+Iconic Sights and Hidden Gems +Lessons Learned In

Issue 12 | 2016

+ ICONIC SIGHTS AND HIDDEN GEMS Discover South Africa’s Best this Festive Season + LESSONS LEARNED IN 2017 Venues and Suppliers Share their Challenges and Successes From the team at the Event magazine, we would like to wish our friends and clients a wonderful festive season, and a prosperous 2017.

Lance Gibbons • Coleen Tapson • Katie Reynolds-Da Silva • Natasha O’Connor • Guy Wallace Jerome Dyson • Sheree Steenkamp • Kim Crowie • Lauren Smith • Redoh Kimmie www.theevent.co.za CONTENTS 01

02. Thank You to our Incredible Clients

03. ibtm world Announces Knowledge Programme Line-up

04. SA Tourism Appoints New ICONIC SIGHTS AND HIDDEN GEMS Representative Agency Kim Crowie takes a look at some of the iconic places South Africa has to in Italy offer this season – as well as hidden conferencing gems worth exploring. 06. Tech Talk: Multi-Media, Changing the Face of Events

08. Iconic Sights and Hidden Gems

12. Lessons Learned in 2016: The Industry Speaks LESSONS LEARNED 16. Your 2017 Business The industry reflects on the challenges of 2016, and how these insights will Event Guide guide their 2017. 20. Association Conference Success Story: Turners Conferences

22. Buckle up for the Adventure of a Lifetime

24. A Chat with Dragonfly Africa

ADVENTURE TOURISM 26. WESGRO: Showcasing the It’s the buzzword of the season, so buckle up for the adventure of a lifetime. Cape West Coast

28. National Strategy Helps Realise Potential of Wine and Food Tourism

30. Soweto: Bursting with Vibrance and Culture

32. Events to Diarise

CAPE WEST COAST 34. Associations News Wesgro brings you another feature on one of the Western Cape’s greatest regions. This month, we explore the quaint towns and culinary delights of 36. Directory of Advertisers the West Coast. 02 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za A MASSIVE THANK YOU FROM THE EVENT TEAM The Event has enjoyed another incredible year of growth and success, thanks to you!

I feel 2016 has been a year of challenges and must congratulate all business leaders for driving the sector forward. Thank you for your leadership and continued support for our industry. We at the Event Magazine salute you and wish you great success in the year to come.

Lance Gibbons – way of its national congress, EXSA Katie Reynolds-Da Silva – Editor Publishing Editor repositioning itself to meet organiser This year, the Event magazine has seen This has been a year of political and supplier demands within tremendous growth, both within the uncertainty, fluctuating currencies, the exhibition sector and AAXO publication and in our partnerships with protests, and the threat of being taking organisers to a new level international publications and initiatives. downgraded to junk status; however, of professionalism. Our industry We are so proud to announce that the we have still managed to attract a leadership has been astounding Event is the exclusive African partner of the great number of conferences, incentive with Amanda and her team at the Iceberg, an online collective of knowledge travellers and new exhibitions to SANCB creating valuable strategic sharing and valuable case studies. our country. Wesgro has exceeded partnerships both public and My team continues to astound me set targets for the year, procuring private, Nina Freysen Pretorius as with their innovation, talent and industry- more international business for 2017 President of ICCA, Joey Pather newly leading knowledge. It is a pleasure to than 2016. Incentive houses are appointed CEO of the Guangdong run this publication, and I am grateful finding that the global appetite for International Convention and to do my part to grow and develop the South African products are steadily Exhibition Centre, and many more. business-events sector in Africa. growing, after a very difficult period. I feel 2016 has been a year of To our valued clients, thank you Even though the leadership in our challenges and must congratulate for continuing to partner with us and country may not be an example to all business leaders for driving the contribute to our cutting-edge editorial. To follow, the captains of our industry sector forward. Thank you for your our new clients, welcome on board, and keep navigating through stormy leadership and continued support we wish you manifold success through waters. For example: SAACI, through for our industry. We at the Event your adverts, editorial and case studies. its ability to showcase different Magazine salute you and wish you Have a wonderful festive season, and provinces within our country by great success in the year to come. I hope 2017 brings you great success. www.theevent.co.za NEWS 03 ibtm world ANNOUNCES FINAL LINE UP FOR KNOWLEDGE PROGRAMME ibtm world’s knowledge programme is set to deliver a stellar line up of international speakers delivering world class content over the three days of the show.

ollowing the extensive research with the industry the content has been developed to reflect the needs of both exhibitors, FHosted Buyers and visitors. The content has been created to provide up to date education for all attendees and has been created for the industry by the industry and follows the new 7 themes. www.ibtmworld.com/knowledge As part of the ibtm Knowledge Programme the new theme of Industry Trends will kick off with a highly topical session - The Impact of Brexit featuring James Heappey MP and Chair, All party Parliamentary Group for Events, UK © ibtm world 2015 Parliament. The session will discuss and debate the possible impacts of Brexit on the global meetings industry and the panel will be on hand to answer The line-up for our knowledge programme is questions and offer their views on impressive this year, we have fantastic speakers this unprecedented state of affairs. and content which is highly topical, we introduced Jurriean Sleijster – President and COO - MCI will discuss the latest trends the new themes and this has given us a clear in the association industry providing an structure of content which is relevant to everyone insight into developments in membership, attending ibtm world this year. engagement and activation & strategies. ibtm world and EventMB are partnering to deliver one of the most anticipated pieces of research this year. This multi-media session will explore new which is highly topical, we introduced Julius Solaris will be joined by a panel logistics and production management the new themes and this has given of top experts within the meetings technology for better work efficiency. us a clear structure of content which industry to provide an unprecedented The content will once again take place is relevant to everyone attending insight into what the industry will look in the ACS Knowledge Village and this ibtm world this year”, commented like in 2017. The session will be held on year’s theme will be ….a circus theme, Graeme Barnett, Senior Exhibition Wednesday 1st December at 11.00. with rooms being called The Big Top, Director, ibtm world, “The 7 themes Fresh Tech for your Event - Dr James The Lion’s Den and The Circus School. as part of the Knowledge Programme Morgan will look at the changing landscape “The line-up for our knowledge are particularly innovative and all of event technology with exciting new programme is impressive this year, we topics are at the forefront of the products being offered to event planners. have fantastic speakers and content event planners’ educational needs.”

04 NEWS www.theevent.co.za SA TOURISM APPOINTS NEW REPRESENTATIVE AGENCY IN ITALY South African Tourism has reaffirmed its faith and investment in Italy as an important tourism source market by appointing JoyCo’ as its official representative agency in that country.

I welcome this new role with great enthusiasm. For the next two years, my goal will be to optimise the functionality of the Southern Europe Hub within the two major markets of France and Italy.

Cape Town Beach Café © SATourism

ollowing the closure of SA the Strategic Research Unit and Regional Italian market,” said Chief Marketing Officer, Tourism’s Milan office last year, Director: Europe and the United Kingdom. Margie Whitehouse. “We look forward South Africa has now partnered “Having played a strategic role in the to a fruitful collaboration with JoyCo’ to with JoyCo’, founded and marketing area for several years,” comments promote South Africa as a destination for Fdirected by Gioja Tresoldi, effective from Muthaya, “I welcome this new role with the growing numbers of Italian tourists 1 October 2016 until 31 March 2017. great enthusiasm. For the next two years, to South Africa, and we are excited to be SA Tourism is undergoing a global my goal will be to optimise the functionality working with a local partner of this calibre.” restructuring process, with the aim of of the Southern Europe Hub within the Recent tourist arrival numbers affirm SA maximising its marketing spend by reducing two major markets of France and Italy.” Tourism’s decision to invest in the Italian operational costs and boosting budgets In Italy, Muthaya will be liaising closely market. In the first half of 2016, South Africa to directly promote South Africa as an with the Joyco representative agency, welcomed 4.9 million international travellers, attractive travel destination in certain key investing in supporting and training including 697 373 from Europe, showing markets. This spells good news for Italy’s the Italian trade and promoting South growth of 14.7% over the previous year. trade and media, which will benefit from Africa through the media until 31 March In Europe, the United Kingdom and the increased marketing investment. 2017. In parallel, SA Tourism will be Germany recorded the most visitors Part of SA Tourism’s strategy was to inviting bids from suitable companies to South Africa, with 222 942 and create a Southern Europe Hub in June, to provide these services from April 142 092 tourists respectively. They servicing the French and Italian markets. 2017. This is in line with the National were followed by the newly constituted This process included the appointment Treasury procurement regulations. Southern Europe Hub (France and Italy of Bashni Muthaya as Regional Manager: “There was a need for SA Tourism to combined), which accounted for 91 653 Southern Europe. Muthaya has previously have a representative agency in Italy that arrivals between January and June, served in various senior capacities at SA merges a knowledge of South Africa with of which 23 600 were from Italy – an Tourism, including as General Manager of intimate insights into the workings of the impressive increase of 16.2% over 2015. Join Maropeng for an African Christmas Festival

16 - 26 December 2016 Food Stalls • Beer Garden • Family Entertainment Santa’s Kiddies Cave • Jumping Castles Live Entertainment

www.maropeng.co.za Maropeng - Cradle of Humankind @MaropengSA 06 TECH TALK www.theevent.co.za MULTI-MEDIA: CHANGING THE FACE OF EVENTS Chris De Lancey, Sales and Marketing Director of Multi-Media, shares his wealth of technology insights with the Event and tells us what tech trends we can expect in 2017.

ulti-Media celebrated 25 years of expertise in the industry this year with an exciting birthday bash – on the set Mof The Voice in Johannesburg. They are a technical partner to the African formats of the show, and although they had small beginnings, their principles of respect and integrity towards staff, suppliers and clients have held them together. In addition to offering event solutions such as the concept and design of stage, sound and lighting; the organisation also has a set-building company in their stable, which has been making a name for itself in the exhibition stand-building arena.

Recent Innovations In addition to their Midrand offi ce in Multi-Media celebrated 25 years of expertise in the industry this year with an exciting Johannesburg, Multi-Media have also birthday bash – on the set of The Voice in Johannesburg. © Multi-Media maintained a Cape Town satellite offi ce, which will soon offer full, stand-alone Conference at the Royal Livingstone Hotel in resolution and applications. He adds services to Western Cape clients. in Zambia. “We provided all technical, that apps are also starting to make their According to Chris De Lancey, structures, decking, power, carpeting, mark on the events industry. “While equipment has been high on the agenda artist requirements, as well as assisted South Africa lags a little behind the rest this year, ensuring the company keeps with content creation for this event. A total of the world, apps are being used for up with the latest technologies in sound, of 188 tonnes of event infrastructure was delegate registration, disseminating lighting and AV. “In 2015, we invested in and transported to Livingstone – technical programme information, and even to led the market with what was the highest- alone comprised 90 tonnes of technology. connect people for networking purposes.” resolution LED screen in the country at We had a team of 32 technical staff from that time, a 3.6mm pitch screen. This SA, together with 24 local staff over the A Word of Advice screen is ideal for venues where either 10 days to install and take down all the Planners often forget that audio visuals space or light is problem, and it is ideal equipment and the structures,” says Chris. are such an integral part of a successful for conferencing where detail is required For their work with the television show event, and Chris gives some great in the information being presented.” The Voice, technical consisted of up to 200 advice for avoiding mishaps: “Don’t get panels of 12mm LED screen, approximately us involved at the end. Talk to us early What Do They Do, Exactly? 160 moving lights, 170 static lighting in your planning. We have knowledge Multi-Media have a number of high-level fi xtures, 96 channels of audio, 60 channels and experience that will help. We know clients across a range of industries. They’ve of radio mics, 2km of LED strip lights on 80 which venues will accommodate your handled quite a selection of jobs, too, from controllers, and possibly 5km of cabling. big dreams. Talk to us about your conferences, road shows and launches, to budget upfront. After 25 years in the gala dinners and boardroom meetings. Trends in the New Year business, you can trust us to give An example of the workload they Chris says popularity in LED screens is set you the correct advice; we’d rather be take on is a recent Pick n Pay Franchise to continue as the technology improves your partner than your supplier.” Tailored Sound Specialised Lighting Audio-Visual Broadcasting and Set and Stage Show Reinforcement Installations Solutions Video Conferencing Design Conceptualisation

At Multi-Media, our passion is bringing ideas to life in full colour through quality visual displays. We are an experienced team of audio-visual and technical experts, and pride ourselves on providing customised eventing solutions. We draw on 25 years’ industry experience, extensive national footprint and access to cutting-edge equipment to deliver perfectly tailored solutions that continually exceed our clients’ vision and expectations. This has ensured that we have gathered a reputation for excellence and unparalleled service to our clients.

