Conference FAQ
How do I get there?
If arriving by air, you will either land at Brisbane Airport (Domestic or International) or Gold Coast Airport at Coolangatta. Average travel times from the Airports are:-
– From Gold Coast Airport to Surfers Paradise is approximately 40-50 mins depending on traffic.
– From Brisbane Airport to the Gold Coast is approximately 60-85 mins depending on traffic.
Please note that like most major cities Friday afternoon traffic can be horrendous so make sure your return flight allows for a built in “cushion travel time”
For transfers to and from the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort and Spa, you might like to use the following link http://www.mygoldcoastlimo.com/airport-transfers.html.
For further airport transfer options – http://www.goldcoasteguide.com/gettinghere.php.
When can I register and pick up my Conference Satchel?
The registration desk will be open from 7.30 am each day – including the Pre-Conference Day – so if you are arriving on the Tuesday why not pop in during the day to register and avoid the rush on the Wednesday morning.
For our Overseas Guess – What is the deal with tipping in Australia?
No service charge applies in Australia. Tipping is not mandatory but if you get particularly great service and you want to tip then go for it…
GST and Tourist Refund Scheme
There is a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST), which will be added to your bill and shown separately. Travellers can claim a tax refund on certain goods purchased within Australia to be taken out of the country. One thing some retailers neglect to mention, though, is that the goods should be hand luggage as the refund desk is the airside of Customs and they sometimes like to see the goods before issuing a refund.
How do I get around the Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast has an extensive public transport network serviced by Surfside Buslines and Queensland Rail. Visit www.translink.com.au or www.qr.com.au for information on routes and timetables. The Gold Coast is also serviced by Regent Taxis – Phone 131008 or visit www.regenttaxis.com.au for further information.
What sort of activities can I book while I am at the Conference?
Hopefully, you will be kept very busy with our informative and fun filled days. If you do find you have some free time before or after the conference then the Activities Desk situated in the Entrance Foyer of the Marriott can assist with booking local tours, bike and scooter hire, bungee jumping and other activities.
What sights are worth checking out while I am staying on the Gold Coast?
There are so many amazing options on the Gold Coast – way too many to list here but here are some suggestions.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary http://www.currumbin-sanctuary.org.au/
Warner Bros. Movie World, Dream World, Sea World, Wet’n‘Wild, Australian Outback Spectacular – http://myfun.com.au/
Or browse the many options on offer at http://www.verygoldcoast.com.au/attractions/.
If I drive myself to the venue, is there parking available?
There is plenty of free parking beneath the Marriott. It is highly unlikely that all the Marriott underground parking spaces will be taken. There is a charge for Valet parking – $15.00.
Free, unlimited street parking is also available in nearby Birt Avenue, however please note that there are bus stops in this street you should avoid, or risk being towed. Acacia Avenue has a limit of three hours parking, so not such a good choice.
Can I share a room?
You are more than welcome to share a room. Spectronics, unfortunately, cannot assist with this arrangement due to privacy and security issues. The Marriott Hotel is perfectly happy for our delegates to share rooms but due to the same privacy and security rules, are unable to advise if there are others who wish to share. Perhaps use the Conference Facebook site to let others know you wish to share. The Marriott has requested that you advise at the point of booking that you intend to share and who it is with. Towards the bottom of the Marriott online accommodation booking form there is an area for the share details to be listed. If you do arrange to share a room, you do so at your own risk and discretion.
Can I car pool with others in my area who will be attending the conference?
Again, you are more than welcome to make your own arrangements to car pool if driving to the Conference.
If I need a Carer/Attendant while at the conference, will you be able to provide this service?
Unfortunately no, however we do have a special Carer’s rate to make it easier financially for your Carer to attend the conference with you, contact us via conference@spectronicsinoz.com for more details.
If for any reason your usual Carer is not able to attend the conference with you, Spectronics is unfortunately not in the position to provide one. Casual Care can be arranged through michelleb@fsg.org.au. They require two weeks’ notice to be given for any Carer requirements.
What clothes do I need to pack?
