+ TOUGH MUDDER SUNSHINE COAST 2013| 17 – 18 August 2013

The first Tough Mudder event for the Australian season was held on the Sunshine Coast over the weekend, drawing a crowd of over 30,000 people eager to be a part of the global phenomenon known as “probably the toughest event on the planet”.

Tough Mudder events are hardcore 20 km obstacle courses designed by British Special Forces to test the participants’ “all round strength, stamina, mental grit, and camaraderie”. Comprised of a series of intense obstacles such as the ‘Arctic Enema’, ‘Electroshock Therapy’ and ‘Boa Constrictor’, it’s not for the faint-hearted and makes for great spectator sport for those not game enough to take on the challenge.

COGS successfully bid for the chance to provide cleaning and waste management services at the event; including the recruitment, provision, training and management of all cleaning and waste disposal staff and the supply of all cleaning consumables, bins, skips, bulk waste containment facilities and transport services.

This event was a great opportunity to work with the Tough Mudder crew and to be a part of the Tough Mudder movement taking the world by storm.
For more information about the Tough Mudder series, visit www.toughmudder.com.au.

+ VENUE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION AFTER 5! FUNCTION | Friday 16 August 2013

COGS was well represented at the VMA After 5! Function held in the Medallion Club at Etihad Stadium last night. Guest speaker Mark Wright gave an interesting insight into the logistics of managing the catering services at Etihad Stadium and guests were treated to a preview of the sold out Inaugural Darts International Challenge.

This special display featured two of the world’s best players and record holders, Simon “The Wizard” Whitlock and Mark “The Asset” Nicholson (pictured above). Guests were given the opportunity to test their skills on the dartboard, however there was little success from the COGS team (with the exception of our resident darts champion, Darren Carter).



It was a great opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new connections with other members of the industry.

+ COGS NATIONAL CONFERENCE + ANNUAL TEAM CHALLENGE | Monday 29 July 2013

Our National Conference was held in Melbourne this year from 23 – 26 July, bringing together our leadership team from across the country. The Conference sessions ranged from personal development to strategic planning and the year in review.

Our Annual Team Challenge saw our teams split into pairs to participate in an Amazing Race inspired sprint across Melbourne. From St Kilda beach to China Town, our teams battled it out for victory and the coveted prizes. Despite a close race, the clear winners were Ken Mayes and Tom Mills, with Best on Ground awarded to Liz Bradford for her tenacious spirit and stamina throughout the challenge.