WHAT YOU DID: For this high-end sales incentive, Pan Pacific worked with Carlson Marketing Group in the USA to design and implement a four night/five day Sydney program for the IBM Systems and Technology Group.
We had only four nights/ five days to feature not only Sydney, but also Australia, as the majority of guests were unable to extend their visit to other areas of Australia. The program had to be uniquely Australian and creative to surprise these exceptionally successful achievers who have visited many exotic destinations including Athens/Greece and Biarritz/France on previous trips.
From arrival at the airport they were whisked away to their five-star Sydney hotel where check-in was made all the more exciting with Maui Jim sunglass giveaways for everyone.
The Waterfront Restaurant has never looked so good, with the welcome evening contemporary makeover featuring a chocolate and lime green colour scheme for the tablecloths, chair covers and napkins. Outstanding florals combined all the colours and tied the décor together in a casual yet sophisticated way. The set menu was specifically designed for our group, with input from all partners, and had actually only been taste tested by our client the day before. The Waterfront Restaurant team was so flexible and worked under enormous pressure to make a number of changes and additions for 165 pax inside 24 hours. The night was the perfect start to Sydney. The dazzling backdrop of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge by night was enjoyed by all as the jazz band entertained.
Guests awoke on their first morning in Sydney to head off to explore Sydney Harbour on their sailing treasure hunt aboard a flotilla of yachts. The morning was perfect sailing weather and there were such huge smiles on the faces of our guests as they disembarked at King Street Wharf, directly in front of Nicks Bar and Grill. Even bigger smiles beamed when they saw the seafood platters parading from the kitchen. That night they left the hotel and travelled through the industrial side of Sydney to the Australian Technology Park. The suspense was heightened turning into the venue as guests had no idea where IBM could possibly be taking them for their “Industrial Dreamtime” event. The front entrance was lit up to make a feature of the brick industrial-style venue. Each coach was greeted by an Australian stockman on horseback and Aussie bush musicians. Over cocktails people looked about in awe wondering where dinner could possibly be. They could see the two long rows of chairs but no table.
Taking their seats they were surprised with, firstly, the thundering sounds of a single didgeridoo, then, theatrical smoke building to a full dance performance by a leading Australian dance troupe.
Suddenly, with dazzling splashes of overhead lights and emotive music, the hidden table started its slow descent from the ceiling to the ground. To the amazement of all, the table appeared perfectly set with all crockery, glassware and floral centrepieces.
When the main course was cleared sexy young tap dancers picked up the pace with a short performance on the banquet table. The end of the tap performance was the signal for a dramatic star curtain reveal of the fabulous Gotham City Horns. Guests could stand at the Aussie pub we had brought into the venue, dance to the band or play one of the fun Aussie games such as Pluck the Undies from the Hills Hoist, Knock the Redback from the Dunny Door and many just as crazy…
On the third day in Sydney they split up on a wide range of tours. Every corner of Sydney was explored. They climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge. They rode as passengers on Harley-Davidson motorcycles to Bondi Beach and back. Some even went diving with sharks at Manly. The majority were so enthusiastic about exploring Sydney that they took the opportunity to do one activity in the morning, then enjoy the group lunch at Uber Bar before racing off on another tour in the afternoon. There was no time to be wasted. That night began with a cocktail cruise and live music on Sydney Harbour. Upon disembarking at The Rocks, they divided up to enjoy a la carte dining at some of Sydney’s top dining spots including Est, Guillaume at Bennelong and Café Sydney.
On the fourth day, Sydney and its environs were again explored, but this time on full day tours. Guests needed to get out into the countryside. The wine country was visited via executive vehicles, the Blue Mountains by private four-wheel-drives, while jet boating expeditions incorporated a side journey to the northern beaches, together with many more options.
The spectacular final night was set under a clear marquee on Bennelong Lawn in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Guests were treated to constantly changing artists and performers, from fire twirlers on stilts and baroque performers to the String Angels and Swing City. The venue gave guests a dramatic backdrop of the city, harbour and Opera House by night. The event was very elegant, yet interspersed with twists and surprises throughout the evening. The four-course menu was superb and everyone was impressed with the quality and presentation of the menu considering the outdoor location.
The cigar/chill-out bar was packed at the end of the night; guests did not want this final evening to end… and little wonder, with the premium Australian wines upgraded in the chill-out bar after dinner.
CHALLENGES: The biggest challenge was planning this high profile and most important program without a site inspection and just outside three months prior. We had to provide clear and precise information to convey our ideas and concepts electronically, without any ambiguity or confusion. Detail was paramount to help convey our vision for the events and tours.
CLIENTS’ COMMENTS: “It was an amazing night and I think it was the most impressive function we have attended (with IBM around the world) and with anyone here in Sydney. You should be very proud and the word will travel far and wide I am sure.”
Mark Latchford
Vice President, Systems & Technology Group
IBM Australia/New Zealand
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