Derrin Brown’s Post

Attending the 42nd Woolworths Carols in the Domain on Saturday night was a truly enchanting experience, bringing together thousands in a celebration of community and festive spirit. However, as a Senior Producer and Creative Alchemist with over 25 years in the live events industry, I am acutely aware of the inefficiencies and environmental impact associated with the current practice of constructing temporary infrastructure for such events. Each year, significant resources are allocated to erect and dismantle stages, seating, and facilities for the Carols. A 2011 report highlighted that outdoor concerts in The Domain cost 117% more than similar events in Melbourne, with estimated expenses for building stages, fencing, and temporary facilities around $730,000 per event. This repetitive cycle is not only financially burdensome but also environmentally detrimental, contributing to waste and increased carbon emissions. The solution seems evident: the installation of a permanent outdoor stage in Sydney. The Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne, established in 1959, stands as a testament to the enduring benefits of such infrastructure. Designed by architect Barry Patten, this venue features a tensile structure with a free-form roof, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. Its capacity includes 2,030 fixed seats and accommodates up to 10,000 attendees on the lawn. Its design has successfully hosted countless events, providing a consistent venue that reduces the need for temporary constructions. Implementing a similar permanent structure in Sydney would: Enhance Efficiency: Eliminate the recurring costs and labor associated with temporary setups. Reduce Et: Minimise waste and lower carbon footprints by avoiding repetitive construction and deconstruction. Improve Audience Experience: Offer better facilities and acoustics, elevating the overall event quality. Given the clear advantages, it is perplexing why this practice of temporary infrastructure persists. Investing in a permanent stage is not merely an option but a necessity for the sustainable and efficient future of Sydney's vibrant event scene. As professionals dedicated to creating impactful and community-centered events, we must advocate for infrastructure that supports our goals of sustainability and excellence. We must break the status quo cycle #TheMandalaSocial #CriticalThinking #Creativity #Innovation #EventProfs #SustainableEvents #EventManagement #EventPlanning #EventIndustry #LiveEvents #CommunityEngagement #SydneyEvents #PermanentStage #EnvironmentalSustainability #CulturalInfrastructure