Meet a Planner

Tell us about your recent visit to Cairns and Brisbane

This was my first visit to Cairns. There were a lot of expectations, especially knowing how Tourism Australia always delivers exceptional experiences. True enough, the experience was amazing, from the warm welcome at Cairns Airport to the gorgeous farewell dinner at The Tanks Arts Centre.

I've been to Brisbane quite a number of times and I’m impressed by how the city has developed and grown into a fantastic destination for incentive programs, equipped with new hotels, venues and restaurants.

What was a highlight of attending Australian Next, Tourism Australia's signature incentive showcase?

It has to be the trip to the Great Barrier Reef with Reef Magic; from the breathtaking ride on the helicopter to the snorkelling experience and the sumptuous lunch. Every aspect was thought through and executed exceptionally.

Tell us about a venue in Cairns you would book again…

The Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal where we enjoyed breakfast was a beautiful venue with an open setting that allows guests to enjoy an event by the water. It is an easy venue to plan for our guests to leave for a day’s activity out at sea, as the pier is just a short walk away. This is exactly how Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef planned for us.

Tell us about an immersive cultural experience…

The Torres Islander performance we had during the breakfast for Australia Next in Cairns was amazing. Most of us were excited when the performers entered the hall and were very hyped up by their powerful and engaging performance.

What was a surprising moment for you during your stay?

Our helicopter ride to Tangalooma with Elite Helicopters was a great way to showcase how we can include a visit to the island within a shorter time. Another activity which I found really interesting and fun was the spray paint art activity by the river with Banana Life. It will be a great team bonding activity for many companies.

What dining experience would you add to an incentive program?

Donna Chang in Brisbane. The food was awesome and the restaurant has the capacity to hold 110 guests in the main dining room. 

The other option would be a lunch event on a YOT River Cruise along the Brisbane River taking in the amazing sights passing by.

What was Brisbane’s best kept secret that you would include in your next incentive program? 

A meal up on Vertigo. It's an amazing experience being able to dangle my legs by the side of the building, smiling at how the cutleries have their own carabiners. Watching the people walking past us below, admiring how we are enjoying our brunch with an amazing skyline. Especially the way we got off the building, it's an adrenaline pumping way to free fall down to the ground.

How many days is the ideal time for incentive groups to explore Australia?

I would recommend a minimum of 3-4 nights and five days to explore and experience two cities as we did in Cairns and Brisbane. 

What would you say to people who are thinking of hosting an incentive program in Australia? 

Australia has one of the best dining scenes, using local fresh produce paired with their famous wines from the regions.

Blessed with many picturesque natural sites, complemented with exceptional venue spaces, giving us plenty of ideas for exciting and unique activities to “wow” all your guests.