Encore delivers The University of Sydney ’ s largest wave of graduation ceremonies in 2024
19 days. 56 ceremonies. 9,500 graduands. 18,000+ live stream attendees. 1 mammoth month for Encore.
The Brief
It is one of the most significant days in their lives. This is why The University of Sydney turned to trusted event production specialists, Encore, to deliver a memorable graduation ceremony for more than 9,500 graduands. This was to take place three times a day, over 19 days with full audio visual and production support and a live stream to thousands of attendees worldwide. With the right mix of equipment, skills, experience and people power, Encore was the perfect team for the challenge.
The Solution
The production solution was months in the making. Key elements in Encore’s solution were AV integration, redundancy contingencies, production quality and prioritising crew wellbeing.
Being able to integrate with and control the venue’s in-house AV system was critical to the event’s success. This enabled Encore’s crew to not only manage the in-room audio and vision, but to also successfully capture and feed into the live stream which was hosted on the University’s main website.
With experience comes the knowledge to back up and back up again. This is why Encore’s team allowed for several contingencies to ensure each event over the 30 days would go on no matter what happened. This included facilitating internet connection with a dedicated PEP-Link in place to avoid any disruption to the live stream. With attendees live streaming each ceremony this was a critical piece in the solution.
One of the defining features in Encore’s production solution was the camera craftsmanship. Encore’s goal was to deliver a solution that went beyond simply capturing the day’s events, to anticipating moments that tell the story.
Encore’s Key Account Manager for the event, Dan Armstrong, described how experience can transform the production quality.
“Having a deeper understanding of the script notes and the flow of the graduation lets you know where there will be opportunities to bring a different perspective visually to the in- room attendee. This goes without saying, this becomes even more important for those watching online.
“It’s the layering of camera angles, capturing the right reactions at the right time for the right amount of time, without losing sense of what is still happening live in the room,” said Mr Armstrong.
A final and hugely important part of Encore’s solution was maintaining crew wellbeing. For an event of this magnitude, with back-to-back ceremonies over 30 days, fatigue management plans were critical to the solution. Overlooking this element can have devastating effects and which is why Encore places wellbeing as one of their highest production priorities.
The Result
Each ceremony over the 30 days was delivered seamlessly, both in-room and online. More than 9,500 people tuned in to watch the live stream from more than 10 countries around the world. With talks already underway for the next wave of ceremonies, it’s clear Encore’s production solution was a success.
“Encore has supported The University of Sydney graduation ceremony events since 2021, supporting ~100 ceremonies for ~12,000 graduates annually. Encore currently provides infrastructure, lighting, filming, audio, and a live stream platform for graduation ceremony events. Onsite broadcasting services were also utilised during covid19 restrictions. Since 2021, the Graduations Team have worked with Encore to research and implement options to improve the event delivery and graduate experience.”
– Jerry Wu, Senior Administration Officer, The University of Sydney
The coveted launch event was won by Encore’s design and technical production solution and attended by the Prime Minister of Australia and South Australia’s leading officials.
Flinders University partnered with Encore for the unveiling of their highly anticipated Health and Medical Research Building (HMRB). Held on Thursday 13 June 2024, over 300 special guests witnessed the historic event including Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, and South Australian Premier, Peter Malinauskas along with local media outlets. Encore was awarded the high profile event due to their winning design and technical capability.
The brief to Encore was to provide a technical production solution to support the launch event. Whilst seemingly straightforward, Encore’s team overcame several technical challenges to ensure the delivery exceeded expectations.
Firstly, the announcement stage was to be set against a glass wall at the far end of the building. This was decided due to the large number of guests, but to also allow the front of the building to be used as an entry feature. The backdrop width spanning only 7m in total meant Encore’s team had to devise a vision solution that was not only powerful enough to overcome the light and audience depth, it also maximised the space while also adhering to the 16:9 ratio for the content to be displayed on it.
Secondly, the architectural design of the room with its abundance of natural light and mixture of carpet and tiled flooring presented acoustic and vision challenges.
