-2019 the facility was closed for five months and worked around a $6m capital works program of improvements.

ANNUAL HIGHLIGHTS 2018 – 2019 2017 - 2018

Days Utilised 191 days 272 days

Number of Days in Period 232 days 365 days

Utilisation Rate 82% 75%

Event Numbers 412 Events 580 Events

Number of People 85,676 105,192 Annual Operating Surplus $6,493 $62,784

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 4 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

It has been a year like no other for The Events seriously and are proud that, once again, we Centre. For 19 weeks the venue was closed to the were able to present a number of performances public, while a $6 million upgrade - courtesy of a showcasing the talent, creativity and energy of the Federal Government grant from the Building Better Sunshine Coast arts community. Regions Fund, Council and community contributions – rejuvenated a facility that had been showing signs As always, I am grateful for the support, hard work of needing a facelift after nearly 40 years of activity. and commitment of The Events Centre’s Board of Directors, which met diligently throughout the We had hoped that when it reopened at the end of year to chart the Company’s course and monitor April, the renovation would be complete, and the its activities. The Board was enhanced during the Centre would be shiny, new and ready to welcome year by the inclusion of Ricki-lee Bernhardt-Turpin, patrons to a wonderful new entertainment venue. whose energy and enthusiasm has injected new vitality to our Board. However, when the doors reopened on April 28 for a As a result of the Board policy of limiting director performance by legendary entertainer Petula Clark, tenure to ensure there is a continual refreshment considerable work remained to be done, even though of personnel, we will sadly farewell long-serving it was clear to everybody that the improvements director Don Smith at the end of this calendar were outstanding, and that we had a performing arts year. Don has been a close friend and colleague facility commensurate with a region of the standing of of mine for many years, and his wisdom, knowledge the Sunshine Coast. and passion for The Events Centre will be greatly That we could accommodate audiences in a not- missed by all of us. quite complete venue, and present a packed During the year, the Board reviewed and updated the program of diverse events - on time, in comfort and Company’s Governance Plan, introduced a system without a single cancellation - was a tribute to the whereby directors were challenged to become extraordinary efforts of our staff, superbly led by champions of various aspects of the business, General Manager, Gary Mears, and ably assisted by engaged consultant Bendelta to advise us on the an army of volunteers who do so much to enhance most appropriate organisational structure for the the experience of our patrons. It was no surprise to Company, and analysed the outcome of a strategic any of us, but nevertheless a cause of great pride, planning workshop involving staff and directors. when Gary went on to be named Venue Professional of the Year at the 2019 Asia Pacific Venue Industry I am excited about the future of The Events Centre Awards – the first person to be so honoured in this and confident that it will not only fulfil the expectations country while working at a regional venue. we all have of a facility that is acknowledged as the premier performing arts venue on the Sunshine In presenting The Events Centre’s Annual Report Coast, but set standards on a national scale that and financial statements for the year to June 30, will make all of the region proud. On behalf of 2019, I wish to thank Gary and all of his team for the Board, I offer my sincere thanks to everybody their hard work, passion, loyalty and commitment to involved in making this facility the success that it is. always displaying courtesy and providing outstanding customer service in every area of our business. And Now, we can do all of that in a facility that boasts state I also thank patrons and clients of The Events Centre of the art technology, comfort, catering facilities, for their patience and understanding during what has and sound equipment that greatly enhances the been a difficult – sometimes stressful – period. theatre going experience. For that, we are grateful to the Federal Government and, particularly, to the Ours is a unique facility. It is one of the largest Sunshine Coast Council, which not only provided regional performing arts centres in the country – and half the funds for the renovation, but importantly is surely the most versatile. We present cultural and a constant backer and benefactor of The Events corporate events in a venue that offers two separate Centre. The advice and support provided by key theatres, host conferences, seminars, meetings and Council officers is invaluable and provides comfort elaborate banquets, and deliver customer service to the Board I lead in constantly seeking to grow and technical expertise that our hirers tell us is and improve the facility. second to none.

Even though the Centre was closed for four months of the year, I am delighted to report the Company managed a modest 2018-2019 profit of $6,493 – the result of outstanding stewardship of Charlie Haxton and his financial team, and the hectic program of events that our staff were able to deliver during the months we were open. A key focus of The Events Centre is to facilitate Cr Tim Dwyer community participation in, and enjoyment of, performing arts. We take this responsibility very Chairman Deputy Mayor and Division 2 Councillor

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 5 GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT

As you read this report, I hope you can appreciate the best theatre and performances from Australia the contributions made by so many people to realise and overseas, great music, comedy, and children’s the significant outcomes achieved by The Events events. Centre in 2018-2019. Whilst there were many outstanding performances, events and milestones, We have developed partnerships, assisted the a significant part of the year involved a major facility burgeoning thrust of creative local arts and refurbishment with more than $6m of capital works encouraged community members wanting to and equipment upgrades. showcase their talents and passion for the arts. We proudly congratulate our local talent, emerging The Events Centre is recognised not only in its artists, schools and arts organisations on their distinctive artistic footprint, but also for the sheer outstanding productions during 2018-2019. number of performances, events and audiences it attracts. It is also recognised for its regional The Events Centre again secured a raft of national, leadership, community contribution, outstanding state and local conferences that boosted the regional customer service and business practice. economy. Partnerships with Council, Caloundra Chamber of Commerce, Caloundra Tourism and For 39 years the venue has hosted a continual local businesses have helped realise the commercial, turnover of performances, dinners, business events, tourism and economic benefits of attracting major conferences, workshops, graduations, meetings, conferences and new visitors to the region. concerts, eisteddfod, community and private celebrations. The fully serviced venue is a jewel The Events Centre continued to contribute to in the crown of the Sunshine Coast with two fully key community and fund raising organisations equipped theatres, versatile function rooms, large as supporters, sponsors, mentors and service commercial kitchen and capacity for 1,500 patrons. providers, ensuring deep community engagement It is regarded as one of the region’s most influential to back the dedication and good work of those who businesses connecting and playing a significant make the Sunshine Coast a more robust and better role for local businesses and the lives of residents place to live. across all ages and stages of life. It is exciting to be a part of, and contribute to, the Sunshine Coast Events Centre Directors have significant impact the venue has on the lives of led conversations in support of critical investment so many people. It is such a privilege to be part of in cultural infrastructure to underpin the future The Events Centre operations. I proudly thank and economic and cultural development of the region. acknowledge the support of the SCEC Directors We are delighted and most grateful for the Sunshine and the exceptional team of dedicated staff and Coast Council’s support of upgrades to The Events volunteers that I have the pleasure of working with Centre. There is still much to look forward to with the each day. All of the accolades The Events Centre Caloundra Cultural Precinct Masterplan, including receives are recognition of their achievements. completion of The Events Centre upgrades, Without audiences there is no reason to perform. expansion of the Regional Gallery, Library and work So thank you to all of our patrons whose support on the public realm, including public art, laneways underpins the success of each performance, event and connections to Caloundra CBD. and celebration held at the Centre. On behalf of the Board, management and staff of In summary, we are proud to showcase our The Events Centre, I wish to acknowledge Sunshine achievements in this report and to demonstrate our Coast Council and its staff for continually providing appreciation for the support that has been provided. capital improvements, maintenance and support services that enable the Company to best serve the We have a proud past and invite you to be a part of community. our exciting future. This has been a challenging year with a large number of events compressed into a reduced timeframe to enable a 19 week closure period for major works. We apologise to those who may have been inconvenienced by the disruptions and acknowledge the extra efforts, stress and pressures endured by our amazing staff to provide the best possible outcomes when challenges arose.

The SCEC team has worked hard to attract and secure world class and national touring entertainment Gary Mears that attracts and delights growing attendances and CVE | AVM | General Manager interest in performing arts. It was our aim to present

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 6 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The Company has established a Strategic Charter and a suite of goals and values that clearly outline how the vision and purpose of the Company will be achieved.

OUR VISION To be the Sunshine Coast’s leading venue for performing arts, entertainment, cultural and corporate events.

OUR PURPOSE To facilitate community participation in, and enjoyment of, performing arts; and to provide a first-class venue for performances, conferences and exhibitions.

