AusLeisure

The first weekend in December provided a remarkable indication of the Darwin Convention Centre's support for its local community with the venue hosting a series of fundraising events for three deserving charity groups: Henbury School, the Salvation Army, and special needs children.

Henbury Corporate Luncheon
Henbury School is a purpose built Special School for students with disabilities; the school's motto is 'Preparing for Future Lifestyles'.

Since 2010, the Darwin Convention Centre (DCC) has partnered with the School to host a corporate luncheon to extend their normal fundraising.

Backing the event, the Centre also developed a marketing plan and sourced 'start up' sponsor support, encouraging suppliers with strong relationships with the Centre to partner with them to ensure the success of the Luncheon.

The first year raised $48,000; in 2011, $46,000 was raised (despite the economic climate not being as robust for charities) and this year $42,000 has been raised with counting of funds not yet complete.

In its three years the event has become known as Darwin's biggest corporate Christmas party. All monies raised have been used to establish and continue the nationally recognised iDevice and Assistive Technology programs, giving Henbury School students with special needs the ability to communicate with their community as never before.

Salvation Army
In 2011, the Salvation Army was approached as the nominated charity for guests at the 'Champagne and Christmas' event - an end of year celebration that is marketed to women in Darwin, including those that belong to business networking groups.

In 2011, the event raised $2,600 and, in 2012, it raised $4,600 for the Hope Christmas Appeal was $4 600.

Special Children's Christmas Party 2012
This year has seen the Centre host the second Special Children's Christmas Party, sponsored by the Palmerston Shopping Centre and Darwin's La Pira family.

The event, for disabled, chronically ill and disadvantaged children, was previously held at the Darwin Showgrounds, with parents and children lining up in the hot weather and sun to gain access.

Working with the organisers, the Centre was able to offer a one stop shop for the event, allowing a larger air conditioned space for parents and children; easier access for set up; a contained environment to ensure the safety of children (including security and CCTV); undercover car parking and easy access to public transport.

The Centre also offered favourable room hire rates and production costs with centre staff working at no cost coordinating the event plus other staff assisting on the day of the day with security, cleaning and food & beverage.

Explaining this busy pre-Christmas period, DCC General Manager Malu Barrios said it was very gratifying to see the three Christmas charity functions becoming established events on the Centre's calendar and to play a meaningful role in the enjoyment of the families involved

Barrios (pictured) stated "every member of the Centre staff wants to assist with these events for the sheer joy and satisfaction they derive from the happiness that is so evident with both the children and their parents "It makes the ideal Christmas present for all of us at the Centre."

For more information go to www.darwinconvention.com.au

22nd February 2012 - DARWIN CONVENTION CENTRE WINS QUALITY GOLD STANDARD

15th February 2011 - DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE THREATENED BY DEBT 

4th July 2008 - DARWIN BECOMES THE NEWEST CONVENTION CITY IN AUSTRALIA 

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