Planning a community event and not sure where to start (or how to keep it on track)?

This practical, full-day workshop will help you build the confidence, tools, and templates to plan, budget, deliver and review a successful event, whether you’re running a small local activation or a large community celebration. Through guided discussions, real-world examples and hands-on activities, you will work through the full life cycle of a community event, from concept and planning through to delivery, safety, budgeting and post-event evaluation. The workshop combines practical event operations knowledge with a strong focus on financial planning, risk management, and working effectively with councils and stakeholders.

Whether you are new to event management or looking to strengthen existing processes, this workshop will equip you with practical tools, templates and a clear structure you can apply to your next event.

The workshop is delivered by Up-to-date Consultancy, led by Andy Glen, Chloe Head and Sue Edwards, who bring deep experience from a local government events perspective.

Key focus areas of the workshop:

    • Defining Your Event: Clarify purpose, objectives, audience, stakeholders, and evaluation to build a strong foundation.
    • Planning & Documentation: Learn practical tools such as management plans, run sheets, and timelines to simplify logistics and reduce risk.
    • Working with Local Government & Compliance: Understand council processes, permits, licences, approvals, and early engagement strategies.
    • Financial & Volunteer Management: Develop skills in budgeting, sponsorship, grants, and recruiting, briefing, and supporting volunteers.
    • Safety, Risk & Emergency Planning: Identify hazards, manage risks, and ensure the safety of staff, volunteers, and attendees.
    • Evaluation & Continuous Improvement: Learn how to measure event outcomes, capture feedback, and use insights to strengthen future events.
Register here

Eligibility

This workshop is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:

  • You live, work, or identify with the Barossa, Gawler, Light or Adelaide Plains region.

  • You are 18 years of age or over.

  • You have a strong interest in community events, whether as a volunteer, organiser, committee member or supporter.

  • You are keen to strengthen your skills, build confidence, and learn practical approaches to planning and managing community events.

  • You bring a diverse background and perspective, and your lived experiences are welcomed and valued. This includes diversity of ability, age, race, gender, culture, and economic background.

This workshop encourages participation from people at all stages of their event journey and values the shared learning that comes from diverse community voices.

Key details

Date: Friday, 13 March 2026
Time: 9.30am to 5.00pm
Where: Novotel Barossa Valley Resort, Barossa Valley Way, Rowland Flat SA 5352, Australia

Cost: Tickets are $35 plus a booking fee.
Discounts and eligibility may vary by council, so we recommend contacting your council directly before booking (See FAQs for details).

  • Registration closes: 4 March 2026, unless sold out prior.

The workshop is provided by RDA BGLAP and proudly sponsored by event partner Light Regional Council.

Register here

Who is this workshop designed for?

This workshop is designed for anyone involved in planning or delivering community events, including community groups, volunteer committees, not-for-profits, sporting clubs, and council-supported event organisers. It is suitable for both new event organisers and those with experience who want to strengthen their planning, safety, budgeting and compliance processes.

Do I need prior event management experience to attend?

No. This workshop is suitable for beginners through to experienced organisers. The content starts with the fundamentals of understanding your event and builds through planning, safety, budgeting and evaluation. Experienced organisers will benefit from refreshed frameworks, updated compliance guidance and practical tools they can apply to future events.

What will I walk away with at the end of the day?

You will leave with a clearer understanding of how to plan and manage a community event from start to finish, plus a practical workbook you can use as a reference for future events. The workshop focuses on real-world application, helping you feel more confident, organised and prepared to deliver safe, sustainable events.

Is catering included in the ticket price?

Yes. Your ticket includes full-day catering, covering morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea, as well as a workbook for every attendee. Please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.

See details about council supported registrations.

Subsidised registrations are available for residents of participating councils:

  • Town of Gawler residents: Use access code GAWLER20 at checkout to access Gawler-specific pricing
  • Light Regional Council residents: Please contact sharwood@light.sa.gov.au to discuss available discounts or rebates.
How to Lead and Manage Community Events