Brisbane Telstra Business Awards 2008
On Thursday I went down to Brisbane for the Queensland Finals of the Telstra Business Awards. Design House - the Graphic and Website design company in Hervey Bay who I work with, was firstly nominated, then shortlisted, then named a finalist in the Micro Business category (5 or less employees).
I jumped on the Tilt Train and caught a ride down to Brisbane. I didn’t really feel like driving down to Brisbane and getting through the city, and the Tilt Train was the best option. The trip was really good, compared to driving, it was about 20 minutes longer, however, I was able to use my laptop, respond to emails on my iPhone and what not. Even at 50% capacity for 4 hours, I got a lot more done that 3.5 hours at 0% capacity. The ticket cost be about $50, and compared to 2 tanks of petrol, the train was really the way to go!
Once in Brisbane, we attended a pre-award-night function on the Thursday night, told on hints and tips, and if you win, what to do. On the Friday night, it was time to get dressed up and head to the Sofitel Hotel, where the Telstra Business awards were.
It was really a flash show, the entertainment, the decorations, the running and overall production of the event was incredible. Things I really noticed was the flawless AV displays on the dual screens, the use of video cameras whilst speakers were on stage, and lighting and smoke. From someone who has a history is who production and event management, I really appreciated the professionalism on the night.
After the business awards, it was off to the Brisbane Casino, which has a good atmosphere when at a licensed venue at 1am. Some people may complain about too much security and CCTV cameras, but when you know there are guards everywhere and cameras everywhere, you really do feel safe.
While in Brisbane it was time for a bit of a break, and unwind. One thing I’ve noticed, and always said about Brisbane, is that there is just nothing to do.
Once you’ve walked through Queen St Mall, inhaled the cigarette smoke, and looked at the shops, then that’s about Brisbane. You could walk over and look at the dirty old brown river at South Bank, but really, why bother when you come from a nice place like Hervey Bay. When contrasting Hervey Bay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Gold Coast, really I’d rather go anywhere than Brisbane, it’s such a boring town!
