Mike Reid

One of the biggest obstacles hurting the outdoor events industry in Australia right now is: The lack of consistency with compliance and regulation from one venue or city to the next. When you go into a market, you just don’t know how much that market is going to drain your budgets and resources and unfortunately event producers are finding this out the hard way. Drain from: - compliance - policing - venue risk - security - delivery costs - varying capacities - building codes It's really hurting events right now (both big and small), and it's hurting the industry. Event leaders and companies spend so much time trying to navigate these complexities that a lot of them aren't spending enough time on their actual product. So what’s the solution? The easy answer would be national regulations that introduced nationwide consistency. But like with everything, creating consistency across the board will help some but will also hurt some - so not everyone will like that approach. What would make producing events across venues, cities and regions easier for you?

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The GD Events Group team! What a week it was! Back to back events around Australia with almost no sleep! The team that ran these events like clockwork and to perfection! What’s safe to say is that we always have each other’s backs. Together, we are moving mountains and ready to blow the events industry out of the water!!! #EventProfs #EventPlanning #CorporateEvents #EventManagement #EventMarketing #EventIndustry #MeetingProfs #EventTech #ConferencePlanning #EventStrategy #Entrepreneurship #Startups #Innovation #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #InvestmentOpportunity #TechStartups #SuccessStories #EntrepreneurGoals #GrowthHacking

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New NTIA Listen for Life Charter Launches to Safeguard Workforce and Consumer Hearing Half (50%) of regular gig goers think that loud music has damaged their hearing, a figure that climbs to an astonishing 92% for those who work in venues, a new poll reveals. It comes as a new Night Time Economy Charter launches to help music venues better look after the hearing health of colleagues and customers.   The charter, developed by the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), the trade body which represents the UK’s clubs, bars and pubs, is only one element of the NTIA’s Listen For Life Campaign. The charter sets out a 10-point-plan for businesses, which is in accordance with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Global Standard on Safe Listening Venues and Events. Partnering with Specsavers, the NTIA has launched this charter as part of a new report called ‘It’s time to talk about hearing’, saying it’s worrying how common hearing loss and tinnitus are for those working in the night time industries.   Mike Kill, CEO of the NTIA, says: “We want those who enjoy going to festivals, gigs, pubs, bars and clubs to be able to enjoy them without damaging their hearing – and for those who work in loud environments to be given the knowledge and tools to take care of themselves. This charter can play a massive part in doing that.”   The charter is being backed by DJ’s Nicky Blackmarket – who lives with hearing loss and Woody Cook – who suffers from tinnitus, as well as music legend Lulu who has recently been diagnosed with moderate hearing loss.   The new poll, commissioned by Specsavers, found that 42% have noticed a negative impact on their hearing immediately after a gig – with 58% experiencing ringing in their ears, 45% buzzing and 35% a muffled sensation. Nearly a quarter (23%) said they had suffered temporary hearing loss, while over one in five (22%) experienced pain in their ears.   Despite this, nearly half (46%) of those planning to attend a live music event this summer are unlikely to wear hearing protection. Of these, 44% said they avoid ear plugs because they wouldn’t be able to enjoy the experience as much, and over a third (36%) thought they would alter the quality of the music, which is not the case.   According to Specsavers, it is not uncommon for sound levels at live music events to reach between 115 and 120 decibels (dB) – which could damage hearing if exposed to it for long enough without hearing protection. The survey found over three-quarters (76%) of people didn’t know that the volume of sound was that high.   In a second poll of those working in venues with loud music, 92% have experienced a negative impact on their hearing, with a third reporting tinnitus (34%) or hearing loss (31%). Nearly a third (32%) rarely or never wear hearing protection at work – with over half (53%) saying that’s because their employer has not provided them with it. Link to the report Here: https://lnkd.in/egXwfJg5

