When SMC re-opens in May 2019, the much loved 20th century landmark will have received a 21st century technology boost. The installation of world class audio visual systems and ICT infrastructure is backed by unparalleled in-house technical expertise. AV and technology expertise is close to General Manager Paul Davison’s heart. Paul led the Technical Production and AV team at SCEC (now ICC Sydney) for ten years and was honoured in the MEA Hall of Fame as part of the Best In House Audio Visual Team 2010, 2011, 2012. Paul says you can expect a new standard in integrated technology and support that delivers outstanding results for clients with unprecedented peace of mind for event organisers”.
“We are also excited to announce the appointment of Paul Noakes as the new Audio Visual Services Manager here at SMC. Paul brings a wealth of experience from the corporate and cruise line industry where he has worked extensively as a Production Manager, Event Staging Manager and Audio Engineer. Paul’s expertise and passion for everything AV is a coup for SMC, our clients and guests.
The upgraded capabilities include integrated large scale projection facilities, world class audio and public address systems, intelligent architectural and theatrical lighting systems and all the outboard equipment that ties these elements together.
PROJECTION
In the Grand Lodge and Banquet Hall, the installation of new Panasonic 12,000 lumen laser light source data projectors deliver crystal clarity, brightness and resolution that is ideal for video and film screenings as well as all highlighting the granular detail in speakers’ presentations.
AUDIO
Throughout the building, new digital mixing consoles, concert quality Martin Audio public address systems, wireless microphone technology and lecterns are all welcome improvements for presenters and performers.
Hearing assistance has also been augmented throughout the venue via wired hearing loops and infrared assisted listening systems.
LIGHTING
A newly installed intelligent architectural lighting system allows for lights to be easily and precisely programmed for different functions. Perimeter RGB shadow lighting allows for different colour combinations and mood lighting states. Importantly, feature walls are augmented with gallery-style wall washer lights that highlight artworks and exhibition content. House lighting throughout the foyers and meeting rooms has been upgraded to second generation LEDs for improved light output and energy efficiency. When SMC re-opens, event organisers will simply use touch screens to select options to light their presenters and performers, add stage washes and special effects as well as change the room ambience. Depending on the style of each event, and if needed, SMC’s AV technicians can also control all lighting from one central location.
RIGGING AND SPECIAL EFFECTS
New rigging infrastructure provides added flexibility and the advantage of quick turnarounds when re-setting rooms for different styles of events. A motorised truss in the Banquet Hall and new centrally placed ceiling motors allow for rigging special effects including giant chandeliers and mirror balls. These staging devices and capabilities mean that event organisers have the option to restyle the same room from conference mode to gala mode with ease and efficiency.
According to General Manager Paul Davison, this technology minimises the need for extra labour and provides a cost-effective scenario for event planners when required. “What used to be a four hour job that involved hiring a scissor lift and contracting external technicians with rigging licences is now a half hour in-house option without the extra costs.”
INTERNET CONNECTIVITY
When it comes to online access, SMC recognises fibre-optic internet connection as the industry standard. Taking this standard seriously, SMC has invested in an enterprise level fibre-optic backbone and has the capability of providing fast, secure connections reaching speeds of up to 500 mpbs both up and down, and can accommodate private premium networks. This is ideal for live streaming and delegates making use of digital applications and social media. SMC also offers free Wi-Fi throughout the entire venue for guests and a cabled in connection in every room. Event organisers simply select a connectivity plan to suit their requirements.
Whatever the emphasis and creative composition of your event, SMC is now technologically equipped to deliver events aligned with your strategic goals and convey the messages you want to get across.
