EEAA 2017 MEMBER REPORT CARD

EEAA 2017MEMBER REPORT CARD

eeaa.com.au

Building a stronger voice for the exhibition & event industry

eeaa.com.au

Putting the global spotlight on Australasian events

Celebrating 25 years of service1992 - 2017

EEAA 2017 MEMBER REPORT CARD

www.eeaa.com.au - 2 -

OVERVIEW2017 was a big year for the Association. It was wrapped up with a fitting celebration of our 25 years of service to the industry.

This important milestone was celebrated at the 2017 Awards for Excellence held at the Melbourne Museum. Along with honouring the finalists and winners – we also paid tribute to those who had played a defining role in shaping the success of the Association. Committee Members and past Presidents joined us for a special celebration of our vibrant community.

Tribute messages were received from key political figures including the Minister for Trade Tourism and Investment, the Hon. Steven Ciobo; the CEO of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, Kai Hattendorf and the Asia Pacific head, Mark Cochrane; the CEO of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, James Pearson, and many other leading figures.

These acknowledgements were a testament to the recognition the Association has achieved as the leading voice for our sector.

We are proud of our achievements and the important results that were delivered for our Members in a busy and challenging year.

The Association is in good shape. We are financially sound, we have a strong and engaged Membership, a committed Board and most importantly, we continue to deliver valued services to our Members.

In 2017, the EEAA community comprised of 130 Members made up of:• 20 Organisers• 11 Associations• 24 Venues• 75 Suppliers

We have made positive steps towards cementing EEAA’s position as the peak body for the exhibition and event industry in Australasia and as a respected national and international voice for the sector.

Last year’s highlights include the launch of the historic partnership with TAFE NSW and Apprenticeship Support Australia. The partnership has enabled us to launch the first traineeship program specifically for the exhibition and event industry. This achievement will create new opportunities for young people to join our sector.

We are also very proud of our new partnership with Mumbrella – Australia’s largest media and marketing community. The Association’s partnership with Mumbrella is a key part of our strategic priority to advocate the strengths of events and to encourage those who influence marketing “spend” to invest more in our channel.

Throughout the year, we worked with Mumbrella to put face-to-face marketing on the radar of the marketing community. We hosted a masterclass at the Mumbrella360 Conference and created a dedicated category for our sector in the 2017 Mumbrella Awards. Both of these activities generated positive exposure for our industry and opened up opportunities for our sector to engage with marketing influencers.

While digitisation grows in importance, exhibitions and events remain strong marketing channels for many businesses across many industries. We will continue to advocate for the “power of face-to-face” as a cornerstone of marketing and business success now and in the future.

This year, we made big strides in our own digital evolution. We launched our new website at the start of the year and took the awards process online. We also expanded our awards program to recognise the “unsung hero” of our sector and also the important role of innovation in event tech.

The current EEAA Board celebrates 25 years with past EEAA Presidents of the Association.

Celebrating 25 years of service1992 - 2017



Our continued engagement with the international industry has also been an area of achievement. In September, we signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) off the back of an historic Australian visit by the global body. The visit provided an important platform to showcase the local industry to our UFI peers and strengthen our ties with the global community. The MOU is an important commitment to work in partnership on key areas of industry development, giving the Australasian business event sector more opportunities to access UFI’s global network.

There is a strong alignment between our two associations. We both share a commitment to supporting and developing the business opportunities of our Members, promoting careers in our sector, and advocating for the value of the sector to government and the broader business community. I look forward to working more closely with UFI for the benefit of our respective organisations and the Members we serve.

The Association’s growing Membership is testament to its relevance and the recognition of its influential role as a voice for the sector. Over the past year, our Membership has grown in new areas and welcomed global brands, such as Airbnb, to the EEAA community.

Broadening our appeal to include the ‘events’ component of our name will continue to be a focus for the Association.

Finally, in celebrating 25 years of service to Members, we recognise that we have come a long way in 25 years. Through our advocacy, education, mentoring, professional development programs and international engagement, we are helping our Members prosper and we are building a sustainable future for our industry. We do this by ensuring our Member programs and activities address the most pressing opportunities and challenges we all face.

We are a nimble, strong, focussed and effective Association and we look forward to representing the business events sector with passion and professionalism.

We thank our Members and partners for their active support and we urge you to leverage the opportunities we create through the programs of the Association.

A special thanks to the EEAA Board who volunteer their time and expertise to the running of our important organisation, and to the staff and interns who have worked so diligently to achieve our goals.

Joyce DiMascioChief Executive

EEAA signs landmark MOU with The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI).

EEAA launches new traineeship and pre-employment program with Apprenticeship Support Australia and TAFE NSW.

EEAA partners with Mumbrella to get exhibitions and events on the radar of those who influence marketing spend.

EEAA celebrates 25 years of service at the 2017 Awards for Excellence in Melbourne.



MEET THE BOARDAt the Annual General Meeting in June our Executive Committee was confirmed for 2017. Spiro Anemogiannis was reappointed as President (Informa Australia), Brian Thomas as Vice-President (Reed Exhibitions Australia), Robert O’Keefe as Treasurer (Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre) and Jo-Anne Kelleway as Secretary (Info Salons Group). We welcomed some new faces to the Board – Felicity Zadro (Zadro) and Ross Ferrar (Gaming Technologies Association) – and thanked outgoing Board Members, Richard Hogan (Australian Gift and Homewares Association) and Robert Moore (Agility Fairs and Events).

In October, long-standing Board Member Peter King (Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre) stepped down and Leighton Wood (Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre), joined the Board.

The Board also met to develop a new 3-5 year road map for the Association. A review of the past 5 years of achievements showed the Association had delivered on all its major goals.

The Board is committed to the sustainability and growth of exhibitions and events in Australasia and will continue to deliver programs of value to Members. They volunteer their time and expertise to focus on governance, finance, strategy and risk. The Board is committed to the success and growth of the Association as well as the Members we serve.

