Business Events Sydney’s (BESydney) talent, expertise and strategic thinking was recognised and celebrated at last night’s Meetings and Events Australia (MEA) National Industry Awards with Australia’s leading convention bureau winning the Metropolitan Destination Marketing Organisation Award and Senior Consultant Ian Stuart being honoured with the ‘Outstanding Contribution Award.
2011 was a year of exciting change and growth for the bureau. In 2011 BESydney secured 69 events for Sydney and New South Wales worth an estimated $186.5 million, launched industry-first research into the benefits of business events beyond the tally of tourism receipts, continued to build on the success of its Asia strategy, and smoothly transitioned to a new CEO. Last night’s award acknowledged the organisation’s ability, flexibility, strong strategy and results, as well as its savvy collaboration with private and public sectors.
Lyn Lewis-Smith, Chief Executive Officer of BESydney comments, “The team and I strongly believed in the strength of our submission and it is such an honour to have our hard work applauded by our industry peers. 2011 was a great year for us and we faced the opportunities and challenges it presented with energy and enthusiasm. The Metropolitan Destination Marketing Organisation Award is for all members of our global network!”
“We are lucky to be tasked with the responsibility to promote such a multifaceted city. Sydney offers business events diverse venues and hotels, culture, commerce, cuisine, unique experiences and renowned thought leaders – beauty and brains! As a bureau we promote this flexibility and diversity to our clients and prove time and time again why Sydney is a leading global business events destination.
“I congratulate all New South Wales winners in the MEA National Industry Awards, in particular our stakeholders who play a vital role in the Sydney event experience. The strength of our industry comes from not only achieving excellence, but collaborating and ensuring that together we exceed client expectations.”
In addition to BESydney winning the Metropolitan Destination Marketing Organisation Award, Senior Consultant Ian Stuart was honoured with the prestigious Outstanding Contribution Award.
“Ian is a passionate champion of our industry and last night’s recognition is well and truly deserved,” comments Lyn Lewis-Smith.
“His guidance and experience have been invaluable to BESydney over the years. Ian manages our Ambassador Program, which is integral to the success of the company. We join the industry in applauding his stellar achievements!”
Sinead Yeo, BESydney’s Business Development Director – Asia, was a national finalist for the Business Development Person of the Year Award. Lyn comments, “Sinead has been an integral, driving force for our bureau in Asia. She has been with the team since we opened our Asia office in 2004. Sinead’s tenacity, determination, passion and ability to maintain and build long-term client relationships are key to her success in securing events for our city.”