CONTACT INFORMATION PHYSICAL ADDRESS

+27 (0) 11 315 3585 (Johannesburg) Unit 3 Midrand Axis +27 (0) 21 001 8863 (Cape Town) cnr. Old Pretoria Road & Le Roux st. [email protected] Midrand www.multi-media.co.za Johannesburg 08 ICONIC SIGHTS AND HIDDEN GEMS www.theevent.co.za

© Monte De Dios Soweto Theatre © Joburg City Theatres © Liliesleaf Trust ICONIC SIGHTS AND HIDDEN GEMS We take a look at some of the iconic places South Africa has to offer this season – as well as hidden conferencing gems worth expoloring.

Maropeng interact with dynamic, immersive evening out, these theatres are guaranteed Maropeng is the official visitor centre to interactive audio and audio-visual to keep one entertained – with a new the Cradle of Humankind and Sterkfontein exhibits that takes them on an inspiring amphitheatre set to be built in early Caves. The Cradle of Humankind World journey of discovery where intriguing 2017 for the Soweto Theatre. For more Heritage Site is an hour’s drive from and fascinating liberation struggle information on Joburg City Theatres, Johannesburg or Pretoria. There is fossil testimonies and stories come to life, visit www.joburgcitytheatres.com. evidence of our early human ancestors that helped shape and define South dating back more than three million Africa’s new democratic dispensation,” Monte De Dios years. By coming here, you are coming says Estee Erasmus, Liliesleaf An opulent venue fit for royalty, Monte De to the birthplace of the human species. Operations and Marketing Manager. Dios is a Spanish Equestrian Wedding Maropeng offers a state-of-the-art It offers four conferencing and and Conference Venue situated against conference centre, a four-star boutique event venues for between 40 and Bronberg Mountain in Zwavelpoort, hotel, a restaurant that boasts the vista of 200 pax. For more information on Pretoria East. Although only two years old, Witwatersberg and Magaliesberg mountain Liliesleaf, visit www.liliesleaf.co.za. Monte De Dios offers old world elegance, ranges, an outdoor amphitheatre which can coupled with delectable five-star dining accommodate over 6 000 people, dormitory Joburg City Theatres and a tranquil spa. “We have a variety accommodation facilities which are suitable Joburg City Theatres offers three of versatile outdoor and indoor venues; for team-building and youth groups, and incredible venues in the heart of the ranging from more intimate boardroom an incredible interactive exhibition facility City of Gold: the Joburg Theatre Complex, meetings or casual brainstorming which shows how our ancestors developed the Roodepoort Theatre and the sessions to larger groups of seven hundred over the past few million years. For more Soweto Theatre. The staging facilities guests,” says Chantellé Müller Pieterse, information, visit www.maropeng.co.za. at Joburg Theatre are among the Sales, Marketing and Events Manager at most sophisticated in the world. They Monte De Dios. Liliesleaf include five computer-controlled stage Monte De Dios home of PROE’toria A National Heritage Site that commemorates lifts, five stage wagons facilitating the Food, Wine & Craft Market also offers a strategic and seminal point in SA’s movement of sets forecast across the a variety of monthly events; including liberation struggle, Liliesleaf is a beacon stage, a 15m2, revolving stage wagon, laid back Tapas Sundays with live on the global landscape of human and an adjustable proscenium. entertainment, Romantic Picnic Movie memory. But more than that, it keeps All three theatres boast plush hospitality Nights and Food & Wine Pairing evenings. the memory of the struggle alive and suites, where guests can be hosted prior For more information on Monte De Dios, real. “Visitors to the historical site to and after performances. Ideal for an visit www.montededios.co.za. 08 ICONIC SIGHTS AND HIDDEN GEMS www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za ICONIC SIGHTS AND HIDDEN GEMS 09

Namakwa Guest Farm information on Namakwa Guest Farm, In addition to offering tours where folks A family-run establishment nestled in the visit www.namakwaguestfarm.co.za. travel with their guides on public transport heart of Namakwaland, this 147-hectare and walk around the streets experiencing ICONIC SIGHTS property outside Springbok offers a Abang Africa life in the townships, they also offer refreshing stay in nature, with all the modern Abang Africa is a travel company focused homestays with families from all walks comforts a traveller could desire. The on community tourism. This allows of life. “We offer a rural homestay in the AND HIDDEN GEMS Namakwa Guest Farm is surrounded by travellers to meet local people on their Valley of a Thousand Hills near Durban. the Goegap Nature Reserve where zebras, holiday, and offers added value to what You spend the night with a Zulu family We take a look at some of the iconic places South Africa has to offer this season gemsbok and steenbokkies can be spotted. would otherwise be a standard tour, with whom you also prepare your meal. – as well as hidden conferencing gems worth expoloring. The farm itself hosts ostriches, chickens and says Henko Wentholt, Manager of Abang You visit all activities in the village, the peacocks, and offers breath-taking views. Africa. “Our handle is #fundandfair: we school, the brewery, etc. In short, you live Their conference venue can hold up add an experience that you’ll love and like a Zulu for one day,” Henko explains. to 600 guests in the 600m2 banquet hall, remember for the rest of their lives, For more information on Abang Africa, Maropeng interact with dynamic, immersive evening out, these theatres are guaranteed with 250 guests at the pool deck. For more and it happens to be sustainable”. visit www.abangafrica.com. Maropeng is the official visitor centre to interactive audio and audio-visual to keep one entertained – with a new the Cradle of Humankind and Sterkfontein exhibits that takes them on an inspiring amphitheatre set to be built in early Caves. The Cradle of Humankind World journey of discovery where intriguing 2017 for the Soweto Theatre. For more Heritage Site is an hour’s drive from and fascinating liberation struggle information on Joburg City Theatres, Johannesburg or Pretoria. There is fossil testimonies and stories come to life, visit www.joburgcitytheatres.com. evidence of our early human ancestors that helped shape and define South dating back more than three million Africa’s new democratic dispensation,” Monte De Dios years. By coming here, you are coming says Estee Erasmus, Liliesleaf An opulent venue fit for royalty, Monte De to the birthplace of the human species. Operations and Marketing Manager. Dios is a Spanish Equestrian Wedding Maropeng offers a state-of-the-art It offers four conferencing and and Conference Venue situated against conference centre, a four-star boutique event venues for between 40 and Bronberg Mountain in Zwavelpoort, hotel, a restaurant that boasts the vista of 200 pax. For more information on Pretoria East. Although only two years old, Witwatersberg and Magaliesberg mountain Liliesleaf, visit www.liliesleaf.co.za. Monte De Dios offers old world elegance, ranges, an outdoor amphitheatre which can coupled with delectable five-star dining accommodate over 6 000 people, dormitory Joburg City Theatres and a tranquil spa. “We have a variety accommodation facilities which are suitable Joburg City Theatres offers three of versatile outdoor and indoor venues; for team-building and youth groups, and incredible venues in the heart of the ranging from more intimate boardroom an incredible interactive exhibition facility City of Gold: the Joburg Theatre Complex, meetings or casual brainstorming which shows how our ancestors developed the Roodepoort Theatre and the sessions to larger groups of seven hundred over the past few million years. For more Soweto Theatre. The staging facilities guests,” says Chantellé Müller Pieterse, information, visit www.maropeng.co.za. at Joburg Theatre are among the Sales, Marketing and Events Manager at most sophisticated in the world. They Monte De Dios. Liliesleaf include five computer-controlled stage Monte De Dios home of PROE’toria A National Heritage Site that commemorates lifts, five stage wagons facilitating the Food, Wine & Craft Market also offers a strategic and seminal point in SA’s movement of sets forecast across the a variety of monthly events; including liberation struggle, Liliesleaf is a beacon stage, a 15m2, revolving stage wagon, laid back Tapas Sundays with live on the global landscape of human and an adjustable proscenium. entertainment, Romantic Picnic Movie memory. But more than that, it keeps All three theatres boast plush hospitality Nights and Food & Wine Pairing evenings. the memory of the struggle alive and suites, where guests can be hosted prior For more information on Monte De Dios, real. “Visitors to the historical site to and after performances. Ideal for an visit www.montededios.co.za. 10 ICONIC SIGHTS AND HIDDEN GEMS www.theevent.co.za

ABANG AFRICA TRAVEL Abang Africa Travel is your personal incoming tour operator, offering you tailor- made, sustainable holidays in Southern Africa. You’ll experience the true South Africa! Unforgettable, off the beaten track individual and group itineraries in a fun and fair way. Without having to compromise on quality, content and budget. We believe in a world where travellers care about having a positive impact on their destination and where their visits benefit the local communities and nature. 210 Long Street, Cape Town, South Africa t. +27 21 426 1330/4 e. [email protected] w. www.abangafrica.com

LILIESLEAF Liliesleaf today commemorates a seminal point in South Africa’s liberation struggle which, for Nelson Mandela, was a place of discourse and engagement. Visit Liliesleaf for a conference and engage in an inspiring environment that once was the nerve centre of the liberation movement; where debate and dialogue inspired a unique group of selfless leaders. While conferencing, take a moment to take an inspiring journey of discovery into our past, through interactive, immersive exhibits that brings the history to life. t. +27 11 803 7882 e. [email protected] w. www.liliesleaf.co.za

MONTE DE DIOS – PRETORIA EAST Nestled against the picturesque Bronberg mountain is Monte De Dios, an exquisite Spanish Equestrian Wedding and Conference Venue. Indulge in one of our six luxurious rooms, surrounded with old world elegant charm of a bygone era. Delectable dining and a tranquil spa make it the ideal getaway, business sleep-over or a delight for the discerning traveler; your home away from home. Monte De Dios also offers laid back tapas Sundays with live entertainment, romantic picnic movie nights and food and wine pairing evenings. t. +27 87 654 4457/8/9 e. [email protected] w. www.montededios.co.za 10 ICONIC SIGHTS AND HIDDEN GEMS www.theevent.co.za

© Designed by Freepik LESSONS LEARNED IN 2016: THE INDUSTRY SPEAKS South Africa’s business-events sector has seen much take place over the last 12 months. We speak to the leaders in the industry to find out what lessons they will carry with them into the future.

his year has been interesting to say technological advances that can only help African Tourism appointed a new CEO, the least, and with it has come a elevate the continent as a conferencing Mr Sisa Ntshona. This change we hope number of valuable lessons we’ve destination of choice. Education, too, will be a fruitful one as a man of strong learned within the industry. Africa’s has been on the lips of many as training, entrepreneurial instincts and experience Tbusiness-events economy continues to grow workshops and event qualifications are takes the nation’s number one marketing and as we realise the importance of partnerships taken more seriously. We’ve also seen tourism development platform into a “new within the industry. A number of industry many successes and triumphs, new events era of business sustainability” as SA Tourism bodies, companies and associations can launched and more to look forward to. Chair Dr Tanya Abrahamse so eloquently put attest to this. We’ve also seen much change As the United States learned this November, it. The Event speaks to some of our foremost as we ramp up to to offer more innovative change is inevitable and only time will tell industry leaders to find out what lessons they products – new venues and refurbishments, if that change will become a positive or have learned over the last twelve months, and infrastructure investments worth millions and negative force. A few months ago South what lies ahead for the next twelve. www.theevent.co.za FEATURE 13

Carol Weaving, Chair: Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO)

Looking back over the months since our launch, I can proudly say AAXO remained laser-focused on providing professionalism and credibility to the exhibition industry. The challenges faced by our members necessitated that we prioritise the following needs: 1. Standardisation and formalisation - As an industry champion, we established the AAXO Badge of Approval which organisers can display, providing their exhibitors peace of mind that comes with knowing the event receives the maximum exposure required to grow sales and revenue. Additionally, AAXO’s code of conduct has been developed to guide members on acceptable standards, holding them to account for the events they host as well as providing an independent third-party mediation facility. 2. Representation - AAXO championed a massive challenge by negotiating the VAT ruling with SARS on behalf of the industry. We also consistently pursue strategic partnerships that will benefit our members, with entities such as SAACI and UFI. 3. Measurability - To help cement exhibitions as a marketing channel and demonstrate its full impact, AAXO not only commissioned industry research from Grant Thornton early this year to understand the economic impact of exhibitions but we also established the compulsory ABC Audit demonstrating transparency and bringing credibility to AAXO members and their events. Our groundbreaking training sessions also focused on measuring ROI. In 2017, AAXO will consistently be on the lookout for new ways to add value to its members.