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Selina’s: Beyond the VIP Cages – Brand Equity, and Economic Value. For a decade, I had the honour of serving as Venue Manager of one of Australia's most renowned live entertainment venues, Selina’s, located within the iconic Coogee Bay Hotel. I witnessed firsthand how brand equity transfer can fuel business success and shape its growth and reputation. Selina’s wasn’t just a place for live performances, it became a mega brand itself, thanks to the strategic exchange of reputation and value with world-renowned artists. This mutually beneficial relationship created a dynamic where fame and equity flowed in both directions, amplifying the venue’s status as well as those performing there. Each performance was an exchange of reputation and influence. This synergy enhanced Selina’s reputation and elevated the entire Coogee Bay Hotel complex, its bars, restaurants, accommodation, and even the entire beachside, creating a ripple effect of value across the entire locality. Each performance brought far more than just ticket sales and an increase in bar revenue, it brought intangible assets like media coverage, heightened customer perception, and an expanding global audience. The key question now is, how can you measure and manage this transfer of brand equity? How can this intangible value be translated into real economic growth? Assessing how much value derived from each act was possible through a mix of both qualitative and quantitative factors. Some of the key metrics may include customer perception—through surveys and word of mouth; financial metrics—Tracking increases in ticket sales, gross revenue, and market share during and after performances; Media presence—Tracking press coverage, socials, and brand engagements; Comparative analysis—How did we stack up against competition? The lesson for businesses? Brand equity isn’t static—it can be transferred, measured, and monetised. By aligning with partners who bring strong reputations, you can grow your own brand while creating mutual value. How is your business leveraging brand equity transfer to create value and expand its influence? #BrandEquity #EquityTransfer #CoogeeBayHotel #BusinessGrowth #Partnerships #Selinas #StrategicMarketing #Measurement #Monetization #LiveEntertainment #platinum1entertainment

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The next phase of the redevelopment of the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC) is going to be a game-changer for our city's event industry. 🌟 As an event professional, and as a board director of Business Events Perth, I'm thrilled about the opportunities this transformation will bring: 👏 Enhanced facilities that will attract a diverse range of events and clients 👏 Increased capacity to host larger and more varied gatherings 👏 Cutting-edge technology and infrastructure for seamless event execution This redevelopment is more than just a facelift for the PCEC. It's a commitment to growth and innovation in Perth's event landscape. 🌏 The benefits extend far beyond the venue itself: 👏 Local suppliers will see increased demand for their services 👏 Our economy will receive a significant boost 👏 Perth's status as a premier event destination will be elevated I'm particularly excited about the potential for new and unique events that were previously impossible to host in our city. 💡 This transformation creates a ripple effect of positive change. From event planners to caterers, AV technicians to hospitality staff, everyone in our industry stands to gain. As we look to the future, I'm filled with optimism. The PCEC redevelopment is a testament to the State Government's commitment to excellence and innovation in the events sector. The future is bright, here in the city of lights! #redevelopment #conventioncentre #perthvenues #futureproofing

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Your "for the practitioner, by the practitioner" conference. So, all the experienced and aspiring speakers in my network please submit a proposal. If you have a question on the conference, or submission process, ping me. #lastconference #ageofai #agile #future #ai #products #services #conference #Sydney #callforproposals

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Highlights from the AV1 Experience Lounge at Events Uncovered, brought to you by Spice Magazine. We designed this space in the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia's Quayside Room to address a number of challenges for Event Planners: 🧑‍🎓 AV Education With new and upcoming Event Planner talent in the industry, we want to set you up to succeed. We hear our customers and their teams needing advice on how to work collaboratively with AV teams, design events for impact and get the most out of budgets. 'Spell it Out' gave event planners the opportunity to pick the AV1 Tech Wizards' brains, getting first-hand, expert advice from highly experienced AV producers. Thank you Sydney Prop Specialists for our larger than life cauldron 🔮 🌼 Diversity, Equity, Accessibility & Inclusion The events industry is witnessing a significant shift in event planning trends as more organisers prioritise diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusivity. This focus is not just about compliance; it’s about creating events that are welcoming and engaging for everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, sensory needs, or cultural backgrounds. AV1's People and Culture Manager Alyce Kelly-Kidd ran a DAEISY Chain activation throughout the day and filled planners in on inclusive solutions you can implement right now to create engaging experiences for all. 🤖 AI Everyone's talking about it. Everyone wants to know how they can use it. 'CREATIVE PLai' facilitated by Kai Raisbeck at All Things All Creatures gave planners a look at some of the AI tools out there, and how you can use them, in particular, to brainstorm creative ideas and concepts for your events. 🔋 The AV1 Experience Lounge offered a Tech-Free Terrace for those who wished to take a quiet moment of reflection throughout the day. A huge shoutout to D PLUS D Events for their kind support, curating this space and providing furniture throughout the lounge. #EventsUncovered #EventProfs #MCA #SydneyEvents #EventTech #Collaboration

