NAME: Poolwerx 13th Annual Franchisee Convention –
The Power of One
TYPE: Conference
BY: Unique Meetings & Incentives Australia for Poolwerx
NO. ON ORGANISING TEAM: Five
PAX: 320
BUDGET: Top secret
WHAT YOU DID: Poolwerx runs its franchisee convention annually and this year The Hotel Grand Chancellor in Hobart was chosen as the destination. The event attracted 320 franchisees and their families from all over Australia. The 2007 event was themed “The Power of One” aiming at empowering each franchisee and emphasising Poolwerx’s one brand strategy.
The opening ceremony set the scene with the Human Rhythms drumming group bumping in two truckloads’ worth of drums. Each delegate was given a drum, some big and some small, and the attendees were encouraged to beat their own rhythm in tune with Human Rhythms. The opening was described as a powerful experience and the drumming could be heard from outside the building. That evening attendees enjoyed a miniature “Taste of Tasmania” in the hotel’s Harbour View Rooms overlooking the working port of Hobart. Delegates enjoyed top-class Tasmanian produce including the famous Barilla Bay oysters, freshly-smoked salmon and locally caught squid. Slow roasted lamb, northwest Tasmanian potatoes and selected marinated vegetables emphasised Tasmania’s wealth of choice and variety.
Day two of the convention focused on a range of key issues with a series of concurrent sessions titled “Hot Tub Topics”. The sessions aimed at networking with fellow franchisees, exchanging ideas and sharing insights into successful business operation. Dinner that evening was held at the Elwick Racecourse where delegates were treated to a night of racing fun.
The final day of the convention was highlighted by a closing address from Australia’s most successful rugby union coach Rod MacQueen, followed by an afternoon of outdoor activities. Attendees took full advantage of the broad range of fun-filled activities Hobart has on its doorstep. The convention closed with Poolwerx’s annual awards ceremony where franchisees were awarded for performance throughout the year. The Hotel Grand Chancellor’s Federation Ballroom was themed in black and gold using fibre optics to create a simple, elegant feel. Again Tasmanian produce was a feature, with the sweet tooths in the audience commenting on the Cadbury triple chocolate torte.
CHALLENGES: Is there a greater challenge than getting 320 pool industry delegates to Hobart in the middle of winter?
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES: The warmth of the staff at the Hotel Grand Chancellor and friendly, professional approach of all those involved in the meetings and events industry in Hobart meant that all challenges were overcome with a smile. Hobart’s diversity meant that delegates were able to see a unique side of Tasmania and come away from the convention with a clear mind and fresh ideas.
CLIENT’S COMMENT: “The destination and venue produced a great result for our important Poolwerx branding event which also included many of our key suppliers who operated a trade display on-site at the hotel. Our attendees were keen to visit Hobart and Tasmania, several of them stayed on and really enjoyed what the destination had to offer. Poolwerx is contracted by many resorts and hotels throughout Australia to maintain their swimming pool.”
– Katrina Bann of Poolwerx.
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