CURRENT BOARD:PresidentSpiro Anemogiannis, Managing Director, Informa Australia(Organiser representative)

Vice-PresidentBrian Thomas, Managing Director, Reed Exhibitions Australia(Organiser representative)

TreasurerRobert O’Keeffe, General Manager, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (Venue representative)

SecretaryJo-Anne Kelleway, Chief Executive Officer, Info Salons Group(Supplier representative)

Board MembersOrganiser representatives:David Longman, General Manager, Diversified Communications AustraliaMatt Pearce, Director, Talk2 Media and Events

Association Organiser representative:Ross Ferrar, Chief Executive Officer, Gaming Technologies Association

Venue representatives:Helen Mantellato, Business Development Manager – International & Exhibitions, International Convention Centre SydneyPeter Thorpe, General Manager, Sydney Showground

Supplier representatives:Jim Delahunty, Chairman, ExpoNet Paul Elliott, State Manager NSW, Harry the hirerLeighton Wood, Chief Operating Officer, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition CentreFelicity Zadro, Managing Director, Zadro

EEAA 2017 / 2018 Executive Board L-R: Brian Thomas, Reed Exhibitions Australia; Felicity Zadro, Zadro; Peter King, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (resigned); Ross Ferrar, Gaming Technologies Association; Peter Thorpe, Sydney Showground; Jim Delahunty, ExpoNet; Paul Elliott, Harry the hirer; Jo-Anne Kelleway, Info Salons Group; Spiro Anemogiannis, Informa Australia; Helen Mantellato, International Convention Centre Sydney; Bob O’Keeffe, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre; Leighton Wood, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre; Matt Pearce, Talk2 Media and Events; and David Longman, Diversified Communications Australia. Not pictured: Robert Moore, Agility Fairs and Events (resigned).



PROGRAMS – ADVOCACYRepresenting the industry and our Members is at the heart of the EEAA’s work. In 2017, we continued to build on our growing advocacy reach and reputation both in Australia and internationally. Advocacy is a slow steady process – and we remain very committed to this important work.

Throughout the year, we continued to work with Governments and industry stakeholders around Australia. Federally and around the states, we reached out to ensure that policies of our Government enable the continued growth of our sector. We also continued to communicate the Power of Exhibitions and Events in driving key industries that are major pillars of the national and state economies.

We were honoured to host key Ministers, Parliamentarians, and Councillors at our events and engage with them through other Associations, like The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Each year, the Association’s engagement deepens as more Ministers, Members of Parliament, and Government agencies connect with the EEAA and its Members. The importance of the work of the EEAA and our Members continues to be more understood and the EEAA is recognised as a most effective representative body for the events industry.

GLOBAL ENGAGEMENTUFI, The Global Association for Exhibition industry and Exhibition World Magazine presented the EEAA with the 2017 Global Exhibitions Day Industry Impact Award for its advocacy work promoting our sector to Government. This prestigious award was a testament to the Association’s growing reputation as an influential and respected voice of the sector.

EEAA are also part of UFI’s “Politicians” and “Talent” working groups to strengthen advocacy priorities at a global level. Attracting talent to the expo sector and deepening the level of political engagement have been adopted as key advocacy priorities of the global peak body. EEAA’s expertise has been enlisted in these areas.

NATIONAL ENGAGEMENTIn 2017, we continued our regular communications with key Federal Government agencies like Tourism Australia and Austrade. We helped steer the Business Events Council of Australia’s (BECA) refreshed policy framework for the whole business events sector.

In partnership with the BECA President, Matt Hingerty and other industry associations on the BECA Board, EEAA assisted with the procurement process for engaging Canberra lobbyists, Brickfielder to develop the new policy framework and pre-budget submission. EEAA also provided extensive input to the refreshed submission. This collaboration is important to our representation work in Canberra and it strengthens our prospects for getting cut-through in the funding and policy “asks”. This was lodged by BECA in December.

We were honoured to host the Assistant Minister for Trade Tourism and Investment, Keith Pitt to our Leaders Forum Dinner

in June. Minister Pitt delivered a compelling speech about the important work of our industry – referring to his own years as an exhibitor at trade fairs prior to his Parliamentary career.

For our major mid-year and end of year events, we received recorded video messages from the Hon. Steve Ciobo, Minister for Trade Tourism and Investment – again another sign of our excellent relationship with key Federal Ministers.

For our mid-year Global Exhibitions Day campaign, we engaged with Parliamentarians from both sides of the Chamber and received many messages of support for our campaign.

Our major strategic partnership with The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Australia’s peak business network, continues to give our industry a strong presence alongside Australia’s other major economic drivers. The Australian Chamber partnership has created more political access for the EEAA and its Board – it has also created more opportunities for the Association to share its messages with business leaders. We are part of a powerful business lobby connecting over 300,000 businesses. This gives the EEAA and its Members stronger inroads to Governments and industry across Australia.

Our tenacious representation work has opened doors for our Association and our Members who are now increasingly more involved in accessing Government programs and bidding for Government-related work, including accessing Government programs through agencies such as Tourism Australia and Austrade.

Senator the Hon Marise Payne, Federal Minister for Defence, addresses guests at the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry end-of-year Breakfast.

The Hon Steven Ciobo MP, Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment thanks EEAA Members for their contribution to the Australian economy and wishes EEAA a happy 25th Birthday in a video message shown at the EEAA 2017 Awards for Excellence.



STATE ENGAGEMENTWe deliver our services and representation across Australia.

New South Wales – There is no doubt the opening of the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) has given greater prominence to our sector across the NSW Government. With the major events of our Members being among the first to be held in the new centre, there has been more prominence given to the success of our Member events. Indeed, the ICC Sydney has also been more proactive in its communications about exhibition industry clients.

EEAA has proactively supported the continued investment in events infrastructure. We have undertaken specific advocacy related to continued investment in upgrading facilities at Sydney Showground, Circular Quay and in Western Sydney, leveraging the huge investment in the second Sydney airport.

Destination NSW, through its Regional Conferencing Unit, will become a Member of the EEAA as part of its strategy to attract more events to areas outside Sydney and to reach their goal of doubling expenditure in the visitor economy.

In late 2017, EEAA reached out to the administrators of the NSW Visitor Economy Taskforce Action Plan Review to ensure that the Business Events sector is adequately considered and that the future agenda includes the exhibition and event sector.

The Annual Davidson Business Breakfast at NSW Parliament House was a timely opportunity for the EEAA Board to meet Premier, Gladys Berejiklian and breakfast host, Jonathan O’Dea MP, who is a consistent supporter of the EEAA and the work of our Members. Mr O’Dea attended EEAA major events including our Global Exhibitions Day Reception hosted at ICC Sydney.

We responded to the NSW Government’s Options Paper about Short-term Holiday Letting (STHL) in NSW in response to recommendations made by the NSW Parliament Legislative Assembly Committee. Our response advocated that any reforms should not compromise the availability of accommodation stock for access by the exhibition and event sector. The presence of Airbnb in the market has provided complementary stock and more accommodation capacity during major event peak periods.

