For those who are considering attending the 2010 International Convention in Sydney, especially those attending an International Convention for the first time a few tips which I trust will help you plan your trip.
You can check for the latest information on the International Convention website however this is not specific to MD105.
Before you leave:
- Order your MD105 pins from the Pin Traders Club if you wish to take some to exchange as they will not be available for sale in Sydney.
- You need to pack your MD Parade uniform to participate in the judged section of the Parade which is Blue Blazer, grey flannels, white shirt and black shoes plus the parade tie available from MDHQ. A Parade scarf is available for the Ladies who if they also want to take part in the judged section will wear navy trousers and navy jacket, handbag and shoes to be black, white blouse. The white shirt and blouse have an embossed MD badge on the breast pocket and if you wish to purchase these special items please contact me and I will forward the details.
- For the B & I reception you will need formal dress. Tickets to the B & I Reception are to be issued to all delegates, there will be no charge. The dinner suit and uniform will be useful also should you be invited to any other receptions.
Before Convention:
A pre Convention briefing meeting which is planned for the Sunday evening prior to Convention, 19.00 – 20.00 at the Star City Hotel, the hotel where the District Governor Elects are staying. Here we shall convey any late information and discuss the Parade route and timing, when we shall be asking for volunteers to carry the flags and banner.
Monday is a good day to register for voting, LCI will provide instructions and Tuesday is the Parade.
On Wednesday for the opening plenary session most delegations dress in the parade uniform, although not compulsory it makes it easy to identify each other.
At the opening meeting the ICC will reserve a block of seats for the MD105 delegates and partners.
Thursday there is another plenary session however because of lower attendance it is not necessary to reserve seating.
In the evening from 21.00 – 24.00 the B & I Reception will take place again this is expected to be in the Star City. As most attendees will have eaten by the time they arrive we provide desserts and there will be a pay bar if required.
Friday is the final day and that is when, if you are a Club Delegate, you have the opportunity to vote. Voting starts from 7.00am and the ballot boxes are open until the business commences. Again seating is reserved for you with the other delegates.
The session culminates with the swearing in of the District Governors for 2010-2011 and marks the end of Convention, however there is usually the International Presidents reception in the evening which is free to all delegates, LCI will have details on their website, dress is formal or MD uniform. I trust the information is of assistance, should you need anything else please get in touch and if you are in Leeds for MD Convention we can have a chat.
For more information on Sydney go on to the website of our official travel agent, Citibond Travel.
Kind regards
PDG John Wood, International Convention Committee Chairman.