The end solution was a visually stunning 5.5m wide x 3m high LED screen on a split raised stage with a long run of time aligned speakers discreetly placed to fit into the aesthetics of the space. This meant meticulous cable management.
Encore Key Account Manager, Dan Armstrong, highlighted how being part of such a significant event was testament to the continual production excellence the local Encore team delivered.
“The success of the HMRB launch is a reflection of Encore’s commitment to innovative solutions, and exceptional customer service. The local team’s ability to manage complex logistics and deliver a seamless experience is a testament to their professionalism and skill. Another proud moment.
Flinders University hailed the event a resounding success with much owing to Encore’s technical solution and seamless production management.
Katherine Reaiche, Senior Events Coordinator, Marketing and Student Recruitment at Flinders university commented,
“I recently had the pleasure of working with Dan and the team from Encore Event Technologies for our official opening of the Flinders University Health and Medical Research Building.
Dan and the team demonstrated a deep understanding of our requirements and provided innovative solutions to enhance our event.
Their ability to adapt to adapt to last-minute changes with professionalism and ease was outstanding and we can always rely on them to deliver to a high standard.
I highly recommend Encore Event Technologies for your next event, and we look forward to collaborating with them again for our future events.”
The new Health and Medical Research Building (HMRB) is a ten-storey landmark set to be home over 600 medical researchers, clinicians, and support staff with the aim of tackling the most pressing health challenges of our time.
The event was covered across several local media outlets including AdelaideNow and Mirage.
Photography credit: Brenton Edwards, Stories Well Told
Encore treated guests at this year’s 2024 Air and Space Power Conference to an LED odyssey.
The Brief
The sky was the limit for this year’s brief to event production specialists, Encore, who were appointed the task of designing and delivering the 2024 Air and Space Power Conference. Having delivered the prestigious biennial event twice before, Encore was familiar with the production standard the event and its guests had come to expect. Presented only with a static graphic of the event’s proposed branding, whilst also relying on Encore’s past experience delivering the event, it was an open brief for their in-house team at the National Convention Centre Canberra.
The Solution
With all eyes on the stage, it was the focus for Encore’s design solution. This year the team opted for an all LED set design rather than projection. The aim was creating a look that was uniform and capable of delivering an incredibly bright experience that not only immersed guests in a space-travel-inspired experience, it also brought to life the colours and vibrancy in the event’s branded content more so than what projection could. This LED story continued right across the stage, including the digital lecterns and digital fascia on the presenter panel creating a seamless content display. Another key design element was creating depth and dimension using multiple levels and curved staging. It wouldn’t be a space themed event without the all-important star-cloth which the team added either side of the stage to frame the set. The event’s branded graphic also influenced the lighting design which used the same colours along with moving GOBOs of aeroplanes flying over the stage flooring. Haze was also strategically used throughout the event to add another layer that mimicked a cloudlike effect.
The Result
Encore’s render-to-reality service played a pivotal role in communicating the end design concept. Better still, what was delivered on show day was exactly what was rendered. It’s this peace of mind which is why Encore is trusted with delivering events of this calibre year on year.
The team is still receiving glowing feedback from delegates and speakers about how successful and enjoyable the event was.
The event planners at Air Force Events are already looking forward to seeing what Encore delivers for their next event.
“I don’t know how you’ll be able to top this off in two years’ time. The LED screen made a huge impact. Everyone was talking about it!
“What I also really valued was the 3D renders. They allowed us to visualize every detail, from the layout and design to lighting and décor, giving us a clear picture of the final result and peace of mind our idea will be what’s delivered.”
Encore welcomes the challenge.
The 2024 Helloworld Travel OMC Conference wrapped up in true Aussie style in Sydney, with over 550 attendees soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Hosted at the Hyatt Regency during the days and the Overseas Passenger Terminal for a dazzling gala dinner, this event was a testament to the thriving travel industry Down Under.
Encore was engaged to transform the venues into an engaging experience for attendees through tailored creative design, audio-visual and lighting solutions.
Held by day at the Hyatt Regency, the conference was not short on exciting nighttime activity with a Welcome event on the harbour aboard Starship Sydney that kicked off the conference with style as delegates enjoyed not only breathtaking harbour views but an amazing fireworks display!
The theme, “A World of Opportunity,” echoed throughout the event, with speakers like Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson, swimming legend Grant Hackett, and motivational guru Ben Crowe inspiring optimism for the future.
Throughout the conference, owner-managers shared insights on the importance of passion, customer care, and industry relationships, proving that despite evolving trends and technology, the heart of travel remains unchanged.
Networking lounges buzzed with excitement as suppliers showcased their offerings, with Viva Holidays celebrating their 50th anniversary in style. Glittering attire was a must for their spirited “Sale of the (Half) Century” game, adding a touch of glamour to the affair.
The grand finale came with the Gala Dinner, sponsored by Qantas, where the Overseas Passenger Terminal was transformed by Encore into an exclusive haven.
As guests arrived at the Overseas Passenger Terminal they were greeted with a red carpet experience and a striking neon archway leading into the exclusive networking area. Uplighting on the luxe curtain draped partition created a warm mood-lit ambience while custom GOBOs projected Qantas and Helloworld Travel branding.
The Qantas Australian Girls Choir kicked off the evening, with a stirring rendition of ‘I Still Call Australia Home’, setting the stage for a night of celebration and surprises.
On the stage itself, sat a large LED wall visually separated into three panels by two columns of shimmering sequin tiles creating a stunning artistic effect. The room and stage lighting was further enhanced by LED tubes being suspended from the ceiling – a stunning effect and perfect complement to the Gala’s ‘light up the night’ theme.
As the night unfolded, attendees learned that Vancouver would host OMC 2025, igniting anticipation for another year of networking and exploration.
After the meal the dance floor beckoned as delegates enjoyed live music from Big City Beat and danced the night away.
As the conference drew to a close, attendees departed with a renewed sense of inspiration and camaraderie, ready to seize the countless opportunities that lie ahead in the ever-evolving world of travel.
Sarah Gerrand, GM Partnerships and Events, at Helloworld Travel was delighted with the event commenting,
“Encore exceeded all expectations with the execution of the 2024 Helloworld OMC Conference in Sydney. From the seamless delivery of our conference at the Hyatt Regency Sydney to the stunning Gala Dinner at the Overseas Passenger Terminal, every detail was meticulously crafted. Their creative design, audio-visual expertise, and lighting solutions were amazing, perfectly reflecting the conference theme, ‘A World of Opportunity.’ Encore’s dedication ensured a memorable experience, leaving attendees inspired and charged for the future.”
Elevating The Business of Events with Innovation
Brief: PCMA Asia Pacific aimed to host a conference in Singapore that would set new standards for the events industry, requiring innovative solutions to engage attendees and deliver an unforgettable experience.
Solution: Encore APAC partnered with PCMA Asia Pacific to ignite the future of events at The Business of Events ‘Unbound’ Conference in Singapore. Leveraging its expertise in creative production, Encore crafted an immersive exhibition stand which captivated attendees and showcased the alliance of cutting-edge technology together with creative interactive content.
In addition to its impressive exhibition stand, Scott Nodsle was joined on stage during the conference program by Encore’s Creative Director, Julz Partington who has become a regular presenter in the event industry speaker circuit. They answered questions on the topic of ‘The Mindset of Innovation’ exploring the strategies for integrating innovation into customer partnerships, creative production and planning through to integrating it in the Encore workplace ensuring that both our customers and talented teams are innovative and inspired to deliver world class service and think outside the box, ensuring they are not just being AV order takers.
Result: Encore’s presence at The Business of Events ‘Unbound’ Conference left a lasting impression on attendees, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in the event industry throughout the region. There immersive exhibition stand and insightful presentations by Encore’s leadership team received positive feedback, inspiring our industry and demonstrating the power of a creative production partner in events. It’s not about the technology but rather more about how the technology can be used by our creative production specialist to evoke a feeling, create a memory or convey a message. By partnering with PCMA for the Business of Events conference, Encore showed the event organisers and industry alike that the answer to a successful event is, finding the right partners who can understand your brand, your message and your event purpose and help you deliver unparalleled experiences. Encore reaffirmed its commitment to driving innovation and excellence within the events space throughout APAC.
Florence Chua, Managing Director, APAC at PCMA was delighted,
“Encore Event Technologies proved to be an exceptional partner for our conference. Their understanding of our event needs and requirements were delivered with innovative ideas in creative production and flawless onsite execution. We are grateful for the passion and collaboration the Encore team brought to the partnership, “teamwork makes the dream work.” We have already started to engage with Encore to plan next year’s chapter of the event and we look forward to continuing our partnership with Encore for the future.”
Scott Nodsle, Managing Director Encore APAC, commented,
“The Business of Events Conference was a fantastic opportunity for Encore to showcase our expertise and innovation in creative event production. It was truly a team effort, and I’m incredibly proud of our collaboration with PCMA Asia Pacific. Together, we set new standards for event experiences and left a lasting impression on attendees. I look forward to future collaborations and further pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the event industry.”
Conclusion: Through its partnership with PCMA Asia Pacific, Encore Event Technologies APAC showcased its unparalleled expertise and innovation, setting new standards for creative production. By pushing the boundaries of event design and embracing new technologies, Encore continues to elevate the future of events and inspire industry professionals worldwide.
This year’s Canberra Convention Bureau Top Secret Gala Dinner, hosted at the National Convention Centre (NCCC), truly lived up to its name, leaving interstate delegates dazzled with the creative event design crafted by Encore. As the in-house event production partner for the NCCC, Encore was tasked with creating an unforgettable experience for the annual Platinum Members Dinner, a pivotal highlight of the 3-day city-wide event showcase.
The Brief
Top Secret is an annual familiarisation tour where the Canberra Convention Bureau invites national and corporate CEOs and Event Managers to experience all that Canberra offers in the event world. Given the event’s high profile, Encore’s role was critical in showcasing why the NCCC is one of the country’s leading destinations for corporate events. The challenge was to design a solution that not only highlighted the venue’s technical capabilities but also demonstrated flexibility and scalability to cater to a variety of creative event types, designs, and sizes. Encore’s brief was clear: create a stunning, memorable event that leaves attendees inspired.
The Solution
Encore’s production team, led by Technical Director Hamish McConchie, designed a truly captivating experience, utilizing a combination of advanced technology and creative event design. The focus was on reimagining a familiar space to make it feel both exciting and intimate. With a background in theatrical design, McConchie built layers into the production design to deliver unique experiences throughout each phase of the evening. The creative use of lighting, sound, and video technology was instrumental in achieving this goal.
The evening began with a full venue tour, during which Encore created various event setups to demonstrate how each room could be used as an event space. After the tour, guests were ushered into the Exhibition Hall for the main event. Known for hosting large-scale events with thousands of attendees, the Encore team reimagined the space by dividing it into three sections, each representing a different stage of the evening.
The first section was the Welcome area, where guests enjoyed drinks and canapés amid an ambient light setting, while neon purple Titan Tubes were installed vertically along the floor to create a striking visual continuity tied in to the digital signage around the building. The remaining sections of the hall were masked off with creative lighting, creating an air of mystery and anticipation for what was to come.
Encore’s innovative use of a “curtain of light” – crafted using powerful Diamondback’s and Rivale moving heads – added to the sense of intrigue. This bright and colorful setup, combined with haze effects, set the tone for an immersive experience. As the evening progressed, guests were invited onto an elevated platform for the main dining event, which featured a stunning technical showcase with kinetic truss, high output lighting, and LED screens in unique configurations. The intricate lighting design, synchronized with a dramatic soundtrack, provided a visual feast for attendees.
The second section, the main dining area, was a stunning technical showcase. Encore utilized kinetic trusses to create a dynamic lighting and video experience. The trusses were programmed to move and shift, creating different looks and adding a sense of drama to the event. This innovative approach provided an ever-changing visual backdrop, with wireless lights and LED pillars enhancing the stage area. LED screens floated above, displaying beautiful custom graphics. The intricate lighting design was synchronized with a dramatic soundtrack, providing a truly captivating experience for attendees.
Following the main dinner and speeches, guests were treated to a final surprise. The trusses above the dining area moved to reveal a larger section of the Exhibition Hall, showcasing the venue’s grand scale. This final section, designed to mimic a typical corporate event, featured a jazz band on stage, Scenic Panels, and up-lighting, creating a more relaxed ambiance for dessert and drinks. The gradual opening of the space was a powerful demonstration of the Exhibition Hall’s flexibility and Encore’s technical creativity.
The Result
The result of Encore’s creative event design was a dazzling evening filled with surprise and delight. Through innovative design and technical prowess, Encore transformed the NCCC into a vibrant, immersive experience, leaving attendees dazzled and inspired for their future events.
By segmenting the vast Exhibition Hall into three distinct sections, Encore successfully transformed the space into a series of intimate experiences, each with its own unique ambiance. The combination of advanced technology, imaginative lighting, and creative staging left delegates inspired and eager to recreate similar experiences for their own events.
The impact of Encore’s event design was felt throughout the evening, with attendees remarking on the importance of technical production in creating lasting memories. One delegate commented that the event was a testament to how technology and creativity could come together to create truly unforgettable moments.
Encore’s success in delivering the Top Secret Gala Dinner this year demonstrates its commitment to pushing the boundaries of event design. The company’s ability to ignite excitement and inspire event planners to think creatively about what’s possible underscores why Encore is a leader in the industry. By embracing innovative technology and combining it with artistic flair, Encore continues to set the standard for event design and production.
Comment from the client
The Brief
This year’s Hyatt Client Appreciation Event returned to Grand Hyatt Melbourne and delivered a feast for the senses for 80 special guests. Each year the highly anticipated event provides the opportunity for the Hyatt brand to showcase the chosen venue’s meeting and events offering. It’s a chance for both Hyatt and Encore to work together to dazzle, inspire, and leave guests with a lasting impression of why Grand Hyatt Melbourne is in the top echelon of Australia’s corporate event venues.
The brief to long-standing in-house event production partner, Encore, was to highlight Grand Hyatt Melbourne’s unique offering – its unparalleled location, the diversity and versatility of event spaces, and the world-class production and technology expertise available to planners.
The Solution
Under the guise of ‘Grand, Personified’, Encore’s in-house team designed and delivered a sensory experience of Melbourne through the eyes of Grand Hyatt Melbourne. The idea underpinning the concept was taking guests on a journey through the vibrant city and how the venue is intricately woven into its rich history and culture. With its central location, Grand Hyatt Melbourne was brought to life as the beating heart of the city. As only “a tram stop away” from all the city’s major landmarks, it was fitting to turn the event’s registration desk into a Melbourne tram stop. From there guests were ushered down a green carpet into the Courtyard to enjoy arrival drinks and canapés. The Courtyard is a unique space designed to emulate the many lush parklands surrounding the hotel, which play host to some of the country’s major sporting events. Lining the green carpet stood LED Pixel Totems displaying iconic Melbourne sporting experiences. Alongside the Pixel Totems, beautiful flower performers greeted guests adding an artistic flair to the magical parklands space. Guests next journeyed into the Verandah for the main dining experience. Here, the Encore team used Touch Kiosk for the seating chart – turning a somewhat taxing task into a streamlined digital experience where guests found their seats at the touch of a button.
