micebook founder & CEO Chetan Shah headed down under last month for Australia Next (previously known as Dreamtime) in Cairns/Gimuy in Tropical North Queensland. Organised by Business Events Australia, with key partners Singapore Airlines and Ovation DMC, the event brought together over 250 global incentive planners, media and local Australian partners to inspire, educate, and immerse participants in the wonders of Australia as a premier destination for incentive travel. Here’s just a few of the many highlights and pictures…
As part of the team at micebook, I had the privilege of attending this event and was particularly eager to see how a short trip to Australia could offer maximum impact for incentive planners. Given the distance from the UK, I wanted to explore how much of Australia’s unique charm and experiences could be packed into just a few days. And let me tell you—it didn’t disappoint.
Despite the long journey, I found myself fully immersed in the program right from the start. Apart from a bit of tiredness on the second evening, I was able to fully engage with every aspect of the experience. Upon returning to the UK, I was pleasantly surprised to have almost no jet lag and hit the ground running. This reaffirmed my belief that Australia is not only a spectacular destination but also easily accessible for UK incentive planners.
A Journey into Cairns/Gimuy’s Best Experiences
The event kicked off with a dynamic opening session at the Cairns Convention Centre, setting the tone for the days ahead. We connected with regions across Australia, each eager to provide updates and showcase their incentive offerings. But the true highlight of the trip came during our day out exploring one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders—the Great Barrier Reef. This UNESCO World Heritage site not only mesmerized us with its beauty but also offered interactive and educational experiences that left a lasting impression.
The evening brought us to the incredible Tanks Art Centre, a creative venue housed in repurposed World War II oil storage tanks. This unique setting was the perfect backdrop for our farewell dinner, a celebration of the vibrant culture and innovation that defines Cairns/Gimuy.
Sydney: A City Transformed
Following our time in Cairns/Gimuy, the next stop was Sydney for a post-familiarisation tour. Having lived in Sydney over 20 years ago, I was particularly excited to see how the city has evolved. Guided by Ovation DMC, we explored Sydney from nearly every angle and mode of transport, from the famous harbour to the bustling streets. The Barangaroo district, in particular, stands as a testament to Sydney’s impressive transformation and growth.
Looking Ahead
While I’ll be diving deeper into my experiences in both Cairns/Gimuy and Sydney in future posts, one thing is clear—Australia continues to offer extraordinary opportunities for incentive planners. With its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and seamless accessibility, this destination should undoubtedly be on the radar for any incentive program.
Stay tuned for more insights and details from my journey, but in the meantime, enjoy some imagery from the event below!