CCBR Business Review

C C B R CO N F E R E N C E & S E M I N A R V E N U E G U I D E P U L L O U T Choosing the Central Coast for your next event THE CENTRAL COAST offers a wide choice of conference and seminar venues, services and facilities that rivals those in the city or elsewhere. Whatever your needs, the Central Coast with its convenient loca- tion, relaxed atmosphere and quality, professional facilities, venue choices and range of activities has the perfect offering to meet every taste – from small seminar groups to larger conferences, prod- uct launch or sales conference. How to Choose a Meeting Venue There are many conference and meeting venues on the Central Coast and Central Coast Business Review recommends the venues on these pages. When choosing a venue for your next meeting or conference there is more to consider than just the budget. Taking into account who is attending, from how far and how many are also vital con- siderations. When researching potential venues, pay particular attention to the service you receive as this will be indicative of the service your delegates will receive which will contribute greatly to the success of your event. Here are some questions to ask about any potential venue. Suitability • Does the venue fit the company’s corporate image? • Does it give the correct impression for this particular meeting? • Will it appeal to the target audience? • Will the venue staff add to the attendees’ experience in a posi- tive way? Location • Is the venue easily accessible to those attending? • Is the location quiet and close to accommodation if required? • Is the venue location suitable for any extra events, shows or excursions that have been planned? Availability • Is the venue available on the dates required? • Are any extras such as equipment, accommodation, etc. available on the dates required? • Hoe flexible are they if you have to change the meeting date? Size • Is the seating capacity suitable? • Are the meeting rooms large enough to provide a comfortable experience for those attending? • Are the meeting rooms well laid out? Do they allow for good views of the speaker without any obstructions? • Does the venue allow attendees to move around without bottle- necks and delays? Facilities • Does the venue have a variety of rooms if required? An audito- rium if necessary? Small rooms for break out meetings? • Can the venue provide a projector, electronic whiteboard and stationery. • Do they offer photocopying or fax services • Does the venue offer wi-fi internet access. Can they provide lap- tops or PC’s if required? • Are the rooms well ventilated and temperature controlled? • Does the venue have enough parking spaces? • Will disabled delegates be catered for? • Can they provide refreshments, tea/coffee, meals? • Are special meals provided for delegates with specific dietary requirements? • Is there a restaurant or bar for post-meeting networking and entertainment? • Can the venue also provide accommodation if required? Cost • Does the venue fall within the budget for the meeting? • What is included in the price? • Does the overall cost compare favourably with other offers or venues? • Can they offer any discounts? • Can the price be negotiated? • Are there hidden costs? • When is payment required? • Is a deposit required and if so how much and how far in advance? • What is their cancellation policy? Will you receive a full or par- tial refund? At the end of the day you want to get the most out of your meet- ing and the venue you choose has to add rather than detract from the experience of those attending. So take the time to choose carefully. Located approximately 80kms from Sydney and Newcastle, The Entertainment Grounds is within easy access of the M1 Freeway and within close proximity to Gosford Railway Station. With ample parking, the finest in-house caterers, flexible working spaces accommodating up to 500 delegates and a dedicated team to help you create the most appropriate setting, The Entertainment Grounds is the perfect location for your next corporate event. Racecourse Road, West Gosford 02 4325 0461 | info@theeg.com.au www.theentertainmentgrounds.com.au Quality | Style | Service | Seminars Conferences | Meetings | Expos Contact our Team on 4323 8311 or functions@grsl.com.au events 26 Central Coast Hwy West Gosford Tel 4323-2311 www.grsl.com.au > 5 function rooms to cater for events 10 – 300 guests > Comprehensive catering options > Free WiFi > Onsite 4 star accommodation