The Verandah was designed to celebrate Melbourne’s iconic culture and art scene. Encore employed a range of audio and lighting technologies to transform the venue walls not only into works of art, but a historical journey of Grand Hyatt Melbourne’s part in the development of Melbourne. A simple yet effective lighting solution was used to decorate the tables, with LED lights placed underneath turning them into colorful beacons that glowed throughout the night. A novel approach was used to make the dining menus more tactile, replacing the standard flat piece of cardboard for a fun puzzle guests enjoyed completing. Guests were then treated to some of Melbourne’s finest foods and wine from Executive Chef Steven Beaumont and his team. Whilst guests enjoyed the smell and taste sensations, their ears were also treated to mesmerizing sounds from a live three-piece band playing in the adjacent Library. It was a truly captivating dining experience.
And there was more to come.
Following dinner, guests were invited back through the doors they entered from to be welcomed by an entirely new space. During the dinner, Encore’s production team went to work to completely transform the Courtyard from a magical parkland into a vibrant concert-like space. The impact of the unveiling lived up to expectations with guests left speechless at the transformation and the spectacle that awaited them. Encore used creative lighting and haze to deliver an atmosphere that was sure to get the party started. Guests were entertained by FX Entertainment, a unique mosaic-mirror-clad duo that danced and performed mime. At the final turn of the decks by DJ DuJour, the event concluded. Whilst it was officially over, it was also officially an outstanding success with guests complimenting Grand Hyatt Melbourne and Encore on a truly wonderful evening.
Client comment:
“Thank you so much for the most magnificent dinner on Tuesday night. The whole experience was magnificent. The food was exceptional, every dish being a piece of art. The Melbourne theme was also beautifully executed. I may be copying it in the future!!”
The Brief
Encore was engaged by, Mumbai based, BOI Media and Entertainment working with ICICI Prudential Life, to create a prestigious gala dinner for the ICICI Prudential Life 20th Starclub Incentive Conference. A five-day event celebrating the company’s top performers.
ICICI Prudential Life were offering a once in a lifetime opportunity to nearly 800 participants to be flown from India to Melbourne for the occasion.
The scale and prestige of this annual event is legendary and incentivises employees to strive for an invitation to the next trip. This trip however had been delayed since 2019 and would be the first since Covid and be among the first major events for the Encore team post-Covid.
One more important detail, Encore was now operating in a new world with higher wages and high inflation; so, the solution needed to be carefully thought through to deliver on the original concept without adding financial pressure.
The Solution
With India being a cricket-loving nation, BOI requested the theme for the Gala Dinner to be ‘Master Blasters’.
Through the use of kinetic lights, a 22m wide curved screen, table projections and extensive room lighting, the Grand Palladium room at Crown Melbourne gradually transformed and transported the audience to the grounds of the MCG.
Entertainers and chefs were specially flown in from India to add to the atmosphere and authenticity of the evening.
The Encore team found clever alternative solutions to reduce costs without reducing the impact. The team also leveraged their strong relationships with suppliers to deliver the project on budget but with no compromise on quality.
The Result
As soon as guests walked the red carpet into the Grand Palladium their jaws dropped.
The impact of the Gala Dinner was as dramatic and memorable as it was symbolic. It encompassed a cultural vibe for the Indian delegation and recognition of what Melbourne stands for as an international conference city.
Encore overcame monumental challenges to deliver an event that exceeded the high client expectations and was highly successfully for all stakeholders.
A magnificent result was delivered by Encore for BOI and ICICI Prudential Life; the team were back to black and gig fit!
Encore Event Technologies APAC orchestrated an unparalleled experience for 10,000 Chinese visitors during the 2023 Amway China Leadership Seminar in New Zealand.
This article highlights how Encore’s innovative approach to event creative, technology and production set a new industry benchmark, delivering an unforgettable journey that combined technological wizardry with cultural immersion.
The challenge
Over two months, 10,000 delegates were flown in 12 waves to New Zealand for the seminar, showcasing Amway’s commitment to recognising top performers. The program featured a series of events and excursions across Auckland and Queenstown, rewarding excellence and fostering brand allegiance among attendees.
