BREAKFAST – CRYSTAL ROOM
What’s it like? Those crystal chandeliers help set the ambience in this recently revamped event space at the Stamford Plaza Adelaide Hotel, a short walk from Adelaide Convention Centre.
For groups Not that those lights needed switching on as the morning sun lit up a gathering of conference organisers during the Adelaide Biomedical Showcase in May. The revamp gave the Crystal Room an elegant Victorian-style ambience, ideal for its location in the heart of Adelaide.
MORNING TEA – Government House
What’s it like? Refreshments here come with an insight into heritage, not just about the rise of modern Australia, but what its migrants have achieved and contributed to the country. Governor Hieu Van Le was among the “boat people” who fled Vietnam in the late 1970s after the communist takeover. He became the first ethnic Asian to be appointed a state governor, and he and his wife have welcomed conference and incentive groups on tours of the mansion.
For groups Government House is stately with a historic colonial charm that will impress at afternoon or morning tea, whether served in the lounge or ornate ballroom. Overseas delegations, including those from Dreamtime and the Joymain incentive group from China (seen here congregated on the lawn), are treated to Adelaide’s traditional but more genteel hospitality.
LUNCH – Haus Hahndorf
What’s it like? As with the United States, Australia has a significant ethnic German influence stretching back to the Commonwealth’s early days. Hahndorf is Australia’s oldest German settlement and folk influences live on in the town’s architecture, cuisine, beer and … meeting facilities.
For groups Haus Hahndorf expects work on a new conference space for up to 150 delegates to be ready by the end of November. Function space at the rear of the main restaurant already serves visiting groups seeking a unique venue in the Adelaide Hills, with a Prussian variation on the old military art of Champagne sabring as a post-meeting bonding ritual.
HAPPY HOUR – 2KW
What’s it like? Treat your group to the Aussie tradition of sundowners at this bar-restaurant in Adelaide’s historic quarter. The restaurant draws upon the fine produce and wines of South Australia, and DJs can add to the laid-back atmosphere.
For groups The open-air corner terrace, eight floors up, has cushioned seating and fine views towards Adelaide Oval. Event spaces can be extended to the main restaurant, Loggia Bar, and the terrace, including cabanas, each of which can seat 10, while the garden area can host groups of up to 30.
DINNER – PRESS
What’s it like? There are a couple of interesting things about the location of Press* (proudly stylised with an asterisk). It is within walking distance of the city, particularly the convention centre and downtown hotels, and also across the road from the city’s newspaper offices.
For groups Dining is available on two floors, and the rawness of the loft-style interiors gives Press* that Adelaide hipster allure. Press* prefers pre-bookings for groups of between 10 and 40 for sit-down dining, while the first floor can be hired for between 50 and 100 guests. Another venue nearby with a press-related name – Proof – is suggested for smaller, cocktail-style receptions.
