AUNZ Event Leaders to know: Nathan Schokker | Supplier Spotlight: Expo Event Services | Boost Your Business Event with Regional Victoria Gran

Someone recently asked me why I dedicate so much time to this newsletter. The answer lies in what I cherish most about our industry: the people, the places, and the vibrant events we create together. While I can't host events in every city of AUNZ every week, this newsletter allows me to stay connected. It's my way of keeping the conversation going, introducing you to new opportunities, and hopefully, facilitating connections that bring business to wonderful venues and destinations across the region.

Each edition is a celebration of our community—sharing stories, highlighting successes, and exploring potential. Even if I'm not your direct client this year, through these pages, I hope to connect others to your incredible offerings.

Thanks for being part of this community-focused journey. Let's keep discovering and supporting each other, one story at a time.

??AUNZ Event Leaders to Know: Nathan Schokker

Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the MICE industry. G'day! I'm Nathan Schokker ‘That Guy’ . From cleaning toilets and emptying rubbish bins, I've made an unexpected leap into solving complex problems with technology in the MICE industry. It’s been a journey driven by saying 'yes' to opportunities and a curiosity for what could be.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the MICE industry, and what’s kept you passionate about it over the years? The thrill of the challenge and the pressure really got me hooked. MICE is full of unique problems that stretch your capabilities and provide an overwhelming sense of achievement once you've tackled them. Plus, the people and the ever-evolving nature of this industry keep the fire of passion burning.

What’s the most memorable event or incentive trip you’ve worked on, and what made it so special? The Brisbane Truck Show and Heavy Equipment and Machinery Show 2023 stands out. Tagged as 'the big one,' it lived up to its name with record crowds and a non-stop, high-energy atmosphere for four days. It's the kind of event that leaves you buzzing with excitement.

What’s one trend or innovation in the MICE industry that you think event planners should focus on in 2025? Definitely sustainability. We need to rethink our reliance on physical materials, like the 100 million paper business cards used in Australia every year. Embracing digital solutions and using tech to deepen our insights will not only save resources but enhance the attendee experience.

What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that not many people know? Despite what my career suggests, I came into tech with no formal background in it. Also, I'm quite the introvert—my social battery has a definite limit, and quiet corners are my sanctuary at busy events.

Catch Up With Nathan: If you're curious to see how Nathan applies his unique approach to the MICE industry, or just want to connect, check out his work at modc._moderncard and Wave CRM or drop by his LinkedIn profile. It's always refreshing to meet someone who turns every challenge into a story worth telling.

• MODC
• WaveCRM

Nathan's unique path from humble beginnings to tech savviness in the MICE sector shows that the right mix of curiosity and resilience can lead you anywhere.

?? Supplier of the Week: Expo Event Services (EES)

Last year, I had the pleasure of collaborating with Expo Event Services (EES) at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne for an event organised for the travel industry. The team's approach was smooth and genuinely supportive, making the whole process a breeze.

Background: Matthew Farthing started EES in 2012, growing it from a small exhibition consulting firm into a well-respected outfit with over 25 team members by 2024. They now operate out of a purpose-built facility, equipped to handle events of any scale.

Leadership and Culture: Michele Marks and Matt Farthing lead a team that's all about finding new ways to tackle old problems. Their leadership encourages a creative and agile team atmosphere that really shows in their work.

Sustainability Commitment: EES is serious about their environmental impact, actively working on reducing single-use products through their participation in the Net Zero program.

Personal Experience: Working with EES felt like teaming up with friends who are experts at organising events. They intuitively handled our needs, making the entire experience feel effortless and enjoyable.

https://expoevent.com.au/

??Maximise Your Next Event with Funding Op in Regional Victoria

Great news for event organisers looking to host their next conference or meeting in a vibrant and picturesque setting! The National Business Events Program, supported by Business Events Victoria , is now offering funding to help bring business events to regional Victoria. This initiative provides financial support for a variety of event-related expenses, aiming to enrich the region by bringing in new events and attractions.

Applications are currently open and will provide up to $80 per delegate, enhancing your event's impact and making regional Victoria an even more attractive destination for business gatherings.

For more details on the eligibility and application process, please visit Business Events Victoria.

This opportunity is an excellent way to drive more business events to regional Victoria, stimulating local economic growth and showcasing the area's unique offerings.

Thanks for Joining Us!

That wraps up this week's edition of AUNZ Event Insider. Thank you for taking the time to read through. I hope you found the stories inspiring and the opportunities enticing. Remember, in the fast-paced world of events, taking a moment to connect and reflect can lead to amazing discoveries. Until next time, keep making those memorable experiences, and feel free to share this newsletter with fellow event enthusiasts who might find it just as engaging.