Conference & Meetings World Issue 136 | Page 32

Perth

Where business innovation meets natural splendour months, the team has focused on building a nuanced understanding of the local and international business events market, strengthening communications with stakeholders like the Government of Western Australia and the City of Perth.

“ Approximately 80 % of all business events in Western Australia consist of routine corporate gatherings, such as board meetings, general meetings, and local business engagements,” says Martin.“ The remaining 20 % falls within‘ our’ core focus – the business events sector – where we actively bid to attract national and international conferences, exhibitions, and meetings to Western Australia.”
The state’ s Visitor Economy Strategy 2033 aims to grow tourism to A $ 25bn annually, and business events are central to that vision.
Perth
IAIN STIRLING IMMERSES HIMSELF IN THE BEAUTY, HERITAGE AND BUSINESS EVENTS APPEAL OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA’ S CAPITAL, PERTH

F ew cities strike a balance

between professional sophistication and raw natural beauty quite like Perth, Western Australia’ s capital. As someone who is well travelled, I have had the privilege of exploring countless destinations; my recent visit to Perth redefined my expectations of what a business events destination can be. Over three immersive days, I witnessed first-hand how Perth blends its strategic business events infrastructure with cultural authenticity, indigenous heritage, and jaw-dropping landscapes to create experiences that transcend traditional conferencing.
Strategic vision At the heart of Perth’ s business events success is a clearly articulated and wellexecuted
strategy. During a sit-down with Gareth Martin, CEO of local CVB Business Events Perth, I was introduced to a vision that goes far beyond standard tourism. The organisation has already secured an impressive A $ 250m in business events scheduled between now and 2028. According to Martin, the wider business events sector in Australia is valued at A $ 36bn, and Perth is fast claiming a larger share of that pie.
Business Events Perth’ s approach is rooted in strategic research and data-driven decisions. Over the past six
Left: Iain Stirling
gets up close and
personal with the
local quokkas
“ The Western Australia Visitor Economy Strategy 2033 aims to grow tourism to A $ 25bn annually, and business events are central to that vision.”
Day One: A cultural welcome in Swan Valley My own Perth journey began at the DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront – a hotel that offers immediate access to both the city’ s CBD and scenic attractions. The first day was a chance to explore the cultural richness and hospitality offerings of Swan Valley.
First stop was The Vines Resort, situated 25 minutes from Perth CBD, which offers a premier setting for business events. Its tranquil vineyard surroundings provide an ideal backdrop for conferences, meetings, and corporate retreats.
At Mandoon Estate, I was treated to an Indigenous Tasting Platter that introduced native ingredients and First Nations culinary heritage. Old Young’ s Kitchen & Distillery brought further delight, showcasing locally produced spirits and inventive dishes rooted in Western Australian produce.
The day culminated with a visit to Perth Zoo’ s The Maali, where wildlife conservation intersects with event hospitality. The zoo’ s event spaces, including a beautiful wooden deck surrounded by lush gardens,
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