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Episode 203 - Dantex: The Art of Leading Creatively, With Richard Bunney Marcus Timson had a great conversation with Richard Bunney who has had a fascinating and inspiring journey to become Group Managing Director for Dantex Group. In the discussion we cover some wide-ranging ground including the importance of creativity for effective leadership in a VUCA world, the new sectors to watch for growth in inkjet, the problem of skills shortages, how packaging is changing and dealing with sustainability, and how critical collaboration is for creating opportunities for industry development and business growth. #podcast https://lnkd.in/eyi-NM4J

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It's Global Exhibitions Day! Nothing showcases the incredible diversity of Melbourne better than our annual line-up of exhibitions. Whether you're passionate about gaming, gardening, running, the future of water, or food, we've got something for every community and interest. This year's theme, "Exhibitions as Catalysts for Sustainable Futures," highlights why our venue is the perfect place to host your event. We provide the ideal platform for innovation and sustainability. Here's why we LOVE exhibitions: 🌱 Catalysts for progress: Our exhibitions are where ideas flourish, and solutions to global challenges are. 💼 Economic powerhouses: They drive local and nationwide economic growth, connect industries, and create employment opportunities. 🌍 Sustainably driven: We work towards sustainable growth, bringing communities together while reducing our environmental impact. 🤝 Community connectors: We pride ourselves on being where diverse communities come together to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge. #GlobalExhibitionsDay #MCEC

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Quick wrap of This Is Gold Coast (TIGC24). Some highlights to share on what your business events can look like in the Gold Coast

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Byron Bay Bluesfest has announced the 2025 event will be its last, joining a long line of Australian festivals that have either cancelled or folded entirely, from Big Day Out to Splendour in the Grass and Groovin The Moo. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gghiA_iV While it's easy to suggest festivals are victims of cost-of-living increases, big-ticket superstars like Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa and Harry Styles are still selling out Australian stadiums — despite the cost of tickets. Cinemas are recovering from a ticket slump associated with the Hollywood writers' strike, pandemic hangovers and cost-of-living constraints, with a bright future ahead. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gvV9a_mk The Marketing Cellar owner Craig Turton tells LinkedIn festivals are especially hard to make worthwhile and "the simple issue is the costs outweigh the revenue and the work involved just isn't worth it". He points to overregulation, increased artist fees and wage rises as driving factors. "When you put all this in the mix, you end up with a ticket price that becomes too challenging for the punter especially when money is tight — smart operators won't run events at a loss or for a small profit," he writes. Read more: https://lnkd.in/g6rvyCCd Does the festival industry need to be revived? What motivates you to attend a live event? Share your thoughts in the comments section below. By Cayla Dengate Photo: Getty Images

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Another cracking day at #iMediaFOMNZ!!! Check out the highlights from Day 2!

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Calling all my industry colleagues. Can you spare a few minutes to share your insights with the MEA board? We would love for you to complete our short survey & let us know how we can better serve you? Link below..

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What happens when you have a great community film festival in its 11th year, local service clubs on a big mission to make a difference in their community, a local college with loads of outdoor space and incredible film producers & animation program, a theatre and dedicated volunteers who are passionate about their organizations and community impact? These are the ingredients for a powerful collaboration, and community events that bring people together, make memories, and create a big impact. As a professional that teaches collaboration and works on a number of projects that bring community partners together, I know the powerful impact that can result from a common goal, dedicated people, innovation and a mindset of working together instead of working against one another. So, here’s the backstory and the case study I want to share with you. June 19-25 marked the 11th year for Oakville Festivals of Film and Art (OFFA), a festival with more than 100 films screened during the festival week including gala red-carpet events, a National Indigenous Peoples Day event, outdoor family fun screenings, a series of virtual screenings, two solid days of films and Q and A sessions with filmmakers at OFFA’s venue sponsor Film.Ca Cinemas Inc., an industry summit for filmmakers and more! At the same time as the OFFA festival, the annual Oakville Family Ribfest was also taking place at Sheridan College Trafalgar Road campus. The Rotary Club of Oakville Trafalgar joined forces with the Oakville Lions Club for this years’ Ribfest. In many communities having two large and prominent events with overlap dates could have created competition, working in silos, and other challenges. I have seen that happen many times in different communities over the past 25 years, but, Not in Oakville! OFFA quickly reached out to the Rotary Club hosting the Oakville Family Ribfest to explore synergies and how they could collaborate. On that call OFFA discovered the Rotary Club also partnered with the Lions Club, and Film.ca Cinemas and Sheridan College (Film.ca Cinemas and Sheridan Collage are also shared sponsors), what a great opportunity to work together with Ribfest and create even more value for the shared sponsors and partners and the community! It didn’t take long for their first planning call to turn into a great collaboration with a Dinner and a Movie contest and a great week of film at the Oakville Film Festival and screenings at film.ca Cinemas. Their collaboration resulted in a contest that both organizations shared on social media and in newsletters, as well as on their website. What a great example of shared and collaborative marketing efforts. I’ve been doing this work for a long time and have been a part of or led many community partnerships and am celebrating these organizations for coming together to make a difference – what a great example of community spirit, collaboration and making a difference together! PS I am also a proud Sheridan College Alumni