OUR VALUES Proudly define the principles of how we operate and the care we take to achieve best practice and positive outcomes for all.

OUR GOVERNANCE The SCEC Governance Plan was reviewed and updated during the year to assist and guide the performance of all The Events Centre (TEC) participants including the Board, General Manager, Staff and Volunteers. The Plan is intended to help develop a shared understanding of why, how and who is responsible for the effective governance of TEC.

The Sunshine Coast Events Centre Pty Ltd’s Board of Directors has undertaken due diligence in regularly meeting and monitoring the performance of the Company throughout the 2018-2019 year. The Company has complied with the Statement of Corporate Intent and the Constitution for the holding of meetings and provision of documentation for the period.

The Board of Directors planned, developed and reviewed Company performance through regular meetings of the full Board and sub-committees.

• Governance, Risk and Audit Sub-committee • Finance Sub-committee • Marketing and Programming Sub-committee • Philanthropy and Sponsorship Sub-committee • Assets, Building and Infrastructure Sub-committee

An Annual General Meeting (AGM) was conducted on 27 November 2018 with acknowledgement of 2017- 2018 operational achievements. The AGM was attended by Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson and SCC shareholder representative Greg Laverty, Group Executive, Economic and Community Development.

The 2017-2018 Annual Report and Financial Statements were presented at the AGM with the Queensland Audit Office recognising the Company’s achievements with a 14th consecutive clean audit. In 2018-2019 the Company once again achieved clean audit status.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 7 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CR TIM DWYER Chairman and Sunshine Coast Councillor, Deputy Mayor and Division 2 Councillor Cr Tim Dwyer grew up in Caloundra and has represented the Caloundra region as a Councillor since 2000. He has been a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors since 2005. Tim is a keen sportsman and played and coached rugby league for many years. He holds a number of awards in rugby league and surf lifesaving. Tim has a deep knowledge of the Sunshine Coast and is proud of the region and its people and is committed to serving the needs of his constituents and those of the wider community.

PETER OWEN Deputy Chair Peter Owen had 50 years’ experience in the newspaper and publishing industries in Australia and overseas before he retired in 2015 from the position of APN’s Group Executive Editor, where he had responsibilities across 14 regional daily newspapers and more than 70 non-daily titles. For 15 years (1990-2004) he was Editor-in-Chief of the Sunshine Coast Newspaper Company, which publishes the Sunshine Coast Daily and a dozen community titles. He was also editor of The Star (Hong Kong), the Queensland Times (Ipswich) and Queensland Country Life. He was a director of the Queensland Events Corporation from 1996 to 2009. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Journalism from Queensland’s J-School in 2008, and is an Honorary Fellow of the University of the Sunshine Coast. He is a former vice president of the Maroochy River Golf Club, and a former Member of the Australian Press Council. Currently he is a media consultant to several Sunshine Coast businesses.

PAUL SMITH Having managed his own company on the Sunshine Coast for three decades, Paul Smith has a comprehensive background in business management, marketing, project management, consultancy and finance. He also has extensive expertise in player and event management, having administered everything from sport, cultural and entertainment events in Queensland and overseas. Some of these numerous events included the grand opening of the $290 million Sunshine Plaza Shopping Centre, several US Masters Golf Tours, the Ian Healy Testimonial Match at the Gabba, Brisbane, and the legendary Michael Crawford in Concert at Hyatt Regency Coolum.

JEANETTE BURROWS Jeanette Burrows has an extensive background in strategic planning and marketing and is the former Deputy Director of the Queensland Performing Arts Trust and the former Executive Director of Strategy, Planning and Regional Services for the Department of Emergency Services. Prior to her career in the public sector, Jeanette was employed in various private enterprise positions including Public Affairs Manager of Mobil Oil. She is a former Board Member of The Keep Australia Beautiful Council, and Executive Producer of various events for the 1996 Brisbane Festival. She holds a Bachelor of Science (Environment) and a Masters of Administration.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 8 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DON SMITH Don Smith served Caloundra City Council as an elected Councillor for 14 years, eight of those as Deputy Mayor. Don helped to instigate the necessary procedures to set up The Events Centre as a company and then became one of the original Board Directors. Prior to undertaking a political career, Don was a mechanical engineer and spent 10 years building homes and units on the Sunshine Coast. In 1983 he developed his own business in Body Corporate Management which he undertook for 14 years. Don served on the boards of Quad Park, Caloundra Chamber of Commerce, Caloundra Tourism and Caloundra Economic Development.

KEVIN RADBOURNE Born and educated in Brisbane, Kevin Radbourne has enjoyed a long and active artistic and administrative involvement with the arts sector as an actor, director, producer and CEO. Positions held include Executive Director Arts Queensland, Deputy Executive Director Office of Arts and Cultural Development, Deputy Director Queensland Performing Arts Centre and Coordinating Producer of the Brisbane Festival. Previous board directorships include Brisbane Arts Theatre (Chairman), Queensland Cultural Centre Trust (Deputy Chairman), Arts Industry Training Advisory Board (Deputy Chairman), Pacific Film and Television Commission, Pacific Film Festivals Ltd, Library Board of Queensland, State Library Foundation Council, Queensland Performing Arts Trust and the Queensland Theatre Company.

ROBERT FORBES Robert Forbes had a 40 year career in the chartered accounting profession prior to his retirement to the Sunshine Coast in 2011 with some 25 years spent as a partner of a medium size firm and specialising in audit engagements. He has a strong interest in the not-for-profit sector with his client base over the years reflecting this interest. Robert also served on a number of governance boards and was the Australian President of the Institute of Internal Auditors between 2003 and 2005. Professional experience covered the private sector and the three levels of government including substantial audit and consulting work in Queensland local and regional governments. From 2012–2019 Robert served as treasurer of the Queensland Air Museum based in Caloundra.

MALCOLM MCCOLM A native of Brisbane, Malcolm McColm studied at the University of Queensland and worked overseas before making his home on the Sunshine Coast. He is a practising lawyer and partner of the firm McColm Matsinger Lawyers of Maroochydore. He has formerly and continues to hold board appointments in companies and organisations with reach across business, sporting, conservation, education and charitable activities. Previous and current board directorships include Sunshine Coast Grammar School (chairman), Headland Golf Club (president, captain) and the Management Committee of Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Worldwide Limited. An advocate and avid follower of the Arts, Malcolm also invests his time in legal, business, sporting and gardening activities.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 9 BOARD OF DIRECTORS RICKI-LEE BERNHARDT-TURPIN Drive, determination and innovative ambition in performing arts and creative industries has been the motivation behind Ricki-lee Bernhardt-Turpin’s extensive 25 year career in drama education, creative industries and theatre. Ricki-lee is the Drama Excellence Coordinator at Kawana Waters State College and Vocational Trainer and Assessor for both Certificate II Creative Industries and Certificate III Live Production and Services. As founder and President of the Sunshine Coast Schools’ Drama Festival Inc. Ricki-lee leads a team of committed arts educators and artists to provide a platform for the youth of the Sunshine Coast to showcase their performance work. Ricki-lee is dedicated to inspiring students to see beyond their limitations, to look further afield and not to be bound by distance or money. She has worked tirelessly to develop partnerships with skilled practitioners, and her collaboration on various projects, along with the extensive recognition has earned her great respect and a reputation of extremely high work ethic which has led to Ricki-lee being awarded the title of Vocational Teacher of the Year and Ambassador for Queensland Vocational Education. Ricki-lee is thrilled to be a director on The Events Centre Board and is excited for what the future holds for our region’s very talented young people.

AMBASSADORS

Honorary ambassadors lead our vital connection with the community with appointments as; Business Ambassador and Volunteer Coordinator.

LYN JACKSON Business Ambassador Lyn comes from a hospitality background, having been involved in hotels and clubs from an early age. Lyn’s extensive experience has seen her work as a senior executive, responsible for managing major functions from conception through to completion. Lyn and her husband Don are actively involved in the industry and are judges for the Queensland Hotels Association awards. Lyn’s other area of passion is helping others through charity work. Lyn is passionate about the performing arts, having travelled near and far to see countless productions, and is focused on helping develop the cultural awareness of the Caloundra and Sunshine Coast region.

