Professional Development > Conferences > National

NCTI National Congress 7-9 August 2008 - Darwin, NT.

Post-Conference Review
In August over 140 delegates - both NCTI members and others representing every State and Territory in Australia, gathered in Darwin for the 2008 NCTI Conference.
Following Delegate registration, buses transported the group to the world-renowned Mindil Beach Markets to enjoy a ‘Taste of Darwin’ where pre-dinner drinks were served whilst the tropical sun set. An array of authentic stall holders such as exotic ‘hawker style’ food and drink outlet, unusual art and crafts and entertainers provided the perfect backdrop and impromptu tourist experience.
The conference got underway on Friday morning with an official welcome by a representative of the Larrakia people (traditional owners of Darwin), accompanied by an address from the NCTI President, Matthew Amber.
Keynote Speaker Matt Church challenged the audience with an overview of the ‘driving force’ in each of our lives… is it Adrenalin? Serotonin? Cortisol? Melatonin? Or Insulin? which powers your day to day activity? Lots of laughs amongst some thought-provoking insights.
Other highlights of the program included the State Comparison Matrix Vol 2 presented by Francesco Andreone and “Envisioning the Future” – a discussion panel comprising of representative industry leaders moderated by another Keynote Speaker - futurist, Dr Peter Ellyard. Kate Costello’s presentation on Corporate Governance was a timely reminder of the role and responsibilities of Directors.
Friday evening delegates enjoyed a SENSATIONAL evening proudly sponsored by Macquarie Bank at ‘Crustaceans on the Wharf’ where the best seafood and complementary wines were served overlooking the massive Darwin harbour in an environment conducive to networking … including a mid-evening fireworks display!
Day 2 presentations covered key issues for the Strata sector including high density / sustainable development, more on the 21st Century development vision, tax and legal implications, water management, what’s going on in Dubai and latest industry research and trends presented by David Gonano of Macquarie Bank.
Guest speaker Dr Jan Warnken presented an overview on water management and its’ implications for the strata sector whilst the most amazing array of exotic dishes were served to delegates by the friendly Hanuman Restaurant staff.
Saturday evening guests arrived by luxury coach just prior to sunset to enjoy drinks, and mingle with old and new friends on the lawns of Cornucopia Restaurant overlooking the Arafura Sea. Photos of sponsors and NCTI Committee members were taken while other guests looked on. As darkness fell, guests were directed to the awaiting tables decorated with centerpieces adorned with tropical flowers and featuring scented candles. A 3-course meal of delicious food was served as delegates enjoyed the company of their companions and the short presentation given by Francesco Andreone of Andreones, Lawyers – the evening’s sponsor.
The break and meal times provided ample opportunity for delegates to meet and mingle with their peers and representatives of the Exhibitor organisations.
A number of sponsors provided prizes / giveaways which added to the overall anticipation and enjoyment of the conference.
Thanks to those delegates who attended this year’s conference – I’m sure you agree, it was worth your investment.
All up, the location, duration, content, presenters, food, beverage and overall organisation have set a new bench mark for future conferences run by the Strata sector.
Speaker Presentations: are available for download from www.ncti.org.au
Conference photos: are available for viewing & download at www.ncti.org.au