In 2005, Will Organise managed the ANZSPM Conference, held in Newcastle. Record numbers of 176 people were achieved at this meeting (expected around 120). The challenge therefore, was how to ensure the Darwin meeting, given the extra travel time and expense, could build on the success of the meeting 2 years earlier.

Darwin, as a destination was extensively promoted, and a great deal of time was spent ensuring the conference was cross – promoted through other Associations who may have an interest in the sessions that were being held at the ANZSPM Conference. Three international guests were invited, one having not travelled from the USA for conferences for over 5 years!

A social program was designed to offer a variety of Darwin experiences. Firstly, an elegant evening was held at Parliament House, an impressive structure, with beautiful gardens overlooking Darwin Harbour. The second night, normally a free evening, included a casual visit to Mindil Markets – a ‘must do’ whilst in Darwin. Shuttle buses were organised to help get delegates there and back, with $10 of Mindil money provided to each delegate to enjoy the many cuisines on offer. Finally, the gala dinner was held in the lawns near the Darwin Museum. Will Organise arranged for the Museum to stay open past 5.00pm, something that had never been done before. This provided an opportunity for delegates to wander through the Museum before the dinner, and Museum volunteers were on hand to provide information and answer questions. Pre dinner drinks were served with a backdrop of the setting sun behind the Pandanas trees – a truly ‘Darwin experience’. Music was played for those wanting to dance, with the evening ending with a packed dance floor, and a group who did not want to go home!

The success of the meeting was measured in the record numbers achieved, with 226 persons attending, highest levels of sponsorship raised to date, and the feedback received from participants. Some of the comments are listed below:

• Very professional organisation and staff very friendly & personal as well.
• It was almost perfect, I had one of the most rewarding times during this conference. I particularly enjoyed the program but also the late start ie: time allocated for fun, socialising & leisure.
• The social functions were awesome - thanks overall - well worth the long journey to get to NT.
• Conference organisers very good, helpful, very friendly, nothing was too much trouble.
• This conference gets better & better.