dreamworld's dream challenge
Corporations around Australia are using Dreamworld’s magical backdrop to take part in one of the most exciting team challenges in the country. And with more than 40 thrill rides and attractions in the theme park, the most popular team building activity to date is the Dream Challenge, a two hour contest that pits delegates against each other in a ‘pace around the world’ scenario.
Designed for groups from six to 100, with the average size of around 20, the Dream Challenge has captivated some of the biggest brands in the country from the banking, travel and sport. It is pitched as an ice-breaker to a day’s outing that also includes a banquet lunch with awards ceremony and an afternoon relaxing in Dreamworld.
The Challenge begins when delegates are met by a Dreamworld facilitator at the main entry gates and escorted to the Dream Bowl (stage). There they are issued with a “Challenge Pack”. Rules are explained – with appeals for bribery from the fun-loving facilitators – before teams of three to six people are released into the park.
In a nutshell, teams are given 50 challenges, with each successful challenge earning a number of points that vary depending on the level of difficulty. Some challenges have cryptic clues requiring brain power, while others demand proof of completion especially of the more “hairy” rides like the world’s tallest free-fall, the Giant Drop, at the top of which is a critical answer. The most unusual challenge, however, is for teams to busk before a park audience. .
Dreamworld’s General Manager of Sales, Ms Angela Slater said the Dream Challenge is a year round event, although June and July are historically the most popular periods when regional managers group together for a day of budgets and planning followed by a stress busting day at Dreamworld.
She added that one day events from interstate corporations are also in demand with Sydney currently the most important source market.
“Sydney is an hour away from us and given the frequency of flights to both Brisbane and Gold Coast Airports, it means delegates can fly in and out in one day, providing an away- from-home WOW experience without incurring high costs for accommodation.”
When asked why an interstate corporate group would not opt for a similar activity in their own back yard, Ms Slater said, “Because this place is energizing. Dreamworld has an electric atmosphere and from the moment delegates go through the park gates, they can’t help but have a great time.
“Of course all team building activities are fun, but this one has a magical backdrop and literally hundreds of things to do. It’s the best place to be when you’ve got a new team trying to get on with each other.”
The response to the Corporate Challenge has been overwhelming.
“We had one corporation who brought their new sales teams to the park to improve team morale. They were so delighted with the program they have since followed up with networking event for their clients.”
Ms Slater said it’s interesting watching the delegate’s personalities while they are under pressure to succeed.
“The business analysts are cut throat. They go into the park with a pre-planned strategy while the sales specialists just go all out to win at all costs, even if that means cheating.
“I’ve had one Sales Director demand we rig the outcome. He was emphatic and said that as the person footing the bill he wanted his team to take the crown. It turned out that he was bluffing. But it goes to show how focused they can be.”
Dreamworld and WhiteWater World Events can be contacted on (07) 5588 1111 or log onto www.dreamworld.com.au
