Q&A: Selina Arnall, conference and events operations manager

Over the next few months, we're going to be conducting a series of question and answer sessions with some of the key people here at Moonah Links, on the Mornington Peninsula. We'll find out what they do, what they've noticed about the world of Moonah and what makes them tick. This month, we're talking to Selina Arnall, our resident conference and events operations manager, to find out how conferencing at the Mornington Peninsula is a unique experience.

What is your role at Moonah Links?

To facilitate the operational excellence of the conferences and events that Moonah Links hosts, by ensuring that our team delivers the Peppers Experience. This is coupled with implementing and overseeing the successful roll-out of our communications strategy to our external and internal audiences.

What do you think is your strongest quality as the event operations manager?

Appreciating the customer experience!

Having been on both sides of the conference organisation process, I have a strong desire for continuous improvement. As the wonderful world of events evolves, we as a venue need too as well. We need to be across the board on what's happening outside and implementing it inside.

What's the difference between city and regional conferencing?

Regional conferencing is all about unusual venues. Although the majority of the locations on the Mornington Peninsula offer accommodation similar to our city counterparts, we are either resorts, golf courses, wineries or boutique establishments and can offer something different. City-based conferences are often short format, providing little downtime for attendees to absorb the message or critical business information that is being delivered to them. Regional conferencing provides attendees with a uniqueness that stimulates their creativity and engagement, further solidifying the business message that is being imparted.

What positive experiences come from conferencing in the Mornington Peninsula?

The Mornington Peninsula is known for its luxurious experiences and activities that provide delegates with an escape from the norm. You can enjoy the downtime with a round of golf that creates discussion out on the course; or wine tasting with some of the Peninsula experts that breaks up the sometimes content-rich programme. Dine on local produce or even just breathe in the natural surroundings while you are here, slowing your pace and clearing your mind.

Where do you find most of your conference groups are travelling from?

Both interstate and intrastate. The interstate groups that we host typically have a longer lead time for their planning, with extended stays, which is fantastic as they ensure their attendees really get to see as much of the area as time allows. Since the Peninsula Link opened in 2013, it has created a gateway for Melbourners to easily access the Peninsula, so we are finding more city-based clients thanks to that ease of attendance.

Last question. If you were stranded on a desert island what would be the one thing you would take with you?

My notepad, so I could keep a diary of everything I see, do and learn, to help any others in the future if they become stranded.

Thanks, Selina! It's great to get an insight into how conferencing is evolving and we're very excited to hear that more and more people are bringing their businesses to the beautiful Mornington Peninsula.

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