AusBonsai

When and where is the show on the Gold Coast?

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It's on now and over the weekend but there are no walk ins - you had to register and pay long ago. From memory it's on at the QT ?

So there is no viewing for the general public? I unfortunately haven't got time for any of the demonstrations this weekend but can could steal a couple of hours to have a look at the trees on display.

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Shinkitai wrote:So there is no viewing for the general public? I unfortunately haven't got time for any of the demonstrations this weekend but can could steal a couple of hours to have a look at the trees on display.

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You should be able to visit the exhibition , just not attend any of the convention functions. This is usual at conventions.

Cheers Pup

I emailed ... was told that the display and sales area only are only accessible to registrants

It is because of the way it set up - there is no way to stop access to the demo areas and dining area from the display area.

That's a bugger, would have loved the chance to see some great trees

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That is disgusting, from an interested person who is on holiday cannot get to see what is on offer in Australia. We had people on the door to stop non registrants from entering areas they were not allowed to. With Hotel security as backup.

The Vendors will have a possible 400 people to buy their products, not all convention goers purchase because of luggage restrictions.

Not good.
Pup

I am in agreement, I was going to come done with two other people even if just for a day, but to not just be able to walk in..........RIDICULOUS.
How do we promote Australian bonsai if we won't let people in the door?

My sentiments precisely. Even members our local Gold Coast /Tweed Bonsai Club are not allowed to view the display trees at any price, or under any circumstances, unless you are a paid delegate. There might be legitimate reasons for this, but I see it as a missed opportunity for the organizers to make some add on money if they were to charge an entrance fee. I'm hoping that there won't be a 'no photographs allowed' policy in place as well, so that others who could not attend or couldn't afford to attend, can also at least view some pics of the display. .

I am new to Bonsai, but I hold a car show bi-annually. I can honestly say we make more on people coming through the gates than we do on entries!

In my opinion, it is a complete waste of time to hold something completely closed to the public. How do you raise awareness about our beautiful, artistic hobby? By showing people, letting them get a glimpse into the enjoyment and pride we have when we show off our trees. By giving them the chance to purchase their own Bonsai to start their new hobby. Very sad, and I hope the SA one next year isn't closed, as I hope to be able to attend. I doubt I will have anything near worth putting in the show but would like to have a look, get some ideas and talk to more experienced people.

Hackimoto wrote: I see it as a missed opportunity for the organizers to make some add on money if they were to charge an entrance fee. .

the missed opportunity is that only a few selct people that can afford to dedicate and pay for the entire weekend can see the trees and hopefully see the heights that Bonsai has obtained in Australia.

To hide that display away from Joe public and the less experience enthusiasts is to me a crime !
An opportunity lost to push people to attain better skills and thus trees is the big loser !

Ken

This is a copy, in part of the letter sent out to all members of our club. So be warned before you travel. It is very clear.

"People who do not have a booking will not be able to attend any part of the convention, neither will they be able to visit the trade tables or view the bonsai display, as the whole venue is now totally booked out.

The QT hotel staff has advised Lindsay Bebb that the entire hotel accommodation is also fully booked and they have recommended the nearest accommodation to them, the Mantra Sunray.

I just need to emphasize that the bonsai display will not be open to the general public, the only way to see the display is as a previously paid delegate."


End of quote.

I have a young family and my own business that takes up some weekends so could not attend, as it is I struggle to even get to club meetings but I am very interested in Bonsai still. To view high quality trees would inspire me and provide motivation that will keep me going in to the future when my time restraints ease. This was a wasted opportunity to plant seeds for future generations. I hope they learn from this and there is never a convention like this with a closed door policy again.

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I have just been speaking to one of the organizers and there are very good reasons for it not being open to non delegate members. There are 410 people at the convention and there simply isn't enough room for a lot of extra people in the space provided by the hotel. A similar thing happened at another convention overseas and the police had to be called as the crowds were out of control and items went missing etc. As disappointed as I am as well I do understand their situation regarding security and uncontrollable numbers. We will all see the trees that were on display on this site soon I am sure, as they have appeared on another forum already.