Victoria – In February, EEAA took part in the MCB event, AIME. AIME is a showcase of the Asia-Pacific business events product and experiences. EEAA leverages AIME as a platform for promoting the Power of Exhibitions. In 2017, EEAA held three events at AIME, our theme was “Join our Community”.

Key Victorian Parliamentarians were also targeted in our Global Exhibitions Day campaign promoting the message about the Power of Exhibitions and Events.

The expansion of the MCEC and its scheduled opening in 2018 were featured in the events around the EEAA Conference and Awards for Excellence.

EEAA participated in the State Cabinet Day at the Royal Melbourne Show and we continue to advocate for investment in upgrading facilities at Melbourne Showgrounds.

Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Northern Territory, ACT – EEAA made representations to all key portfolio Ministers with its annual calendar, research and Global Exhibitions Day campaign.

Tourism Australia’s Managing Director, John O’Sullivan presents at the EEAA 2017 Conference.

EEAA attends the Western Sydney post Federal budget briefing by The Australian Chamber. L-R: Adam Carr, Director, Economics and Industry Policy, ACCI; Joyce DiMascio, Chief Executive, EEAA; and James Pearson, CEO, ACCI.

Davidson Business Breakfast at Parliament House. L-R: EEAA President, Spiro Anemogiannis; NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian; UFI CEO, Kai Hattendorf; and EEAA Chief Executive, Joyce DiMascio.



PROGRAMS – MARKETING EEAA 2017 TRADE AND CONSUMER EVENTS CALENDARIn February, at the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) EEAA launched the 2017 Trade and Consumer Exhibitions and Events Calendar – a listing of all events being run by EEAA Organisers / Associations or hosted by EEAA Venues. This year, the Calendar also included a list of EEAA Suppliers by service category.

The calendar is a powerful sales tool for Members – who use it as part of their business development plans – and an important marketing tool for the Association. It is created from Member input on the EEAA website and distributed to industry, government agencies, stakeholders and the media. An online version of the calendar is also available on the EEAA website. Members are urged to keep their event and profile details up-to-date on eeaa.com.au.

MARKETING AND PR – DRIVING CONTENTThroughout 2017, EEAA focused on promoting the work of the Association and its Members through a year-round marketing and PR program. EEAA sent over 65 communications and updates to Members as well as 50 media releases, feature stories and editorial content to industry stakeholders and the trade and mainstream media. EEAA has strong visibility within industry and Government.

The coverage we receive from our communications, releases, articles and news shows that EEAA is the peak Association actively representing our Members and the broader business events sector on important industry issues.

With a new website launched in 2016, the EEAA worked to drive traffic to the site by boosting its online presence and by directing any customer enquiries to eeaa.com.au. Enquiries include prospective exhibitor/visitor enquiries and prospective clients looking for Organisers, Venues or Suppliers.

The EEAA actively shared over 300 news items from our Members, Stakeholders and the industry via the website. We also share information on events and updates by the Association, on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. EEAA’s Youtube channel was used to share video content on the role of the Association, the benefits of Membership and Member testimonials. Join us on social media, stay informed on what is happening in our industry and utilise these EEAA channels to extend the reach of your own communications: @ExhibitionandEventAssociationofAustralasia @eeaaupdate

25 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE INDUSTRY2017 marked 25 years of the Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia and our service to the industry. Celebrated at the EEAA Awards for Excellence, the Association compiled an image montage of Members and events over the years. EEAA Members provided video testimonials, which have been collated into a look at the Past, Present and Future of the EEAA. You can view the videos on eeaa.com.au

PITCHING TO MARKETERS – NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH MUMBRELLAIn 2017, the EEAA announced a landmark partnership with Mumbrella as a way to reach marketers and those who influence marketing spend, as well as pitch exhibition and events as a valuable channel for doing business. This partnership has opened up the opportunity for Member Organisers to reach marketing agencies.

The agreement included the introduction of a new award – The Best Use of Face-to-Face/Interaction Marketing Through Events – at the 2017 Mumbrella Awards, held on 29 June 2017. EEAA also led a Masterclass at the prestigious Mumbrella360 Conference.

EEAA’s strategic priorities this year have been to advocate the strengths of events and to encourage those who influence marketing spend to invest more in events. The Association was keen to work with Mumbrella in order to focus on the outstanding results marketers can achieve through events. EEAA will continue its partnership with Mumbrella in 2018, and create opportunities for Organisers to reach this influential target market.

OUR CAMPAIGN – THE POWER OF EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTSThe EEAA continued to work on the Power of Exhibitions campaign – ensuring the exhibition sector continued to be recognised and receive support from government and its agencies. The Association also worked to diversify the EEAA offering to include Organisers, Venues and Suppliers in the broader events space. Not only did the strong voice of EEAA advocate for the entire business events community, but it also created opportunities for our Members to expand their networks and reach new Organisers, Venues and Suppliers with whom they can do business.

EEAA 2017 Trade and Consumer Exhibitions and Events Calendar.

More online communication - follow and utilise EEAA’s social channels.



PROGRAMS – GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS DAY #GED17 The EEAA was pleased to support Global Exhibitions Day (GED) in 2017. Across 7 and 8 June, we celebrated GED by gathering our industry’s leaders for a two-day program of events. The EEAA expanded its program to include the Annual General Meeting (7 June), Leaders Forum (8 June) and Leaders Forum Dinner (8 June). The Association also led its first Mumbrella360 masterclass session (7 June), held a Global Exhibitions Day Reception (7 June) and spearheaded a social media campaign.

EEAA’s achievements in government advocacy were recognised by industry peers in the inaugural Global Exhibition Day Awards, winning the Industry Impact Award. The Association’s activities for Global Exhibitions Day 2017 was awarded by The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) and Exhibition World. They commended EEAA for having had ‘the most positive impact supporting exhibitions as an industry’.

INAUGURAL EEAA 2017 GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS DAY RECEPTIONThe EEAA held an inaugural Global Exhibitions Day Reception on the evening of 7 June. The event was attended by 70 industry professionals and NSW Government representative Mr Jonathan O’Dea, Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier and Treasurer. The Association’s Gold and Platinum partners were honoured for their dedication and support to the industry. EEAA President, Spiro Anemogiannis presented these Members with a framed certificate and acknowledged the biggest supporters of the Association and its programs.

