High profile government and business leaders came together in June for a comprehensive, one-day program that celebrated and recognised the relationship between Australia and India.
Presented for the first time at ICC Sydney, the India Australia Business Community Awards (IABCA) Global Leaders Forum and Awards Ceremony were a meaningful display of unity amid a challenging time.
The two events were made possible thanks to a collaborative effort, said ICC Sydney CEO Geoff Donaghy.
“With meticulous advanced planning, stakeholder collaboration and innovation, ICC Sydney demonstrated its ability to provide a venue and innovative event expertise to support the delivery of this event, underscoring Sydney’s reputation as a leading destination for business events on the national stage and contributing to the India-Australia relationship whilst simultaneously contributing to its development,” he said.
Collaborative approach pays off
ICC Sydney partnered with a number of expert suppliers and services to deliver catering, audio visual and marketing that was in keeping with the client’s vision for an event that was brimming with Indian culture.
The awards gala featured a number of performances including the “Fabrics of India Showcase” runway show, a Bollywood dance school performance, a traditional Bharatanatyam performance, as well as the Indian and Australian national anthems performed by Aria Award-winning soprano artist Heather Lee.
The production was seamlessly delivered by ICC Sydney’s in-house audio visual team, utilising state-of-the-art equipment to light, amplify and showcase the awards announcements, cultural performances, intricate event design and stage set up.
Adhering to the evolving COVID-19 safety restrictions, the venue provided guidance on COVID-safety requirements as well as advanced technology infrastructure to deliver a hybrid element for the forum.
To further immerse delegates in the experience, ICC Sydney’s culinary team, led by executive chef Dylan Sanding, worked closely with the client to develop an Indian-inspired menu. Menu highlights included cumin-roasted Cowra lamb, tikka-spiced chicken, spiced chickpeas, potato dumplings, roasted cauliflower and Gulab Jamun cheesecake.
Standing with India
In support of India as the country continues to face the devastating impacts of the COVID-19, ICC Sydney designed and displayed messages throughout the precinct to proudly support the ‘Standing with India’ campaign.
The exterior of the convention centre was also illuminated with orange, white and green to represent the Indian flag.
Sonia Sadiq Gandhi, director of event management company Gandhi Creations, said the team is grateful for the support and care ICC Sydney showed towards IABCA.
“Everyone involved exemplified the utmost professionalism, dedication and ability to seamlessly deliver our IABCA Program this year, set against the backdrop of the global COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a truly positive and engaging experience for our high-profile delegates who attended the IABCA Global Leaders Forum and the Awards ceremony,” she said.
“ICC Sydney’s experienced and innovative team made all the difference. The level of support we received throughout the planning journey and furthermore onsite during the event was nothing short of excellent.
“The ‘Standing With India’ activation has been immensely acknowledged in India and across our Indian diaspora here in Australia.”