LESLEY MUIR Volunteer Coordinator Lesley has extensive experience in office management and the tourism industry, having previously been a manager of a large motel and restaurant in inner Brisbane. On moving to Caloundra more than 30 years ago, Lesley was appointed district manager of a large cosmetic company responsible for 150 sales representatives on the Sunshine Coast and surrounding towns. She later became manager of the well-known Rolling Surf Resort.

Since retiring, Lesley has become involved in a number of community groups, chairing organisations in the arts, aged care and transport for the aged. She has been a volunteer at the Tourist Information Centre and involved with Friends of the Caloundra Regional Art Gallery, first as treasurer and then as president.

Lesley is a board member of the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation (QCF) and the Greg Singh Bursary Association Inc. In 2001, she was awarded an Australian Government Centenary medal for her services to the community and in 2013 was awarded the Caloundra Community Award of ‘Community Resident Coordinator’ of the year.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 10 VOLUNTEERS

All patrons and hirers of The Events Centre are most appreciative of the dedication and contribution of our valued team of volunteers.

As an integral part of the Sunshine Coast community, The Events Centre relies heavily on members of the community as volunteers. More than 50 volunteers assisted as ushers for events and performances during the year, enabling higher standards of service, longer opening hours and lower operational costs than otherwise possible.

The volunteer program commenced in 2006 and four of the original volunteers are still volunteering for the Centre. The four are Lesley Muir, Marlena Lambert, Lynne Rix, and Loraine Porter.

Lesley Muir continued in her role as Volunteer Coordinator and her service has been outstanding. Lesley has been passionately leading the volunteer program since its inception, coordinating the volunteers, producing rosters, scheduling and creating and maintaining an enviable team spirit among the group.

This year our volunteers contributed more than 1,500 hours of time to The Events Centre. Through their time, the volunteers have contributed an estimated equivalent of $60,000 in wages this year. They assisted as volunteer ushers, meet and greet, distributed publicity, assisted with promotional postage and generally supported the work of the Centre.

Our volunteers proudly promoted the venue when guests arrived and across the region by meeting directly with the public.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 11 ORGANISATIONAL CHART

Under the General Manager the Company employed 12 permanent staff, 50 casual employees and a pool of contract staff. The Centre also benefited from a band of 50 dedicated volunteers.

Operationally, four departments undertake specific responsibilities for service delivery;

• Technical Production and Services • Programming and Marketing • Events and Hospitality Services • Finance and Corporate Services

Organisational Chart

Full Time Staff - 14 Sunshine Coast Governance, Risk and Audit Subcommittee Council

Casual Staff - 31 Marketing and Programming Sub-committee = 23 FTE in 2017/18

Contract Labour Hire (CLH) Sunshine Coast Assets, Building and Infrastructure Sub-committee Fresh / East Coast Events Centre Pty Ltd 3785 hours = 1.92 FTE Board of Directors Trading as The Events Centre Finance Sub-committee Volunteers - 50+

General Philanthropy and Sponsorship Sub-committee Manager

Programming Technical Conferences Finance Manager Manager & Events Manager Manager

Volunteer Marketing Box Office Head of Head Events Finance Corporate Coordinator Coordinator Coordinator Technical & Chef Coordinator Officer Services Production Officer

Events Supervisor x 2

Volunteer Casual Front Casual Casual Casual Casual Casual Casual Casual Support of House / Support Support Support Support Support Finance Officer Administration 50+ Ushers x 8 x 1 x 2 x 10 + (CLH) x 3 + (CLH) x 4 + (CLH) x 2 Officer x 1

• Audience • Creative • Technical • Food & • Event • Finance Development Programs Services Beverage Management Management • Major • Commercial • Production Management • MICE Sales • Yield Promoter Entertainment Services • Package • MICE Management Relationships • Volunteer • Workplace Development Business • Corporate • Marketing Coordinator Health & • Hospitality Development Governance Business • Volunteer Safety Training • MICE Client • Statistical Development Program • Building Relationship Reporting • Sponsorship • Box office Maintenance Management • Website & Ticketing • Asset • Corporate Development Services Management Event and • Customer • Capital Development Maintenance Service Program • Customer

Information correct as of 12/7/18

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 12 CENTRE MANAGEMENT TEAM

GARY MEARS General Manager Gary Mears is a seasoned arts administrator with extensive experience in festivals, events and venue management, strategic arts planning and creative development, as well as tourism, marketing and media management.

Gary’s professional experience includes Chief Executive Officer - Toowoomba Events and Tourism Corporation, Chief Executive Officer- Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Marketing and Media Manager - Ipswich City Council, Ipswich Civic Centre Venue Manager, general manager of his own business - Stagesound Promotions, arts consultant and professional entertainer.

He has been strategically involved as an executive board member or senior executive in more than 20 creative arts and community organisations, undertaking roles as chairman, president, vice president, secretary, treasurer and director. He has led industry best practice resulting in many awards, including Queensland Apprentice of the Year, Sunshine Coast Business Awards – Creative Industries, and is a Queensland Tourism Awards winner.

Gary is recognised by the International Association of Venue Managers as a Certified Venue Executive (CVE), an Accredited Venue Manager (AVM), Graduate of the Venue Management School and has accreditations including Advanced Diploma in Management, Advanced Diploma in Marketing, Diploma of Venues and Events, Diploma in Graphic Arts, AIM Management and was awarded a scholarship from the Australian Scholarships Foundation (ASF) to build leadership and governance in the Not-for-Profit sector.

In May 2019 he was named Venue Professional of the Year at the Asia Pacific Venue Awards.

As General Manager of The Events Centre, Gary is committed to developing events, audiences, conferences, artists, performances and the venue to inspire and entertain.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 13 CENTRE MANAGEMENT TEAM

CHARLIE HAXTON Finance Manager Charlie, a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA), has a Bachelor of Commerce degree and was admitted into the Australian Society of Accountants in 1995. He contributes valuable commercial experience to the Centre, having held senior finance management roles in eight different industry sectors across four countries prior to joining the Centre.

Charlie was integral in the establishment of the Sunshine Coast Events Centre Pty Ltd as a Company. He has developed and implemented internal controls and finance systems necessary for the successful transition of The Events Centre from local government to the corporate operating environment.

As Finance Manager, Charlie is responsible for the Company’s finance compliance and implementation of business models and systems to identify efficiencies and maximise stakeholder returns.

ROWAN MACLACHLAN Technical Manager Rowan has been involved in the entertainment industry for 21 years, starting out as a production assistant in 1997 for a variety of touring music acts on the Sunshine Coast, with his first employment at Caloundra Civic Centre in 1999. Rowan instantly developed a passion for live entertainment with a strong focus on entertainment technology.

Rowan has managed the technical departments of several Sunshine Coast Council venues and for various commercial, community and corporate settings. He has worked closely with hundreds of promoters, artists, production companies, designers and technicians to deliver countless events.

Rowan built his own digital lighting controller in 2002, developed the world’s first voice- operated stage lighting controller in 2005 and has been an active participant in the development of underlying lighting control technologies used on stages, festivals and art installations world-wide. In 2013, he was invited to speak about his work at the Gegenlicht Lighting conference in Germany and subsequently in 2014, invited back to Germany to consult for the global market leader in lighting control systems, MA Lighting.

Having toured many productions through theatres and venues Australia wide, Rowan has an insider’s understanding of the venue requirements and dynamics of professional touring companies.

Along with his family, he proudly calls the Sunshine Coast home.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 14 CENTRE MANAGEMENT TEAM

FRANCES JOHNSTONE Program Manager Frances has held senior arts and event management positions at Brisbane City Council, Queensland Performing Arts Centre and Logan City Council respectively. Frances holds a diploma in Events and Venue Management and is a member of Venue Management Association.

Frances is very passionate about providing diverse local performing arts opportunities so residents don’t have to travel outside of the region for quality entertainment. From working with local creative producers and developing a showcase of Sunshine Coast works, to canvassing promoter opportunities that will continue to bring great productions to the Sunshine Coast, Frances always strives to enhance local performing arts experiences.

