DESTINATION
More Aussie art than anywhere else
Melbourne is home to more than 100 art galleries and with a
mix of independently owned hole-in-the-wall studios and
expansive art museums, the city is a haven for all things art.
If your conference-goers are the arty type, or you think they
could use some creative inspiration, then look no further
than the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia.
The gallery has more home-grown and indigenous art on
display than anywhere else on the planet. More than 20,000
works call the Ian Potter Centre home, and up to 800 are on
display at any one time. It’s the perfect place for guests—
particularly international delegates—to experience the full
breadth and depth of Aussie art. Also, general admissions are
completely free.
A spooky step back in time
Above Ian Potter Centre, NGV Australia
Above Chadstone, the ‘fashion capital’
j time. The gorgeous mountain range is a popular spot for
bushwalkers, birdwatchers, mountain bikers and wedding
parties alike. With activities for every type of group, The
Dandenong is a must-see for the outdoorsy delegates—plus,
who could go past a ride through the bush in a fully-
functioning steam train called ‘Puffing Billy’?
Shopaholic’s dream
Melbourne’s sense of style doesn’t stop at the street art. An
observant visitor will spot that a good number of people
living in the culture capital look pretty sharp, too. Fine cut
jackets and stylish shoes have become a cornerstone of
Melbourne’s identity, naming it one of the fashion capitals of
the world.
If you want your delegates to feel a part of the dapper
crowd, then you’re in luck. The southern hemisphere’s
largest shopping centre is just around the corner. Chadstone,
the ‘fashion capital’, is home to more than 550 stores and 85
luxury brands that are sure to help your guests sharpen their
look. The centre caters specifically for corporate groups with
goodie-bags and a ‘passport’ packed with exclusive deals.
34 Chief of Staff | Issue 1 2020
Melbourne’s ‘most feared place’ since 1845, the Old
Melbourne Gaol, runs tours of the now-retired prison,
featuring visits to the cells that held some of Australia’s most
notable criminals—including one Ned Kelly.
The gaol is conveniently located just two minutes’ walk
from Melbourne Central Station, so a quick tour can be
squeezed in to break up a day of conferencing with ease.
The goal also offers night-tours and interactive experiences,
so you can add a spooky evening to the end of a day’s
networking to really seal your delegates’ connections.
With over 4,300 hotel rooms available, free tram travel
in the CBD and a huge number of conference venue options
available, Melbourne is a conference organiser’s dream.
But the icing on Melbourne’s conferencing cake are the
experiences it has on offer for delegates. The few listed
here are just a taste of the many adventures in the city.
Scratch the surface a bit more and you’ll find something for
conferences of any shape or size; in the culture capital the
only limit to your event is your imagination. S
Bring your vision to life
in Victoria Pavilion
Plan your next event at Melbourne’s newest, most dynamic event
space. Conveniently located just seven kilometres from the Melbourne
CBD, Victoria Pavilion offers the flexibility to host any event from
awards presentations, gala dinners and cocktail functions through to
tradeshows, conferences and exhibitions.
Opportunities to activate are limitless in this stunningly modern
venue, featuring a pillar-less 1,920 square metre event space, complete
with state-of-the-art sound and lighting. The venue also boasts a 595
square metre naturally lit atrium accented by exposed timber beams
that will undoubtedly impress your guests on arrival.
Completing the package at Victoria Pavilion are the food and
beverage offerings, designed to showcase the best produce Australia
has to offer. Led by Executive Chef, Neil Rocke, the team behind the
Australian Food Awards are committed to delivering tailored premium
dining experiences to complement any event.
Let us bring your vision to life. Our friendly, professional and
dedicated team will be on hand to create an unforgettable event.
www.melbourneshowgrounds.com