Case Study

Key Deliverables 

Pre-Event Planning

• Developing strategic project timelines ensuring seamless execution from end-to-end. 
• Coordination of and engagement with key stakeholders to align event objectives. 

Programming  

• Event programming across four stages, with a mix of entertainment performances, demonstrations and workshops. 

Marketing and Communication

• Community engagement initiatives aimed at involving the community, promoting inclusivity and encouraging participation. 
•  Targeted outreach to over 100 community groups to encourage local engagement. 
• Specific communication approaches to better connect with CALDs (Communities that’re Culturally and Linguistically Diverse). 

Vendor Coordination  

• Streamlining the collaboration with exhibitors and vendors to guarantee successful integration to the event. 

Festival Logistics & Site Management

• Site Design & Layout: Strategically positioning activation zones and entertainment stages along with vendor stalls and audience areas while also considering entry and exit points. 
• Infrastructure Setup: Supervising the placement of marquees and stages as arranging for barriers and seating, as well as distribution of utilities  
• Wayfinding & Signage: Coordination of efficient and clear directional and informational signage 
• Accessibility Planning: Ensuring the festival is accessible and inclusive. 
• Implementation of sustainability-focused waste management strategies to align with environmentally responsible practices. 
• Traffic and pedestrian management: Coordination of traffic management plans, parking management and pedestrian access 
• Risk Management and Event Safety: Creating and executing safety plans for events while coordinating with emergency services and overseeing compliance to ensure that all suppliers and vendors adhere to safety and operational regulations. Ensuring compliance with all risk management protocols and occupational health and safety standards as other relevant legal obligations such as Australian Standards and Worksafe regulations along with Council Policies, like the Safe Events Policy and approval procedures. 

Brand Activations & Sponsorship: 

• Successfully securing sponsorship support to maintain and expand the festival. 
• Working together with sponsors to create brand experiences that elevate the festival interaction and enhance attendee enjoyment. 

 Program Highlights 

• Festival Activations & Entertainment The Maroondah Festival offers a range of entertainment and cultural experiences in activation areas to cater to a diverse audience, within the community. 
• Main Arena – High-energy performances and headline acts 
• Cultural Area – Showcasing diverse cultural traditions and artistic talent through cooking demonstrations and performances. 
• Fun & Fitness Arena – Interactive sporting and wellness activities 
• Kids Kingdom – Family-friendly entertainment and activities 
• Youth Area – Engaging experiences tailored for younger festival-goers 

Challenges Overcome 

• Successfully managing a large-scale outdoor festival presents various logistical hurdles to overcome effectively. Fruitbowl Events has shown problem-solving skills in handling challenges consistently over time. 
• Coordinating 250+ vendors and exhibitors to ensure smooth operations 
• Dealing with unpredictable weather circumstances through planning. 
• Ensuring seamless event flow and crowd management for over 30,000 attendees 
• Overseeing the establishment of infrastructure and ensuring safety standards are met in all areas. 

Results & Impact 

Through our expertise in event management, sponsorship acquisition, and community engagement, the Maroondah Festival continues to be a thriving as a celebration of culture and community connections. Fruitbowl Events remains dedicated to delivering high-quality, inclusive, and engaging experiences year after year.