Gareth Heyman is the "Wizard of all Things" (and owner) at MorEvents, an event management firm, in Denver.
What did you learn about Australia from Dreamtime?
Dreamtime was an exceptionally well-organized ‘famil’ that introduced myself and MorEvents to a myriad of incentive and business opportunities for our current and perspective clients. Brisbane is an up-and-coming city that will in the next 3-5 years have state-of-the-art hotel facilities. Brands like W, Westin, Emporium and Ritz-Carlton will soon come to a destination that we can introduce our clients to.
Port Douglas and The Great Barrier Reef offer bucket list opportunities for our incentive trip clients. With high-quality boat transfer opportunities as well as helicopter viewing it is easy to put together a custom, priceless experience.
Throughout the entire trip the one thing that stood out was the service and attitude of Tourism Australia. They have a can-do attitude that is refreshing and are engaging to work with.
Did your participation in Dreamtime increase the chances you’ll take an incentive group there?
Absolutely. MorEvents has booked a small, very high-level incentive trip since returning from Dreamtime.
What type of incentive group would be the best fit for Australia?
We believe an adventure-based incentive group is best to plan an incentive trip to Australia. Ideally, couples or even a family group would be the best incentive demographics.
How many days do you believe you would dedicate to an Australia incentive?
Ten, including travel.
What surprised you the most about Australia?
The friendliness of the people. I saw this not only within our planned activities but also at non-sanctioned venues and experiences.
What challenges do you think Australia presents for North America-based incentive group travel, and were those challenges addressed or resolved in your mind?
The distance to Australia from North America is absolutely an issue. Every conversation we have regarding an incentive or business trip has this as part of the conversation. Clearly there is good flight coverage and quality equipment with Virgin Australia. Price and budget also become an issue for companies as travel policies surely would dictate business class fares that not every program can afford.
What would be your advice to your fellow incentive travel planners/managers about taking a group to Australia?
Work with Tourism Australia. They know their cities, regions and want to help you sell, plan and execute your program. If all else fails, just call “The Wizard” and let me work with you on the program.
What is your top highlight of the post-trip?
Helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef.