Team Melbourne on the knowledge
Melbourne Convention Bureau chief executive Julia Swanson tells CMW how the city is looking forward to showing it is back in business for events
he business events sector is currently undergoing a transition period as it builds back momentum and finds a new operating rhythm for 2022 .
Melbourne is particularly excited for the return of signature events of the Australian Open , Grand Prix in early 2022 and the Asia Pacific Incentive Meetings Event ( AIME ).
AIME 2022 will be a significant recovery platform for the business events industry in Victoria and an opportunity to show the world that Melbourne is back .
We ’ ll see more international business events by mid-2022 , including the World Baristas Championship and World Brewers Cup in July . has put us in good stead as we responded quickly to rapidly changing market conditions .
We ’ ve had success with 70 % of events due to take place rescheduled to future years . This success can be attributed to our partner venues , accommodation and event service providers , being flexible with cancellation policies and working to accommodate postponements and international event rotation cycles .
MCB has undergone significant digital transformation – including virtual site inspections , livestreaming and digital bid platforms – to ensure clients can keep promoting their meetings and plan their event in Melbourne with confidence .
Interest out of Asia for small-medium groups is increasing and we expect this market to return quickly once air access is established .
Importantly , the city-wide conventions of Rotary 2023 and Lions 2024 are still moving forward with their planning and we appreciate the support of our MCB partners for these mega events .
Infrastructure and innovation
Melbourne ’ s infrastructure paves the way for highly successful business events , with world-leading conference facilities and venues , excellent connectivity , quality accommodation and unique wow-factor experiences .
The city has always been an innovator in the events space , and with so much being accessible by foot , our compact city is easy to navigate . It invites delegates to discover its creative culture , expressed in its food , fashion , events , arts and music scene . Or for those wanting to explore further afield , the unique natural beauty of regional Victoria is just a short trip away .
Our holistic ‘ Team Melbourne ’ approach and the relationships we have built with our clients and the business events supply chain over 50 years of operation
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