EEAA MEMBERS SUPPORT GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS DAYEEAA Members around Australia celebrated Global Exhibitions Day with a series of announcements and events. The following Members joined the campaign:

GED POLITICAL CAMPAIGNEEAA ran a very targeted political campaign for GED to 75 parliamentarians, business leaders and industry stakeholders around the country. Advocacy packs (including a letter, GED prop, GED factsheet and the UFI key messages) were sent to a targeted list of government Ministers and officials, encouraging broad support for our sector. Our ongoing engagement with government via these kinds of activities increases the visibility and success of our sector.

Among those who acknowledged the GED program were:• Malcolm Turnbull, Prime Minister of Australia• Bill Shorten, Federal Opposition Leader• Steve Ciobo, Federal Minister Trade Tourism and Investment• Jon Eren, Victorian Minister for Major Events• Clover Moore, Mayor, Sydney• John O’Sullivan, Managing Director, Tourism Australia• Penny Lion, General Manager, Business Events Australia

MORE SOCIAL MEDIAIn 2017, the EEAA stepped up social media activity. The Association produced a short video to promote the event, with the key message “Get involved”. #GED17 was mentioned in all posts across LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook for all EEAA events on 7 – 8 June 2017. Doing this increased the reach and engagement on social media during Global Exhibitions Day.

EEAA and its Members celebrated Global Exhibitions Day at an Industry Reception at ICC Sydney in June.

• Arinex • Australian Dental Industry

Association• Diversified

Communications Australia• Entegy• Exhibitions and Trade Fairs• Gaming Technologies

Association

• Info Salons Group• Installex• Moreton Hire• Sydney TAFE• Ungerboeck Software

International• Zadro Agency

EEAA receives international award from UFI and Exhibition World Magazine for its advocacy work on Global Exhibitions Day 2017.



PROGRAMS – PARTNERSHIPSThe Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia is proud of its growing network of Strategic Partners who work with EEAA to support our industry. We value these relationships highly and are honoured to promote their work in our industry.

In September, EEAA held its Political Insiders Round-Table and Gold and Platinum Partner Lunch, to honour the Association’s Strategic Partners with a special presentation held at Dockside venue L’Aqua.

We thank all our Members for continuing to support the Association in 2017.

2017 EEAA Partners received special acknowledgement from EEAA President, Spiro Anemogiannis.

STRATEGIC PARTNERS – PLATINUM

STRATEGIC PARTNERS – GOLD

A D

YOUNG STARS PROGRAM PARTNER – PLATINUM YOUNG STARS PROGRAM PARTNERS – GOLD



PROGRAMS – RESEARCHIn 2017, the EEAA conducted an extensive review of its research, the EEAA Market Monitor. We also continued to work with a range of partners and Associations to contribute to and access information on our industry.

EEAA MARKET MONITOR EEAA did not produce its annual EEAA Market Monitor in 2017 due to a review of the program and research partner. We were pleased to announce a new partnership with global research company Explori to deliver the next wave of the Market Monitor, which will be made available in the first half of 2018. Wave 8 of the EEAA Market Monitor will cover the period from January to December 2017. The report is shared with Members for use in their business planning and is available free of charge to Members who participate in the survey.

AUDITED MEDIA ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIAThe EEAA has continued to work with the Audited Media Association of Australia (AMAA) and EEAA Members to verify attendance data for exhibitions. The regular review and annual report have provided the industry with best practice reporting and new insights into visitor attendance and behaviour.

UFI, THE GLOBAL ASSOCIATION OF EXHIBITION INDUSTRYEEAA contributed to, and distributed, the UFI Barometer to Members and were able to generate sufficient responses for UFI to develop a country profile for the first time - this will be launched in early 2018.

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF EXHIBITION AND EVENTS AND CENTRE FOR EXHIBITION INDUSTRY RESEARCH Through its continued Membership of the IAEE, the EEAA was able to access international research on the exhibition industry, which was shared with Members via the regular EEAA ENews.

ASSOCIATIONS FORUM EEAA continued its active Membership of the Associations Forum and input to its research. This alliance provides further opportunity for the EEAA to promote the benefits of exhibitions and events to a wide cross-section of industry Associations.

BUSINESS EVENTS COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIAEEAA participated in an update to the major study by EY on the business event industry. The Value of Business Events to Australia dimensions the whole sector and importantly gives the EEAA more holistic data for the Australian exhibition industry.

MEETINGS & EVENTS AUSTRALIA, AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION OF CONVENTION BUREAUX AND EXHIBITION AND EVENT ASSOCIATIONEEAA partnered with MEA and AACB this year to conduct a survey of the skills required for the Business Events sector. EEAA assisted with the survey design and distribution and we commend continued collaboration between the industry Associations on research projects that benefit the industry.

OTHER RESEARCH AND INSIGHTS EEAA continued to share a wide range of marketing insights, policy papers and other resources with Members throughout the year, primarily through its “News Portal” on the EEAA website, its ENews communications and through its social media channels. EEAA is the hub for industry news and we are committed to keeping you informed and sharing valuable resources with you to grow your business. Visit eeaa.com.au regularly for the latest news and resources.

EEAA is proud to be part of these organisations to open more doors for our Members:



PROGRAMS – EDUCATIONEEAA continued to ensure the future of the exhibition and event industry through its partnerships with education institutions and its own program of professional development seminars and workshops for Members.

EXCELLING IN EXHIBITIONSThe bespoke industry course developed in conjunction with TAFE NSW was delivered again in 2017. Courses were held in Sydney with increased numbers from 2016 and in Adelaide for the first time. The EEAA also supported NSW in having an Advanced Diploma of Event Management recognised on NSW Smart and Skilled list, meaning the qualification is now eligible for a government subsidy, which will benefit the Business Events industry through enrolment growth.

INDUSTRY TRAINEESHIPSEEAA announced the launch of a new traineeship for the industry to help address the skills shortages within the business event sector in Australia. Developed in partnership with TAFE NSW and Apprenticeship Support Australia, the industry traineeships will deliver fit-for-purpose training and skill development for new entrants to the sector by combining nationally accredited qualifications with on-the-job experience.

SKILLS IQEEAA continued to participate in the Tourism, Travel and Hospitality Industry Reference Committee facilitated by Skills IQ. We continue to achieve positive outcomes and ensure access to appropriately trained individuals, with work-ready skills, that are productive in the labour market.

