Attracting scouts from across the world, the event took place near Appin, New South Wales and took place over a fortnight. The main arena's audio requirements were supplied by Sydney-based Loud and Clear, who specified a comprehensive main Alcons system comprising 24 LR14, eight LR14B and eight BF181, with two further LR14s as front-fills and six VR12 as stage monitors. The main system was powered by ALC2 and ALC4 amplifiers with DDP digital drive processors, with the monitors using a further ALC2 with DDP.
"It was a demanding job with many challenges," says Loud And Clear's David Betterridge. "On one night there was an official opening ceremony with 30-piece orchestra, 60-strong choir, DJs and roving video feeds with audio. Then, on the next, it was three high profile rock bands.
"There was also a cinema night, which involved placing some of the VR12s that were being used for band foldback into a surround sound setup, a comedy night, a Jamboree Idol singing contest and the closing ceremony plus the ubiquitous scout Gang Show."
All of this took place in the middle of the Australian bush, about 100km from Loud and Clear's Sydney HQ. "On top of that, it was the middle of summer. The weather definitely added a new level of challenge on a few days and nights," Betteridge adds.
Despite the immense challenges, the Alcons system delivered excellent sound quality throughout the main arena and elicited many positive comments from those present.
"The organisers and visiting FOH engineers from the bands all commented on how clean and clear the system was over such a large distance, especially considering that it has such a small profile," says Betteridge.
"I was so impressed that such a small PA covered such a large area. It doesn't have the insane power of a big concert rig, but it threw effortlessly to the very back and sides of the arena, with excellent vocal clarity and stereo imaging throughout. Everyone heard everything, all the time, which was a tough brief to fulfil, given the wide array of material and conditions it had to cope with."
(Jim Evans)