ANDREW SCHLAER (TO 3 SEPTEMBER 2019) Conference and Events Manager

Andrew is a German-born Sydney chef who moved to the Sunshine Coast 28 years ago. He was the first chef ever engaged at The Events Centre, initially as Catering Manager/ Chef for Caloundra City Council before being promoted to Food and Beverage Manager prior to entering the training industry in a career change.

Andrew spent 10 years as a training manager for various registered training organisations throughout Queensland. In January 2018, Andrew returned to The Events Centre as Conference and Events Manager and resigned in September 2019.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 15 CENTRE MANAGEMENT TEAM

VENUE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARD

In May 2019, Caloundra Events Centre general The Venue Industry Awards are the premier manager Gary Mears was named Venue awards program for venue management Professional of the Year at the 2019 Asia Pacific professionals in the Asia-Pacific region and Venue Industry Awards in Melbourne. Mr Mears said the recognition would put the Sunshine Coast on the map. Mr Mears was one of three finalists and was up against executives of two major venues – the “Every venue has amazing achievements in the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre year and to be able to recognise the great things and Melbourne’s Olympic Park. the staff do in the community, and to be able to come back and celebrate that with our team, is It was the first time since the awards started in quite significant,” Mr Mears said. 2010 that a representative of a regional venue had won. “It’s the community pride we have in this building and the way we have supported the “The acknowledgement was great for the community through fundraising, community arts Sunshine Coast. It was also great for The Events development, and engagement with the venue to Centre,” Mr Mears said. “But also it’s significant support people to put on good events rather than for regional venues to be recognised as major just being a venue for hire,” he said. contributors to the venue industry.” “We’ve certainly been able to showcase the He said it was humbling to be up against the Centre as being a leading venue in the Australian best and biggest venues and be selected as the venue market and we will continue to attract industry professional of the year after six years at major events. the centre. “I have an extraordinary passion for the events “We’re now in the spotlight to attract more major industry,” Mr Mears said. events and conferences to the region.”

“Everyone who visits The Events Centre comes to gain something,” he said. “They come to reward themselves with an entertainment experience, a learning experience through a conference, to witness their favourite artist or to see their family perform on stage.

“For every experience, people choose to come to the Centre and go away richer for it, and I love being a part of that.”

Mr Mears said he was recognised for the strong sense of community created through the venue.

The Events Centre Caloundra conducted more than 400 events last year that ranged from performances to business conferences, and Mr Mears said the team supported each hirer and made sure each patron went home happy.

He said a successful event was the result of teamwork. It took a number of people pulling together to make events work, not just an individual.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 16 THE EVENTS CENTRE TEAM

TEAM DEVELOPMENT

The Events Centre is an exciting place to work and is serviced by an amazing team of event professionals committed to customer service and creating memorable experiences for all visitors to the venue.

Professional development and training Technical Manager Rowan Maclachlan attended opportunities were provided to staff during the professional development training at the Stage year, including development training, workshops Queensland Technical Managers Conference. and conferences to improve their knowledge, Rowan and Martin Edwards have achieved skills and capability to deliver positive outcomes Certification Level III in Dante (Digital audio for customers and the community. network design, commissioning and operation), which was an intensive two-day online assessment Staff members attended mandatory First Aid, with practical components to improve our audio CPR, Fire Warden and Emergency Evacuation production capacity to the highest industry standard. programs and maintained their Blue Card Working with Children requirement, Responsible Service Craig, Matt, Martin and Rowan gained of Alcohol and Responsible Management of Construction Industry White Cards to access and Licensed Venue accreditation. clean up the venue ahead of reopening.

Arts professional development programs and Two technicians undertook a ‘High Risk Work network events attended included: Business License’ training course in ‘Dogging’ (a course Events Sunshine Coast, Caloundra Chamber of in the application of theatre slinging techniques, Commerce, Sunshine Coast Business Women’s lifting equipment and movements of loads). Network, ARTour Showcase, Stage Queensland Technical Managers Conference, PAC Australia Marketing and Food & Beverage team Conference, Performing Arts Exchange, BOMnet professional development site inspection Ticketing and Marketing Conference and Stage included of Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Queensland Managers Conference. Centre and the Hospitality Expo.

Finance Manager Charlie Haxton attended two In line with the renovations of the facility, new CPA Australia conferences, one on management staff uniforms were introduced for the reopening accounting and the other a CPA congress to of the venue. maintain his status as a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) and to keep abreast of industry TEC staff and volunteers have a wonderful trends. community spirit. This year they supported a ‘Jeans and Boots for Farmers’ themed Program Manager Frances Johnstone attended dress code day on Friday 17 August, professional development workshops for children’s theatre with Patch Theatre Company and the with fundraising contributions raised to Adelaide Fringe Festival Honey Pot. support farmers.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 17 THE EVENTS CENTRE TEAM

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE PLANNING FOR CHANGE

The Board engaged management Meetings were held with TEC staff consultant Bendelta to review teams to address business and The Events Centre’s management cultural development opportunities as structure to ensure that it positions a result of planned building upgrades the organisation well for the future - a as well as reduced work hours for future that is predicated on growth and casual staff members during the demand, as a consequence of both Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF) regional growth and from a significant works closure period. upgrade of the facility. Resource and work plans were developed for the The approach taken by Bendelta was highly period of building works, December 2018 until consultative, resulting in adoption of the April 2019, including: recommended structural change to create clearer separation of role accountability on the one hand, • Technical team review of procedures whilst seeking a more team-based approach to and documentation surrounding event overarching organisational goals on the other. management. A new questionnaire for hirers to streamline information gathering and the quoting process, whilst better informing the Outcomes of the Bendelta organisational review hirer of venue capabilitiy and services. were progressed with extensive engagement by the management team in the design and implementation • Technical team procedures that address of a revised staffing structure. customer service, practical work place practices and safe work methods. The employment of new casual employees in Box Office, Technical and Event Services roles has been • administrative and process improvement productive, leading to reduced reliance and costs of projects. agency contract staff. • revised contracts and fees, standardised forms and marketing initiatives. A major recruitment drive during February/March led to the engagement of 15 casual staff to build a more • a review of other Performing Arts Centres productive team and reduce reliance on contract ‘Venue Hire’ collateral and ‘Catering Menus’. labour for technical and event services when the building reopened. • new marketing collateral produced for the newly refurbished venue including The appointment of five new casual theatre promotional video footage. technicians brought the Technical Services casual pool up to 15 technicians. Significant work was • a review of varied marketing channels for undertaken to rebuild the technical systems with new business events, including venue finding technology and equipment to meet future demand. websites, tradeshows and publications for the business events industry.

TEC supported work experience programs with local • noise management procedures with a schools and training organisations, including Siena decibel limit for live performances and our Catholic College, Kawana State High School and obligations to protect staff from prolonged Redmako Training. exposure.

• improved stocktake procedures and manuals for Point of Sale and EFT operations.

• cash handling review to implement process improvements and to reduce associated risks

• leave plans for all staff throughout the relocation period

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 18 SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 19 STRATEGIC CHARTER

OUR VISION To be the Sunshine Coast’s leading venue for performing arts, entertainment, cultural and corporate events.

OUR PURPOSE To facilitate community participation in, and enjoyment of, performing arts; and to provide a first-class venue for performances, conferences and exhibitions.

