An easy 1-hour flight from either Sydney or Brisbane and only 8 minutes from the regional airport, BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort lies in a prime beachfront location just 5 minutes drive from the Coffs Harbour CBD. This resort is built for spectacular events, with rustic indoor/outdoor event space offering views of the coastline and  lush, sub-tropical gardens.

Well-versed in the art of conferencing and events (averaging 25 events per month!), we spoke to Kylie Gault, Conference and Sales Executive at the resort, who has shared with us her top tips for your next event, upcoming conferencing trends, and some of the most exciting events she’s worked on over the years.

Kylie, what do you think are some of the up and coming trends in conferences and events right now?

I am certainly starting to see an increase in social media and apps to encourage attendance. A lot of companies are now engaging delegates through these platforms to encourage attendance and awareness of the conference.

There has also been a movement towards achieving ‘balance’ within conferences. There’s more of a focus on ensuring there are ample breaks throughout the day and an increase in healthy eating and going green with more sustainable options for catering.

Raw rustic theming and social dining options like share platters on tables are also very popular and on demand from conference clients.

What are some of BreakFree Aanuka Beach’s most unique conference and wedding offerings?

Cocktail functions around the fire pits out the front of Casay Decks or corporate dinners on the manicured lawns are also very popular. Delegates feel truly spoilt dining outdoors under twinkling fairy lights. There have also been a few whale sightings at these events which is always very exciting.

For our Brides and Grooms, we can plan beautiful private elopement dinners in the resort chapel or on the resort grounds. One of the most romantic experiences we offer is a beautiful chandelier lit outdoor dinner with a private waiter and views out over Diggers Beach.

Can you make any suggestions for how to spice up a conference?

At BreakFree Aanuka Beach, the unique setting and island-inspired accommodation lends itself to a themed night. We have previously had an Australian theme, 70’s and a Hawaiian theme. This always gets everyone relaxed and ready to join in with the fun of the night.

It’s also a nice idea to surprise delegates with a small welcome gift in their rooms or stop working for an afternoon treat of gelato or something similar.

Themed nights are great! Speaking of memorable conferences and events, what has been your favourite that you have worked on?

I think I have two favourites; I worked on the event “Charity by the sea” which featured David Helfgott and Jane Rutter. It was an event with 170 guests, who enjoyed cocktail finger food and drinks by the sea whilst David played on the piano. It was a fantastic calm summer evening with clear skies, it had a truly magical feeling as the sun started to set.

I have also worked on the ACT Now Conference - a conference that focuses on the importance of Indigenous societal views.  The conference has been coming to the resort over many years, and usually accommodates around 300 delegates. It is very inspirational with traditional aboriginal customs being carried out throughout the resort.

If you’re interested in holding your next conference or event at BreakFree Aanuka Beach, the resort features a number of truly unique and unparalleled event venues. Enjoy views out over Diggers Beach and the tropical resort grounds, venues boasting natural light and outdoor breakout spaces. Pillarless with AV equipment included, your next event will be seamless to plan.

Or for those planning their magical wedding day, the resort also features ideal guest accommodation options, an intimate chapel and large flat beachside lawn area, ideal for a romantic ceremony or reception.