MUMBRELLA360 MASTERCLASSOrganisers identified the need to connect directly with those who influence marketing spend as a high priority in growing their shows. For the first time, EEAA and its Members were on stage at the Mumbrella360 Conference to promote exhibitions and events as powerful marketing channels to marketing agencies and those who control marketing dollars.The Association, along with EEAA Members Julia Erben from Reed Exhibitions and Phil Silverstone from Eventbrite, pitched the value of exhibitions and events to a full room of marketers and agencies, providing them with practical tools on how they can deepen customer engagement and build profitable customer relationships through events.

This event was one of the key activities in EEAA’s new partnership with Mumbrella, which has opened up the opportunity for Organiser Members to reach marketing agencies through the Association.

EEAA FORUM ON SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITYEEAA held an important Forum in Melbourne on 27 April 2017 to discuss WHS and sustainability. Attendees heard from Ian Sandlant, Event Program Coordinator - Operations & Emergency Management, WorkSafe Victoria on the role of the regulator in the exhibition and events space and the responsibilities of Organisers, Venues and Suppliers in providing safe working environments. Ian discussed working at heights, forklift safe

practice, manual handling, and information, instruction, training and supervision of employees. EEAA also had a round-table discussion following this session where Members talked specifically about labour hire, in particular relating to international labour hire and stand build companies.Attendees also heard from Cameron Little, General Manager, Sydney Sustainability Centre who discussed practices our industry can adopt to help reduce waste and costs. Over 30 Members dedicated to safety and sustainability attended.

MEMBER STAFF BRIEFINGS Throughout the year, the EEAA worked with Members to brief their staff on the work of the Association, our place within the local and global industry and how they, as employees can be involved in the life of the Association and benefit from their company’s Membership. These briefings were often part of staff training days and equipped employees with the knowledge of how they fit into the big picture of exhibitions and events. They also highlighted the opportunities for professional development and networking that were available to them through EEAA.

EEAA educating Marketers on the Power of Exhibitions to meet ROI. Masterclass with Phil Silverstone from Eventbrite and Julia Erben from Reed Exhibitions.

Picture courtesy of Reed Exhibitions Hair Expo

DON’T TURN YOUR BACK

DEEPEN ENGAGEMENT AND INCREASE ROI FROM EVENTS

Wednesday 7 June, 11 am Mumbrella360 Masterclass Theatre, Level 3THE POWER OF

EXHIBITIONS

A2 poster_final.indd 1 17/05/2017 5:44 PM



PROGRAMS – MEMBER EVENTS During 2017, the Association had around 80 speakers and subject experts on stage to inspire, educate and provide Members and Industry with practical tools for sales growth. Access to the local and international speakers that EEAA has on its stage is a great benefit and to Members. We are pleased to continue offering this valuable service.

EEAA hosted a series of Member Forums and Young Stars events in Melbourne and Sydney. We held an inaugural Global Exchange and Industry Reception – putting the Australasian Business Events sector on the world stage and opening up opportunities to learn from world leaders, and/or do business internationally. And we held our annual Gold and Platinum Partner Round-table, Leaders Forum, Welcome Reception, Conference and Awards for Excellence.

LEADERSHIPThe Association hosts a number of industry leaders and key decision makers on the EEAA stage, opening up opportunities for Members to grow their businesses through access to local and international political and business leaders.

EEAA Leaders Forum: 7-8 June 2017The prestigious EEAA Leaders Forum brought together influencers from government, industry and business to discuss the topics, issues and challenges that matter most to the decision makers of the exhibition and event sector. In 2017, EEAA added two new events including a Global Exhibitions Day Reception and a Mumbrella360 Masterclass session on the Power of Exhibitions and Events.

The 2017 Leaders Forum provided a valuable opportunity for consolidating the Association’s relationships with government and furthering EEAA’s advocacy agenda. The Leaders Forum program featured local and international experts and allowed for healthy discussions on key topics like: the importance of curating experiences for our event attendees, the power of gender equality and diversity for business and the future of the industry through the eyes of our youngest Members.

Representatives from major global companies including CRM giant Salesforce, event analytics provider Explori, event registration leader Eventbrite and major tourism industry disrupter Airbnb featured on the program, as well as experts from the digital and experiential marketing community – Fourth Wall, Jomablue and Jack Morton. We also had on stage excellent commentators from our organiser community – National Media, IQPC and Australian Events.

EEAA 2017 Gold and Platinum Partner event. L-R: Simon Banks from Hawker Britton; Matt Hingerty from Barton Deakin; The Hon. Bruce Baird AM, Chairman at Business Events Sydney and Former State and Federal Minister; Megan Motto from Consult Australia; and Kai Hattendorf from UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.

Kai Hattendorf delivers a special “State of the Industry” address that highlighted Australia’s place in the world and the trends that will shape the future of our industry.

State-of-the-industry panel. L-R: Matt Pearce, Talk2 Media & Events; Penny Lion, Tourism Australia; Mark Cochrane and Kai Hattendorf, UFI.



The Forum covered the following themes:• The power of diversity• The power of curation• The power of insights• Leveraging opportunities• Skills, labour and talent

The EEAA concluded its annual two-day leadership event on a high with a dinner held at L’Aqua Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney. Dinner attendees heard from Dr Adam Fraser, a human performance researcher and consultant. The EEAA hosted the Hon. Keith Pitt, the Assistant Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment. NSW Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier and Treasurer Jonathan O’Dea’s presence also re-confirmed the ongoing support we receive from the NSW Government.

“Thanks to the exhibition and event industry – it is you that is out there doing the work; it’s you that are driving the economy. Governments can help you be successful, we can build the structures, but it’s you that takes the risks. So, thank you for what you do for all Australians and the people that work in this great country.” Hon. Keith Pitt.

EEAA Conference: 28-30 November 2017Participants called the EEAA 2017 Conference ‘the best conference yet’ – feedback we are proud to receive in what was our 25th anniversary year.

Held in Melbourne, the Conference kicked off with a Welcome Reception at the stylish Member venue, Metropolis. Venue owners, Georgina Damm and Eddie Muto, welcomed EEAA guests to the stunning new venue along Melbourne’s waterfront at Southgate, and treated our guests to high quality catering and spectacular service.

The Conference was held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and covered the trends, challenges and opportunities impacting our sector. We also changed the conference format to include a day of deep-dive clinics – these were a resounding success.Some of the key themes discussed:• Major changes are occurring in our economies, societies,

politics and technology making it more difficult than ever to predict the future.

