(February 2015) – As CIVENEX gears up for its 60th anniversary, organisers of the state’s premier infrastructure expo have announced a range of new initiatives to ensuring its reputation as the industry’s ‘must-attend’ event.
John Roydhouse, CEO of the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia – NSW Division (IPWEA) which runs Civenex, says adapting to the market has been key to the event’s success.
“As a not-for-profit organisation our goal is to deliver an event that is valuable to the industry. That means constantly evolving to meet changing needs of exhibitors and visitors,” he says.
“In an age when information is instantly available online, the expo remains an important opportunity for personal connection between those in the industry but we need to keep changing what we do to ensure it’s relevant and useful.
“The online space has revolutionised the way brands and customers connect but nothing can take the place of a personal interaction,” John says.
One of the biggest changes for 2015 will be the introduction of family friendly hours to make it easier for visitors to take advantage of the expo.
“Past delegates have told us that time is a big factor in whether or not they attend the event. It can be hard for people to get away during work hours, and they have other responsibilities after work. So we’re extending the opening hours and introducing family activities including a l Australian music icon performing live so people can come along after work to network, gather information and do deals – and also enjoy time with their families,” John says.
“The extended hours will also be better for people who travel to the event. We get visitors from across the state, interstate and even international industry stakeholders and we want to make sure they’re able to make the most of Civenex.”
The event will also focus on professional development opportunities.
“Visitors come to Civenex to see the latest offers and learn something new. We’ve developed a program of educational seminars that sit within our theme ‘Learn to Earn’, because ultimately, profitability is what drives the industry.”
Among the seminars will be a plant and vehicle management session and ‘Dial Before You Dig’ session on best practice guidelines and asset protection.
Unlike any other expo in New South Wales, Civenex is hosted by the IPWEA so any profits earned are invested directly back into the industry.
“The IPWEA is recognised as the leading professional association that effectively informs, connects, represents and leads public works professionals for NSW. The association was established to further the public works sector in NSW through research into process improvement and to work with government at all levels to protect the interests of public service” John says.
“Civenex’s 60th anniversary is celebrating more than longevity of the event. It’s about 60 years of innovation, networking and progressive thinking; all the attributes that make our industry world-class.”
Organisers expect visitor numbers to be high for the anniversary event, with up to 5000 visitors anticipated. Sites are still available for exhibitors.
Civenex 2015
Event Date: 20 and 21 May 2015 (60th anniversary)
Event Venue: Sydney Dragway, Ferrers Road, Eastern Creek, NSW
To enquire about exhibiting your business at Civenex, contact Civenex Event Manager, Scott Leighton on 02 8267 3005 or at Scott.Leighton@ipwea.org.