OUR GOALS

• Deliver cultural, economic and social value to the region • Grow audiences and encourage participation in performing arts • Engage with diverse communities • Attract, foster, sponsor and support quality events • Develop a financially sustainable organisation with multiple sources of income • Create and maintain the best facilities to sustain our business and serve the community • Provide a level of service that surprises and delights our patrons and clients • Provide excellence in the performing arts

OUR VALUES

• Work ethically and honestly to build integrity and trust • Develop processes and practices that empower staff, develop relationships and drive innovation • Undertake broad consultation, both internally and externally, in determining direction • Operate transparently while adhering to sound business practices • Work in an environment that is positive and enjoyable, and where we all feel valued • Work as one team; while recognising and utilising individual expertise • Have respect for ourselves, our customers and colleagues, our equipment, and the environment in which we work • Demonstrate a supportive culture for new ideas, and recognise those who demonstrate innovation • Hold ourselves, and others, accountable, and deliver on our promises

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 20 DELIVERING CULTURAL, ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL VALUE TO THE REGION

CULTURAL VALUES The Company promoted and encouraged community participation in and enjoyment of the performing, visual and community arts. EVENTS ECONOMIC VALUE SUMMARY The Centre was able to attract and host major conferences and events that boosted the regional economy with patronage from outside the region. Year 2018 - 2019 SOCIAL VALUE The Centre provided sponsorship and subsidised support and assisted a broad range of community groups with fundraising and positive community Total Number development outcomes. of Events 412 DIVERSE PROGRAMMING A deliberate focus was to source and secure acts that would appeal to the broadest cross-section of the Attendance community including age groups and genres. Total 85,676 ARTISTIC DEVELOPMENT The Company engaged with, supported and provided development opportunities for local performing artists and organisations through performances, rehearsal Performances/ space, workshops, competitions, promotional Rehearsals support and profile development. 182 VISUAL ARTS Displays of community art works in the Pumicestone Attendance Passage Gallery and Beausang Room attracted broad community interest and further positioned the venue 65,620 as a significant arts centre for the region.

Business,

Through the support of SCC Division Two Divisional Funds, Corporate, installation of gallery lighting and tracks was completed in the Private & other Pumicestone Passage. Caloundra Arts Centre Association Events Vice President Jonathan Jones AM assisted as curator for the community art exhibitions. The Sethna Pumicestone 230 Gallery was informally launched in conjunction with Rustum Sethna’s 90th birthday celebration which was held on the Attendance Playhouse stage on 18 August. Local visual artists have expressed their great appreciation in having additional 20,056 quality gallery space to showcase local talent.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 21 FOSTERING EXCELLENCE IN THE PERFORMING ARTS

COMMUNITY ARTS SUPPORT

The Events Centre facilitated a series of creative initiatives to assist performing artists to learn and develop skills in dance, acting, singing and stage presentation.

The Centre Sponsored Events program supported Menopause the Musical - Women on Fire, Australian Army Band, The Grigoryan Brothers, Sydney International Piano Competition, and Sunshine Coast Guitar Orchestra.

Children’s theatre performances included: Me and My Shadow by Patch Theatre Company, The Gruffalo, Alice in Wonderland and Shrek the Musical. It is encouraging to see the increasing number of The Centre worked closely with SCC to plan and youth participating in performing arts. present events in conjunction with the Horizon Festival. The 2018 Sunshine Coast Schools Drama Festival was a highlight of the year with The The venue committed to the ongoing development Events Centre being a major sponsor in of ‘The Merryatric Players’ seniors performance supporting youth cultural development. group to produce and present musical entertainment by Sunshine Coast seniors for Sunshine Coast Sunshine Coast leading dance schools chose seniors. The Events Centre as their performance venue of choice. The Events Centre supported the Caloundra French Festival by hosting a sold out performance of ‘Paris The Mayoral Invitational Youth Orchestra project Underground – Madottii & Vegas’. The Centre also culminated in a performance with the Queensland supported the festival with promotional advertising Symphony Orchestra (QSO) on Wednesday and transport assistance. 26 September 2018. A partnership between SCC, TEC, Schools and the QSO realised a An ‘Artist in Residence Pilot’ at The Events Centre planned series of workshops with local students was established with Council to explore ongoing rehearsing with professional orchestra members. professional artist development for dance and A Mayoral VIP function prior to the performance theatre makers based on the Sunshine Coast. This recognised the emerging Sunshine Coast arts pilot initiative provided an agreed level of in kind scene and the driving forces behind it. support to LJ Projects and Director Melissa Lanham.

“The QSO were fabulous and I really enjoyed the performance, Guy Noble is always an excellent conductor and entertainer. Excellent performance, very impressed with youth orchestra. A great evening including young Sunshine Coast musicians who were extremely talented. Excellent performance, most enjoyable, looking forward to a return performance. I took an 83 year old male friend who had never attended an orchestral concert before and he really enjoyed it, I wished it didn’t have to end. A very enjoyable evening with the added bonus of hearing Sunshine Coast talented youth playing with their mentors in the QSO. Excellent.”

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 22 CREATIVE PROGRAMMING

The 2018-2019 theatre program was INSTRUMENTAL creatively modified with the aim of increasing both the quality and • National Piano Recital Tour diversity of programs presented • Grigoryan Brothers - Songs Without Words throughout the year. • David Scheel – Piano Maestro • Acoustic Guitar Spectacular TOURING CONCERTS

• The Proclaimers • The Ten Tenors - Love is in the Air • Beyond the Barricade • Herman’s Hermits • Foster and Allen • Toni Childs - Retrospective • Marina Prior and Daivd Hobson • Mirusia From the Heart Tour • Timomatic - Do What You Want Tour “My carer and myself laughed till we were crying!! The • Petula Clark singing of the cast was exceptional. U could tell it was a huge success by the laughter n applause throughout the theatre. Many thanks to the Staff for making getting tickets so simple.” Audience member of Menopause The Musical

CHILDREN AND YOUTH PERFORMANCES

• The Gruffalo • Sunshine Coast Youth Theatre • Me and My Shadow • Alice in Wonderland Live on Stage • Shrek the Musical Jr • SC Schools Drama Festival • Oklahoma

“I found this performance uplifting and thought provoking. I enjoyed hearing Toni speak about her life and music throughout the performance. The VIP package was a great option. Front row seat and then meeting this artist with such a phenomenal voice - but more importantly a real person - a woman that has experienced the highs and lows of life.” Audience member of Toni Childs

SUNSHINE MELODIES AND “Puttin on the Ritz was excellent. The dancing, singing SENIORS CONCERTS and choice of music and song was exceptionally good and I found it uplifting and jam packed with • Just a Couple of Song and Dance Men entertainment. I loved every bit of this performance and • Frankly Sinatra it was so well presented I could only hope that we get a • Christmas with Karen Knowles chance to see it again next year.” • Danny Elliott Audience member of Puttin’ on the Ritz

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 23 CREATIVE PROGRAMMING

The Company maintained its theatre DANCE programming guidelines and extended its cultural contribution to the community. • Madame Butterfly - Melbourne City Ballet Council’s subsidy supported numerous • A Russian Triple Bill with the Imperial Russian cultural development opportunities for Ballet Company community members to present quality arts programs and equitable means of • The Bar at Buena Vista access to the facility and its services. • A Taste of Ireland • Puttin’ on the Ritz

FINE ARTS “I think that we are very lucky to have an Events Centre that presents a wide variety of high quality shows right on our • Queensland Symphony Orchestra doorstep. I hope that the Events Centre can continue to provide • Camerata - QLD Chamber Orchestra this valuable service for our community here in Caloundra and • The Australian Army Band the surrounding areas. I know that many people travel from the • Julius Caesar - Bell Shakespeare hinterland as well to enjoy the shows.” • Hotel Sorrento • The Poetry of Henry Lawson in Music and Song • Senior Moments • Sunshine Coast Dance Eisteddfod • Menopause the Musical - Women on Fire • Get the Beat • Wakakirri • Prodigy – The Dream Dance Company • Caloundra State School Dance Extravaganza • Grad Tour • Dance Edge - Where’s Nodi • HQ Dance Co • Amy Beccari Dance Studios • SCPAC Dance Flix • Anne Fraser - Lets Dance • Starz Dance Academy Australia • En Pointe Dance • Noosa Professional Dance Centre • SJ Dance Studio • Sunshine Coast Dance Centre

LOCAL PRODUCTIONS

• The Movies Songs from the Screen – SC Oriana Choir • Elijah - SC Oriana Choir • Annie - Mad About Theatre

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 24 CREATIVE PROGRAMMING

The Centre sourced and presented a broad range of music, dance, bands, musicals, theatre, choirs, comedy and children’s performances to enthrall, inspire and captivate audiences of all ages and interests.