• Never stop evolving – there are plenty of opportunities and an equal number of challenges. Being nimble and open to trying new things will define the success stories of the future.

• Preparation is the most important tool for success – nothing beats a well-developed plan or strategy to focus on the things that matter most to your business and keep you on track and in control should a crisis hits.

Throughout the conference, we heard from leading strategists and analysts on the most significant political, economic, social and industry trends shaping the exhibition and event sector today. We looked at the opportunities and challenges in great detail via our new deep-dive specialist clinics.

Assistant Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Honourable Keith Pitt MP, joins EEAA, addressing Members at the Leaders Forum Dinner.

Rory Govan, Associate Research Director, Explori discusses the findings of global research into the lifecycle of visitors and exhibitors to shows at the EEAA 2017 Leaders Forum.

EEAA President, Spiro Anemogiannis, welcomed guests at the 2017 Conference Welcome Reception.

L-R: Cr Christine Forster, Paul Nicolaou, Joyce DiMascio, Tony South, Anna Cesarano and Spiro Anemogiannis at the successful 2017 International Women’s Day Breakfast in March.



Our international keynote speaker, Denzil Rankine, Founder and Executive Chairman, AMR International, delivered two sessions. With experience gained from 30+ years in the business and working with exhibition companies in 35 countries around the world, Denzil discussed ways to prepare for the future. He highlighted the need for events to lift their game in terms of customer experience and noted that the key for a successful event is to recognise where your show sits within the global industry you serve and to create a thoughtful strategy around this.

Sales trainer Murray Grimston, Advisory Partner, Miller Heiman Group, also presented on the EEAA stage, in one of the Association’s new workshop “clinic” sessions. Murray explained what it takes to succeed in sales and business development and provided attendees with practical tips on how to sell their products and services better.

For many of our Members and the wider business event industry, our annual conference is a fixture on their professional development and networking calendars.

EEAA Gold & Platinum Partner Political Insiders Round-table:19 September 2017Each year, we unpack the major issues in Australia’s political and business life with our savvy political insiders – Matt Hingerty, CEO and Managing Director, Barton Deakin and Simon Banks, Managing Director, Hawker Britton.

Also on stage at the EEAA 2017 Gold and Platinum Partner Political Insiders Round-table were Megan Motto, CEO at Consult Australia and former State and Federal Minister, The Hon. Bruce Baird AM, now the Chairman of Business Events Sydney. We were also delighted to bring a global perspective to the discussions with UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, CEO Kai Hattendorf.

Held to honour our Gold and Platinum Members, our annual Political Insiders Round-table is one of the most popular events on the EEAA calendar. Our industry’s leaders who attended the event agree it is a must-attend event for anyone interested in understanding the political climate and how this will impact upon business and our industry. The on-stage conversations were moderated by EEAA Chief Executive, Joyce DiMascio, whose background as a journalist and press secretary always comes in handy.

The event was held as part of EEAA’s inaugural Global Exchange at Dockside’s L’Aqua on 19 September 2017.

International Women’s Day: 8 March 2017The events industry has many outstanding female leaders, entrepreneurs and business women. We also have many outstanding men in our sector who support the growth and career development of the women they work with.

Close to 100 men and women gathered to honour the contribution women make to business events. Exceptionally talented leaders Julia Erben from Reed Exhibitions; Penny Lion from Tourism Australia; Sarah Pohlman from Fairfax Media; Michelle Walter from Qantas and host venue CEO, Anna Cesarano from Doltone House, joined EEAA to discuss the issues that matter to women in the workplace.

Human Performance Researcher, Dr Adam Fraser also joined us. He spoke about the positive impacts of diversity in driving performance and that diversity is needed in the workplace.

This is an important annual event in the EEAA calendar with an overwhelmingly positive response from the attendees. The event inspires the men and women in our industry to continue to support female colleagues, innovate and drive change in business events.

Organisers, Venues and Suppliers gathers for an update on the political and business environment at the 2017 Gold & Platinum Partner Political Insiders Round-table.

EEAA 2017 International Women’s Day panel.

Denzil Rankine, Founder and Executive Chairman, AMR International.

Murray Grimston, Advisory Partner, Miller Heiman Group.



PROGRAMS – OTHER INDUSTRY EVENTS The EEAA took part in other industry events throughout 2017 including leading a masterclass at Mumbrella360 (refer to page 11) and a special talk by Gold Member, Eventbrite’s co-founder and CEO Julia Hartz, which was also supported by the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and Business Chicks.

The Association also participated in its first international Twitter panel, educating the next generation of exhibition professionals, with panellists Angela Herbertholz, Marketing and Communications Manager, UFI; and Faroukh Shahabi, one of the 2016 #NGLGrant winners.

EEAA was also proud to participate in: • The Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME) -

Melbourne • Sydney TAFE’s “Excelling in Education” course series• The completion of the Adelaide Convention Centre’s

redevelopment• The Western Sydney post-budget briefing with The

Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry• Government and Stakeholder briefings including Austrade,

the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Parramatta Park & Western Sydney Parklands Trusts, Tourism Australia and Business Events Sydney, Business Events Council of Australia, Skills IQ, Audited Media Association of Australia and Mumbrella

In 2017, the EEAA also attended two key international events organised by The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, UFI. These events were:• The UFI Open Seminar in Singapore in March• The 84th UFI Global Congress in Russia in November

These conferences were valuable opportunities for the EEAA to build in-roads to the global exhibition industry, network with peers and develop valuable business relationships.

As a result of attending these events, EEAA sourced top-tier speakers for events in Australia including:• Kai Hattendorf, UFI• Mark Cochrane, UFI• Denzil Rankine, AMR International• Rory Govan, Explori• Richard Ireland, Clarion Events

At the events, the Association held key meetings with the Association of Event Organisers (AEO) and the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO), and also recruited international judges for the EEAA 2017 Awards for Excellence.

By playing a bigger role in UFI events, the EEAA was also able to build its credentials and this led to the signing of the MOU with UFI.

The EEAA stand at AIME was an important meeting point for stakeholders and Member meetings over the two day event including Austrade (pictured).

EEAA joined close to 500 participants from around the world at the 84th UFI Global Congress in Johannesburg, South Africa. L-R: Jo-Anne Kelleway, CEO, Info Salons; Joyce DiMascio, Chief Executive, EEAA; and Helen Mantellato, Business Development Manager: International and Exhibitions, International Convention Centre Sydney.