Robyn D’Alessandro, National Marketing Manager: Gearhouse Group of Companies

In a depressed economic climate and dogged by political uncertainty, technical suppliers are operating in a far more difficult events environment than ever before. Budgets continue to fall, clients expect more ‘bang for their buck’ and Gearhouse Group was braced for a decline in revenue in 2016. However, we have learned that what makes the difference is not necessarily having the latest and the best technology, the largest capacity or the most skilled crew (although those help of course). For Gearhouse, over the past couple of years, an internal ‘service above all’ drive has made all the difference. We have seen a 360-degree turnaround in the business – from being operationally driven to becoming completely client-service orientated. It has helped us reactivate dormant clients, strengthen relationships and gain ground under potentially difficult circumstances. We are continuing to see very short lead times and smaller budgets, so it has been a year of finding innovative solutions at short notice, and while that has been trying operationally, it has stretched us creatively and we hope to continue to build on what we have achieved this year into 2017 and beyond.

The lesson here is that we are living in a rapidly changing world but, if you are proactive and positive regarding dealing with perceived negative changes, the benefits can be far reaching.

Bronwen Cadle de Ponte, General Manager, CSIR Convention Centre

2016 has been a challenging year in terms of dealing with the likes of the negative effects of Ebola, new visa regulations and changes in government policy on conference spending, procurement, etc. Having said that, the year has also been exceptionally positive in terms of growth in the conferencing market. The lesson here is that we are living in a rapidly changing world but, if you are proactive and positive regarding dealing with perceived negative changes, the benefits can be far reaching. We all need to accept that globalisation means that we are living in an increasingly dangerous and legislated world where communication is rapid and major changes take place overnight. Instead of fighting this new world and wasting time bemoaning situations, we need to work together to find proactive ways of putting solutions in place for the new problems we face every day – a good place to start is to really, properly understand the underlying nuances and points of view of the source of what you perceive to be a problem and then work hand-in-hand with your various publics to find solutions that satisfy all parties objectives. 14 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

Glyn Taylor and Gary Koetser, Joint CEOs: Century City Conference Centre

The significance of business events is something that’s been spoken about for years, but it’s all about the Rand value that every delegate brings. It has a knock-on effect on accommodation, flights, tours, transfers, and more, and it is for this reason that this Conference Centre was built. To give you an example, we recently hosted a conference of 900 international delegates, who spent approximately R15-20-million for the duration of their stay. They booked out every available hotel room, they went shopping at Canal Walk, they went on tours for three days, they enjoyed all their meals at our hotel and nearby restaurants, and during their free time they explored the area. So, the knock-on effect of conferencing matters. On the local front, Century City as a node has become very appealing to people that wouldn’t normally have considered it before. When brought here as a conference delegate, people are immediately taken by the location, with its close proximity to all major local attractions, as well as all the leisure activities the area has to offer. All of a sudden, Century City is now on their radar of places to visit and more often than not, about 50% of these people return for leisure at a later stage with their families to enjoy the Western Cape. The marketing value that business events bring, coupled with the widespread reach, has by far been the best form of marketing for the zone. Our venue has been designed in such a way that we can host a combination of corporate conferences, association bookings, exhibitions and confexes and we’ve got numerous events booked for the year ahead. We’re talking neurologists, physicians, a lot of medical and pharmaceutical events. In fact, about 60% of next year’s operating budget has been booked already. Another point to mention is that 35% of our conferences that took place in 2016 have booked again for next year. This is significant as these events usually work on a rotation basis and they can’t rotate within a period of four years to the same place – let alone the same city. So for us to land four major conferences that also booked for the following year, is incredible. A fact we are very proud of, as we aim to ensure that people who have their conferences here will always want to come back. If you look at the business from a financial perspective, we have exceeded all expectations.

In fact, about 60% of next year’s operating budget has been booked already.

Adriaan Liebetraau, Chief Executive Officer at SAACI

As the official umbrella body for the business-events industry in Southern Africa, SAACI constantly strives to be at the forefront of new initiatives. The business-events industry is ever-evolving, with focus having quickly shifted towards areas such as innovation, sustainability and new and creative ways of ensuring that delegates become participants and move away from classroom presentations with text-heavy PowerPoint slides that one can read off the screen instead of listening to stale topics. Conference’s main return on investment is content and one needs to do more to keep audiences interested in sessions, activities and lectures. One initiative that we are very proud of is the SAACI Academy – launched just over a year ago, we are constantly and continually working on improving this service offering to our members. The academy professionalises and empowers the Southern African business-events industry through training and education. This is done by providing online workshops and training courses by accredited training partners and institutions.Currently, the SAACI Academy has 618 registered online learners, with 321 companies already registered with the institution; and 53 online courses in progress. SAACI also remains closely tied to various collaboration partners such as ICAS (Independent Counselling and Advisory Services), the leading employee health and wellness provider in South Africa. Partnerships such as these provide enormous benefits to our members, and to the industry as a whole, mainly because it plays a role in the positive growth of our industry and encourages initiative, ingenuity and creativity through collaboration. Other collaboration partners include AVIS, British Airways, Greenpop, Price Forbes and South African Airways, with a banking partner on the cards. 14 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za FEATURE 15

Glyn Taylor and Gary Koetser, Joint CEOs: Century City Conference Centre Shaun Bird, General Manager: Sandton Convention Centre

The significance of business events is something that’s been spoken about for years, but it’s all about the Rand value Working in this industry in different countries makes real demands on your perspectives and approaches, having moved from that every delegate brings. It has a knock-on effect on accommodation, flights, tours, transfers, and more, and it is Gaborone, Botswana in the latter part of 2016 to take up the position as General Manager of Sandton Convention Centre, has for this reason that this Conference Centre was built. To give you an example, we recently hosted a conference of been a dream realised, but has not come without its challenges. The key is to stay positive and focused, but still have fun. 900 international delegates, who spent approximately R15-20-million for the duration of their stay. They booked out Positive thinking coupled with a philosophy that there is nothing that cannot be done if we apply ourselves to the problem. every available hotel room, they went shopping at Canal Walk, they went on tours for three days, they enjoyed all their You need to work through each problem as if it was a jigsaw puzzle and never give up until the puzzle is solved. Creativity and meals at our hotel and nearby restaurants, and during their free time they explored the area. So, the knock-on effect of flexibility have also helped a lot. conferencing matters. When adapting to different cultures, it is vital to engage with each new culture with the mindset that the culture is not going to On the local front, Century City as a node has become very appealing to people that wouldn’t normally have considered change to suit your expectations, you have to be very sensitive to the cultural heritage of each country and adjust your dealings it before. When brought here as a conference delegate, people are immediately taken by the location, with its close with others accordingly. Our clients, particularly international clients, have different needs and perspectives and we need to be proximity to all major local attractions, as well as all the leisure activities the area has to offer. All of a sudden, Century sensitive to them. City is now on their radar of places to visit and more often than not, about 50% of these people return for leisure at a later Sandton Convention Centre has built a strong reputation as the venue of choice for major events in South Africa, while also stage with their families to enjoy the Western Cape. The marketing value that business events bring, coupled with the proving highly popular for smaller and more intimate functions with its wide range of state-of-the-art meeting, exhibition and widespread reach, has by far been the best form of marketing for the zone. special event venue options, as well as world-class facilities and services. Our venue has been designed in such a way that we can host a combination of corporate conferences, association bookings, exhibitions and confexes and we’ve got numerous events booked for the year ahead. We’re talking neurologists, physicians, a lot of medical and pharmaceutical events. In fact, about 60% of next year’s operating budget has been booked already. Another point to mention is that 35% of our conferences that took place in 2016 have booked again for next year. This is significant as these events usually work on a rotation basis and they can’t rotate within a period of four years to the same place – let alone the same city. So for us to land four major conferences that also You need to work through each booked for the following year, is incredible. A fact we are very proud of, as we aim to ensure that people who have their conferences here will always want to come back. If you look at the business from a financial perspective, we have exceeded all expectations. problem as if it was a jigsaw puzzle and never give up until the puzzle is solved In fact, about 60% of next year’s operating budget has been booked already. Gill Gibbs, ConCept G Exhibitions & Events

Most of us have been on a flight and experienced turbulence whether it was quite dramatic or, mildly alarming. When your stomach feels like it has been put in a washing machine, it lurches and flips - throwing you off guard. Adrenaline pumps swiftly through your body, leaving your feet burning and tingling. For want of a euphemism, it can be best described as ‘unsettling’. Safe to say that 2016 has been a turbulent flight. A lurching economy that has left our industry in the aftermath of recovery, the Adriaan Liebetraau, Chief Executive Officer at SAACI global political climate that has directly impacted the already volatile economy, reminders of the deaths of key individuals that made an impact on society and with their passing, leaving their legacy and footprint from which we can hopefully learn and grow, As the official umbrella body for the business-events industry in Southern Africa, SAACI constantly strives to be at the forefront using their experiences to steer our course. of new initiatives. The business-events industry is ever-evolving, with focus having quickly shifted towards areas such as And what of our learnings - specifically in 2016? We have experienced that what we see and hear is not necessarily so... From one innovation, sustainability and new and creative ways of ensuring that delegates become participants and move away from angle, there is the undeniable fact that as industry leaders and pioneers, with many notches of hard-earned experience on our classroom presentations with text-heavy PowerPoint slides that one can read off the screen instead of listening to stale topics. belt, with time, some of us are truly blessed with wisdom and clarity. Then there is that little thing called TRUST - we need this in Conference’s main return on investment is content and one needs to do more to keep audiences interested in sessions, activities order to effectively engage and interact with people on a daily basis. In our interaction, we trust that their word is their deed. Just and lectures. how much should we trust before we have built said trust? And furthermore, before said trust is earned? Know that the individual One initiative that we are very proud of is the SAACI Academy – launched just over a year ago, we are constantly and continually with whom you are engaging or interacting is going to put a spin on everything that they tell you. They will tell you what they think working on improving this service offering to our members. The academy professionalises and empowers the Southern African or assume you want to hear. It is called veiling. There seems to be a general lack of lucidity and candour and one has to dig even business-events industry through training and education. This is done by providing online workshops and training courses deeper to find the truth behind the veil. We know that everything we think we know to be true, is not true. Case in point: take Trump by accredited training partners and institutions.Currently, the SAACI Academy has 618 registered online learners, with 321 - why did he beat the odds? And the outcome? A classic blindside - he pulled off the biggest upset in presidential history. companies already registered with the institution; and 53 online courses in progress. SAACI also remains closely tied to various To take someone at face value is the belief that what that person is saying is the truth rather than looking for the hidden agenda, collaboration partners such as ICAS (Independent Counselling and Advisory Services), the leading employee health and wellness motive or meaning behind what they are saying. Face value means that there is no veiling and that digging deeper in this case, provider in South Africa. Partnerships such as these provide enormous benefits to our members, and to the industry as a whole, is not likely to reveal anything interesting. The opposite of this is to seek the hidden motives and objectives. When last did you mainly because it plays a role in the positive growth of our industry and encourages initiative, ingenuity and creativity through experience anything at face value? collaboration. Other collaboration partners include AVIS, British Airways, Greenpop, Price Forbes and South African Airways, with As we approach the closing of 2016, the year of turbulence, we look toward the new year with a clear and direct vision - using a banking partner on the cards. our rapidly gaining wisdom and clarity as our steering advantage. 16 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

CTICC ©SA Tourism Speaker at the 2016 UFI Congress in China. The 2017 UFI Congress will be held in South Africa © UFI YOUR 2017 BUSINESS EVENT GUIDE We take a look at the local and international conferences, trade shows and association congresses that are not to be missed in 2017.