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Festival City ADL applauds the substantial increase in funding for festivals as detailed in the Federal Budget last night. An allocation of $8.6 million towards live music venues and festivals showcasing Australian bands and artists is a timely and significant investment through the new Revive Live program. This represents a marked increase from the previous allocation of $5 million under the Live Music Australia program. We join the Australian Festival Association in thanks to Minister Tony Burke and the Anthony Albanese Government for recognising both the need and opportunity. More detail contained on page 151 here: https://lnkd.in/gz4SJhv3 We also recognise additional moves in the Federal Budget to: ✔ Reduce the work experience requirement for the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa from 2 years to 1 year for all applicants from 23 November 2024. ✔ Deliver a $325 electricity bill rebate for eligible small businesses. ✔ Extend the $20,000 instant asset write-off for small business by 12 months until 30 June 2025. ✔ Invest in the development of a local Sustainable Aviation Fuel industry in Australia to help achieve net zero emissions targets, which is significant for festivals and events bringing in talent from abroad and taking proactive steps towards climate action.

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Merivale reveals bold plan for new Sydney precinct Merivale has unveiled its vision to create a new interwoven hospitality precinct in Sydney’s CBD that will include a boutique hotel, wellness facilities and premium office space. To achieve this Merivale will preserve and re-purpose five adjacent under-utilised heritage buildings located within the boundary of King, York, Clarence and Barrack Streets. The company anticipates submitting a development application to the City of Sydney Council next month. The proposal aims to consolidate the five existing buildings under one master plan, paving the way for the creation of interconnected hospitality, entertainment, accommodation and office spaces within the site. Patrons will be able to freely move between the buildings and venues and enjoy the various offerings of the precinct. The proposed project will retain the current heights and footprints of the buildings, without any major demolition and reconstruction. While Hotel CBD was Merivale’s first significant hospitality redevelopment back in 1995, Merivale purchased the balance of the heritage buildings in 2022, which were previously a mix of under-invested residential, commercial and retail spaces. As part of the masterplan application, Merivale is applying for a ‘change of use’ for the precinct to a cohesive licenced food and beverage premise. Upon completion it is estimated the precinct will create hundreds of new jobs including skilled culinary roles, food and beverage service and hotel functions. Merivale CEO Justin Hemmes said the announcement is the culmination of many years’ worth of planning and investment. “We are setting out on a mission to transform the separate spaces of these incredible buildings into a combined, licenced precinct that will facilitate quality and accessible entertainment, food, beverage and accommodation options,” he said. “We want to build on the heritage and memories of our Hotel CBD venue which we built and have operated since 1995. The precinct is ideally located near public transport, existing retail space and a central CBD location. “Sydney is entering a new and exciting era for hospitality and entertainment, and the opening of the Sydney Metro has been revolutionary for the city by improving ease and access for everyone to the central business district and all it has to offer.” Mr Hemmes said the company is supportive of the NSW Government’s revised 24-Hour Economy Strategy and Vibrancy Reforms. Executive Director of Business Sydney, Paul Nicolaou, said Merivale’s vision “is exactly the confidence building big thinking that our wonderful city needs and it will have a cascading effect in encouraging other developers to invest in the CBD economy.”

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