L-R: Chantal Noble, Business Chicks; Phil Silverstone and Julia Hartz, Eventbrite and Joyce DiMascio, EEAA at Eventbrite’s talk at the MCEC, Melbourne.

EEAA President, Spiro Anemogiannis; Board Member, Helen Mantellato and Chief Executive, Joyce DiMascio at the UFI Open Seminar in Singapore in March with UFI CEO, Kai Hattendorf.



PROGRAMS – AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCEThe EEAA is committed to promoting professionalism, encouraging high industry standards and recognising excellence within the exhibition and event sector. Through its prestigious Awards for Excellence program, EEAA offers Members the opportunity to showcase their innovation, creativity, performance and business success.

This year, we held a special 25th anniversary gala event in the Touring Hall at Melbourne Museum to honour the industry’s highest achieving shows, venues, suppliers, teams and individuals.

Federal Trade Tourism and Investment Minister, Steven Ciobo MP issued a special message to the EEAA and Business Events community: “The work that you all do to help boost this sector, to organise events, to organise conferences, is critical to making sure that Australian tourism and business events go from strength-to-strength. I applaud your excellence tonight, you deserve to be celebrated.” Steven Ciobo MP.

Chair of Judges, John Trevillian AM, said: “The quality of entries was once again very high and the judging was the closest it has been. This really is a testament to the success, vitality and excellence of the sector in Australasia.”

International Convention Centre Sydney’s Malu Barrios was named the inaugural winner of the Unsung Hero of the Industry for her contribution over many years. Info Salon Group’s Jo-Anne Kelleway was also recognised for her decades of service to the Association, becoming the 2017 recipient of the Trevor Riddell President’s Award.

Others honoured at the Awards included industry rising star Craig Mather from Ungerboeck Software International, this year’s Richard Geddes Young Achiever Award recipient, and Reed Exhibitions for Reed Gift Fairs Sydney (February 2017) which won Best Show for 2017. The inaugural winner of the Association’s new Best Innovation in Event Tech Award, was Info Salons for its Konduko Near Field Communication Engagement platform.

EEAA’s Awards production partner was Harry the hirer, the night was hosted by comedy superstar Colin Lane – the ‘Lano’ in popular Australian comedy duo Lano & Woodley. Our on-screen animation was created by The Monkey’s Cobbler and our 250 guests enjoyed entertainment provided by Belle Musique. There were 64 finalists and nominees and the entries put the spotlight on the outstanding achievements of our industry colleagues. 17 trophies were awarded on the night as were nine commendations to category runners-up.

In 2017 the Awards entry process was managed online for the first time, making the process easier and more streamlined for Members. We thank the 39 judges.

EEAA Members use the Awards for Excellence as a platform to promote the quality of their product and service offering. Many Members spread the word to their clients that they have been named a finalist in the EEAA Awards program. The winners and highly commended receive a special seal that can be included in their marketing collateral. We encourage all Members to continue to shine the light on the work they do and include the EEAA Awards for Excellence program in their marketing plans for 2018.

The full list of winners and image gallery can be viewed at eeaa.com.au

EEAA 2017 Awards for Excellence winners.

EEAA 2017 Awards for Excellence host, Colin (Lano) Lane.



PROGRAMS – YOUNG STARSIn 2017, the EEAA Young Stars Program turned 5 and over 40 young professionals celebrated at Luna Park Sydney, where the program was launched in 2012.

At this special event, the EEAA Young Stars gathered to hear from international guests UFI CEO, Kai Hattendorf and Asia-Pacific Regional Manager, Mark Cochrane who flew down under to celebrate the program’s 5th birthday as part of EEAA’s Global Exchange.

Other events throughout the year included the Association’s series of Young Stars & Leaders Tables, held with guest leaders Julia Erben, former Event Director from Reed Exhibitions and Tony South, former Chair of Tourism Australia.

In something new – the EEAA was also invited to participate in UFI’s live global chat to discuss the Young Stars Program, which is seen globally as a most worthy initiative.

Young professionals were also given the opportunity by their employers to learn and develop their skills at EEAA’s key events including the 2017 Conference in November, as well as attending the “Excelling in Exhibitions” training courses run by TAFE NSW across the country.

At the EEAA 2017 Awards for Excellence, Craig Mather from Ungerboeck Software International was announced as the winner of the 2017 Richard Geddes Young Achiever Award. The other nominees were Nina Shand from Diversified Communications Australia; Cathy Hammond from Exhibitions and Trade Fairs; and Kiarna Harvey from National Media.

In 2018, the EEAA will continue to further develop the Young Stars Program. We encourage Members to continue investing in their young staff and supporting their involvement in the program.

TA COMMITS AGAIN AS PLATINUM PARTNERTourism Australia was a valuable partner throughout 2017 and we were very pleased to announce that they would be continuing as the key partner for the Young Stars Program in 2018. Tourism Australia have been a fantastic and engaged partner and are looking forward to continuing their support of young talent within the sector.

“Through the fabulous mentoring opportunities and the whole event program, the Association is providing a valuable opportunity for the two sides to connect, and for young people in our industry to realise the benefits of a fulfilling career within it. I congratulate the Association for its work in helping to nurture and support young talent in our industry and look forward working alongside them to continue developing our future leaders.” Penny Lion, Executive General Manager of Events, Tourism Australia.

UNGERBOECK AND REED EXHIBITIONS OUR GOLD PARTNERSWe were also very pleased to welcome Reed Exhibitions as a new Gold Partner of the Young Stars program, as well as Ungerboeck Software International who have been a Gold Partner for the program since 2015.

COMMITTEE The Young Stars initiative is actively supported by a volunteer committee who contribute ideas and marketing support. We thank our volunteer committee for their commitment to the initiative. This year, the Young Stars committee included Stephanie Bleakley and Felicity Parker from Diversified Communications Australia; Catherine Isaacs from Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre; James Kennedy from Exhibit Systems; Anne-Marie Mina and Cathy Hammond from Exhibitions & Trade Fairs; Lexie Bova from Harry the hirer; Roslyn du Plooy from Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre; Andrew Orr from Reed Exhibitions Australia; and Laura Skelton from Ungerboeck Software International.

EEAA celebrates 5 years of the EEAA Young Stars Program at Luna Park Sydney.



The EEAA Young Stars celebrate 5 years at Luna Park Sydney.

Young professionals attend first Excelling in Exhibitions training series in Adelaide.

Event Director Julia Erben shares her career experience and advice in a special dinner with our Young Stars in Melbourne.

