Meet and Greet Speed Networking: A Night of Meaningful Connections

On the evening of 14 November, EO Melbourne hosted its exclusive Meet and Greet Speed Networking event, bringing together a limited number of entrepreneurs for an unforgettable night of connection and collaboration. Held at the stylish Backroom Bar of the Ovolo Hotel, the event offered a vibrant and dynamic setting for members to connect and share ideas.

The speed networking format added an exciting twist to traditional mingling. Each participant had the chance to engage in focused, five-minute conversations with different members. The result? A whirlwind of energy, insights, and inspiration as members discovered shared challenges, fresh perspectives, and opportunities for future collaborations.

With EO Melbourne’s community now boasting 180 members, this event was a unique opportunity to meet those not yet familiar. The curated format, expertly moderated by EO Member Rick Bazerghi and EO Melbourne President Costa Vasili, ensured every moment was productive and engaging.

As the structured networking concluded, members transitioned seamlessly to a relaxed atmosphere, enjoying drinks and canapés. Laughter, animated discussions, and a palpable sense of camaraderie filled the room as participants dived deeper into their newfound connections.

The evening wasn’t just about exchanging business cards—it was about building relationships that could spark meaningful collaborations and friendships. The energy in the room reflected the ethos of EO Melbourne: a commitment to supporting and learning from one another.

For those lucky enough to attend, the event was another highlight of the calendar. And for those who missed it, the takeaway is clear—never underestimate the power of coming together to share stories, ideas, and aspirations.

Here’s to more events that celebrate the incredible spirit of EO Melbourne. Keep an eye out for the next opportunity to connect and grow within our vibrant community!

Mastering Performance Under Pressure: EO Melbourne's Transformative Workshop with Nam Baldwin

EO Melbourne recently held an impactful workshop titled "Mastering Performance Under Pressure" at the Port Melbourne Football Club (The Sandridge Events Centre). The event featured Nam Baldwin, a renowned Performance Coach, Innovator, Speaker, and Co-Founder & Head Trainer of Breath Enhancement Training (B.E.T.). Baldwin shared his extensive expertise with attendees, offering valuable insights into thriving under high-pressure conditions.

The workshop drew participants from diverse professional backgrounds, all eager to learn practical tools to manage stress and perform at their peak. Baldwin, with over 28 years of experience in the health, fitness, and wellbeing industries, brought his wealth of knowledge from working with elite athletes and top-tier executives. His unique approach simplifies the complex science behind brain and body performance, making it accessible and actionable for all.

Baldwin provided a clear framework for overcoming fear, doubt, and uncertainty, transforming these obstacles into personal and professional growth opportunities. Attendees learned techniques for managing their stress responses, promoting overall mental and physical well-being. Baldwin's methods emphasised the importance of stress regulation in achieving sustained high performance. He also demonstrated leveraging pressure as a positive force, enhancing the ability to perform effectively in demanding situations. 

A live demonstration showcased the immediate benefits of proper breathing techniques under pressure, offering participants practical skills to apply in real-time stressful scenarios. The workshop encouraged greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence, teaching attendees to embrace vulnerability as a strength and improve their emotional management.

Nam Baldwin's strategies have been widely adopted by high achievers. Numerous Australian national sporting teams and Olympic champions also employ his methods. Since 2018, Baldwin has served as the Elite Performance Specialist for Surfing Australia’s Olympic campaign, contributing to their preparation for the Tokyo 2020 games.

EO Melbourne's "Mastering Performance Under Pressure" workshop with Nam Baldwin was a resounding success, equipping attendees with essential skills to enhance their performance in high-pressure situations. The event underscored the importance of continuous learning and personal development in achieving professional excellence. 

“Science-Backed Techniques to Discover Your Peak Performance” event with Kusal Goonewardena

Entrepreneurship can be a challenging journey, but it's also one filled with immense opportunities for growth and success. EO Melbourne Members and business professionals gathered at the highly anticipated "Science-Backed Techniques to Discover Your Peak Performance" event with EO Melbourne Member and Elite Akademy Founder, Kusal Goonewardena, as speaker. The exclusive event offered a deep dive into the cutting-edge science of High Performance, empowering attendees to unlock their full potential and achieve their goals.

Kusal, renowned for his expertise in high performance, led the event with an engaging and insightful approach, drawing on his own professional experience and backed by the latest research in sports physiotherapy, physiology, and neuroscience.

One of the key takeaways from the event was the practical frameworks for high performance that can be applied to all areas of life. Attendees learned how to embrace high-performance behaviours and mindset, not only in their entrepreneurial pursuits but also in their personal lives. Kusal emphasised the importance of leveraging scientific principles to elevate one's performance in various aspects of life.

