Western Australia’s events industry has re-united with a strong show of force, hitting back at the devastating blow on jobs in tourism and hospitality caused by COVID-19.
Nestled in the fine dining arena of Frasers State Reception Centre, against the stunning backdrop of Kings Park, “Event Industry Re-Spark” highlighted a major collaboration of stakeholders across food, beverage, entertainment, and styling in a bid to highlight all that Perth and the wider state has to offer.
With more than 300 guests in attendance, and featuring a tantalising display of gourmet food, exotic local wines, and spirits, coupled with decorative theming and staging displays, the purpose behind “Event Industry Re-Spark” was to remind the world that Perth and WA are open for business.
Business Events Perth CEO Gareth Martin said the night demonstrated the industry was alive and thriving.
“Re-Spark was a great platform to showcase the vibrancy of the Western Australian events industry and our offerings, as we welcome back our global network. The event helped to promote our vibrant State, its venues and attractions to a diverse audience.
“The WA industry is optimistic and resilient and has demonstrated it is ready to reconnect with the world”
Director of Phenomenon Event Services Paul Cumming said it was time people across Australia remembered what WA was renowned for.
“It’s time to embrace the confidence we once had and kickstart the industry.
“We have hosted an event that delivered on that which has showed off all things first class in the Perth events industry” he said.
Many partners on the night agreed the event was an absolute must to re-ignite the passion and fire within the industry.
General Manager of Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre Nigel Keen said the event had been a long time coming.
“PCEC was proud to be a part of the Industry Re-Spark. It was a fantastic opportunity for some of the event industry’s leading suppliers to be in one room together, celebrating the future of events here in Perth, Western Australia.
“Re-Spark was just what our Industry needed, it was fantastic to see, hear and taste the efforts of united peers showcasing to our clients” he said.
“It’s been a long road and this coming together highlights what we all have to be thankful for and to look forward to” added Lee Williams, General Manager of Perth Audio Visual.
Chris Taylor, owner, and executive chef of Fraser’s equally echoed the sentiments.
“It was a fantastic initiative for the hospitality industry with lots of enthusiasm to get us back on our feet to drive some confidence in the event market. A lot of fun was had with a fantastic group of likeminded people.”
Nadia Owen from Optus Stadium remarked, “I’m excited about welcoming people back, throwing open the doors and showcasing the best of WA.”
Scott Alderson Director of Sales at Crown Perth noted that “after what has been a challenging couple of years, it was a fantastic opportunity to not only re-connect as businesses, but as individuals and colleagues as we work to rebuild the hospitality industry.”
Plans for another “re-spark” are already in train ahead of the spring/summer season.