COMEDY AND OTHER ACTS

• Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase • Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee Live!! • Dave Hughes - Hairy “Once again extremely impressed with customer service of Staff, they are just delightful. And the Event itself was “Thoroughly enjoyed being at the venue. I always enjoy just wonderful...will be back!” attending the shows and the lunchs/dinners are good value as well. Day time shows are much better to attend due to the ages of others I travel with and the distance we travel. I look forward to next years shows.”

• Men in Pink Tights • Paris Underground Encore • An Evening with Johnathan Thurston • Charmaine Wilson • Peter Williams

“I regularly attend shows at the Events Centre and have never had a bad experience. Keep up the great work.” - Audience member of The Kings of Country Rock

TRIBUTE SHOWS

• Johnny Cash - The Concert • The Kings of Country Rock • Willie & Roy The Legends • The Australian Bee Gees • Bjorn Again Thank ABBA For The Music

“We are so fortunate to have such wonderful shows at the Event Centre. We enjoying attending as many as we can.”

• One Night with You - An intimate evening with Elvis • Johnny Cash • Like a Rhinestone Cowboy • The Robertson Brothers - 60s Variety Show

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 25 ENGAGING WITH THE COMMUNITY

MARKETING AND LOCAL The Sunshine Coast Open House ENGAGEMENT provided an opportunity to engage with diverse communities on the Coast. The Events Centre maintained a strong presence in the community with The Events Centre participated in the second regular social media posts, upcoming annual Sunshine Coast Open House on Saturday show announcements, promotions, 20 October 2018. The Events Centre open house media releases and e-newsletters. featured an overview of the history of the building and plans for the future with free guided tours led Plans and initiatives to promote the reopening by staff and volunteers. of the building covered many media platforms. Marketing initiatives included media releases, AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT audience surveys, electronic media releases, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts In the 2018-2019 financial year there (@theeventscentre), posters, flyers, event were many sold-out performances calendars, displays, radio and television with a diverse entertainment program that included drama, dance, music, commercials, regular newspaper advertisements, concerts, comedy and children’s all backed by valued word of mouth promotions. theatre, performances and ten community events. The Centre was active in promoting performances and events through editorials across the Sunshine TEC Box Office operations and sales counter Coast. A large print-based campaign involved were relocated during the closure period to the theatre programs being distributed to households Sunshine Coast Council (SCC) Customer Service throughout the Sunshine Coast, supported by Centre, Ground Floor, 1 Omrah Ave, Caloundra targeted electronic and print media campaigns. with opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am – 1pm. Whilst the venue was closed and with more than Promotional initiatives included: 60 events on sale in February alone, 1,736 tickets • Bruce Highway billboard advertising – May – June were sold, generating ticket sales of $86,500. • 12 month advertising subscription in www.venues.com.au A proactive approach towards attracting • Print advertising in a National Conferences promoters enabled the Centre to host low risk and Events Publication international acts which were all well attended. The 67 commercial entertainment bookings The Events Centre canvassed business event were attended by more than 32,000 patrons opportunities at important networking and and contributed more than $600,000 towards development events including Business Events Company earned income. Sunshine Coast ‘What’s in your Backyard’, Venue Management Association, Sunshine The facility reopened in May 2019 with an Coast Business Women’s Network, Caloundra outstanding program of entertainment under the Chamber of Commerce and Sunshine Coast theme of ‘Opening Season’. Council events.

Sunshine Coast Council was proudly acknowledged in the Centre’s marketing promotions.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 26 SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY EVENT The Event Manager for the SCBWN Awards SUPPORT AND Dinner (Whitehouse Celebrations) posted the below on Instagram. SPONSORSHIP

“Thank you for all of your support! You guys really know The Centre is committed to undertaking how to make life easy for a client! Andrew, Kristy, Robyn community service obligations and and Rowan and the whole AV team were such a treat to has supported a broad range of work with. The food was sensational, service first class community groups with subsidised access resulting in bookings with low and you just bent over backwards for us.” or nil profit results. However, these events realised positive fundraising, community development and cultural The Centre provided support to many other capacity outcomes. organisations that deliver benefit to the community, including Inner Wheel, Gideons International and The growing business event and the community many other worthy organisations. event market is a core part of The Events Centre trading and service delivery model. Support was provided to the Caloundra Chamber of Commerce Better Business Breakfast Events The team serviced the Red Shield Appeal which stimulated high level community networking breakfast offsite at the Caloundra RSL. The event and development through awe-inspiring speakers. was sponsored by TEC and raised $24,225 for local community support.

A highlight for July was the ‘STEPS Grand Winter Ball’ for 460 guests. The event raised $170k for the Steps Charity with TEC providing $27k of inkind and financial event support.

The Sholto’s Hope – McKeown Charity Fundraiser dinner was held in the Glasshouse Room for 165 guests to raise funds for brain cancer research. The night included Australian Dolphins swim team members and former Australian and Queensland Bulls cricket players as special guests, a two course dinner, three hour beverage package, live entertainment and auction items.

The Events Centre continued its sponsorship of the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network (SCBWN) for a seventh year including SCBWN Christmas breakfast, SCBWN Purple Room and SCBWN Awards Gala.

“Honestly, I really thought it was one of the best meals at such an event I’ve ever had - the fish was superb - and someone told me every main dropped was gluten free - now THAT is impressive. Please tell your Dane we all thought he and his team did an amazing job.” Best Wishes & Happy Cooking Kim McCosker - Owner - 4 Ingredients Enterprises

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 27 QUALITY SERVICE BUSINESS AND DELIVERY CORPORATE EVENTS Ensuring our customers are well A major highlight for the year was serviced, happy and safe is at the targeting and hosting many major heart of everything we do. conferences and business events which attracted delegates from Food and beverage staff focused on producing outside the region. new menus and business improvement initiatives. A range of healthy options were We congratulate Council on the Business Events introduced to café menus and profitable Assistance Program which is facilitated by targets are being set for individual events. Business Events Sunshine Coast (BESC) for the incentive support to attract eligible conferences, New coffee machines and products were meetings or exhibitions to the Sunshine Coast. introduced to provide a high standard customer This program presents great opportunities for of experiences. The Events Centre business development as an incentive program to attract major bookings. The six school formals held in November required extensive planning and high level BEAP funding of $20,000 was secured for a service delivery requirements including large proposal to attract the ‘2019 PAC Conference scale catering, feature lighting displays, awe- and Performing Arts Exchange’ to The Events inspiring AV presentations, staging and multiple Centre. This is the main performing arts industry sound systems. conference held each year and was a coup for the Sunshine Coast to host this event in conjunction The diverse schedule of commercial entertainment with the reopening of The Events Centre and as events, school graduations and dance school feature of the 2019 Horizon Festival. concerts required a large amount of technical labour and equipment hire and subsequently Another major win included TEC securing the generated much positive feedback on the expertise National Clean Living Technologies Conference of the technical and catering teams. held in May 2019. This two-day conference attracted intrastate and interstate delegates. The Centre remained committed to its ongoing customer satisfaction and survey program in The Events Centre partnered with Business 2018-2019 with all feedback internally reviewed Events Sunshine Coast to sell conference and actioned appropriately for continuous opportunities at the ConveneQ 2018 Queensland improvement. trade exhibition. Events Coordinator Kristy Ogden attended ConveneQ with top players in the Queensland business events sector. The event “I wanted you to know that the “Atalanta Jamboree Ladies provided business development opportunities Badminton” function at The Events Centre was superb with a highly qualified target audience. – all the ladies teams who attended were expressing their appreciation on the following day and were still talking about The Flight Centre Travel Expo featured travel how great it was at the Championship Finals on Saturday. suppliers exhibiting in the Kings Theatre and So, I do offer our heartfelt thanks for the presentation, the Glasshouse Room with information sessions food (unanimous ravings), and the friendly professional held in the Reef Room. The free event attracted atmosphere at The Events Centre. You and staff make it 1,310 visitors throughout the day. look so effortless, which clearly denotes great expertise in hospitality. A marvelous evening for us all, which was a lovely The weeklong Australasian Ladies Badminton evening for the ladies after their efforts on the badminton Championship event was held at the Caloundra courts earlier in the day. With best wishes to you all” Indoor Stadium and concluded with a celebration dinner in the Glasshouse Room for 160 ladies Val Nesbitt, Event Director who danced the night away with their own DJ. The following positive feedback was received.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 28 BUSINESS AND PATRON SATISFACTION CORPORATE EVENTS The Australasian Pastel Exposition, Sept 2018 Special events included; The client stated in the post event client critique: • Senior Care and Lifestyle Expo “The Events Centre staff were so helpful during our event • NDIS Information Session - with catering it was greatly appreciated. Being the first event like this services held in Australia there were many mitigating circumstances that needed changes daily, the staff helped where-ever they • Ray White - auctions could to help our event be a success. We look forward to more events being held there in the future” • Parental Stress Centre - seminar Vanessa Thomas, Treasurer, Pastel Society of Australia”

