November 16, 2021 | By Bronwen Largier
During the last financial year, as the pandemic created continuing uncertainty for the delivery of business events locally and globally, Business Events Sydney secured $70 million worth of meetings for the state’s industry and associated businesses.
At BESydney’s recent AGM, Chair of the Board Bruce Baird highlighted the achievements of the past year and took of stock of what’s ahead.
“In 2020-21, BESydney secured new global and national meetings that will attract significant talent and direct expenditure to the State’s economy; and rescheduled 62% of meetings affected by COVID-19 into future years,” said Baird.
“We now have a pipeline of events for Sydney for 2022-2029 that includes 95 events, due to attract 127,000 delegates, staying 540,000 delegate days, worth an estimated $503 million in direct expenditure.
“Conditions were tough this year and winning these events – and delivering inspiring experiences for the delegates who attend them – requires a huge Team Sydney effort, now more than ever.”
BESydney CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith talked about the impact of events for the destination and their role in rebuilding the economy in the wake of the pandemic.
“In-person meetings are vital to personal and professional development, company culture, innovation, and business outcomes,” said Lewis-Smith.
“Moreover, the meetings we bring to Sydney promise to deliver significant strategic, economic and social impact for Sydney, New South Wales, and Australia.
“As we look to 2022 and beyond, we are confident that the business events industry will play a major role in rebuilding the economy.
“This confidence is buoyed by the NSW Government’s recently announced tourism stimulus package – which includes $6 million in funding to support business events – and we have ambitious plans to build back best with the full support of government and industry.”
During the AGM, Managing Director and owner of PCO ICMS Australasia, Emma Bowyer, was elected to the BESydney board as a member director for a three-year term.
“I look forward to making a meaningful contribution to the BESydney vision and strategy as we work together in a post-pandemic environment,” said Bowyer.
“I’m keen to represent a diverse group of members and to utilise this collective effort to ensure Sydney’s profile is enhanced for the benefit of all stakeholders.”