Corporate & Incentive Familiarisation
14-Dec-2011 | Discovering paradise, ghosts and devils in 3 days on the Tasman Peninsula and Hobart where the amazing regional cuisine, major event facilities and attractions, and constant warm friendliness are a delightful surprise for delegates.
On November 22nd a group of conference and incentive professionals from Sydney touched down at Hobart Airport for a taste of what this remarkable destination can offer in Hobart and its surrounds, including the Tasman Peninsula, over 3 days.Met by our Business Development Managers, Sarah Thomas and Krystal Anderson, were promptly whisked off on a scenic flight to the rolling hills of Redbank’s Fish and Field by to try their hand at archery, fly fishing, aqua golf and clay target shooting. These outdoor pursuits are some of many that are on offer and ideally cater for team building exercises.
Following lunch it was only a short journey along the amazing sea cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula to Port Arthur. Here a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Port Arthur Historic Site provided a stunning backdrop for a twilight cruise where the long shadows of the setting sun on the sandstone walls hinted of its brutal past. Dinner was a sumptuous affair hosted by the ‘Commandant’ and his ‘servants’ and followed by the group enjoying the haunting experience of an exclusive Ghost Tour. Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority can offer event planners a range of incentive ideas and bespoke events within a selection of indoor and outdoor venues.
An overnight stay on the Tasman Peninsula in deluxe self-contained cabins of Stewarts Bay Lodge, set amongst tall eucalypts close to the beach was a relaxing way of unwinding into Tasmanian time. Delegates fell asleep to the soothing sounds of the water lapping onto the sand. There are 40 cabins including one and two bedroom luxury spa cabins within the lodge as well as a cosy bar and waterfront restaurant and function centre.
A visit to the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park saw the antics of this much loved but endangered animal. John Hamilton, the owner, is a passionate and dedicated supporter of the save the devil cause. The park provides the opportunity to learn more about Tasmanian devils as well as other natives such spotted quolls, wombats and kangaroos.
The next overnight stop was Hobart with its colonial sandstone and Georgian architecture, the colourful fishing boats and yachts at Sullivan’s Cove and majestic Mount Wellington. It is one of Australia’s most beautiful small cities with hotels and meeting venues close to the waterfront, restaurants, cafes, galleries and boutique shopping experiences.
A short drive from Hobart is the awe-inspiring and world renowned Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) at Moorilla Estate. Located on the Derwent River the estate also includes a winery, a micro-brewery, fine-dining restaurant, outstanding architecturally designed pavilions (with their own art collections) and function rooms.
The Henry Jones Art Hotel, residing on Hobart’s waterfront in a row of 1820s warehouses and the original IXL Jam Factory, provided accommodation for the second night. The delegates enjoyed a guided tour of the artwork (all up and coming Tasmanian artists) and architecture whilst sipping a pre-dinner drink. The Henry Jones Art Hotel has 56 rooms and can cater for functions of various sizes within The Jones & Co Room, Art Installation Suite and the IXL Atrium.
Next morning, Wrest Point Hotel and Conference Centre was the venue for a ‘Master Chef’ crepe suzette cook off breakfast before the group had time exploring the famous Salamanca Markets. Wrest Point Hotel and Conference Centre offer 15 function rooms featuring a tiered auditorium catering for 600 delegates, the Tasman room accommodating 1000, exhibition space for 70 booths and breakout rooms for smaller groups.
Tasmanian food and wine experiences that complement business events and incentive groups were also a highlight of this visit. The delegates enjoyed a visit to Barilla Bay for oyster shucking, lunch at spectacular Meadowbank Estate winery and dinner at the sophisticated Smolt restaurant. It is no surprise that the delegates were thrilled with their taste of Tasmania.
“Hobart truly exceeded my expectations. I really think that I now have a good understanding of what the city has to offer our conference/incentive groups, and will definitely be passing this on to my clients and colleagues.” Kate Windon, Axis Events Group.
Business Events Tasmania is also planning familiarisations for Launceston and the North, and the East Coast towards the end of this financial year.
Contact Business Events Tasmania on (03) 6224 6852.
Karen Fraser
Marketing and Communications Manager
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