Throughout the event, Kusal provided valuable insights into the scientific principles of high performance, illustrating how sports physiotherapy, physiology, and neuroscience play a crucial role in achieving peak performance. Attendees were enthralled by the wealth of knowledge and practical tips shared by Kusal, equipping them with a deeper understanding of the human body and mind's potential.

The event also featured inspiring examples of high performance from Kusal's professional career. By highlighting real-world achievements and experiences, he demonstrated how individuals can apply these strategies to overcome challenges and attain exceptional results.

Moreover, Kusal shared valuable tips and tricks for attendees to adopt into their daily lives. By incorporating these actionable practices, individuals were empowered to unlock their full potential and reach new heights in both their personal and professional aspirations.

The "Science-Backed Techniques to Discover Your Peak Performance" event undoubtedly left a lasting impact on all participants. Armed with a comprehensive understanding of high-performance principles and a host of practical strategies, attendees departed with newfound confidence to conquer challenges and excel in their respective fields.

If you missed the event this time, keep an eye out for future opportunities to participate in other EO Melbourne learning events and sessions. Not a member yet? Get to know EO and how it will help you in your 360° growth as an entrepreneur by expressing your interest to attend its upcoming Membership Info Session on 5 September 2023.

2023 EO Melbourne EOFY & Board Handover Gala Dinner: A Night of Colour, Latin Vibes, and Entrepreneurial Excellence

The 2023 EO Melbourne EOFY & Board Handover Gala Dinner transformed Aerial, South Wharf into a vibrant and energetic haven filled with a kaleidoscope of colours and an infectious Latin vibe. Entrepreneurs, distinguished guests, and esteemed board members gathered for an unforgettable evening of celebration, recognition, and anticipation for the future.

FY 2023/24 President James Murray (4th from right) and his board.

Kicking off the night with a mesmerising display of tango dancing, the audience was captivated by the graceful movements and passionate performances of the talented dancers. The energy in the room soared as the dancers set the stage for a memorable event.

Damian Blumenkranc, EO Melbourne President for FY 2022/23, delivered a warm welcome, expressing his gratitude for the privilege of leading the chapter during his tenure. His opening remarks set a tone of appreciation and excitement for the accomplishments of the past year, sparking enthusiasm among the attendees.

Damian Blumenkranc, EO Melbourne President for FY 2022/23, thanked everyone that contributed to a fruitful year during his term.

A highlight of the evening was the eagerly anticipated Accelerator Update and Awards, presented by Accelerator Co-Chairs Anthony Lam and Ashley Bent. The room buzzed with anticipation as the names of the Accelerator Graduates were announced. Ryan Spaccavento, Edison Nguyen, Tony Truong, and Lana Zhang were celebrated for their outstanding dedication and commitment to their entrepreneurial journeys.

Acknowledgment and gratitude were extended to the dedicated members of the Accelerator Committee, including Anthony Lam, Ashley Bent, Ryan Spaccavento, Lana Zhang, Corinne Maunder, and Adam Wolfe, for their instrumental role in supporting the growth and development of the Accelerator Program. The event also recognised the invaluable contribution of the Accelerator coaches, Jeni Clift, Nick Clift, Adam Wolfe, Dan Swart, and Cesar Aldea, who provided guidance and mentorship to the participants.

The evening reached its pinnacle with the highly anticipated presentation of the Accelerator of the Year Award. The room erupted with applause as Ryan Spaccavento was announced as the deserving winner. His remarkable dedication and entrepreneurial spirit were acknowledged and celebrated by all in attendance.

Ryan Spaccavento (centre) was awarded the Accelerator of the Year by Accelerator Chairs Ashley Bent (left) and Anthony Lam (right).

Taking a moment to reflect on his impactful year as President, Damian shared three key themes that defined his tenure: unleashing the power of EO, fostering deep connections, and enabling impactful experiences. His words resonated with the audience, underscoring the significance of unity, collaboration, and growth within the entrepreneurial community.

Attendees were treated to a captivating video showcasing the memorable events of the year, seamlessly transitioning into footage of the Chapter Retreat. The immersive experience allowed participants to relive the remarkable journey of EO Melbourne throughout the year.

One of the most prestigious moments of the evening arrived with the presentation of the President's Award, an accolade that embodies the core values of EO. Damian emphasised the importance of these values and bestowed the esteemed President's Award upon Costa Vasili. Costa's unwavering commitment to the entrepreneurial community and his outstanding contributions to EO Melbourne were recognised and celebrated.

Costa Vasili (centre), this year's honouree, received the prestigious President's Award. He is flanked by outgoing President Damian Blumenkranc (left) and incoming President James Murray (right).

Rael Ross was honoured as the Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

The anticipation heightened as the Entrepreneur of the Year Award, dedicated to the memory of Danny Guest, took centre stage. Before revealing the winner, Damian highlighted the exceptional achievements and success of the recipient. The room held its breath as Rael Ross stepped onto the stage, applauded for his remarkable accomplishments, including a 100% growth rate, managing a listed company, and generating an impressive $1.3 billion in sales. Rael's resilience and achievements in a challenging macro market earned him the title of Entrepreneur of the Year, a distinction truly deserved.

