ICMS Open Day Competition: See How Far They Got on $100!

ICMS students recently smashed a one-of-a-kind competition – to see how far they could get on $100 – to mirror the college’s Open Day tagline, “See How Far ICMS Will Get You.”

The challenge?

To see how far they could travel using only $100, relying on their networks and industry connections to find their way to distant destinations.

They had eight hours in which to complete their journey and could travel by public transport for a maximum two hours.

The “winner” of the competition will be announced at the ICMS Open Day taking place on 17 August at the ICMS Northern Beaches Campus.

@icmscampus How far would you get with just $100? #openday #icma #escape #ticketmaster ♬ original sound – ICMS

ICMS Student Got from Sydney to Fiji on a $100 Challenge

Standout contestant ICMS Bachelor of Hospitality Management student Jack Parsons showed true competitive spirit by using his contacts to go on an amazing trip to Fiji for the night.

Jack’s achievement was made possible with the assistance of Jules Miall from Tourism Fiji, showing the power of collaboration and strategic networking in achieving extraordinary outcomes.

“I felt his proposal, to head across to Fiji for a day was innovative,” Jules said.

She added that Jack proactively pitching his idea over the phone demonstrated his genuine nature and willingness to step out of his comfort zone for a project he believed in, showing his articulateness, passion, and enthusiasm.

“The competition was all about using your connections, thinking outside the box, and seeing how far you can get from ICMS in eight hours,” Jack said.

He reached out to a number of places before “literally googling Tourism Fiji ‘contact us’ and trying the Australia office phone number”.

“When Jules picked it up I gave her the rundown and she loved the idea. She spoke with the broader team, enlisting the social media and destination experience teams’ support. Within two hours Jules had confirmed Tourism Fiji’s support.”

Jules added: “Jack had a well-thought-out plan and outlined the benefits to the partners in becoming involved.”

By presenting tangible benefits and data to the potential partners, Jack effectively addressed the crucial question of “what is in it for me,” laying a strong foundation for future collaborations.

Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa embraced the opportunity to show off Fiji’s tourism potential, offering Jack a complimentary one-night stay, while additional support enabled him to secure his flight to Fiji, setting the stage for potential future partnerships between Tourism Fiji and ICMS.

“The networking experience I have gotten through ICMS and the opportunities available has given me the confidence to do this sort of thing,” Jack said.

“I absolutely love Fiji and have been multiple times. The experience with Tourism Fiji was ’10 Star’, and I thank them for that.”

“Not Fiji, but Still Impressive!” – ICMS Students Rise to the Challenge

Among the other participants, Lucas McKay and Finlay Magnus demonstrated exceptional determination by ending up in Morriset after an intense 6-hour run, conquering all challenges along the way to contribute 2900kms to the final score, resulting in an impressive total distance of 3,023kms.

Harry Jackson showed unwavering perseverance as he reached Katoomba after a grueling 7-hour bike ride, successfully completing all challenges and adding 2900kms to the total distance, culminating in an admirable 3,078kms traveled.

Sage Webb and Cassandra Borg opted for a high-flying strategy, jetting off to Byron Bay at the crack of dawn and returning on the same day. Their swift aerial adventure, combined with overcoming all challenges presented, added a significant 2900kms to the overall score, resulting in an astounding final distance of 3,669kms.

Fun competition a glimpse of what ICMS students can achieve

ICMS inspires its students to push boundaries, seize opportunities, and see just how far their education and connections can take them.

With over 1000 industry partners, ICMS promises students that “our network is your network“.

The teams’ collective success in all getting very far on $100 is testament to this!

The winner of the competition will be revealed at the ICMS Open Day 2024.

Register here to join us at the ICMS Open Day and see how far ICMS can get you.