Local Event Organisers Unite for Symposium and Skills Training at BMH
Published on 22 October 2024
On a Friday in September, the Event Organiser Symposium hosted at the Memorial Hall attracted 28 attendees representing most major and minor events in this region. In the room were people with specialist skills and experience in logistics, festival promotion, gig organisation, law and regulation pertaining to events, audio and lighting production, PR & advertising, grant writing and crisis management.
The facilitators, Linda Tilman and Cathy Treasure from the Australian Centre for Regional Events, did an excellent job presenting valuable information on all aspects of event management and organisational sustainability. Their approach ensured that everyone in the room, regardless of expertise, could easily grasp the concepts.
Reflecting on the quality of the participants, Linda remarked that the group discussion was "one of the most informed and productive" she had ever encountered in a regional setting.
Phil Nicolas, Bellingen Memorial Hall Coordinator, echoed this sentiment, stating, “That Bellingen Shire overachieves in the events space is no surprise to those of us who work here, though it’s nice to hear that recognition from an outsider!”
As a result of the gathering, a local events industry database was launched. In it, events professionals share details of resources and proficiencies they are willing to share with others.
The weekend following the symposium. Free training for community members was provided to learn about the Bellingen Memorial Hall’s new audio and lighting equipment. Funded by a Music Australia grant, it attracted 40 attendees each day. These sessions were greeted by a thirsty appetite for learning.
Ultimately, a collegial approach to continuing such learning materialised within the group. By the end of the weekend, attendees were requesting access to the venue during ‘dark’ hours so they could continue practising their new skills in small groups.
Beyond the skills enrichment itself, what emerges from group activities such as these, is a broadening of community connection with the Memorial Hall, an asset that, after all, only comes alive with community input.
Reflecting on the successful weekend of events, Phil remarked “It’s gratifying to observe that the learning and knowledge sharing mantra ‘Each one, teach one’, is very much alive!”
To get involved with the Bellingen Memorial Hall head to the website or email Memorial.Hall@bellingen.nsw.gov.au.