he global exhibition and conference organisers, suppliers and regional and Sandton Convention Centre once again industry is worth millions, with national convention bureaus not only has a strong booking throughout the year, around 260 million exhibition support and create incredible events, but with a range of events from consumer expos visitors every year according to continue winning awards for their work, too. to high-profile conferences. “The impressive TUFI’s 2016 Global Exhibition Day stats. There This year, CTICC extended its reach line-up of large scale events at the Sandton are 4.4 million exhibiting companies, with into the global market by hosting 39 Convention Centre included COP17, the South 1 197 exhibition centres with a minimum international conferences in its 2015/16 African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) of 5 000m2 of indoor space. The value of financial year, representing a 22% increase 50th Anniversary Convention and Property the international exhibition industry is on last year and a total of over 43 000 Exhibition’ as well as consumer exhibitions US$ 55-billion. With these kinds of numbers, delegates. Induced tourism generated by Gateway to Space and Ice Age,” Shaun Bird, it’s easy to see the significance of business the CTICC resulted in approximately GM at Sandton Convention Centre says. events and the role they play in a country’s 603 000 international tourist days and net The Johannesburg Expo Centre also has economic structure on various levels. foreign exchange earnings of R619-million. a number of shows scheduled for 2017. South Africa’s exhibition and conferencing This has cemented its reputation as the This includes Ultra South Africa, the Rand industry has grown consistently over the number one destination for international Show, Machine Tools 2017 and IFAT Africa. last decade, with the country bringing association conferences in Africa. Craig Newman, Chief Executive Officer at the more and more international association CSIR ICC have also seen healthy numbers JEC has a confident outlook for the future: events and world congresses home – and positive growth in the conferencing “In the next five to 10 years, the exhibitions not to mention the amount of interest it market. The venue hosts over 700 events and events industry could become one brings to the continent as a result. As the annually. “Some notable events hosted at of the main economic contributors of ‘gateway’ to Africa, SA offers not only a the CSIR ICC during the year include the this country. However, for this to happen meeting place for the world to explore the 33rd Annual Southern African Transport we will need ease of access and greater continent, but it has also been instrumental Conference and Exhibition; SAGES communication between the public sector, in breaking down negative connotations Conference, UN Habitat III Thematic exhibition organisers, and venues. South and feelings towards the wider continent. Meeting, Sustainability Week Congress Africa has excelled at delivering on true International convention centres like and Exhibition, the 9th World Congress economic sector exhibitions that contribute Cape Town International Convention on Engineering Asset Management; to the broader economy but we can still Centre (CTICC), Durban ICC, CSIR ICC and and the 14th SA Agricultural Outlook improve on the perception that is created in Sandton Convention Centre offer unmatched Conference,” says Refilwe Nchebisang, the marketplace on the value of exhibitions, hospitality and event support, while event Marketing Coordinator at CSIR ICC. eventing and conferencing in 2017.” www.theevent.co.za FEATURE 17

Inside the CTICC © SA Tourism

Major African Events Thanks to South Africa’s infrastructure and proven track record in hosting world-class events, it still maintains the highest number of conferences and exhibitions on the continent. Having said that, Africa has a number of hubs where the business-events sectors are rapidly growing, such as Kenya, Nigeria, Morocco and Egypt. Here’s a look at some of the highlights on the African business-events calendar.

AfricaCom INDABA Kenya International AfricaCom is the largest, most As one of the largest tourism Trade Show influential Africa-focused tech marketing events on the African Africa’s prime multi-sector event in the world. It focuses on calendar and one of the top three products, equipment and machinery economic development and on the global calendar, INDABA expo, Kenya International Trade social empowerment through brings together some of Africa’s Exhibition is the largest event of digital connectivity, and is best tourism products and its kind in East Africa and bring a business and technology introduces them to international over 150 exhibitors from 30 incubator for the architects buyers and media. It takes place countries together – with over of Africa’s digital future. at the Durban ICC annually. 12 000 trade visitors in attendance. Date: 13 – 17 November 2017 Date: 16 – 18 May 2017 Date: 2 – 4 June 2017 www.tmt.knect365.com/africacom www.indaba-southafrica.co.za www.expogr.com/expokenya

Meetings Africa World Travel Market Africa In the next five Africa’s premier marketplace for the Meet, network, negotiate and to 10 years, the meetings, incentives, conferences conduct business with over 600 and exhibitions sector, the trade exhibitors and over 4 800 travel exhibitions and show is a strong business platform professionals at WTM Africa in events industry for the continent’s diverse offerings Cape Town. This show is vibrant could become of services and products, with and culturally diverse – and with its a focus on associations and Hosted Buyer Programme, senior one of the the transformation in Africa level buyers are treated like VIPs main economic through business events. with 3 days of tailored activities. contributors of Date: 27 February – 1 March 2017 Date: 19 – 21 April 2017 www.meetingsafrica.co.za www.wtmafrica.com this country. 18 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

Save the Date: African Shows May

January • East AfricaCom | 17 – 18 May • ROAR Organiser and Exhibitor • Food and Hospitality Awards | 26 January Africa | 7 – 9 May • Edmark Expo | 22 – 23 January • MamaMagic The Baby Expo JHB | 11 – 14 May February • Totally Concrete | 23 – 24 May • Machine Tools Africa | • Investing in African Mining 9 – 12 May Indaba | 6 – 9 February • Africa Utility Week | • ECommerce Africa Confex | 16 – 18 May Waterwise booth during expo at the CSIR 22 – 23 February • The Dubai Show (JHB) | ICC © Sustainability Week Conference and 1 – 31 May Exhibition March • ICT South Africa | 11 – 12 May

Major International Events Save the Date: African Shows May International meetings are vital for South African and African businesses to attend – although it’s important to strategise and research which trade shows are best for one’s company. Here the world meets, networks and makes multi-million rand business deals. Below is a January • East AfricaCom | look at some of the biggest events in 2017. 17 – 18 May • ROAR Organiser and Exhibitor • Food and Hospitality Awards | 26 January Africa | 7 – 9 May • Edmark Expo | 22 – 23 January • MamaMagic The Baby Expo ACE of MICE Exhibition ibtm world UFI Congress JHB | 11 – 14 May Taking place in Istanbul, the ACE With a 28-year history as the leading The Global Association of the February • Totally Concrete | 23 – 24 May of MICE Exhibition is a fairly young trade show for businesses events, Exhibition Industry’s 84th global • Machine Tools Africa | show that packs some serious ibtm world brings 15 500 industry congress takes place on African soil • Investing in African Mining 9 – 12 May punch. Last year it saw 330 professionals together in Barcelona. for the first time, and is hosted by Indaba | 6 – 9 February • Africa Utility Week | exhibitors, 750 hosted buyers and Over 3 000 international suppliers the Johannesburg Expo Centre, a • ECommerce Africa Confex | 16 – 18 May 14 496 visitors through its doors from the meetings and events sectors testament to the growth of business Waterwise booth during expo at the CSIR 22 – 23 February • The Dubai Show (JHB) | ICC © Sustainability Week Conference and and logged just under 10 000 B2B attend to meet, network and conduct events on the continent. The UFI 1 – 31 May Exhibition meetings – making this Turkey’s business with top level meeting Congress offers industry insights, March • ICT South Africa | 11 – 12 May most extensive business event. planners and decision makers. and tackles exhibition challenges. Date: 22 – 24 February 2017 Date: 28 – 30 November 2017 Date: 1 – 4 November 2017 • Design Indaba | 1 – 3 March June September www.ameistanbul.com www.ibtmworld.com www.ufi.org • Career Indaba | 6 – 8 March • Professional Beauty CT | • Africa’s Big Seven | 25 – 27 June • IFAT Africa | 12 – 14 September 26 – 27 March • Markex and Madex | • Electra Mining Africa | • Power & Electricity World | 7 – 8 June 12 – 14 September IT&CM Events IMEX Exhibitions Adriaan Liebetraau 28 – 29 March • SAACI Congress | • International Sourcing Incentive Travel and Conventions, IMEX Group has two exhibitions resigns as SAACI CEO • Open Education Global 2 – 4 June Fair | 13 – 15 Sep Meetings Events (IT&CM Events) annually – IMEX America and “We wish to inform you that Conference | 8 – 10 March • Africa Rail / Aviation | • Automechanika Johannesburg | have three annual shows in their IMEX Frankfurt. The former is the SAACI Chief Executive Officer • IT Leaders Africa Summit | 13 – 14 June 27 – 30 September portfolio: IT&CM China, IT&CM India USA’s largest meetings industry Adriaan Liebetrau has tendered his 15 – 16 March • Transport Show | 28 – 29 June • Scalex Johannesburg | and IT&CM Asia. The exhibitions trade show, while Frankfurt resignation with the association. • Infrastructure Africa | 27 – 30 September bring Asian and international offers a landmark exhibition Adriaan joined us as CEO in May April 9 – 10 June exhibitors and buyers together for professionals and bring 2014 after previously serving on October in one dynamic marketplace to 3 500 suppliers together for the board of directors, he has been • ibtm africa | 20 April July foster growth in the MICE sector. three days of great business. given an amazing opportunity to • Zambia Travel Expo | • Medic West Africa | IT&CM China Date: IMEX America Date: join Tsogo Sun at the Sandton 27 – 29 April • West AfricaCom | 11 – 12 July 11 – 13 October 21 – 23 March 2017 10 – 12 October 2017 Convention Centre where he will • SA Cheese Festival | 28 – 30 April • Eduweek | 4 – 5 July • Sports Events and Tourism IT&CM India Date: August 2017 IMEX in Frankfurt Date: head up the Sales and Marketing • Africa Showcase: East • Money Expo | 8 – 9 July Exchange | 24 – 26 October IT&CM Asia-Pacific Date: 16 – 18 May 2017 departments for the Sandton Africa | 3 – 7 April • Powergen & Distributech • Swahili International 26 – 28 September 2017 www.imexamerica.com | Convention Centre, Sandton Sun, • Zimbabwe International Africa | 18 – 21 July Tourism Expo | October www.itcmevents.com www.imex-frankfurt.com Intercontinental Sandton and Trade Fair | 25 – 29 April • Totally Concrete East Garden Court Sandton City, he will • As’hambeni Business Tourism August Africa | October leave SAACI early next year and Expo | 25 – 29 April • Value Added Agriculture we will start the process for his • NAACAM Show | 5 – 7 April • East Africa International West Africa | 25 – 26 Oct Save the Date: International Shows successor in the coming days. • Rand Show | 14 – 23 April Trade Exhibition | • International Population • Airport Show | 15 – 17 May 2017 | www.theairportshow.com We wish to thank Adriaan for his 22 – 24 August Conference | 29 October • Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) | 21 – 22 February 2017 | dedication to our association, he • Loeries Creative Week | – 4 November www.aime.com.au has successfully ensured the roll 14 – 20 August • The Digital Education • Canton Fair (China Import & Export Fair) | 15 April – 5 May 2017 | out of the SAACI strategy launched • Cape Construction | Show | 18 – 19 October www.cantonfair.org.cn three years ago and wish him well 15 – 16 August • Winex | 26 – 28 October • ICCA Congress | November 2017 | www.iccaworld.org with his future endeavours, he will • The Wedding Expo DBN | • India International Trade Fair | November 2017 | www.indiatradefair.com/iitf remain on the SAACI board as a 5 – 6 August November • International Luxury Travel Market | Cannes, Tokyo, Cape Town, co-opted member and we appreciate • Decorex Johannesburg | Sao Paolo, Shanghai and Riviera Maya | www.iltm.com his continued involvement. 19 – 13 August • East Africa Rail | • Power Gen International | 13 – 15 December 2016 | www.power-gen.com We wish to assure all members • #BuyaBusiness Expo / SBE | 21 – 22 November • The African Trade Show (USA) | 2 – 4 September 2017 | that we are committed to ensuring 31 August – 2 September • FIBO | 2 – 3 Nov www.africatradeshow.net a smooth transition process • My Business Expo CT | • African Agri Investment • WESTEC | 12 – 14 September 2017 | www.westeconline.com during the coming months. 24 August Indaba | November • World Travel Market London | November 2017 | www.wtmlondon.com - Wayne Johnson - Chairman