Recognising the vital role of forums in fostering growth and collaboration, Damian presented the Forum Cup Awards for the Most Engaged Forums. UNA secured third place, followed by Feverish in second place. The ultimate honour went to Infinity, the winner of the first-place award, eliciting applause and admiration from the audience.

Expressions of gratitude were extended to the Tenured Members and Strategic Alliance Partners who have supported EO Melbourne throughout the year. BlueRock, Creative Cubes, Growth CFO, Mercedes-Benz Berwick, AirWallex, EOS Worldwide, and the new Strategic Alliance Partner, The Coaching Room, were all acknowledged for their invaluable contributions.

A heartwarming thank you to the FY 2022/23 Board.

In a symbolic moment, Damian invited the outgoing Board members to join him on stage, where he expressed his appreciation for their dedicated service. Socrates Capouleas, Richard Fuessel, Meirav Amber, and Ashley Bent were commended for their valuable contributions to EO Melbourne.

As Damian closed his year, he invited the incoming President, James Murray, to step forward and handed over the gavel, symbolising the transfer of leadership. James delivered his President's Update, sharing his vision and the theme for FY 2023/24.

EO Melbourne President for FY 2023/24 James Murray delivered a moving speech.

With excitement in the air, James called upon the incoming board to join him on stage, expressing his gratitude to all attendees and introducing a spectacular show featuring samba dancers and a captivating Latin performance.

The 2023 EO Melbourne EOFY & Board Handover Gala Dinner was an evening filled with celebration, inspiration, and the recognition of exceptional entrepreneurs. As the entrepreneurial community looked towards the future, the event served as a reminder of the collective achievements and the limitless potential that lies ahead.

Igniting indelible encounters: EO Melbourne's First-ever Forum Mashup

In an exciting move to bring fresh perspectives and invigorate the EO Melbourne community, the first-ever Forum Mashup event took place recently, leaving participants buzzing with new insights and connections. This exclusive event, open to all EO Melbourne members, promised to be an extraordinary experience, and it certainly did not disappoint.

The Forum Mashup was designed to provide EO members with a unique opportunity to expand their horizons, learn innovative forum techniques, and forge meaningful connections with fresh faces from the EO Melbourne community. Held at the vibrant Creative Cubes in South Melbourne, the event brought together approximately 6-8 participants in each forum, ensuring a diverse mix of perspectives and experiences.

What exactly is a Forum Mashup, you may wonder? This one-of-a-kind event featured a novel format where attendees were divided into new forums for a single meeting. Each forum had a dedicated moderator and coach, who skillfully guided the discussions and activities throughout the day.

The day kicked off with a socialising session, where participants had the chance to mingle and get to know one another before diving into the forum experience. It was a fantastic opportunity to build camaraderie and establish connections that would last beyond the event itself. The energy in the room was palpable as EO Melbourne members shared their entrepreneurial journeys and engaged in meaningful conversations.

The main highlight of the Forum Mashup was, of course, the forum sessions themselves. Participants embarked on a journey of growth and learning as they engaged in thought-provoking discussions, shared challenges and triumphs, and gained valuable insights from their fellow EOers. With fresh perspectives and diverse backgrounds, these forums opened up new avenues for exploration and provided a platform for personal and professional development.

But the excitement didn't end there. Prior to diving into the Forum Mashup activities, attendees were treated to a delectable lunch at the esteemed Lamaro's. The exquisite culinary experience not only delighted the taste buds but also served as a backdrop for EO Melbourne members to connect and forge bonds before the immersive forum sessions.

As the event concluded, EO Melbourne members left the event feeling invigorated, inspired, and armed with new skills and perspectives to take back to their respective forums. The connections made during this special gathering promised to strengthen the EO Melbourne community, fostering collaboration and mutual growth.

The first-ever Forum Mashup was undoubtedly a resounding success. EO Melbourne members were presented with a unique opportunity to break the mould, expand their networks, and amplify their forum experiences. The event exemplified the spirit of EO, fostering an environment of learning, connection, and personal growth.

EO Melbourne members eagerly await the next edition of the Forum Mashup, with hopes of continuing the tradition of bringing fresh faces and invigorating perspectives to the entrepreneurial community. With events like these, EO Melbourne remains at the forefront of providing exceptional experiences and fostering an ecosystem of support and growth for its members.

EO Melbourne gears up for FY 2023/24

As the Financial Year 2022/23 comes to an end and a new FY is about to begin, EO Melbourne ushers into the coming FY 2023/24 with a line-up of programs and events that will take its members’ entrepreneurial journeys to new heights.

