CASE STUDY: Relaunching SHBC Live Events after COVID

Client: Sydney Hills Business Chamber (SHBC)

The Sydney Hills Business Chamber is one of the region’s most active and influential business networks, known for its strong membership engagement and high-profile annual events. Icon Corporate Events had proudly partnered with SHBC for several years—until COVID-19 brought in-person gatherings to a halt.

Event Challenge

By early 2021, the Chamber had not hosted a face-to-face event for nearly 12 months. To restore confidence and re-energise the business community, SHBC committed to relaunching its live event program with one of its signature events: **The Chairman’s Lunch**, held on 7 April at Castle Hill RSL.

With federal and local politicians, industry leaders and Chamber members attending for the first time since the pandemic began, flawless execution was essential.

Event Objectives

We worked with SHBC to clarify clear strategic goals:

• Relaunch in-person events safely and confidently

• Reinforce SHBC’s authority and influence by showcasing relationships with political and business leaders

• Deliver value to members and rebuild attendance momentum after COVID disruptions

Event Format and Content

In line with the objectives, the program featured two facilitated panel discussions hosted by SHBC Chair, Kerrie Sheaves. Content was designed to address business recovery, community confidence and the future of the Hills District.

Planning and Administration

Icon Corporate Events delivered comprehensive pre-event planning, including:

• Development of a full event implementation plan

• Brand exposure strategy for SHBC and event sponsor Mulpha

• Liaison with all stakeholders—SHBC, speakers, sponsors, volunteers and suppliers

• Coordination of venue, sound, lighting and catering requirements

• Production of run sheets, checklists and pre-event documentation

• Management of all communication and stakeholder engagement

Event Day Management

Our onsite team ensured seamless delivery through:

• Full bump-in and bump-out management

• Final inspections and readiness checks

• Coordination of registration and guest arrival processes

• Sponsor liaison and support

• Real-time communication, troubleshooting and issue resolution

• Collection of attendee, sponsor and stakeholder feedback

Results and Impact

The Chairman’s Lunch marked a highly successful return to in-person events for SHBC. Key outcomes included:

• 200 attendees — the Chamber’s strongest attendance since pre-COVID

• 4.9/5 satisfaction rating from members

• Safe compliance with all COVID protocols

• Engaged panel discussions using digital Q&A

• Renewed community confidence and momentum for the Chamber’s 2021 event calendar

The atmosphere was energetic, positive and connected, clear evidence that SHBC events were back and stronger than ever.

For support with your next event, contact our team at info@iconcorpevents.com or call 0450 582 080.

For more details on how we can assist you with your next upcoming event, contact our team today on info@iconcorpevents.com or call on 0450 582 080.