Gala Dinner | Photographer: Steven Booth ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE SUCCESS STORY: TURNERS CONFERENCES

About the event: The 14th International Congress of Name of Conference: Commission on Non- the International Radiation Protection 14th International Congress Ionising Radiation Protection, Association (IRPA14) was hosted by the of the International Radiation International Commission Southern African Radiation Protection Protection Association on Radiological Protection, Association and South African Radiation Date: 9 – 13 May 2016 International Commission Protection Society at the Cape Town Number of Delegates: 950 on Radiation Units and International Convention Centre in Cape Number of Accompanying Measurements, International Town from the 9th to the 13th of May Persons: 50 Labour Office, International 2016. One thousand participants from Number of Days: 5 Organisation for Medical 68 countries attended this congress and Client: International Radiation Physics, International Society of it proved to be an excellent opportunity Protection Association / Radiographers and Radiological to communicate on the achievements, Southern African Radiation Technologists, OECD Nuclear scientific knowledge and operational Protection Association and Energy Agency, Pan American experiences in radiation protection. South African Radiation Health Organisation, United The congress theme was “Practising Protection Society – Joint Nations Environment Radiation Protection: Sharing the Hosts, in collaboration with; Programme, United Nations Experience and New Challenges.” the European Commission, Scientific Committee on the The programme shared practical and International Atomic Energy Effects of Atomic Radiation and theoretical knowledge, and highlighted Association, International the World Health Organisation. new challenges and how best to handle them, and addressed three major topics www.theevent.co.za ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE SUCCESS: CASE STUDY 21

Exhibition Welcome | Photographer: Steven Booth

of the radiological protection system; protection is playing an active role and Pre and post tour itinerary and Fundamental Science; Policy, Standards gave them access to new products and highlights: and Culture, and Practical Application. services available from commercial • Delegates enjoyed half day and The programme structure took the form companies and organisations. full day tours in Cape Town and of morning plenary sessions followed its surrounding areas, visiting by six concurrent parallel sessions over Event highlights: District Six, Cape Point, Table four days, the final day of the congress • The 50th Anniversary of the founding Mountain and the beautiful celebrated 50 years of collaboration of the International Radiation winelands amongst other sites. in Radiation Protection with Keynote Protection Association. • Pre and post overland tours visited lectures and panel discussions. Six • Great networking opportunities during the Garden Route, Kruger National refresher courses took place every day tea breaks, lunches and the Welcome Park, Private Game Reserves, before the morning plenary session. Reception in the Exhibition Hall. Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe. A technical trade exhibition gave • It only took 60 seconds for • Technical Tours visited Koeberg delegates the opportunity to sample delegates to register. Nuclear Power Station and the South the latest technical developments • First time IRPA used a congress app. African Nuclear Energy Corporation in all of the fields in which radiation • IRPA University Day Addition to Knowledge Economy: A free IRPA University Day took place at UCT, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity for students in natural sciences, engineering and medicine to listen and interact with world- renowned experts and learn about career opportunities in Radiation Protection.

Congratulations and thank you for last week’s congress.

- Virva Nilsson, Swedish Radiation Safety Authority.

Plenary Monday | Photographer: Steven Booth 22 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za FEATURE 23

Coasteering © Gravity Adventures Stand up Paddling at Langebaan © Gravity Adventures Breede River rapids © Gravity Adventures Amphitheatre Heritage Hike © Active Escapes

Trending Adventures way of the future because although it is a Horseback riding icon, whale shark voice speaker icon made by Freepik from www.flaticon.com. Travel couple and cyclist designed by freepik.com Not everyone is willing to risk their neck form of ‘experiential tourism’, it occupies to get the experience of a lifetime. Sarah the intersection between conservation A Breakdown of the Industry BUCKLE UP FOR THE Drew, Director of Active Escapes, says and commerce. “When done right, it is • The most common hiking tours and ‘slackpacking’ – where empowering for travellers, employees adventure experience catering, guiding and luggage support is and the cultural and natural environment. offered by tour operators OF A provided – have increased in demand. “Our As a traveller, inform yourself of the is horseback riding, ADVENTURE LIFETIME biggest market is, in fact, people who still current issues in your chosen destination followed closely by scuba want a challenge but also want to sleep in and make an informed choice of which diving and quad biking Adventure tourism is becoming an integral part of the incentive travel package as more and a comfortable bed, not have to worry about operator to give your hard-earned money • The highest income- more people search for memorable experiences in the leisure sector. Kim Crowie chats with cooking for themselves, and organising the to. Think specifically of issues around generating activity is the experts to find out what’s new, what’s trending and what’s not to be missed. logistics,” she says. “We recognise a growth ethical animal encounters as well as shark cage diving area as the family market increasingly human rights and safety and standards.” • The adventure tourism looking for more ‘active holidays’.” Keeping up with current trends and industry in SA was worth issues is not only a traveller’s responsibility, R4.6-billion in 2014, and dventure tourism is a fast- According to a 2014 Dirty Boots industry but a tour operator’s too, says Barbara. this excludes safaris growing industry with adrenalin survey, the sector is worth roughly R4.6- Our biggest market is “We have clients who have been with us for and cultural trips Adventure Tourism Ideas pumping activities and billion and shows no sign of slowing. It people who still want a over 16 years, so the pressure is constantly • The majority of Southern Africa has many experiences to die for. From has been the largest-growing sector in the on to come up with bigger and better international adventure challenge but also want adventure tourism operators in Awhite water rafting down the Vaal to shark travel industry for the last few years, with events. We strive to stay current with the tourists come from the region. Here are some of the cage diving, bungee jumping, abseiling, SA Tourism and the Department of Tourism to sleep in a comfortable latest trends and incorporate these into Germany (27.1%), followed best adventures you can book in there really is no end to the possibilities. even taking a keen interest of late. “Tourists bed, not have to worry our activities.” Adventure Works has seen by the UK (25.1%), and our adrenalin-pumped region. According to Johan Radciffe, Owner of no longer just want to sit in a bus and visit cook-offs as their most popular activity, the Netherlands (16.1%) • Aerial adventures such as Dirty Boots, a renowned marketing platform historical or cultural attractions. Most about cooking for while their Urban Adventure – a history • The average age zip lining, Tarzan swings for adventure products, these activities go tourists, local or domestic, will partake in at themselves, and lesson, discovery of Cape Town city centre 35 of an adventure and canopy tours through cycles of popularity. “One of South least one activity while on vacation,” Johan organising the logistics. and an Amazing Race-themed treasure hunt YEARS tourist is 35 years • Hiking, canyoneering and Africa’s most-popular adventure activities says. “All this growth and demand is busy all in one – has really taken off in 2016. • Adventure companies rock climbing experiences is still shark cage diving,” he explains, “even creating a very professional and competitive And if that’s not enough to persuade spend between 7-10% • Big 5 safaris, game drives, with all the controversy surrounding it, they adventure industry.” He adds that part of The flagship product of Gravity you to book your own exciting trip, of their turnover on 4x4s, quad, cycle, motorcycle are still seeing huge numbers of tourists, the appeal is its ability to allow the client Adventures is the Orange River Gorge here’s a final bit of encouragement marketing, and 4.3 and overland tours local and international. 2016 saw the launch to feel as though they have achieved wilderness rafting trip. According to Marie- from Johann: “In my opinion there is hours a week on social • Extreme sports on land such of a great new product in Cape Town called something with an element of risk attached. Louise and Andrew Kellett, this has been no time or money better spent than on media marketing as bungee jumping, abseiling, scootours – basically an off-road scooter Barbara Futter, Co-Owner of Adventure most popular with families and is a perfect quality time with friends or family doing • The SA cycling industry paragliding, gorilla trekking, that you start at a top of a path and ride Works, says adventure tourism is alive combination of adventure and relaxation. some awesome adventure activity.” is estimated to be worth hot air balloon rides, sky down with – with franchises in all the major and well. “Over the last 20 years, Southern “The logistics of running a multi-day rafting between R700-million to diving, archery, paintball tourist areas around South Africa already.” Africa has seen the birth and rapid growth trip in an extremely remote wilderness area Special thanks to Active Escapes R1-billion per annum • Extreme water sports such as of a dynamic adventure tourism industry. are complex but we have been doing this for (www.active-escapes.co.za), Adventure kite boarding, white river rafting, Overall Health of the Sector There is huge demand for adventure, both a long time and our systems are excellent,” Works (www.adventureworks.co.za), All information courtesy of shark cage diving, ocean The adventure industry has been very from international visitors and locals alike says Marie-Louise. “We are especially well Dirty Boots (www.dirtyboots.co.za) Dirty Boots SA Adventure safaris, snorkelling, tubing innovative over the last decade, with over and this will only grow. I see townships as known for our delicious on-river catering!” and Gravity Adventures (www. Industry Survey 2014 100 activities available in the country. the next area of growth in this industry.” She adds that adventure tourism is the gravity.co.za) for their insight. 22 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za FEATURE 23

Coasteering © Gravity Adventures Stand up Paddling at Langebaan © Gravity Adventures Breede River rapids © Gravity Adventures Amphitheatre Heritage Hike © Active Escapes

The Dragonfly Africa team A charter operation for large groups. Photography by Franz Rabe Natural Photography (naturalphoto.co.za) A CHAT WITH DRAGONFLY AFRICA The Event chats with Sales and Marketing Director Yolanda Woeke-Jacobs to find out how Dragonfly Africa has maintained its position as a leading destination management company in Southern and East Africa.

ragonfly Africa and its sister significant slice of the high-yield incentives for Southern Africa – particularly in the company Green Route Africa are market – a market virtually unknown in area of international reward incentives. some of the most successful South Africa before 1994, when it all began. So a specialist division was set up destination management London-born Rupert Jeffries – Executive within Dragonfly to start focusing on Dcompanies on the continent, with a Chairman, arrived in South Africa in 1975 the international MICE market and we combined 10 SITE Crystal Awards to date. as a Grey-Phillips advertising executive, appointed a Sales Office in New York. We They operate across eleven countries – fell in love with the country and made it his executed our first incentive group for 120 South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, home. While still on international transfer people in Cape Town during 1994. This Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Kenya, in 1979, he visited Cybele Forest Lodge programme won the first SITE Crystal Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda – serve and Health Spa in Mpumalanga and after Award for a South African programme. individual travellers, groups, meetings, some soul searching, decided to buy it. Dragonfly Africa and Green Route incentives, conferences and exhibitions, and Whilst running Cybele, it occurred to Rupert Africa now comprise a staff of over 60 bring over 30 years’ travel experience to the that exploring the regions scenic beauty people, many of whom have been with table. The Event chats with Yolanda Woeke- from the air might be of interest to guests. the company over 10 years; a few over 20 Jacobs, Director of Sales and Marketing Rupert started creating Cybele and game- years. So there is a depth of experience and at Dragonfly Africa, to find out what keeps lodge packages and was then asked to do knowledge that runs throughout the group. them at the top of the incentive travel chain. other itineraries for clients around the rest of South Africa. This was the beginning How do you maintain this position Let’s start at the beginning. How of Dragonfly Travel – the emphasis was in the sector? have you built Dragonfly Africa into always on detailed and creative travel Our business is our staff! We have the leader that it is in the travel itineraries and the business grew to a an amazing, dedicated team that all industry today? small office in the nearby town of White share the same goals, service beliefs The Dragonfly Africa Group comprises two River and eventually to Johannesburg. and core values. We work with quite of the most established and successful When Nelson Mandela was released a few distinct international markets. destination management companies in from prison and a Democratic Government Each one has different cultures Southern Africa, Dragonfly Africa and likely, it became apparent to us that there and different budgets and we have Green Route Africa. We have captured a would be enormous travel opportunities specialists for each of these markets. 24 PRO-SPECTIVE www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za PRO-SPECTIVE 25