The year starts off with a virtual learning experience in July, featuring Jim Penman, the brilliant mind behind Jim's Group, a globally recognised franchise and one of Australia's most notable and reliable brands. Jim successfully established Jim's Mowing as Australia's largest franchise chain and the most recognised lawn mowing business in the world.

In this special one-hour virtual event, Jim will share his inspiring story, explain his business principles, and discuss his philosophy of prioritising service and people over profits. He will also take us on the journey of how he expanded his empire from limited resources to cover Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Also in July, EO Melbourne Member and Elite Akademy Founder Kusal Goonewardena will take an exclusive deep dive into the cutting-edge science of High Performance. Kusal will talk about the strategies that will empower people to adopt high-performance behaviours and mindsets in all areas of their life. With Kusal's expert guidance, participants will learn how to leverage the latest research in sports physiotherapy, physiology, and neuroscience to unlock their full potential.

Following this event, EO Melbourne will gather a panel of experts specialising in four alternative sources of funding for growth-stage businesses - spanning bank debt, non-bank debt, venture capital, and private equity funding sources.

Facilitated by Jason Ellenport, EO Melbourne Member & Founding Partner at Edison Growth Fund, this event will have the following panel of experts: Kingsley Oldfield, Senior Relationship Manager at ANZ Bank, Hunter Watkin, Venture Capital Investor at Rampersand, Mike Thompson, Head of Private Equity at Edison Growth Fund, and Michael Kurland, Joint MD and Founder at Arrowpoint Capital.

They will share their valuable insights and experiences while engaging attendees in a lively discussion providing a comprehensive understanding of the funding landscape. Those who will attend can expect to gain practical knowledge on how to navigate each funding option to their advantage.

Within the first quarter of FY 2023/24, EO Melbourne will hold the ​​Accelerator/Key Executive Learning Day focusing on Cash, one of the four quarterly full training days built on the principles developed by Verne Harnish from his bestselling book Scaling Up.

Speaking of which, this leads us to one of the biggest events of FY 2023/24 Q1 — Mastering Pricing & Compensation by no less than the man, the myth, and the LEGEND, Verne Harnish – who is returning to Melbourne for this special, not-to-be-missed event.

Verne's award-winning Scaling Up workshops are renowned for their impact and actionable insights. His latest workshop focuses on Pricing and Compensation, as well as how Web 3.0 drives the emerging Org 3.0, using practical EO company examples that incorporate AI, "team of teams," pricing, and compensation strategies.

In this engaging workshop, Verne will reveal various pricing approaches for both B2C and B2B businesses and discuss the 5 key compensation design principles that transform the largest expense into a strategic advantage.

Moreover, EO Melbourne will also have a new intake for its Mentorship Program, one of the benefits of EO Membership. The program spans 12 months and participating EO Members will be paired with a mentor and provided with all the resources, tools, and knowledge they need for their monthly one-hour catch-ups, as well as ongoing support from their Mentorship Chair. The program will help members learn from other business leaders and grow as an entrepreneur.

There is so much in store for the coming FY that EO Melbourne members will enjoy and learn from.

EO Drive Day and Australian F1 Grand Prix Experience

Without fail, EO Melbourne always delivers enjoyable experiences to its members, allowing them to have a great time participating in exciting activities and socialising with other entrepreneurs.

EO Melbourne Members had another opportunity to go behind the wheel during the EO Exclusive Drive Day with Strategic Alliance Partner Mercedes-Benz Berwick. Participating members were lucky to be among the few to take the newly launched MB electric cars and AMG Mercedes-Benz units for a spin on picturesque country roads. 

Afterwards, they enjoyed a delightful and cozy lunch at Port Phillip Estate, which is renowned as one of the most captivating food and wine spots in Australia.

Another adrenaline-pumping event that EO Melbourne Members recently enjoyed was the Australian F1 Grand Prix Experience, where they were joined by fellow entrepreneurs from EO Sydney and EO Adelaide. 

The highlight of the event was the F1 Grand Prix Qualifying Day, which guests had the privilege of watching from the exclusive EO Melbourne - Pit Exit Trackside International Private Suite, where they felt the high-speed action just metres away from the track!

At the EO Melbourne Private Suite, EO Melbourne Member Carlo Santoro hosted an electrifying program that featured Australian racing driver Tommy Smith, currently competing in the 2023 FIA Formula 3 Championship. But that's not all – guests also got to hear from Australian motor racing sensation Lachlan Mineeff, an EO Sydney member, as well as from EO Melbourne Members David Gay and David Porter. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn from some of the most brilliant minds in the racing industry and get an inside look at their strategies for success.

EO Melbourne celebrates International Women’s Day with Dr Nicole Yap: A Girl's Breast Friend

In celebration of International Women's Day, EO Melbourne organised a special luncheon at The Stables Como, featuring Dr Nicole Yap, a renowned Breast & Skin Oncoplastic Surgeon. The event was exclusively held for women leaders and guests, where Dr Yap talked about breast cancer, including detection methods and available treatments.

