When the first school term starts for the year, the city comes back to life. It’s all systems go for businesses and organisations, and Sydney Masonic Centre is no exception even while its doors are closed for renovations.
As previously announced, SMC is undergoing multi-million dollar capital works to usher in a new era for the purpose built conference and event centre. The major rejuvenation is scheduled for completion at the end of April and there is a hive of activity going on behind the scenes. According to general manager Paul Davison, “there are consultants, designers and engineers everywhere on site daily and it’s a really exciting atmosphere to be in”.
Working from the top down, the updates to the Level 5 administration areas are nearly finished. All demolition works are complete on Level 4, making way for the creation of two new flexible conference suites each with a 140 guest capacity. Meanwhile, new equipment, furniture and carpeting is arriving on site in readiness for the Level 4 roll-out. A major technology overhaul is also underway. Installation of hearing loops and leading edge audio-visual systems has commenced, which includes concert PA systems, intelligent lighting systems, large venue projectors for improved presentations and screenings. On ground level, a light-touch refurbishment has also begun. The original grand double oak doors and frames have been removed and sent out to be re-polished. Upgrades and enhancements to the house lighting are underway. Foyer works include updating the lift lobby and reframing the entrance to significantly improve the arrival experience from Goulburn Street.
Excitement for the year ahead is building. While the centre is closed for renovations, Paul and his team have relocated to temporary offices on the ground floor where planning for the annual staff strategy workshop is one of many projects on the drawing board. The offsite will give the SMC team a chance to envision and assess new business opportunities and align their culture and values with SMC’s mission. Paul has also lined up important staff training that makes the most of the closure period to deliver in-depth professional development. Senior staff will also attend AIME in late February in Melbourne and MEA in late March in Brisbane, to connect with interstate clients and share news of SMC’s transformation. Meanwhile, the sales team is busier than ever taking enquires and out on the road visiting clients.
“One of the things we’re looking forward to this year is growing our permanent team to manage the increasing volume of events and to further develop the outstanding customer service for which SMC is renowned,” says Paul. He envisages two new senior management roles as well as a number of operational positions.
“Given we’re currently closed, you’d be inclined to think we’re taking a breather, however we’re just as busy as when we’re open,” notes Paul. “We can’t wait for our clients, delegates and guests to fill the building again and to have all the noise and commotion of ideas being generated, innovations being showcased and decisions being made. After all, that’s exactly what the building was designed for”.
Book now for a ‘first look’ in May 2019. Places are filling fast for morning, lunch and evening ‘famils’ that will include a tour of the newly renovated spaces, presentation of new services and facilities as well as a taste of the world-class hospitality offerings. To book for one of our famils, follow the link: https://www.smcfc.com.au/smc-reopening-famil.html