• SCC Caloundra Master Plan Amendment - community information session

• Sunshine Coast Council - citizenship “Hi Kristy ceremony Thanks for another successful formal. I thought this year • DET Principals - forum was slightly better in terms of organisation (apart from the couple of changes at the last minute). You remain so • The Australian Pastel Exposition calm, even when I am stressed, and that helps things go smoothly. Your staff on the night were professional and • SCC Liveability and Natural Assets Group nothing was too much. They definitely contributed to the success of the night. • SCBWN Purple Room Looking forward to next year.” • Aspiring Principal’s - forum Cheers • Cash Flow on Demand Diane Ballantyne

• Sunshine Coast Reconciliation Group - AGM SAFETY Large catered functions included: Events Centre staff continued to be vigilant in monitoring risk situations. • Caloundra Chamber of Commerce - breakfasts A safe environment for hirers, patrons and • Monthly Innerwheel - monthly dinners employees was maintained throughout 2018- 2019 as evidenced by the very low number of • Mr Sethna’s - 90th birthday celebration incidents, none of which were major or serious, despite very high levels of activity. • Gideons International - monthly dinner

• Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network TEC is undertaking a detailed safety review and - awards dinner is developing a WHS portal; policies, procedures and documentation; as well as development of • Sholto’s Hope - The McKeown Charity a comprehensive suite of Safe Work Method Fundraiser Statements (SWMS).

• SCBWN - Christmas breakfast Quarterly meetings were held with SCC facility maintenance team members to progress routine • Six school graduation dinners maintenance and compliance requirements.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 29 A PREMIER FACILITY

A MAJOR VENUE UPGRADE

After a five month closure and more The redevelopment will boost the Sunshine Coast than 12 months of capital works, the regions cultural and tourism offering, which will 39-year-old facility has had a major generate substantial economic multipliers to the facelift. The works program is expected economy. It also has the potential to contribute to be completed in January 2020. greatly to the cultural, economic and social enhancement of the Caloundra town centre. The unique facility has five main function spaces. The two performance theatres are fully equipped The construction phase of the redevelopment with fly-towers, staging, new acoustic treatments, alone is expected to generate 58 jobs and $6.15 seating and audio system. The large conferencing million in added economic value to the region. facilities have been upgraded with a new kitchen, AV presentation equipment and multi-use operable REDEVELOPMENT SUPPORT walls for flexible function spaces. The Events Centre $6 million Some of the major capital works include; redevelopment included upgrades and enhancements to the existing • New toilets for people with disability (PWD) building to achieve an industry • PWD lift from carpark to foyer level position as a premier performing arts • Acoustic upgrades to theatre walls and ceiling venue offering premium level service. • Dividing walls between the theatre and Glasshouse Room A $3 million grant from the Federal Government under the Building Better Regions Fund was • Foyer refurbishment and upgrade matched by Sunshine Coast Council and generous • Box office, bar counters and function room financial support pledges from community upgrades members and local businesses. • Beausang Room refurbishment • Verandah and café upgrade We sincerely thank the following for their support • Kings Theatre and foyer heating ventilation and financial contributions/pledges to The Events and air conditioning Centre upgrade. • Playhouse Theatre and foyer heating • Sunshine Coast Council – Mayor, Councillors ventilation and air conditioning plant and staff • State of the art kitchen • Main entrance (porte cochere and covered • Australian Federal Government – Building Better Regions Fund link) • Acoustic treatments to the Kings Theatre walls • Andrew Wallace MP and ceiling to reduce unwanted reverberation • Sunshine Coast Drama Festival - Ricki-Lee and standing waves. Bernhardt-Turpin • AV system upgrade • Coastline BMW - Tristan Kurtz • Audio system upgrade – (16 elements of L-Acoustics KIVA-II Variable Curvature Line • Rustum and Helen Sethna Source Array, 8 x 18” subwoofers, 4 front fill • Mosaic Property Group speakers, 4 delay speakers, 8 low profile X-12 • Aria Property Group fold-back monitors, driven by 8 x 4000W LA4X 96kHz/32-bit DSP amplifiers.) • Lyn & Don Jackson • Lighting system upgrade - (312 channels of • Lorrie Jarrett LSC EKO lighting dimmer/power distribution • Gary Mears infrastructure with DMX/RDM with control via LSC-Net, ArtNet & sACN protocols. Five • Peppi Bueti lighting bars with integrated DMX, ethernet • Colin White and power cable management.)

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 30 A PREMIER FACILITY

RELOCATION AND DISRUPTION There was no event trading income Many faults occurred with interruptions to events from January to March 2019 due to the and work plans including; multiple rain water leaks, closure of the Centre for renovations. IT faults, plumbing, electrical, lighting, electric doors, new systems and installations causing During November and December, significant damage and HVAC issues. Clients cancelled planning and implementation of a transition bookings and TEC had to discount charges to program took place to successfully service a period clients in relation to restricted access and the poor of high volume of events and to decommission appearance of the facility. The disruption of works The Events Centre in preparation for the builders also led to stock losses which impacted food and to commence refurbishments. beverage margins.

The Events Centre (TEC) building was closed for The staff were certainly challenged by required major renovations on 17 December 2019 and staff changes and unexpected disruptions. relocated to 77 Bulcock Street as an administration base. Council staff were very supportive in assisting with the relocation of phones and IT hardware for the temporary Bulcock Street Caloundra office relocation.

The Box Office operated from 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday from the SCC Caloundra Administration Centre Customer Service counter.

In facilitating the changes to business operations, media announcements including regular social media updates were issued to keep the public informed of the closure and alternate contact options.

All staff involved in the busy end-of-year schedule were praised and given due recognition for what was best described as a mammoth effort to achieve so much in a high pressure period.

Significant planning was again undertaken to facilitate the office staff relocation back into the building and re-engagement of services and contractors to enable the building to be operational from April 2019.

Upon re-location back into the Centre, SCC WHS representatives were invited to a TEC all staff WHS committee meeting to address many concerns raised about operations in the partially completed facility. It was recognised that there were increased types of risks to be addressed and monitored whilst part of the facility remained a construction site.

IT issues caused disruptions related to incomplete data cabling to offices, a mix of old/outdated cabling and new installations not being compatible, breakdown in WIFI and phone systems, EFTPOS machine failures and Point of Sale system issues.

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INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

The Events Centre has worked closely with SCC to create and maintain the best facilities to sustain our business and serve the community.

The completed building improvements have made a very positive difference and the benefits of business growth will flow from these once all works are done. Much positive feedback has been received from the community and hirers on the facility upgrades.