We foster healthy relationships What trend have you noticed in with all our suppliers in the industry 2015/2016 in incentive travel that There is a depth and work together as a team. And is likely to carry into the new year? of experience and of course what we have learnt over For specific markets, CSR (corporate knowledge that runs the many years of running large and social responsibility) is a very big aspect complicated incentive programmes. of MICE travel. Companies are eager to throughout the group. give back to local communities. It is our How do you manage so many view however that these projects have to different country portfolios under be sustainable – where there is regular what our clients are looking for. As one banner? feedback and the projects must be mentioned before it has given Dragonfly As our business has expanded it has maintained and managed for future benefits. Africa a footprint into East Africa. become essential to offer services in other parts of this amazing continent. Existing Which challenges do you face on What’s new at Green Route clients want to return, to see and experience a regular basis as a destination Africa in 2016? What can we The Dragonfly Africa team A charter operation for large groups. Photography by Franz Rabe more of Africa. They have placed their trust management company, and how expect in 2017? Natural Photography (naturalphoto.co.za) in our capabilities so it is only natural that we you overcome these? The Green Route Africa team has expanded into the 11 countries in Southern Direct flight capacities into safari regions. expanded into new European markets, and East Africa that we now cover. One of We can overcome this by making use with newly appointed sales offices. A CHAT WITH the strategic reasons for purchasing Green of charter flights. This, however, is an Our goal is to build an ever stronger Route Africa in 2010 was the fact that they expensive option that is not always available operational team for the busy year ahead. already had an operation set up in East to all groups. Charter flights in particularly Africa, including an office in Nairobi, Kenya. need careful coordination – we recently How much of a role do DRAGONFLY AFRICA It has taken an investment of time and completed a large incentive programme exhibitions and trade shows resources get to know these new regions from North America where we utilised 35 play in destination marketing? The Event chats with Sales and Marketing Director Yolanda Woeke-Jacobs to find out how as a DMC should. This is not just setting up private game lodges around the country Over the years we have found that operational offices in the region, but also with 118 charted aircraft being utilised over attendance at exhibition and trade shows Dragonfly Africa has maintained its position as a leading destination management company ensuring the team are familiarised with the three days – including six Boeing 737s. is vital. IMEX is a fantastic platform and in Southern and East Africa. destination – a vital element. We have also The fact that airlift into Cape Town is very beneficial to our business (both entered into strategic alliances with partners is not always direct, especially from the Frankfurt and Las Vegas), provided who act as extensions of our business. USA markets, makes the travel times the diary system is used correctly. ragonfly Africa and its sister significant slice of the high-yield incentives for Southern Africa – particularly in the unnecessarily long. With an aircraft change company Green Route Africa are market – a market virtually unknown in area of international reward incentives. What are the key differences in the in Johannesburg and that extra leg, it adds Any last words? some of the most successful South Africa before 1994, when it all began. So a specialist division was set up requests you receive, particularly to an already long journey. With such strong Our team makes us a success. We destination management London-born Rupert Jeffries – Executive within Dragonfly to start focusing on when handling business-events competition around the world, this can have dedicated and very special staff Dcompanies on the continent, with a Chairman, arrived in South Africa in 1975 the international MICE market and we travel inquiries versus leisure have a negative impact on the decision- working for us, from our guides, account combined 10 SITE Crystal Awards to date. as a Grey-Phillips advertising executive, appointed a Sales Office in New York. We travel? making process. We do try overcoming managers and finance team to our sales They operate across eleven countries – fell in love with the country and made it his executed our first incentive group for 120 Our leisure itineraries average between 10 this by highlighting the incredible value for and support staff. This undoubtedly South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, home. While still on international transfer people in Cape Town during 1994. This and 16 nights on the ground in Southern money our destination currently offers. makes it all work as a successful and Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Kenya, in 1979, he visited Cybele Forest Lodge programme won the first SITE Crystal Africa, whilst the average incentive trip Another big challenge is misconceptions cohesive business and company. Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda – serve and Health Spa in Mpumalanga and after Award for a South African programme. could be three to four nights from Europe of Africa that some of our potential In February this year, the company individual travellers, groups, meetings, some soul searching, decided to buy it. Dragonfly Africa and Green Route and up to seven nights from North America. clients have. They are often not aware of announced news of a Management Buy Out incentives, conferences and exhibitions, and Whilst running Cybele, it occurred to Rupert Africa now comprise a staff of over 60 Probably the most successful combination how safe, sophisticated and diversified of the business. Mike Waller, Chief Executive bring over 30 years’ travel experience to the that exploring the regions scenic beauty people, many of whom have been with from an incentive trip with quite a large Southern Arica is. We overcome this Officer, and three other executives, Yolanda table. The Event chats with Yolanda Woeke- from the air might be of interest to guests. the company over 10 years; a few over 20 budget would be three nights Cape Town, by regular visits to our source markets Woeke-Jacobs, Director: Sales & Marketing, Jacobs, Director of Sales and Marketing Rupert started creating Cybele and game- years. So there is a depth of experience and three nights at a private game lodge, and with one-on-one engagements. Barry Schreiber, Director: Finance, and Kerry at Dragonfly Africa, to find out what keeps lodge packages and was then asked to do knowledge that runs throughout the group. three nights at Victoria Falls. We have also Roos, Director: Operations and Product found that leisure clients are looking for Development, will immediately acquire them at the top of the incentive travel chain. other itineraries for clients around the rest Let’s talk about Green Route Africa. more boutique-style properties and want additional shares. Mr Jeffries will remain of South Africa. This was the beginning How do you maintain this position When was it that you identified this more experiential activities by immersing the majority shareholder over a minimum Let’s start at the beginning. How of Dragonfly Travel – the emphasis was in the sector? particular sector as an important themselves into the local culture. With part of the travel industry? period of four years, after which time the have you built Dragonfly Africa into always on detailed and creative travel Our business is our staff! We have our MICE groups, we are often limited to Dragonfly Africa purchased Green Route shareholders will be able to acquire all of the leader that it is in the travel itineraries and the business grew to a an amazing, dedicated team that all using bigger venues and hotels, for obvious Africa in 2010. This merger afforded both the remaining shares in Dragonfly Africa industry today? small office in the nearby town of White share the same goals, service beliefs reasons. With reward travel, money-can’t- companies the opportunity to focus on and Green Route Africa. Mr Jeffries says, The Dragonfly Africa Group comprises two River and eventually to Johannesburg. and core values. We work with quite buy experiences are often expected; this specific key source markets, and take “We are all extremely pleased we have of the most established and successful When Nelson Mandela was released a few distinct international markets. keeps things interesting and encourages advantage of their brand strength in their been able to conclude this agreement destination management companies in from prison and a Democratic Government Each one has different cultures us, as a DMC, to always be on the lookout respective markets. It is also made it as an entirely internal matter, with no Southern Africa, Dragonfly Africa and likely, it became apparent to us that there and different budgets and we have for new and exciting ventures and ideas. possible for us hone in and offer exactly outside parties or institutions involved.” Green Route Africa. We have captured a would be enormous travel opportunities specialists for each of these markets. 26 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za FEATURE 27

Club Mykonos Strandloper © SA Tourism The West Coast © West Coast Fossil Park !Khwa ttu guided tour

with an abundance of birdlife, game and fynbos and stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain. The In recent years, business travellers and meeting CAPE WEST COAST conference room has all the necessary or conference delegates have embraced a move Known for its abundance of tourist routes, the Cape West Coast is now garnering equipment and can accommodate between 10 and 30 delegates. away from the frenetic pace of city life, and attention from the business-events industry. converged on the Cape West Coast, where nature West Coast Fossil Park The West Coast Fossil Park is situated on offers inspiration and eases tension. the R45, close to Langebaan. The park omprising Swartland, on the Cape West Coast, where nature Club Mykonos is home to five million-year-old fossils Namaqua West Coast, offers inspiration and eases tension. The Athene Conference Centre at of sabre-tooth cats, bears, short-necked Peninsula, Bergrivier, and the Club Mykonos can cater for up to 500 giraffes, wild pigs, three-toed horses and Cederberg, the Cape West Suggested Venues: delegates. Supported by the Bouzouki the many other animals that populated CCoast region is an established locale restaurant, it is capable of handling the West Coast region. After a fascinating Incentive Opportunities which attract thousands of travellers for leisure tourism. Visitors flock to Allesverloren your conference requirements with fossil tour, visitors can stroll through the When the business of the day is throughout the year. Both wine and the region for its annual display of Approximately 100km north-east of Cape Greek hospitality and Mediterranean gardens or enjoy a meal at the restaurant. concluded, delegates and business flowers can appreciated simultaneously magnificent wild flowers, regular whale Town, lying below the Kasteelberg, is the flair. Wi-Fi, audio-visual equipment professionals can unwind by exploring at wineries such as Lutzville Cape Rock sightings, wine farms and cellars, historic wine estate of Allesverloren. This, and exhibition space are all included. Strandloper the fascinating heritage and culture and Namaqua. Many visitors are also culture and heritage tours, birdwatching the oldest wine estate in the Swartland, The resort is inspired by the Greek A visit to the West Coast is not complete of the Cape West Coast. A guided tour keen to explore the small fishing towns and golfing. Quaint seaside towns such renowned for its red wines, also has town of Mykonos, and its incredible without a meal at Strandloper, the by descendants of the San people is that dot the region, and offer authentic as Langebaan, Elands Bay, Yzerfontein a stunning function and conference architecture and festive atmosphere famous beach kitchen. Guests are treated a must-see, and includes a ride on an culinary delights. The Saldanha Bay Oyster and Paternoster offer upmarket venue that can seat up to 250 people. ensure that delegates enjoy more than to an authentic culinary experience open vehicle through the landscape Company harvests and sells arguably accommodation in a unique setting, Allesverloren is well equipped to help just the business aspect of their visit. including fish curry, angel fish and snoek, viewing game, and a visit to a replica the best oysters in the country, and when while towns such as Darling, Riebeek- organisers hold a successful conference, grilled haarders, smoked angel fish, traditional village for fascinating these deliciously sweet and plump oysters Kasteel and Clanwilliam have retained team building event or product launch. !Khwa ttu snoek with sweet or steamed potato, and demonstrations of ancient tools are paired with champagne, this is an a small-town charm while catering Some of the state-of-the-art equipment !Khwa ttu offers visitors the unique waterblommertjie bredie. Each course and other extraordinary aspects of experience that will never be forgotten. to the needs of seasonal visitors. available includes a powerful audio system, experience of being introduced to the is served individuals over a leisurely the San’s traditional way of life. In recent years, business travellers complete with hand-held and wireless world of the San people. The Centre three to four-hour period. Festivities The awe-inspiring wonderland of Brought to you by the Cape Town and meeting or conference delegates lapel microphones and a DVD player. is housed within a series of lovingly centre around the open, central braai wildflowers that bloom annually is a and Western Cape Convention have embraced a move away from the The venue also offers a data projector restored old West Coast farm buildings, area as a local musician serenades sight that can’t be missed, as is the Bureau, a division of WESGRO frenetic pace of city life, and converged with sound and a dedicated screen. whilst the surrounding area teems diners with traditional guitar music. region’s up and coming wine estates www.capetownconventionbureau.org www.theevent.co.za FEATURE 27

with an abundance of birdlife, game and fynbos and stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain. The In recent years, business travellers and meeting conference room has all the necessary equipment and can accommodate or conference delegates have embraced a move between 10 and 30 delegates. away from the frenetic pace of city life, and converged on the Cape West Coast, where nature West Coast Fossil Park The West Coast Fossil Park is situated on offers inspiration and eases tension. the R45, close to Langebaan. The park is home to five million-year-old fossils of sabre-tooth cats, bears, short-necked giraffes, wild pigs, three-toed horses and the many other animals that populated the West Coast region. After a fascinating Incentive Opportunities which attract thousands of travellers fossil tour, visitors can stroll through the When the business of the day is throughout the year. Both wine and gardens or enjoy a meal at the restaurant. concluded, delegates and business flowers can appreciated simultaneously professionals can unwind by exploring at wineries such as Lutzville Cape Rock Strandloper the fascinating heritage and culture and Namaqua. Many visitors are also A visit to the West Coast is not complete of the Cape West Coast. A guided tour keen to explore the small fishing towns without a meal at Strandloper, the by descendants of the San people is that dot the region, and offer authentic famous beach kitchen. Guests are treated a must-see, and includes a ride on an culinary delights. The Saldanha Bay Oyster to an authentic culinary experience open vehicle through the landscape Company harvests and sells arguably including fish curry, angel fish and snoek, viewing game, and a visit to a replica the best oysters in the country, and when grilled haarders, smoked angel fish, traditional village for fascinating these deliciously sweet and plump oysters snoek with sweet or steamed potato, and demonstrations of ancient tools are paired with champagne, this is an waterblommertjie bredie. Each course and other extraordinary aspects of experience that will never be forgotten. is served individuals over a leisurely the San’s traditional way of life. three to four-hour period. Festivities The awe-inspiring wonderland of Brought to you by the Cape Town centre around the open, central braai wildflowers that bloom annually is a and Western Cape Convention area as a local musician serenades sight that can’t be missed, as is the Bureau, a division of WESGRO diners with traditional guitar music. region’s up and coming wine estates www.capetownconventionbureau.org 28 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za SPOTLIGHT 29