Breast cancer affects one in seven women and is the leading cause of cancer death among females, with 23% of diagnosed women under 50 years of age. Dr Yap emphasised the importance of early detection and seeking medical advice when experiencing symptoms. She believes that there is still significant work to be done to raise awareness and advocate for women's breast health, especially for those under 50. 

Dr Yap shared heartwarming stories of attendees who had lost loved ones to breast cancer, and she encouraged all attendees to take a proactive approach to their breast health. The event participants received a complimentary Genetic Testing kit, donated by Genetic Technologies, and enjoyed the opportunity to win raffle prizes valued at over $3,000, with donations going to the charity founded by Dr Yap, the Australian Breast Care Centre.

The Australian Breast Care Centre aims to increase awareness of breast symptoms for early detection, improve access to MRI and genetic testing, and enhance aesthetic outcomes in breast cancer surgery for positive mental health, particularly for those under 50.

During the event, generous donors contributed gifts and raffle prizes, including an ABCC gift certificate to redeem a genetic breast test and consult with Dr Nicole Yap valued at $699, a Metabolism Reset Prize from Be Fit Food, a print from Gussydup, a 700-ml Perth Pink Sin Gin from Leach Legal​, a gift from Powerhouse Wellness, and a gift pack and a car-for-the-weekend voucher from EO Melbourne’s Strategic Alliance Partner, Mercedes-Benz Berwick.

Dr Yap is a specialist breast surgeon with expertise in oncoplastic surgery and the founder of the not-for-profit Australian Breast Care Centre. She is the director of Breast Institute Australia and has several practices across Melbourne. Dr Yap is one of the few practitioners who specialise in the dual practice of tumour removal and mastectomy with breast reconstruction.

EO Melbourne holds more learning events for its Members

EO Melbourne Member Benjamin Trinh (left) shared his “Deal of a Lifetime” during a learning event. The event was hosted by fellow EO Melbourne Member Dean Cherny (right).

A virtual “Points Hack” workshop, a talk on a “Deal of a Lifetime”, a Learning Day on Cash, and a Trainual virtual workshop. These are just some of the recent events that EO Melbourne has organised for its Members and those in its Accelerator and Key Executive programs.

Living up to its core values of “Thirst for Learning” and “Together We Grow”, EO Melbourne continues to bring to its community thought-provoking learning events that can benefit them in their growth and development.

Never fly Economy again: A Virtual 'Points Hack' Workshop with iFLYFlat

Steve Hui, Founder and CEO of iFLYflat and also known as Australia's Points Whisperer, shared with event attendees how they could turn their company into a points-generating machine and never fly Economy again.

Business owners sit on a gold mine of opportunity to use points to fly Business Class saving between $2,500 and $5,100 per trip. The fastest way to earn millions of frequent flyer points is using credit cards to pay company expenses.

His workshop allowed the participants to learn how to earn maximum points for the lowest fees and understand the numbers behind the calculations that prove the value is worth doing, select the best business credit cards, redeem points and know which points to use per destination, and many other hacks that are helpful to entrepreneurs.

The deal of a lifetime: How Ben Trinh started, scaled and sold his business to a billion-dollar company

Benjamin Trinh, Life Ready Health Group CEO, current EO Melbourne Member, and former EO Melbourne Board Member, shared his journey from when he founded his business with only $10,000 as capital, how he grew it to over $50 million in revenue and eventually sold it to one of Australia's largest private health insurance companies — in the deal of a lifetime.

The deal resulted in 12 of his friends, early investors and key employees becoming millionaires, all the while remaining as a Director and the CEO of the business.

Ben also talked about his highs and lows, as well as mistakes and wins. He also unpacked the key principles, strategies and mindsets that go into starting something that will grow and endure.

"Get your business out of your brain" Trainual virtual workshop

Chris Ronzio, Founder and CEO of Trainual, discussed how organisations could put everything about their business in one place, making it easy to cascade all the information to their teams and get them on board faster than they can imagine.

The “Get Your Business Out of Your Brain” Trainual virtual workshop enabled attendees to learn actionable tips on how to start documenting and delegating what they do so that they have time to do more of what they love. Audience participants had the opportunity to take part in exercises and Q&A with Ronzio and walked away with the ability to start building their own playbooks with the digital companion worksheet.

These learning events imparted to EO Melbourne participants hacks, tips and key insights that could help them in growing their businesses and take advantage of opportunities around them.

The Excitement Soars High at the iFLY EO Melbourne Family Event

It was a fun Sunday for EO Melbourne families as participants had a thrilling experience at the iFLY Family Event held on 3 April 2022 at the iFLY Melbourne attraction. 

Recognising the importance of entrepreneurs spending quality time with their families and loved ones, EO Melbourne has always been putting together family events for its members and their families to enjoy.

