| ||||||||||||
|
In encouraging news for Victoria’s business events industry, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre is once again open for live events and experiences. Operating in line with the Victorian government’s Public Events Framework, the MCEC can now proceed under the following conditions: • A limit of 25 per cent of the venue’s seating capacity, with a maximum of 250 people seated. • A density limit of one person per four sqm in non-fixed seated areas. • No free-standing events for the time being. The venue has stated that event capacity will increase over time subject to public health advice, and in line with the framework and the future easing of restrictions. |
By Joyce DiMascio Today is the closing date for Expressions of Interest to Austrade for accessing the $50 million Business Events Grants Program, despite grant guidelines still being finalised. Industry sources have expressed concern that the process is unclear and complex and may not achieve the goal of stimulating the recovery of the business events sector. Following the announcement of the funding allocation in September, industry leaders have been advising the government on what criteria should be applied to maximise the effectiveness of the government investment. Dr Vanessa Findlay, chair of The Business Events Council of Australia (BECA) says creating an environment where business event owners are confident to plan, book and hold a business event is critical. She said that only then can the benefits flow across the economy. |
SkyCity Adelaide’s new $330 million entertainment precinct will open to the public this Thursday, December 3, 2020. Among its offerings are a five-star luxury hotel; Eos by SkyCity, which will feature 120 guest rooms; four new restaurants and bars and modern conference and event facilities with views of the Riverbank. The precinct’s MICE offerings will open in February 2021, and span level two of SkyCity. The state-of-the-art facilities will include SkyCity Ballroom with a capacity of 650, the Southwest Suite which can hold up to 80 guests and three executive boardrooms suitable for private meetings and breakout spaces. |
By Laura Bradley In recent months we’ve heard a lot about the hygiene measures hospitality brands have introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Last week, myself and other MICE media members witnessed an example first-hand. Gathering by the entrance to Marble Bar at Hilton Sydney, attendees at the Hilton EventReady with CleanStay media event learnt about Hilton CleanStay, the company’s health and safety protocols that were launched in July this year. A global program spanning its 18 brands, CleanStay sees hotels thoroughly disinfected with hospital-grade cleaning products, ensuring a safe guest experience from check-in to check-out. Continue reading here. |
Luna Park Sydney is set to undergo a $30 million refresh which will see updates to its rides and attractions. The venue will temporarily close between January and June 2021 for the refresh, with partners, suppliers and guests able to enjoy the uplift from the financial year 2022 onwards. Luna Park Sydney managing director Peter Hearne said that the venue’s functions, venues and events will continue as normal during this time. |
| subscribe The contents of this newsletter may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. Published by Business & Tourism Publishing Pty Ltd. Opinions expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily the opinions of the publisher. © Copyright Business & Tourism Publishing Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. | ||