ISF World Seed Congress 2018
ISF World Seed Congress 2018 gathered from 3 to 6 June 2018 in Brisbane, Australia. In attendance was approximately 1200 key global industry decision makers in the field of agriculture as well as many multinational companies all with the intent to trade and broaden business networks.
LOUD events were engaged as a Destination Management Company (DMC) for the International Seed Federation’s annual event. LOUD events were appointed to manage all local printing, entertainment for social functions, assistance with contract negotiations, pre and post touring, registration system for all accommodation bookings, dedicated email address for all travel enquiries, creation of visa support letters, accompanying persons tours, transportation for all congress scheduled activities and offsite dinners as well as management of all requested airport transfers for delegates. One of the biggest accomplishments of the event was managing 10 hotel room blocks at various properties in Brisbane. Over 3000 room nights eventuated with two properties selling out 6 months prior to the congress start date. A dedicated email address was created for all accommodation bookings with 3500 direct emails being sent to delegates in a six month period. A big task and we are proud to say not ONE complaint from delegates onsite with each and every detail meticulously checked by the LOUD team.
The Congress took place at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre with offsite dinners held at Watt Restaurant, Custom’s house, OTTO restaurant, Blackbird Bar and Grill as well as the official welcome party for 1000 held at Victoria Park. LOUD events took part in the planning of each of these events in different capacities from proposal stage and onsite execution to entertainment and transportation. Over the course of the week LOUD managed the movement of 56 coach segments and 2 chartered city cats. Keep your eyes peeled as LOUD will review the incredible welcome party in a future newsletter – it was one for the books.
LOUD provided over 25 staff for the event from support / hostess roles through to stage management and senior conference managers with seven days onsite. LOUD worked with the Brisbane Airport Ambassadors to welcome delegates into Brisbane with staff positioned at the domestic and international airports with welcome signs, air train information, city guides and general information on the congress app. The team were wonderful in greeting delegates and sharing local secrets to enhance their experience while in the city.
Another big logistical task was the accompanying persons program for 150 participants. LOUD created three customised tours for the client including a day a full day at Tangalooma island, half day at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and an ‘express your inner artist tour’ by painting iconic Brisbane scenery with local artists as well as guided tours through the museums in the cultural precinct. The three day experience was included in the ticket price for accompanying persons and was well received by delegates.
LOUD events were onsite for the event managing registration and providing support in Australia for the Swiss PCO. The client expressed gratitude for this service as it made the experience so much easier for them. An example of the support offered by the LOUD crew, due to a late request at the 11th hour we managed to organise a giant French flag from the French consulate. Collect the flag and set on stage for the scheduled ceremony. Not your average day in the office!
The moving pieces of the congress was a big task to say the least. LOUD worked very closely with Brisbane Marketing and local suppliers to ensure that Brisbane was showcased well and that delegates had a great experience. We are excited to see how France hosts the congress next year – Brisbane set the bar high this year!
