Client Overview
A leading environmental advocacy organisation sought to host their annual three-day conference at Sydney Masonic Centre, with a specific focus on sustainability. Central to their vision was a requirement for the event to be carbon-neutral and therefore entirely vegetarian.
This case study highlights how SMC delivered an event that not only met but exceeded the client’s expectations, particularly in providing a diverse and satisfying vegetarian menu that underscored the event’s sustainable ethos.
Event Goals and Challenges
The primary objectives were:
- To minimize the event’s carbon footprint
- To deliver a diverse and appealing vegetarian menu that catered to a wide range of tastes
- To ensure all other sustainable practices we have already implemented for all other events complemented the vegetarian-focused event
The key challenges involved:
- Crafting a vegetarian menu that would appeal to a diverse group of attendees with different dietary preferences
- Ensuring that the vegetarian offerings were varied and satisfying enough to be the centrepiece of the conference’s sustainability efforts
- Aligning all venue operations with the overarching goal of sustainability while highlighting the vegetarian aspect
Planning and Execution
- Vegetarian Menu Design
The heart of the event’s sustainability was the carefully curated vegetarian menu. SMC’s catering team worked meticulously to design a menu that not only met the client’s requirements but also showcased the creativity and variety possible within vegetarian cuisine. Locally sourced ingredients were chosen to further minimize the event’s environmental impact.
Highlights included:
- Daily Rotating Menus: Each day featured different cuisines, from Italian to Asian and Middle Eastern, ensuring variety and excitement for attendees
- Fresh Salads: A wide range of vibrant salads was offered, providing a fresh, nutritious option at each meal
- Morning and Afternoon Tea: Savory and sweet selections such as Zucchini & Haloumi Fritter, Pastel de Nata, and Chocolate & Vanilla Custard Cannoli delighted guests throughout the day
- Warm Entrees: Satisfying dishes like Eggplant Moussaka, Roast Beetroot & Ricotta Ravioli, and Vegetable Noodle Stir Fry with Broccoli & Crispy Tofu were served, highlighting the richness of vegetarian cuisine.
- Desserts: To conclude each meal, guests enjoyed decadent desserts like Flourless Nutella Cake, Matcha Tiramisu, and Baklava, proving that vegetarian options can be both indulgent and environmentally friendly.
- Complementary Sustainable Practices
While the vegetarian menu took centre stage, SMC ensured that other sustainable practices seamlessly complemented the event:
- Waste Management: Recycling stations were strategically placed throughout the venue, encouraging attendees to minimize waste and further enhancing the event’s eco-friendly atmosphere
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Event materials were made from recycled or sustainable sources, with digital options favoured to reduce paper waste
- Transportation: The client arranged a shuttle bus service to transport guests to another venue for a dinner event, reinforcing the commitment to sustainability
Outcome
The conference was a remarkable success, attracting over 160 attendees who praised the event for its sustainability and, notably, the exceptional vegetarian cuisine. The variety and quality of the vegetarian offerings were widely commended, demonstrating that a focus on plant-based meals can be both satisfying and environmentally responsible.
Key Takeaways
Culinary Excellence: SMC’s ability to create a diverse and flavourful vegetarian menu was key to the event’s success, showcasing the potential of plant-based cuisine as a centrepiece of sustainable events
Integrated Sustainability: The vegetarian focus was supported by a range of eco-friendly practices, reinforcing the event’s overall commitment to the environment
Collaboration: Close coordination with the client ensured that the event’s goals were met, particularly in delivering a menu that aligned with the client’s mission
This case study highlights SMC’s expertise in hosting events that not only meet but exceed sustainability goals, with a particular focus on providing high-quality vegetarian cuisine as an integral part of the event experience.
Sydney Masonic Centre
66 Goulburn Street Sydney NSW 2000
Tel +61 2 9284 2888