A million bottles NATIONAL WINE of South African wine are sold daily. This is a million TOURISM STRATEGY opportunities to tell South Africa’s story through wine WILL HELP REALISE POTENTIAL tourism. OF WINE AND FOOD TOURISM is imperative that South Africa promote The Event was proud to attend the first-ever Business of Food and Wine Tourism Conference. what is authentically South African and push the boundaries with innovation and dynamic marketing. To this end, the wine tourism strategy is a tourism more collaborative approach to strategy, not a wine strategy, aimed at the promotion of South Africa’s increasing business and employment unique wine tourism offering opportunities within the value-chain and a new national wine tourism of hospitality and wine tourism, with Astrategy is a step closer to being realised the focus on small- to medium- after The Business of Food and Wine sized enterprises and black-owned Tourism Conference, which was recently businesses that operate at a local level. held at Spier Wine Estate in Stellenbosch. A million bottles of South African “This is the start of a new journey. wine are sold daily. This is a million The strategy is being developed as a opportunities to tell South Africa’s story dynamic industry framework and practical through wine tourism,” added Mariette. plan. Our immediate priorities are to get Rico Basson, CEO of VinPro, is sure that buy-in from role players and to finalise this conference will have long term benefits the implementation plan with input from for wine tourism and related industries: and alignment with government,” says “We need to adapt to international trends, Destinate’s Mariette du Toit-Helmbold, whilst offering the best authentic, local who was commissioned to develop offerings. Wine tourism is a major revenue an industry-led wine tourism plan, as On the agenda is the development A global wine and food tourism generator for South Africa, which already part of the Wine Industry Strategic of a national wine tourism brand and campaign is being proposed, jointly contributes about R6-billion to GDP. We Exercise (WISE), an initiative that message with a wine tourism marketing funded through public and private sector are committed to increasing this figure was introduced to promote a robust, kit to train the trade and hospitality contributions, and in close partnership with to R15-billion by 2025. It also presents adaptable and competitive industry. industry, providing them with the tools, the South African Wine Routes Forum to an important opportunity in terms of job Minister Derek Hanekom, Minister message and visual inspiration to identify and map the wine tourism levers creation. The wine industry value-chain of Tourism, said: “We support the promote wine tourism more effectively. within each wine region, including the currently employs in excess of 289 000 development of a wine tourism strategy The establishment of a neutral wine Northern Cape and the Garden Route. people and the new strategy will pave that will see the industry unite behind a tourism digital marketing platform with A wine tourism research and training the way for significant growth in the wine common vision, brand and aligned plan interactive website, activated social media programme, which will provide industry tourism sector over the next 10 years.” to take wine tourism forward. We look platforms, aligned wine tourism event and government with the much- Siobhan Thompson, CEO of Wines of forward to working with the industry calendar and fresh content providing needed intelligence, whilst mapping South Africa added: “South Africa exports to help realise the enormous potential links to all the wine regions and routes for new wine tourism career paths and wine to markets across the world. The wine tourism has in contributing to our cross-marketing purposes is a priority. investing in service excellence in bulk of SA’s exports are aligned with South country’s overall tourism growth.” Visiting the winelands is listed as the industry, will be developed. Africa’s key source tourism markets like the VinPro, the organisation that represents the second-most popular experience “South Africa’s competitive edge is EU, with exports to markets in the rest of South African wine cellars and wine by visitors on South African Tourism’s not only our wine, but also our hospitality Africa, the US and China growing. It makes grape producers, has provided funding to website, making alignment with the and passionate people, matched with sense for wine and tourism to collaborate conclude the strategy and implementation national tourism strategy and South unique experiences, exceptional food and promote our wine tourism offering as plan and enable a number of interventions African Tourism’s marketing plans and breath-taking scenery, all easily a differentiating factor within our broader within the next twelve months. and platforms a key priority. accessible to the visitor,” says Mariette. It wine and tourism marketing initiatives.” www.theevent.co.za SPOTLIGHT 29

A million bottles of South African wine are sold daily. This is a million opportunities to tell South Africa’s story through wine tourism.

is imperative that South Africa promote what is authentically South African and push the boundaries with innovation and dynamic marketing. To this end, the wine tourism strategy is a tourism strategy, not a wine strategy, aimed at increasing business and employment opportunities within the value-chain of hospitality and wine tourism, with the focus on small- to medium- sized enterprises and black-owned businesses that operate at a local level. A million bottles of South African wine are sold daily. This is a million opportunities to tell South Africa’s story through wine tourism,” added Mariette. Rico Basson, CEO of VinPro, is sure that this conference will have long term benefits for wine tourism and related industries: “We need to adapt to international trends, whilst offering the best authentic, local offerings. Wine tourism is a major revenue On the agenda is the development A global wine and food tourism generator for South Africa, which already of a national wine tourism brand and campaign is being proposed, jointly contributes about R6-billion to GDP. We message with a wine tourism marketing funded through public and private sector are committed to increasing this figure kit to train the trade and hospitality contributions, and in close partnership with to R15-billion by 2025. It also presents industry, providing them with the tools, the South African Wine Routes Forum to an important opportunity in terms of job message and visual inspiration to identify and map the wine tourism levers creation. The wine industry value-chain promote wine tourism more effectively. within each wine region, including the currently employs in excess of 289 000 The establishment of a neutral wine Northern Cape and the Garden Route. people and the new strategy will pave tourism digital marketing platform with A wine tourism research and training the way for significant growth in the wine interactive website, activated social media programme, which will provide industry tourism sector over the next 10 years.” platforms, aligned wine tourism event and government with the much- Siobhan Thompson, CEO of Wines of calendar and fresh content providing needed intelligence, whilst mapping South Africa added: “South Africa exports links to all the wine regions and routes for new wine tourism career paths and wine to markets across the world. The cross-marketing purposes is a priority. investing in service excellence in bulk of SA’s exports are aligned with South Visiting the winelands is listed as the industry, will be developed. Africa’s key source tourism markets like the the second-most popular experience “South Africa’s competitive edge is EU, with exports to markets in the rest of by visitors on South African Tourism’s not only our wine, but also our hospitality Africa, the US and China growing. It makes website, making alignment with the and passionate people, matched with sense for wine and tourism to collaborate national tourism strategy and South unique experiences, exceptional food and promote our wine tourism offering as African Tourism’s marketing plans and breath-taking scenery, all easily a differentiating factor within our broader and platforms a key priority. accessible to the visitor,” says Mariette. It wine and tourism marketing initiatives.” 30 BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY www.theevent.co.za

Hühnerauge © Flickr SOWETO: WHERE HERITAGE MEETS ENTERTAINMENT Established during the gold rush in the late 1800s, Soweto has a long and vibrant history. It was home to renowned South Africans including Desmond Tutu, Trevor Noah, and the late Nelson Mandela, and today is home to the Hector Pieterson Museum, the Nelson Mandela National Museum, and many other unique, local attractions.

township located in the city Key Venues The conference room and two executive of Johannesburg in Gauteng, Soweto Hotel and Conference Centre board rooms offer state-of-the-art Soweto is a vibrant area bursting Soweto Hotel and Conference Centre is experiences and spectacular views at the seams with colour, the first four-star luxury boutique hotel of Soweto. For more information, Aculture and history. Although initially a offering African hospitality in the area. visit www.sowetohotel.co.za. mining shanty in the late 1800s and early 1900s, Soweto is perhaps better known Soweto Hotel and Conference Centre

for the tragic uprising that took place in Venue Plenary

1976 where 10 000 students marched on Kliptown Conference Centre 60 cinema style, 50 classroom style Orlando Stadium over the government’s Soweto Tourism Centre 60-80 seater policy to enforce education in Afrikaans. Helen Josephs Boardroom 10 seater Since 1994, however, Soweto has become the place to be. Not only does it Winnie Madikizela Mandela 14 seater offer unique tourism opportunities and delicious, locally-produced morsels but Chaf-Pozi or speciality spit braai for groups of over it is fast-becoming a trendy place to Chaf-Pozi, located at the famous Orlando 30. The venue also offers to a mini tour hold a conference, concert or cocktail Towers, offers an authentic township of Soweto prior to your meal, dancers, party. In recent years, there have been experience from delectable shisanyama musicians and comedians, African face a number of revitalisation projects in and shuttle tours of Soweto, to top painting, traditional drumming, and bungee the region, resulting in steady economic entertainment at an exceptional venue. jumps, SCAD freefalls, wall climbing growth and an increased interest in the Ideal for corporate events or networking or paintball at the Towers. For more many attractions Soweto has to offer. functions, Chaf-Pozi offers set menus information, visit www.chafposi.co.za. 30 BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY 31

Ubuntu Kraal Brewery As the home base of Soweto Gold lager, Access Currency Ubuntu Kraal is an ideal destination for corporate events, networking functions Soweto can be accessed through South US Dollar Euro Chinese and teambuilding. The venue is a trendy, African (USD) (EUR) Yuan OR Tambo International Airport or Rand township eatery with a stunning beer (ZAR) Lanseria International Airport, both garden which includes beer tastings, 50 3.71 3.36 25.16 of which have a regular schedule brewery tours and a gourmet grill. of international flights and local The venue caters for events up to connections. The major airlines 450 guests. For more information, flying here include: visit www.sowetogold.co.za. Contacts • Air China • KLM Incentive Travel Products • Air France • LATAM Soweto Tourism Information Soweto has a myriad of attractions for the • Air Mauritius Airlines Brasil Centre (Joburg Tourism) incentive traveller. For those who like to • Arik Air • Lufthansa Head Office: Walter Sisulu Square, reward their palates, a shisanyama tour will • British • Qatar Klipspruit Valley Road and Union bring you in close contact with some of the Airways Airways Street, Kliptown, Soweto • Cathay • Quantas Tel: +27 (0)11 342 4316 Hühnerauge © Flickr most delicious, open-flame cooked meat you’ll ever taste. Wandie’s Place is a Soweto Pacific • Saudia Email: [email protected] restaurant institution where celebs from • Delta • Singapore Website: www.joburgtourism.com across the globe dine on local specialities; • EgyptAir Airlines Sakhumzi’s on Vilakazi Street, across from • El Al Israel • South African Gauteng Convention and the Mandela House Museum allows you Airlines Airways Events Bureau (Gauteng SOWETO: WHERE HERITAGE to indulge in some tasty food and beer. • Emirates • SwissAir Tourism Authority) Shebeens – local township bars – bring • Ethiopian • TAAG Angola Head Office: 124 Main added excitement and vibrance to the area. Airlines Airlines Street, Marshalltown, MEETS ENTERTAINMENT For those interested in history, the • Etihad • Turkish Johannesburg, South Africa Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, Airways Airlines Tel: +27 (0)11 085 2500 Established during the gold rush in the late 1800s, Soweto has a long and vibrant history. It and the Regina Mundi Catholic Church • Iberia • United Email: [email protected] Website: www.gauteng.net was home to renowned South Africans including Desmond Tutu, Trevor Noah, and the late in Moroka played a crucial role in the • Kenya • Virgin township’s history of resistance against Airways Atlantic Nelson Mandela, and today is home to the Hector Pieterson Museum, the Nelson Mandela apartheid. Vilakazi Street is home to the National Museum, and many other unique, local attractions. Mandela House, now a museum, and nearby is the former residence of Nobel Peace Ubuntu Kraal Brewery Prize winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Climate is an ideal destination township located in the city Key Venues The conference room and two executive Adventure is just a few feet away for corporate events, of Johannesburg in Gauteng, Soweto Hotel and Conference Centre board rooms offer state-of-the-art in Soweto, and travellers can enjoy As a municipality of Johannesburg, Soweto is a vibrant area bursting Soweto Hotel and Conference Centre is experiences and spectacular views a bicycle tour of the city, followed by Soweto has a semi-arid, cool climate networking functions at the seams with colour, the first four-star luxury boutique hotel of Soweto. For more information, a live jazz performance, something with an annual mean temperature of and teambuilding, and Aculture and history. Although initially a offering African hospitality in the area. visit www.sowetohotel.co.za. that’s been at the heart of Soweto since 16.2 degrees Celsius and an average caters for events up to mining shanty in the late 1800s and early the 60s, or opt for something more of 3 182 hours of sunshine a year. 1900s, Soweto is perhaps better known Soweto Hotel and Conference Centre exhilarating like a bungee jump, abseil or 450 guests. for the tragic uprising that took place in Venue Plenary a climb at the iconic Orlando Towers.

