Will Organise began working with the MA Conference in October 2007.

The conference was a 4 day event which included pre conference tours, concurrent workshops, plenary and parallel breakout sessions, a welcome reception and conference party. An awards night and some associated meetings were also included as part of the conference.

A regional and remote program was put together prior to the Conference start with the aim to recognise and empower Indigenous people working in the industry and to provide examples to non Indigenous delegates of ways & means to engage with remote communities.

A civic welcome to delegates was given by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Cr John Tate, at the Newcastle Region Art Gallery.

A Welcome to Country address by Phyllis Darcy, an Awabakal elder, was given to the delegates during the opening of the Conference. The Official Opening was made by The Hon Peter Garrett, AO in the presence of The Hon Virginia Judge, Minister assisting the Premier on the Arts.

Will Organise worked closely with a number of committees to ensure the event matched the aims of the organisation, achieved sponsorship targets and attracted over 400 persons to attend.

Some feedback:

• A very successful and effective Conference
• It was a very energising experience
• well put together team effort- much appreciated – thank you
• Organising committee are to be congratulated on their wonderful efforts, to assist and greet delegates and to plan a well balanced conference
• Great conference, well worth attending
• I thought the conference staff were exceptionally kind and helpful