Platinum Partner Tourism Australia re-commits to the EEAA Young Stars Program following Managing Director, John O’Sullivan’s presentation at the EEAA 2017 Conference.

UFI CEO and Asia-Pacific Regional Manager, Kai Hattendorf and Mark Cochrane, bring a world view to careers in our sector.

EEAA Young Stars meet Tony South, Chairman of Tourism Australia and former CEO of the Sydney Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Winner and nominees of the EEAA 2017 Richard Geddes Young Achiever Award.



PROGRAMS – SAFETYSafety and risk management continues to be an important area of focus for the industry, and it was one of the main themes of the EEAA 2017 Conference. A number of sessions were held to address topics in this area including Crisis Management from a communications perspective led by Peter Wilkinson, a clinic on Security and Operations led by Craig Sheridan APM and Leighton Wood from Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) focusing on security at venues and events, and a clinic on Logistics and Safety led by Jim Pantopolis from Agility Fairs & Events and Sharon Friedman from MCEC.

The Marsh Risk and Safety Management System also continued to be a valuable resource for Members, helping them to comply with venue requirements and legislation, and continues to be offered to new Members at a subsidised rate by the EEAA.

PROGRAMS – MEMBER SERVICESIn 2017 we welcomed the following new Members:• Caravan and Camping Industry Association (NSW)• Delaro• Deutsche Messe, new Gold Member• Exponential Events• F. Wood & Son Plumbing• Homepix Photography• Merivale, new Gold Partner• Metropolis Events• NORA• Red Exhibitions & Display• Sheridan Consulting Group• Teleportivity – Powered by Worker Clicks• The M Agency• Vital Risk Services Group• XPO Exhibitions

Throughout 2017, the EEAA team delivered a wide range of services and support to Members:• Ongoing support to Members in promoting their events

and services through the EEAA website• Connecting Members through the brokering of

introductions both with other Members and with stakeholders

• Recommended Member services and venues wherever possible

• Increased the profile of the Australasian exhibition and events industry within the global community through engagement with international organisations

• Provided industry insights and research and facilitated the development of a new report for our region by UFI

• Promoted Member news and achievements through the monthly ENews, website and social media channels

• Supported Member staffing by posting job ads on the EEAA website and developing a new industry traineeship program

• Promoted our community and its achievements to the wider industry through PR campaigns

• Visited Member events and shows and promoted these via our communications channels

• Attended and presented at events on behalf of Members• Supported Members on advocacy issues and advised on

issues affecting the industry• Offered a range of networking and professional

development opportunities and events throughout the year

• Supported Members with a new online Awards entry process

PROGRAMS – INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPSIn 2017, EEAA continued to expand its network of International partnerships designed to offer Members more services as well as access to valuable information, resources and events.

We identified new opportunities to work with the Association of Event Organisers (AEO) and the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO). This collaboration has already commenced with the CEOs of both organisations joining the EEAA Awards for Excellence judging panel.

The Association has agreed to formalise our partnership and will exchange MOUs with both these important peak bodies. With the signing of the MOU with UFI already concluded, EEAA Members have gained important new opportunities to share knowledge with peers around the world.

Craig Sheridan APM EMPA and Victorian Police representative Inspector Mark Morris “talk security” with MCEC’s Leighton Wood at the EEAA 2017 Conference.


WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON FOR 2018We thank all of our partners for helping us build a strong, vibrant community and we look forward to 2018.

Our Association is gearing up for a big 2018 – and so are our Members. Our survey of what’s on the horizon for Organisers has identified that the industry is very upbeat about what is coming up in 2018. This is good news as everybody wins when the Organisers and Associations point to positive developments and new show launches.

As at the end of January 2018, there are plans to launch 14 new shows across a wide-range of industry pillars. These categories reflect closely what is going on in the economy and in new industries. For example, new shows are planned in Health and Science, Space and Satellite, Cyber Security, Drones, Tech, Lifestyle and Wellness, Home and Design, Power and Energy, Pets and Accountancy.

That’s an eclectic mix which shows the diversity of the business that is done through trade and consumer expos. These events are great marketplaces for people to see the latest and learn about their special interest or business category.

Optimism drives the economy and I expect we will have continuing business confidence.

The EEAA is also looking forward to another strong year – we celebrated our 25th anniversary at the Awards for Excellence on 29 November 2017 and also gathered as a Board to chart the course in the next phase in the evolution of the Association.

We are strong and valued by our Members and we expect to continue to build on this as we deliver an exciting program of services to the industry.

In 2018, we plan to:• Roll-out a new 3-5 year strategy• Increase our national and international footprint• Invest in new programs to help grow the Association, and • Continue to reflect the convergence that is occurring in the

exhibition and meetings market

We are immensely proud of our achievements and look forward to serving the events industry – and in particular, to nurturing the careers of those who have chosen to work in events. We will do this through our collaboration with UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry and through our own EEAA Young Stars Program.

On behalf of the EEAA team, we hope you enjoy reading this Report Card. Please do not hesitate to contact us for any assistance.

From the team that brought you our programs, we thank you!

For further information contact

Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia Suite 206, Level 2, 7 Railway Street Chatswood NSW 2067 Tel: + 61 2 9413 9520 Email: [email protected]

ABN 35 433 559 243

THE POWER OF EXHIBITIONS

To access our extensive library of resources including reports, pictures, videos and Power of Exhibitions toolkit please visit our new website: www.eeaa.com.au

SNAPSHOT: OUR ENGAGEMENT PROFILE IN 2017

50 MEDIA RELEASES AND EDITORIAL

CONTENT8 NEW VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE

OVER 300 MEMBER AND INDUSTRY

NEWS ITEMS SHARED ON

EEAA.COM.AU

130 MEMBERS20 ORGANISERS

11 ASSOCIATIONS24 VENUES

75 SUPPLIERS

INCREASED WEB TRAFFIC ON EEAA.COM.AU

69% NEW VISITORS 31% RETURNING

VISITORS

OVER 65 TARGETED COMMUNICATIONS

TO MEMBERS

18-20% INCREASE IN ENGAGEMENT

ON FACEBOOK, LINKEDIN AND

TWITTER

80 SPEAKERS AND SUBJECT EXPERTS ON EEAA STAGE

16 EEAA HOSTED EVENTS

5 BOARD MEETINGS2 STRATEGY DAYS

30 INDUSTRY MEETINGS AND

EVENTS

Documents

EEAA 2017 MEMBER REPORT CARD