1976 where 10 000 students marched on Kliptown Conference Centre 60 cinema style, 50 classroom style Orlando Stadium over the government’s Soweto Tourism Centre 60-80 seater policy to enforce education in Afrikaans. Helen Josephs Boardroom 10 seater Since 1994, however, Soweto has become the place to be. Not only does it Winnie Madikizela Mandela 14 seater offer unique tourism opportunities and delicious, locally-produced morsels but Chaf-Pozi or speciality spit braai for groups of over it is fast-becoming a trendy place to Chaf-Pozi, located at the famous Orlando 30. The venue also offers to a mini tour hold a conference, concert or cocktail Towers, offers an authentic township of Soweto prior to your meal, dancers, party. In recent years, there have been experience from delectable shisanyama musicians and comedians, African face a number of revitalisation projects in and shuttle tours of Soweto, to top painting, traditional drumming, and bungee the region, resulting in steady economic entertainment at an exceptional venue. jumps, SCAD freefalls, wall climbing growth and an increased interest in the Ideal for corporate events or networking or paintball at the Towers. For more many attractions Soweto has to offer. functions, Chaf-Pozi offers set menus information, visit www.chafposi.co.za. Orlando Towers, Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa © SA Tourism Vibrant Vilakazi Street © SA Tourism SA Tourism 32 EVENTS TO DIARISE www.theevent.co.za

DECEMBER JANUARY

WORLD SME EXPO AFRICAN REAL ESTATE SUMMIT 1 – 3 2 – 3 HONG KONG, CHINA CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

CHENGDU INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS MOROCCO TOURISM EXPO 12 – 13 2 – 4 MARRAKECH, MOROCCO SICHUAN, CHINA SOUTH AFRICA BUSINESS WOMEN ADVANCEMENT RESEARCH CONFERENCE FORUM 12 – 13 4 – 8 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA MULTIMODAL WEST AFRICA POWER GEN INTERNATIONAL 24 – 26 13 – 15 LAGOS, NIGERIA ORLANDO, USA IDC IT FORUM AL ANSAAR SOUK 26 AND TRADE FAIR CASABLANCA, MOROCCO 23 – 2 JANUARY DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA POWER TECH AFRICA 30 – 31 NAIROBI, KENYA www.theevent.co.za EVENTS TO DIARISE 33 Drakensburg © SA Tourism

FEBRUARY HEDGE NEWS AFRICA SYMPOSIUM 16 INVESTING IN AFRICA CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA MINING INDABA 6 – 9 AFRICA BUSINESS CONFERENCE CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 16 – 18 BOSTON, USA IBTM ARABIA 7 – 9 DESIGN INDABA CONFERENCE ABU DHABI, UAE 17 – 19 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA AFRIROCK 12 – 17 SOLUTION FOR AFRICA CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION 21 – 22 AFRICABUILD LAGOS JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 14 – 16 LAGOS, NIGERIA AFRICA ENERGY INDABA 21 – 22 MY BUSINESS EXPO JOBURG JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 15 – 16 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA WAIPEC 21 – 23 NSBC SUMMIT LAGOS, NIGERIA 15 – 16 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA ECOMMERCE MONEY AFRICA CONFEX AFRICA MARKETING WEEK 22 – 23 15 – 17 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA AVIATION AFRICA 22 – 23 KIGALI, RWANDA

MEETINGS AFRICA 27 – 1 MARCH JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 34 ASSOCIATIONS NEWS www.theevent.co.za

ICCA SIGNS FOUR Phumulani NEW PARTNERS Carol Hlatshwayo Weaving The International Congress and EXSA Chairperson Convention Association have General Manager of AAXO announced four new Association Relations Partners under their new EXSA BRAND RELAUNCH Strategic Plan: Thailand Convention AAXO’S EXHIBITION & Exhibition Bureau, Monaco OF EXHIBITIONS The Exhibitions and Events Association Convention Bureau, Tourism New of Southern Africa (EXSA) recently re- Zealand and Macao Trade and The Association of African Exhibition launched its brand, bringing changes Investment Promotion Institute. Organisers hosted its inaugural to every facet of the association, The newly launched Association Exhibition of Exhibitions, a ground- including a fresh new logo. The Relations Partnership is a collaborative breaking occasion designed to equip new EXSA brand has been in quiet programme designed to help ICCA exhibition organisers and exhibitors development for over four months and deliver an ambitious programme of with information and innovative was part of the new General Manager, new activities and online services tools to boost the industry. The Phumulani Hlatshwayo’s turnaround that will strengthen its relationship event took place on 19-20 October strategy, unveiled at the launch. with international associations, 2016, and gave organisers an The event, which took place on 26 including hosting some of their top opportunity to showcase their skills October 2016, gave members the executives and meeting directors and ideas on a massive platform. opportunity to get involved in the new at the annual ICCA Congress. The event was open to all AAXO strategy through added suggestions, members, who account for 80% of to voice their opinions and concerns, the organising community in South and network with industry peers. Africa, and took place at the Blue Wing “We have come a long way in a Conference and Events Venue at the relatively short period of time and TicketPro Dome in Johannesburg. The this is something that we can all be programme included training sessions, very proud of, but more importantly, exhibition opportunities in the we have so much more that can be marketplace, and networking options. achieved and we are excited about “AAXO remains committed to growing what lies ahead,” says Hlatshwayo. this industry and this event is just EXSA remains committed to growing one of many geared towards building and developing the exhibition an industry that hosts world class industry to the benefit its members events for the benefit of all involved,” and the South African economy. the association said in a statement. 34 ASSOCIATIONS NEWS www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za ASSOCIATIONS NEWS 35 Unsplash © Stefan Kunze

ICCA SIGNS FOUR Q3 TBCSA ABTA BRINGS BACK Phumulani NEW PARTNERS Carol REPORT PUBLISHED Adriaan Liebetraau THE FAM TRIP Hlatshwayo Weaving Outgoing Chief The International Congress and The Tourism Business Council of The African Business Travel EXSA Chairperson Executive Officer Convention Association have South Africa’s Tourism Business Association will be hosting Africa General Manager of AAXO at SAACI announced four new Association Index Report for the third quarter of familiarisation trips for travel buyers Relations Partners under their new 2016 was recently published. It shows and suppliers in 2017. ABTA Regional EXSA BRAND RELAUNCH Strategic Plan: Thailand Convention AAXO’S EXHIBITION that business performance remains SAACI AND TGCSA ON Manager: Africa, Jeanette Moloto, & Exhibition Bureau, Monaco OF EXHIBITIONS below ‘normal’ levels with an index VENUE GRADING CRITERIA will take the lead on this project. “I The Exhibitions and Events Association Convention Bureau, Tourism New score of 92.6 – similar to the 2015 have always felt that not enough of Southern Africa (EXSA) recently re- Zealand and Macao Trade and The Association of African Exhibition index score for Q3. A wide range of As 2016 came to a close, the travel professionals get to actually launched its brand, bringing changes Investment Promotion Institute. Organisers hosted its inaugural factors are attributed to the quarter’s Southern African Association for visit the destinations into which to every facet of the association, The newly launched Association Exhibition of Exhibitions, a ground- performance including the weak the Conference Industry hosted a they are sending their travellers,” including a fresh new logo. The Relations Partnership is a collaborative breaking occasion designed to equip Rand exchange rate, which is said number of meetings in conjunction she says. “I am a firm believer new EXSA brand has been in quiet programme designed to help ICCA exhibition organisers and exhibitors to have had a positive impact, whilst with the Tourism Grading Council that ‘you don’t know until you’ve development for over four months and deliver an ambitious programme of with information and innovative the cost of input continues to put of South Africa in order to properly been’ and we are really excited to was part of the new General Manager, new activities and online services tools to boost the industry. The pressure on business performance. review the grading criteria for venues be adding Fam Trips to our list of Phumulani Hlatshwayo’s turnaround that will strengthen its relationship event took place on 19-20 October The outlook for Q4 is not so optimistic, (previously known as ‘Meetings, activities across Africa next year.” strategy, unveiled at the launch. with international associations, 2016, and gave organisers an with an overall expectation that exhibitions and Special Events’). Under its new initiative ‘ABTA Network The event, which took place on 26 including hosting some of their top opportunity to showcase their skills performance levels will dip, reaching The organisations finalised their draft Connect’, ABTA has separate FAM trips October 2016, gave members the executives and meeting directors and ideas on a massive platform. an index score of 87.1. As with this of Minimum Entry Requirements for planned for Corporate Travel Buyers opportunity to get involved in the new at the annual ICCA Congress. The event was open to all AAXO quarter, the accommodation sector Venues, and then opened the drafts and Travel Suppliers/TMC’s. Trips strategy through added suggestions, members, who account for 80% of is expected to remain fairly stable. to SAAC’s regional committees to for next year include Angola, Ethiopia, to voice their opinions and concerns, the organising community in South review and feedback on the document. Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa. and network with industry peers. Africa, and took place at the Blue Wing Regional committee members in the “We have come a long way in a Conference and Events Venue at the Western Cape reviewed the draft on relatively short period of time and TicketPro Dome in Johannesburg. The 16 November, while KwaZulu-Natal this is something that we can all be programme included training sessions, committee members gave their input very proud of, but more importantly, exhibition opportunities in the on 28 November. Final results have yet we have so much more that can be marketplace, and networking options. to be announced, and further updates achieved and we are excited about “AAXO remains committed to growing can be found on www.saaci.org. what lies ahead,” says Hlatshwayo. this industry and this event is just EXSA remains committed to growing one of many geared towards building and developing the exhibition an industry that hosts world class industry to the benefit its members events for the benefit of all involved,” and the South African economy. the association said in a statement. 36 DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS www.theevent.co.za ADVERTISERS CONTACTS

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W. www.exsa.co.za W. www.namakwaguestfarm.co.za Meeti ngs Africa (2017 Launch) | Internati onal Meeti ngs Review | ibtm world | EXSA Conference and AGM | ibtm arabia | IMEX America | IMEX Frankfurt | IT&CM Asia Pacifi c | IT&CM India Joburg City Theatres SAACI | IT&CMA China | Loeries Creati ve Week | Markex – World of PAGE 11 PAGE 35 Events | SAACI Congress | SETE - Sports and Tourism Exchange | SITE - Swahili Internati onal Tourism Expo | Tourism Expo T. +27 11 877 6800 T. +27 41 374 5654 Botswana | WTM Africa | Zambia Internati onal Travel Expo E. [email protected] E. [email protected] JOIN US W. www.joburgcitytheatres.com W. www.saaci.org www.fi lmeventmedia.co.za www.theevent.co.za Liliesleaf WESGRO DISCLAIMER: Opinions expressed in The Event do not necessarily represent the offi cial PAGE 10 PAGE 26 - 27 viewpoint of the editor or the publisher, while inclusion of adverts/ advertising features does not imply endorsement of any business, product or service. Copyright of this material is reserved. While every effort has T. +27 11 803 7882 T. +27 21 487 8600 been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, The Event and/or its employees may not be held liable or responsible for any act or ommission committed by any person, including E. [email protected] E. [email protected] a juristic person, referred to in this publication. It and they furthermore accept(s) no responsibility for any liability arising out of any reliance that a W. www.liliesleaf.co.za W. www.wesgro.co.za reader of this publication places on the contents of this publication. TES 37435 YOU DREAM IT ’DONOGHUE & ASSOCI A O WE’LL MAKE IT A REALITY

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