Last week’s Steadfast Convention in Melbourne contained some program “experiments” that will probably be included in next year’s Adelaide event, Convention Chairman Greg Stewart says.

“We tried breakout sessions for the first time this year, and that worked well, “ he told insuranceNEWS.com.au. “We were a little worried that the concept might not appeal, but most of the breakout sessions were packed.”

He says the shortening of the program, made possible by cutting out a closed session for members on the Saturday, also got the thumbs-up from delegates.

“Starting on the Sunday and finishing on Tuesday night gave it all a fresh feel,” Mr Stewart said. “It also gave people a chance to travel to Melbourne on the Saturday.

“I think the shortened program will probably be a feature of future conventions.”

Around 2500 people attended the convention, a significant number of them holding day passes. “It added to the atmosphere, and most of the events were packed.”

The exhibition was “also one of our biggest”, and the social events were sold out well before the convention.

Next year’s Steadfast Convention will be held at the Adelaide Convention Centre from April 18-21.