“We have been so impressed witht the sound quality of The Events Centre. The shows we come to see are brought to life by the amazing qaulity of the music.” Sincerly, Brenda Wolf TECHNOLOGY ADVANCES An extraordinary number of information technology projects “WOW! Thank you to the amazing centre for being were progressed during the year. able to provide the Sunshine Coast with a great venue, with good food, great shows and the sound qualities Whilst some IT initiatives were interrelated, of their sound system was amazing. We will be back. research and planning was undertaken to review Thank you” all existing Information Technology systems towards implementation of an upgraded functional and robust network across the facility that would The new kitchen is operational and is a fantastic minimise risk and introduce operational efficiencies improvement. Installation of new operable walls into the future. has allowed for acoustic separation between the Reef Room and the Kings Theatre. This has not It was critical to consider appropriate resourcing to increased the venue footprint but has opened up ensure successful planning and risk management new opportunities and capacity to hire-out additional as well as additional time for training and space in busy periods. implementation before going live. With full credit to all staff teams who endured frustrations and With thanks to support from Cr Dwyer to access challenges with the process. additional funding, upgrades were made to the Glasshouse Bar to meet compliance standards. Progress was made with the implementation of; Work is still required for the café kitchen to meet compliance and practical operations. • New payroll and HR system that will be more functional and create efficiencies for staff and Installation of a lift was deferred and outstanding facility matters are being collated for future Council consideration. Priority matters for attention include • Eventpro Cloud implementation upgrade of the café kitchen to achieve food licence • EFTPOS machine upgrades compliance, theatre emergency egress, fire alarms, • Point of Sale system replacement options, Playhouse Theatre stage disability amenities and an • Telephone messaging on hold additional fire exit that will provide for the evacuation • WHS Record Management portal of up to 1,500 people in an emergency situation. • Electronic Record Management System upgrade An updated Facility Development and Maintenance Plan is required to plan and budget for ongoing capital • WIFI upgrades works, operations and maintenance of the facility. • Civic View Finance system upgrade from Civic View 8 to Civic View 9 later in 2019

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 34 FINANCIALLY SUSTAINABLE ORGANISATION

FINANCE SUMMARY

The Sunshine Coast Events Centre Pty achieving a positive financial result which was more Ltd finished the 2018-2019 financial favourable than the 2018-2019 budget forecast. year with a surplus of $6,493. The Company continued to work collaboratively with SCC on major business system changes The favourable financial outcome was assisted that will occur early in the new financial year. by strong commercial business, particularly in Significant time and effort has gone into the pre- the second quarter of the year. The corporate implementation planning and testing of new and commercial events held in this period were Payroll, HR and Finance systems. The efficiencies generally higher income events compared to the of these new business systems will be realised in previous year. During the second quarter, the the years to come. months of October and November achieved a combined income of more than $1,000,000 and The Company achieved a solid and stable with a solid profit margin of 30% achieved in both financial position from continued diligent financial months. The type of business secured in this time management. This year’s positive financial result period was lucrative and was delivered in the most will support ongoing sustainability and capability efficient way possible to maximise profitability to deliver the financial and nonfinancial outcomes and financial sustainability leading into the major sought by the community, the shareholder and works closure period. associated stakeholders. The 2018-2019 financial year involved many The Company’s financial governance practices financial highlights and challenges for the were again tested by the Queensland Audit Company. Prior to the commencement of the Office-appointed auditors and received a fifteenth year it was identified by both the Sunshine Coast consecutive ‘clean audit’ from the Queensland Council and the Company that the annual financial Audit Office for the 2018-2019 financial year. plan would need to be adjusted to accommodate The audit resulted in no issues requiring director the significant downtime associated with a attention. These results will undoubtedly be planned major capital works program. With welcomed by the sole shareholder of the company, an anticipated facility closure of 19 weeks, the the Sunshine Coast Council. annual financial plan was prepared based on the facility being unavailable for trading for 37% The Board of Directors of The Sunshine Coast of the year. Expenditure control, efficient event Events Centre Pty Ltd on the 23rd July 2019 delivery and maximising income opportunities formally confirmed that the Trial Balance and in the remaining available trading months were accompanying Management Accounts fairly identified as critical in minimising the financial presented the company’s financial position as at impact of the closure period. 30th June 2019 and its performance for the year ended on that date. Overall, the trading activity was very different to the previous year with the Centre hosting a In the Directors’ opinion, subject to ongoing funding compressed high number of events either side of from its shareholder, Sunshine Coast Council, the closure period. When taking out the closure as per the budget submitted and approved at period, the Centre operated at a facility utilisation the Council meeting on 20 June 2019, there are rate of 82%. This was 7% higher than the previous reasonable grounds to believe that the Company year and is a major achievement given the will be able to pay its debts as and when they disruptions to business continuity. The high levels become due and payable. of utilisation and business growth in the remaining In summary, 2018-2019 was a successful year available trading months were evident in the of trading and event delivery despite the major comparative number of events and attendance disruptions that resulted from the capital works figures. Despite the facility being unavailable for upgrades. The favourable financial result reinforces 37% of the year, attendances dropped by only the Company’s solid financial position and enables 19%, with the number of events reducing by only it to enter the 2019-2020 financial year with an 29% when compared to the previous year. The accumulated surplus of $575,994. Looking forward, Centre serviced more than 85,000 people and the facility improvements and improved business serviced 412 event bookings during the year. system initiatives will establish a solid platform for These factors all contributed to the Company growth and continued community benefits.

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 35 Management Accounts 2018 - 2019 For the period 1st July 2018 to 30th June 2019

Sunshine Coast Events Centre Pty Ltd ABN: 38 127 655 510

Profit and Loss

For the period 1st July 2018 to 30th June 2019

2018/19 2018/19 % Var to 2017/18 % Var to Actual Budget Budget Actual 2017/18

OPERATING REVENUE

User Fees 1,606,826 1,174,962 137% 2,011,198 80% Rent 198,342 204,543 97% 250,721 79% Interest 47,822 40,000 120% 46,985 102% Grants-Operating 1,494,844 1,494,844 100% 1,464,098 102% Internal Revenue 133,132 164,418 81% 180,243 74%

TOTAL REVENUE 3,480,966 3,078,767 113% 3,953,245 88%

OPERATING EXPENDITURE Employee Costs 1,989,170 1,820,206 109% 1,955,816 102% Materials & Service 1,327,075 1,240,143 107% 1,728,720 77% Financial Costs 25,096 24,000 105% 25,682 98% Internal Charges 133,132 164,418 81% 180,243 74%

TOTAL EXPENDITURE 3,474,473 3,248,767 107% 3,890,461 89%

OPERATIONAL PROFIT/(LOSS) 6,493 (170,000) 62,784

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 36 Balance Sheet

As at 30th June 2019 2019 2018 $ $ CURRENT ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents 1,267,692 1,200,184 Trade and Other Receivables 30,606 9,352 Inventories 26,813 71,935 Other 17,393 24,419

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 1,342,504 1,305,890

TOTAL ASSETS 1,342,504 1,305,890

CURRENT LIABILITIES Trade and Other Payables 2,635 2,034 Employee Benefits 180,847 190,538

Client Monies Held 424,320 370,218

Other 65,731 83,079

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 673,533 645,869

NON CURRENT LIABILITIES Employee Benefits 92,967 90,510

TOTAL NON CURRENT LIABILITIES 92,967 90,510

TOTAL LIABILITIES 766,500 736,379

NET ASSETS 576,004 569,511

EQUITY Contributed Equity 10 10 Retained Profits 575,994 569,501

TOTAL EQUITY 576,004 569,511

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 37 Statement of Cash Flows

For the period 1st July 2018 to 30th June 2019

2019 2018 $ $

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Receipts from customers 1,831,303 2,032,570

Receipts from council / grants / government 1,494,844 1,464,098

Interest received 47,803 46,958

Payments to suppliers (1,317,249) (1,698,861)

Payments to employees (1,996,574) (1,956,536)

GST paid to ATO 7,381 (2,200)

Net Cash provided by (used in) Operating Activities 67,508 (109,571)

Net increase (decrease) in cash held 67,508 (109,571)

Cash at the beginning of financial year 1,200,184 1,309,755

Cash at the end of financial year 1,267,692 1,200,184

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 38 Statement of Changes in Equity

For the period 1st July 2018 to 30th June 2019

Contributed Retained Total Equity Earnings $ $ $ 2018

Total Equity at beginning of the period 10 506,717 506,727

Profit for the Period - 62,784 62,784

Total Equity at end of the period 10 569,501 569,511

2019

Total Equity at beginning of the period 10 569,501 569,511

Profit for the Period - 6,493 6,493

Total Equity at end of the period 10 575,994 576,004

SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 39 SUNSHINE COAST EVENTS CENTRE PTY LTD ANNUAL REPORT : 2018 - 2019 | Page 42

Address: 20 Minchinton St, Caloundra Qld 4551 Telephone: (07) 5491 4240 Fax: (07) 5491 4944 Website: www.theeventscentre.com.au