Join us as we continue a decade-by-decade look at Arinex’ (formerly Tour Hosts) history. From pioneering cultural events to involvement in the Olympics and growth in the incentive market, Tour Hosts blazed a trail of achievements in the 2000s. A significant rebranding in the decade’s end set the course for the company’s future.
Tour Hosts began the decade by further expanding its capabilities with the establishment of a dedicated sponsorship and exhibition department and the acquisition of another business, Australian Convention Management Services (ACMS).
One of the most notable achievements in Tour Hosts history was its management of Corroboree 2000, a landmark event for Aboriginal reconciliation in Australia. Including a Harbour Bridge walk and activities across the city, the event was broadcast on SBS and managed by Tour Hosts on behalf of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Tour Hosts’ ability to deliver complex events was further showcased that year in its management of BHP’s Corporate Hospitality program for the Sydney 2000 Olympics. The program involved 19 days of hospitality for 2,600 guests, hosts and partners, and was described by Tour Hosts founder Roslyn McLeod OAM as unlike any other event in the company’s history.
“While other conferences we have managed are equally important and achieved an amazing array of firsts, few have the same level of scope, community impact, funding and nationwide importance as the Olympics. It was an unforgettable experience for our team, and we are proud to have delivered BHP’s Corporate Hospitality program for the event,” she said.
The following year, Arinex managed the 2001 Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) International Symposium on Circuits and Systems, which showcased pivotal new mobile microchip technology. The same year, Roslyn was recognised with the Award for Business Excellence and the Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, by Tourism New South Wales.
Despite facing significant disruptions due to the SARS outbreak in 2003, Tour Hosts persevered in delivering high-profile events. In 2004, the company successfully managed the World Energy Conference, and over the next few years was appointed to G20 and 12 ancillary meetings and other significant events including the BHP Hospitality Program for the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.
Tour Hosts continued its expansion this same year with the acquisition of The Meeting Planners, based in Melbourne. In 2007, the company demonstrated its commitment to innovation by launching the first electronic poster system in Australia. This year also marked the opening of Tour Hosts’ Brisbane office, further expanding its national footprint. Additionally, Roslyn was recognised with the Outstanding Contribution Award from Meetings and Events Australia (MEA).
The global financial crisis impacted the industry in 2008-2009, leading to a decrease in conference attendance. However, Tour Hosts continued to deliver exceptional events, managing its largest incentive program for a Spanish insurance company, with 1,460 attendees in 2008.
In 2009, Tour Hosts and The Meeting Planners rebranded as Arinex – a short-form of Architects of Inspiring Experiences, operating in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Later that year, Arinex delivered the 2009 Parliament of World Religions – an international conference focused on progressing peace and harmony between the world’s religions.
With a new company name, Arinex finished the decade in its strongest shape and was ready to take on new challenges in the ever-evolving events industry.
Stay tuned as we follow the next step in Arinex’ journey with a closer look at the significant events of the 2010s.
Catch up on our company history by checking out our previous blog posts on the milestones of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.