Adults and children alike had the opportunity to soar high in this indoor skydiving facility without having to jump out of an airplane. The facility is the first 14-ft diameter iFLY wind tunnel to be built in Melbourne. 

Participants first had hands-on training with a professional coach as they were briefed on the safety procedures of the activity. They were also provided with flight gear to prepare them for their indoor flight. The good thing about this activity is that no previous experience was necessary and anyone over the age of 3 years old could participate.

Members have nothing but commendation for such a fun and one-of-a-kind experience. “It’s a great unique experience to share with the family,” Damian Blumenkranc said. 

EO Melbourne is part of the global network of Entrepreneurs’ Organization, a unique, experience-based network that supports the needs of the 360° entrepreneur through business, family, community & personal experiences. Our chapter offers world-class learning events, skills-specific workshops and a venue to exchange business stories that help our members learn and grow.

EO Melbourne events during the first half of 2020-2021

It is halfway through the 2020-2021 term, and amidst all the challenges of lockdown and other restrictions, EO Melbourne has endeavoured to provide various avenues for its community of entrepreneurs, as well as their families, to grow in their journey.

A well-attended Mentorship Program Launch and Online Training.

Despite events taking place virtually, it didn’t stop the chapter from coming up with interesting, informational and enjoyable activities that are beneficial to its members. Here are some of the online events that have happened for the last six months:

Learning events

Committed to providing opportunities for personal and professional growth and development to its members, EO Melbourne has lined up several learning events online that could equip them with tools and additional knowledge.

This included webinars and Zoom calls with experts and business leaders who shared their experiences, lessons learned and insights to the EO community. These virtual talks featured the following speakers: Jeffrey Cole (The Coronavirus Disruption Project), Dr Emma Fulu and Hannah Kassay (Diversity and Inclusion), Austin McChord (his entrepreneurial journey), Joe Pane and Katerina Papamarkou (Readjusting to life after lockdown), Adam Ross (Launching a VC-backed startup during the pandemic), and Adam Bennett (In conversation with a “White Hat Hacker”).

There were also member-led virtual events such as the “Building Brands that Last” with Andrew McKinnon and the “Influencer Marketing” with Hannah Vasicek. There were also various online sessions with the chapter’s Strategic Alliance Partners like Airwallex, BlueRock, EOS, and Evans & Partners.

Moreover, it was a successful Mentorship Program launch and online training that saw the participation of 27 pairs of mentors and mentees.

Socials and family events

Apart from the learning events, EO also organised social events to provide fun and light moments for the members and even their families.

There were virtual wine tasting nights where participants and their partners enjoyed a thing or two about winemaking while exchanging stories over bottles of wine. It was an entertaining and magical day for parents and kids as they learned new tricks from Australia’s greatest magician, Cosentino, during the EO Academy of Magic.

With the absence of physical gatherings, EO came up with catch-up events, such as the Chat Roulette and Needs & Leads, that allowed members to get to know one another and lend support to each other.

APAC events

The EO Asia-Pacific region has also put together several webinars and special interest virtual events for chapters within the area. The APAC Celebrity Webinars featured the likes of Marc Randolph of Netflix, Jack Daly, Dr Angus Hervey and Tane Hunter of Future Crunch, Bhutan's former Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, and Starbucks Coffee Company International’s former president Howard Behar.

Meanwhile, the EO APAC Inspiring CEO Series took participants through the entrepreneurial journeys of Globe CEO Ernest Cu, Jindal Steel & Power Limited Chairman Naveen Jindal, Taylor's Education Group CEO Dato' Loy Teik Ngan, and Flight Centre Travel Group co-founder and CEO Graham “Skroo” Turner.

Apart from these activities, forums within the chapter continued to meet-up online. As restrictions are now easing after lockdown, some activities and events move towards the physical space. Although there is a face-to-face interface, safety measures and protocols are still strictly observed.

The calendar year 2020 is almost coming to an end and a new chapter in 2021 is about to unfold. Despite the challenges, EO Melbourne remains true to its mission of supporting entrepreneurial education by supporting the needs of the 360° entrepreneur through business, family, community & personal experiences and offering world-class learning events, skills-specific workshops and a venue to exchange business stories that can help its members learn and grow.

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Do you need this kind of support in your entrepreneurial journey? Check out here on how you can join and be part of EO Melbourne.

EO Melbourne's virtual Wine-Tasting Nights

A week loaded with various tasks and business concerns to attend to deserves a relaxing Friday evening. A glass or two of wine is a wonderful way to cap the work week and welcome the weekend. EO Melbourne recognises this as the chapter recently held virtual wine-tasting events for its members.

To start our virtual wine tasting journey, EO Melbourne Member Hugh Jones and his wife Raquel, the couple that established Weathercraft Wines, hosted a wine-tasting night where participants enjoyed three of their wines: 2018 Limited Chardonnay, 2019 Rosé, and 2017 Shiraz.