Creative inspiration
The superscale events which took up more than 6,000 work hours included 155sqm LED screens, fifteen 20k projectors, 80 table projectors, eight curved screen projectors, four floor projectors, six semi-trailers hauling equipment and even an ice rink.
The concluding gala events held at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland and then the second streams at the Queenstown Ice Arena for the event highlight of the trip, treated guests to a spectacular night full of creative, technological wizardry and heart pumping entertainment.
Technological innovation
Encore’s technical expertise was showcased through the utilisation of cutting-edge equipment, including the L-Acoustics L2D Loudspeakers, setting a new standard in audio delivery. The event boasted superscale setups, including LED screens, projectors, and specialised effects, creating an immersive environment that captivated guests.
Production excellence
Managing the logistics of such a large-scale event was a significant undertaking for Encore, requiring meticulous planning and coordination. The production team dedicated over 6,000 work hours to ensure seamless execution, from rigging to immersive screen content creation.
Economic impact
Beyond its experiential success, the seminar had a substantial economic impact, generating an estimated NZ $40 million for the local economy. Encore’s collaboration with Auckland Convention Group and Queenstown Convention Bureau facilitated pre-event activities and accommodation arrangements, maximising the delegate experience.
Cultural celebration
The gala dinners held at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland and Queenstown Ice Arena were the highlight of the seminar, showcasing Aotearoa New Zealand’s culture and spirit. Encore’s creative approach incorporated lighting, sound, and visual elements to celebrate contemporary Māori culture, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.
The result
Encore’s involvement in the Amway China Leadership Seminar exemplifies the transformative power of business events. By seamlessly blending technological innovation with cultural celebration, Encore created an experience that transcended traditional event boundaries, leaving a lasting impact on attendees and the host communities alike.
The Australian Defence Industry Awards (ADIA) returned 2023 and delivered a stunning night recognising the top businesses and professionals in the defence industry including businesses, academic institutions and associations, Indigenous and female leaders, scientists, technicians and academics.
The ADIA gala awards were produced by Captivate Events in partnership with Encore and held at the National Convention Centre in Canberra on 21 September 2023.
Brief
Encore was contracted to deliver an immersive experience comprising end-to-end event services, design, technical solution and production for more than 800 guests – including the Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency, Vasyl Myroshnychenko. Defence Connect wanted to take the annual ADIA gala to the next level and create a ‘WOW’ moment for guests when they enter the room.
The event design needed to incorporate an engaging pre-function area with live band and then WOW guests as they entered the gala hall for the traditional Welcome to Country, MC Welcome, keynote speeches, presentation of over 30 awards and live music entertainment.
Challenge
To accommodate more guests and provide an impactful experience when they enter the room, our client asked to reconfigure the room 90 degrees (from landscape to portrait). This change of direction came after the initial event design was approved and just a few short weeks prior to the event. This presented the Encore team with several technical challenges to reengineer the 3D design renderings and technical specifications for the rigging, audio, visual and lighting systems. It’s fair to say, our teams rose to the challenge!
Solution
Within a matter of hours of receiving the request, our agile team was able to imagineer a new technical solution, one that would bring the customer’s vision to life without compromising the guests’ experience.
The Encore team utilised their advanced expertise and supply of cutting-edge technology to transform the National Convention Centre from a ‘blank canvass’ to an engaging and immersive experience.
Despite the last-minute change to the room configuration, Encore’s quick-thinking team used the change to create an improved audience experience as the audio was directed from the stage, without the need for delay speakers behind the audience members. The other benefit was that the technical solution could be simpler with dual system hangs rather than numerous ones positioned the length of the room to the back.
Result
Encore’s impressive audio, visual and lighting systems were finely tuned for the space by highly experienced technicians to produce the desired audio and lighting effects. Our team and their skilled reimagining of the technical solution was fundamental in successfully bringing the customer’s vision to life which was to create an immersive experience for guests with the stunning stage a focal point.