Whatever you are happy wearing, we are happy to accept. Comfy and casual is best. The temperature range during your stay on the Gold Coast should be a pleasant 16-25 degrees C or for our Overseas visitors 61-77 degrees F. The end of May is just before our Queensland winter so the nights may be a little chilly.
The smart, casual look is acceptable for all events on the program. “After 5” is the recommended dress standard at the Conference Dinner.
How far is the beach from the Marriott?
A walk of only a few minutes… You will have to cross a couple of very busy streets, so please do so at the designated crossings.
Is Childcare available?
The Marriott has child minding facilities available. Just ask the Activities desk – they will be happy to assist with this. There is also the option of outside agencies and childcare centres on the Gold Coast. Visit http://www.echildcare.com.au/region/gold-coast/ for further information.
Do I have to eat at the Marriott?
The Marriott has an excellent array of meals available – either in the Lagoon Restaurant, Benihana Japanese Steakhouse, Lobby Bar or the Pool Bar.
See the Marriott for bookings at any of the options listed. But, if it is just a quick takeaway you’d prefer, there are the usual fast food outlets within easy walking distance of the Hotel.
Can I book ahead for Sessions on the Program?
Your preferences for the Pre-conference Workshops are the only sessions we are pre-booking this time around. All other sessions will be on a first in/best dressed basis.
If I have to cancel for any reason, can I substitute someone else to attend in my place?
Yes! Please make sure we have this information as soon as possible so the new person can be included in the updates of information sent out on a regular basis during the lead up to the Conference.
Conference Registration Booking Conditions
Delegates with Special Needs
We endeavour to ensure delegates with special needs are catered for. Should you require particular assistance, please make a note of your requirements on your registration form, or contact the Conference Convenor by email on conference@spectronicsinoz.com or phone (07) 3808 6833. Reduced registration fees are available for any carers attending specifically to assist a delegate with a disability.
Changes/Amendments
Alterations to, or cancellations of your conference booking must be advised to the Conference Convenor via email at conference@spectronicsinoz.com or fax to (07) 3808 6108. Due to administrative requirements, changes and/or alterations advised verbally cannot be accepted.
Disclaimer
The conference registration and program information is correct at the time of printing. However, the organisers reserve the right to change the information where necessary without notice.
Liability Waiver
In the event of industrial disruptions, the Conference Committee, Spectronics and the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa accept no responsibility.
No Smoking Policy
All of the function rooms and accommodation at the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa are non-smoking.
Personal Insurance
Delegates shall be regarded in every aspect as carrying their own risk for loss or injury to person or property, including baggage during the conference. We strongly recommend that at the time of booking your travel and tours you take out a travel insurance policy of your choice. The policy taken should include the loss of deposit through cancellation, medical insurance, loss or damage to personal property, financial loss incurred through disruptions to accommodation or travel arrangements due to strikes or other industrial action. The organisers are in no way responsible for any claims concerning insurance.
Payment
An official Tax Invoice will be issued when payment is received. Payment must be received before you can attend the conference. Registration forms must be accompanied by full payment in order to be processed and for registration to be confirmed. Incorrect credit card numbers and declined credit are considered non-payments and registration will not take place. No registration will be accepted by phone.
Refund Policy
Please notify us in writing of any cancellations. Cancellations received before 2nd April 2010 will be refunded 90% of the amount paid. Cancellations received before 23rd April 2010 will be refunded 50%. After 23rd April 2010 there will be no refunds made. Please note that refunds will only be made after the conference. ‘No shows’ are non-refundable and are liable for the full registration fee. If you cannot attend, you may send a substitute person. The original registrant must submit a written authorisation for such a change.
Confirmation
You will receive confirmation of your registration immediately by email. You will also receive a Tax Invoice and receipt for your payment by post within ten days of payment clearance. Registrations close on Friday 21st May 2010.
Communication
If you have any problems or questions… please contact the Conference Convenor (Eliza Bale) at conference@spectronicsinoz.com or phone (07) 3808 6833 or fax (07) 3808 6108. Eliza, or other members of the enthusiastic Conference Committee will be very happy to assist with all queries!