Hugh and Raquel shared the story behind each wine, its characteristics and how they are processed. Produced from the Weathercraft Wines vineyard in Beechworth, their wines are a result of fruits handpicked from painstakingly managed vines.

But there’s more to just the bottles of wine that the group enjoyed. They were also inspired by the journey that the Jones couple took in turning Weathercraft Wines into a reality. “In 2016, my wife Raquel and I fulfilled a long-held dream and purchased an established, premium vineyard, at Beechworth in North East Victoria. We immediately started producing our wines from the site. Raquel focuses on the winemaking, whilst I focus on the business side,” Hugh revealed.

“Vintage dependent, we produce around 1,800 cases of wine per year from our little winery, and we are very fortunate to be located within spitting distance of some of Australia’s most iconic producers, such as Giaconda, Savaterre and Castagna, to name but a few. Although our focus is on Chardonnay and Shiraz, Raquel’s European heritage has inspired us to grow alternate Spanish varieties best suited to the climate, rainfall and soil composition of our site,” he added.

The following wine-tasting event was a Wine Masterclass brought by Willow Creek Vineyard & Jackalope Hotel and Brad Hampel, EO Melbourne Member and Director of Solution Entertainment. Attendees learned more about the art of winemaking and food pairing during this virtual event.

Glass-in-hand, winemaker Geraldine McFaul walked guests through the winemaking process and shared her viticultural secrets. Participants were also led to a guided wine tasting experience with Jackalope Hotel’s Food & Beverage Director (and Sommelier), Ollie Tucker.

McFaul’s understanding of the terroir and its subtleties is instinctive. When working with exemplary fruit, McFaul says the biggest challenge is “doing less rather than more”. For the wines from the Willow Creek Vineyard, it’s all about letting the vineyard shine through.

With a fastidious focus on cool­-climate chardonnay and pinot noir, McFaul makes some of the most elegant single-vineyard wines on the Mornington Peninsula. Under the expert hands of original viticulturists Robbie O’Leary and, more recently, Ant Davenport, Willow Creek Vineyard’s fruit is hand-tended, block by block, which includes pruning, canopy management, yield control, and harvest. The vineyard consistently produces the fruit of excellent quality, lending itself to minimal intervention and manipulation in the winery.

Members additionally experienced a wine and cheese night with Austin’s Wines, who delivered a virtual pairing of 2018 Austin’s Chardonnay and 2018 Austin’s Pinot Noir as well as L’Artisan Cheeses & crackers in the comforts of their homes.

Austin’s is a family-owned vineyard in Victoria’s beautiful Moorabool Valley. They have been producing wine since 1982 and is now owned by the second generation of Austins.

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These virtual wine-tasting events have been popular among members of the EO Melbourne chapter where they were able to connect online and enjoy the experience amid restrictions imposed due to the pandemic.

How about you, what activities do you engage in to relax your mind and body after a hard day’s work? We’d love you to share your story with us.

How to organise a successful launch event

Assuming that you have perfected your new product or service and you are ready to tell the world about it, how do you make sure that many will know of and avail of your new offering? You need to come up with a well-thought plan to hype your product, service or campaign to the public, especially to your existing and prospective customers and clientele.

However, doing a launch event is easier said than done. It takes a lot of thought, effort and resources to create and organise an event that will move people to trust your brand and patronise your products. The best way forward is to hire an event team to do the work. But if you’re short on the budget since you’re still a startup business and want to do things by yourself, here are tips on how you can launch your new campaign successfully.

1.       Envision how you want the launch to happen

Start with your goal in mind. Set your goals, objectives and targets, and what you want the event to achieve. Envision what you want to happen during the launch and how you want it to benefit your business. Make sure to set measurable and achievable goals that you can easily assess later if the event is a success or not.

2.       Plot the best strategies

Once you have identified your goals and objectives for the launch event, come up with the best strategies to attain these. Doing research ahead of time on what will click to your target market will be most helpful as you plot the right tactics. Know the latest trends and map out the best routes possible to get you to your desired targets. Assign a coordinator within your team and divide the tasks among each other for easier monitoring.

3.       Brainstorm for a concept

To make your launch event memorable and talked about, you must have a cohesive concept that also ties your brand image and your new campaign together. Some go for an all-white event or a carnival or one that is easily associated with the occasion or the company. Decide if you will have a product test, a special show, a sit-down dinner, a social media hype or a combination of everything.

4.       Set timeline and budget

When you have designed your launch event, it’s time to get down to the details – venue, stage, lighting, talents, food, etc. But first, draft your budget and timeline as this will be the skeleton of your plan, along with your objectives and strategies. Based on your budget, you can adjust your concept if you need to tone it down or take out certain parts.

