Nutrition research and innovations were on the menu in Sydney when the city welcomed the world’s leading dieticians, nutritionists and nutrition science researchers for the 16th International Congress of Dietetics (ICD) 2012.

With assistance from New South Wales’ (NSW) convention bureau, and Business Events Sydney (BESydney), Australia’s peak body and professional member association for nutrition, Dieticians Association of Australia (DAA), bid and secured the high-profile congress.

Attracting over 2,200 delegates from 60 countries, the 2012 congress marked the first time the international event had been held in Australia in over 35 years.

Feedback met the tick of approval

Claire Hewat, CEO, DAA said topics covered by the congress spanned nutrition challenges for developing countries, international food policy, food security, childhood obesity and nutrition for an ageing population, as well as innovative findings in nutrition research, including eating for sun protection.

“ICD 2012 was an innovative, progressive and dynamic event, set against one of the most beautiful backdrops in the world,” says Hewat.

Delegates agreed that the congress’ large attendance and diverse program had enabled them to make valuable international professional connections. Many research collaborations are also reported to have resulted, leaving a long lasting legacy beyond the closing ceremony of the congress.

The event was also deemed a success from a sponsorship perspective, with local and international exhibitors providing overwhelmingly positive feedback, stating that the event facilitated increased product awareness.

This feedback reflects the findings of the study BESydney commissioned into events held in Sydney. The bureau’s Beyond Tourism Benefits study shone a spotlight on the diverse and valuable benefits that business events could offer delegates, sponsors and exhibitors, local associations and industries, and cities.

The study revealed 95 per cent of delegates agreed that conferences fostered networking by physically bringing people together to share new knowledge and ideas, whilst 76 per cent agreed that conferences led to networking that resulted in the generation of ideas that drive future research agendas.