Australasian Leisure Management
Jun 14, 2023

The Calyx at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney hosts Australian Women in Business event

The Calyx at the Royal Botanic Garden was chosen by Mercedes-Benz Sydney to be the venue for their recent prestigious event celebrating the contributions of Australian women in business.

The Calyx welcomed 200 VIP guests for the annual seated luncheon hosted by sports media personality Erin Molan, who is also a passionate advocate for online safety. The event showcased an inspiring panel that underscored the exceptional accomplishments of Australian women in the business world.

Brenda Quach, Marketing Manager at Mercedes-Benz Sydney noted “the event has become an integral annual celebration and is regarded as an acknowledgement of the increasingly vital role that women play throughout the business community. The Calyx was a perfect setting for our luncheon with its Harbourside location, unique architecture, and lush surroundings.” 

Mercedes-Benz Sydney showcased their vehicles in the garden in front of The Calyx allowing guests to admire the cars as they networked on The Calyx’s outdoor terrace.    

Inside, The Calyx flawlessly combined its distinctive space made-up of over 18,000 plants - part of the current ‘Love Your Nature’ exhibition – into a stylish lunch experience.

The seamless integration of the stunning venue, vibrant greenery, and Mercedes-Benz's prestigious cars honoured the influential women of Australia, while reflecting Mercedes-Benz's reputation for excellence. 

The centerpiece for the day was a panel presented by racing driver Peter Hackett with Diane Tarr, Managing Director at Mercedes-Benz Vans in Australia and New Zealand, Ilka Fuerstenberger, Chief Executive of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Australia and Susan Butler, Dealer Principal at Mercedes-Benz Sydney who talked about their experiences in the automotive industry.

Botanic Gardens of Sydney Chief Executive, Denise Ora advised “The Calyx is renowned for hosting bespoke events that provide attendees with unforgettable experiences.   

“We’re truly honoured to have welcomed this amazing community to our iconic venue, as well providing a unique experience for Mercedes-Benz Sydney’s guests.”

Laissez-faire Catering, award-winning on-site culinary experts, crafted a unique menu for the attending guests including a burrata, heirloom tomato, green oil, aged balsamic glaze and basil for entrée. Mains included Chef’s favourites including pan-roasted barramundi with parsnip puree and a beef tenderloin with broccolini, potato gratin, parsnip chip and truffle jus.  

This was the first year The Calyx has created the event for Mercedes-Benz Sydney’s annual Women in Business Luncheon.

Image top: Australian women in business panel discussion; Image above: Mercedes-Benz Sydney showcased their vehicles in the garden in front of The Calyx allowing guests to admire the cars as they networked on The Calyx’s outdoor terrace; image above; The Calyx plant exhibition

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