5.       Get down to the tasks and details

Now, it’s time to contact your suppliers and service providers that can mount your launch event. On the sales front, you can do pre-orders and sign-ups. For the communications part, nail down the right messaging and have a press release and FAQs written down. Create teasers and materials that can support the launching of your new campaign or product. Conduct regular meetings with your team to check on the progress of each task needed to accomplish.

6.       Create invite list and send out invitations

With preparations on the roll, create a list of people you want to invite to your launch. Tap influencers, VIP customers, industry movers and the media that can echo your message and create a positive ripple effect on your brand.

7.       Run-through the event several times

The reason why companies and brands consider special events as a marketing tool is to provide people with an experiential taste of their offerings. It is crucial that the experience during the actual event is magnificent enough for people to talk about it in a good way. Conduct run-throughs and technical checks prior to the event to make sure that every detail is looked into and each gap is filled in.

8.       Be visible during the event

The event proper is your opportunity to network and have face-to-face interaction with your guests. Make sure to allocate time for media interviews. It is also more impactful if your visibility is not only limited offline but also extends online. Use an event hashtag and post updates of the launch.

9.       Sustain the buzz

Every phase of the launch event is important. From the planning to preparations to the event proper up to the post-event, each opportunity must not be missed. The launch does not end when the event wraps up. It continues for a few more days, weeks or months through various initiatives and endeavours that support the hype. Make sure that your customer service is in place. Deepen your relationship with your consumers and take this opportunity to create a community among them.

If you’re doing this for the first time, it is good to seek the help of those who have more experience than you. Take advantage of opportunities to attend events when you’re invited so you can observe how they go about it. You can do both in EO Melbourne where learning and fun events happen all-year-round.

Tips on creating a successful event for marketing

Most brands and companies organise events to nowadays promote their products and services to their target audience. While it takes a lot of resources and effort to stage an event, organisations still consider it as an important tool in marketing because it provides an opportunity for the brand to have a face-to-face interaction with their market, giving them an experiential taste of their offerings. It can also result in instant sales and feedback if utilised wisely.

Examples of events that can boost your sales and marketing are product launches, press conferences, trade fairs, seminars, exhibits, mall tour, and the like. You can be as creative as you can and make it either intimate or huge.

Organising an event, big or small, is a tedious process. You may need to hire the services of experts to mount a successful one. However, with limited resources, you may opt to do things by yourself. If you are in such a situation, you can consider these tips that may help you or your event organiser come up with a memorable event.

Plan carefully

Meticulous planning is the foundation of a successful event. First set your objectives and targets, then you can draw everything else from that. Base your strategies, publicity and promotional tactics, timeline and budget from your goals and resources available. Always review your plan and go back to it to adjust some details, if necessary.

Form a team

One person alone cannot stage an event. You need a team to oversee various aspects of the project. Open communication and harmony with your teammates will help you achieve the objectives you set for your event. A project leader is crucial to consolidate everything and supervise things so that each team member is not left behind.

Set the theme

An event is a vehicle to send your message across your audience. Having a theme is like tying everything in an integral axis. It’s easier for participants to remember your event and the purpose of the activity when you have a central idea that can bring each part of the event together.

Choose good suppliers

Some of the blockage in carrying out a good plan is a problematic supplier. It can be a thorn on the side if they are not able to produce the much-needed result. When you choose a third party partner, do not only consider their cost but also their success rate. Gather three to four possible suppliers, evaluate them carefully, do a background check and select the best supplier that is value for your money and have great working relations with you.

Create a checklist and monitor well

Proper coordination is key to a successful event. They say that the devil is in the details. Have a checklist of everything you need to do and have for every activity of the project. Monitor your checklist regularly so that you don’t miss out on important things. A team meeting will help you see gaps which you haven’t noticed before.

Come up with back-up plans

There may be unforeseen circumstances and factors that may hamper in the process of organising an event. Weather, costs, and other internal and external conditions can affect the preparation. Make back-up plans that you can do on varied cases.

Select the right people to invite

The guest list is important in attaining your objectives. It’s not enough that you gather warm bodies to fill in your venue. You have to bring in people who can help you with your brand. They can be your clients, industry partners, media people, social media influencers and target customers.

Have run-throughs

When everything is ready and in place, do some run-throughs to make sure that everything works out fine. You can polish certain things, such as seating arrangement, lighting, sounds, timing and food serving. Aim for perfection and bring the best experience to your participants and guests.

Evaluate and do a report

Like in any other experience, it is good to learn from an event, both the mistakes and the milestones. Evaluating the entire process and coming up with a report is a method that can help you improve on your event organising skills. It will also serve as a guide to your team for your succeeding campaigns.

On top of these tips, another way to learn about mounting a successful event is to attend as many events as you can and observe attentively. See how they execute events and note the areas that you can improve if you will have to do it yourself. More importantly, enjoy the experience and take this opportunity to interact with the guests.