The Venue Zone Blog

If you are looking for a destination with ‘the lot’ why not consider a Sydney conference venue for your next big event.  This exciting city with it’s magnificent harbour and spectacular views boasts many fabulous sites and activities in a very concentrated area. Here is just a taste:
·         The vibrant restaurant, food and wine culture in Sydney will leave you in no doubt about the prized position the city has on the world culinary stage.  You will be spoilt for choice with every cuisine preference and style of dining catered for.
·          Sydney’s glittering nightlife is both vibrant and dynamic and the city has a reputation for excellence when it comes to hosting international entertainment. Be sure to enquire with a conference centre in Sydney about the current selection of world class acts to delight your delegation.
·         Taronga Zoo is located just 12 minutes from the city by ferry, across the world’s most spectacular harbour, this award winning zoo is a Sydney experience not to be missed.
·         Take a stroll around Circular Quay and watch those zany buskers and if time allows, continue on to the historic Rocks area, the site of the first colonial settlement. Shadowed by the spectacular Sydney Harbour Bridge and overlooking the famous sails of the Opera House, the Rocks is now home to many colourful characters, artists and residents.
·         For a little adventure, be sure to schedule some time for a Bridge Climb or perhaps to climb the Sydney Tower. At double the height of Sydney Harbour Bridge and the same height as the Eiffel Tower, this is a unique high-altitude adventure where you can experience an exhilarating outdoor walk on the roof of the city.
·         Shopping in Sydney is world class and those visiting Sydney shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to indulge.  You may fancy  the architecturally splendid Queen Victoria Building which houses more than 180 of Sydney’s finest shops and cafes, Oxford Street, Paddington where boutiques showcase some of Sydney’s best know designers and international brands or Double Bay for the cream of Australian designs.  Maybe antiques are your thing, if so, pay a visit to Woollahra or if you’d like something a little more casual, there are markets aplenty in Sydney.
·         Fox Studios makes for a fun afternoon, with fascinating tours into the world of movie magic
·         Darling Harbour is home to IMAX Theatre, Paddleboats, Sydney Aquarium, National Maritime Museum, Powerhouse Museum, The Outback Centre and the Chinese Garden of Friendship so you will be sure to find something to suit all tastes here.
From a picnic at Rushcutters Bay Park to a cruise on the harbour or an afternoon basking on Bondi Beach, Sydney is the ideal destination and will set a new bench mark in your company for the ultimate corporate event.  Contact a Sydney conference centre today.

If the vision you have for a successful conference includes magnificent scenery, national history and culture or action packed adventure then make sure you contact a conference centre in Darwin to discuss the unique opportunities that exist in the magnificent ‘top end’. The tropical capital of the Northern Territory has the youngest population of any capital in Australia and has a distinctly optimistic feel. A relaxed outdoor lifestyle and warm weather all year round adds to this positive vibe.
Wildlife and National Parks – Positioned on a peninsula, surrounded by sea, Darwin is a great base to explore the natural attractions of Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Park or the World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park. The rugged beauty of the Northern Territory is legendry and the parks certainly showcase this beauty with it’s crystal blue waters, cascading waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife. A trip to the Territory Wildlife Park on 400 hectares of natural bushland, showcases native flora and fauna and is also popular attraction as is the Bachelor Butterfly Farm, where you can explore the colourful butterfly sanctuary, meet the guinea pigs, rabbits and fish.
Looking for some excitement – You have come to the right place with brilliant opportunities to feel the adrenalin rush. Join a fishing charter and experience the thrill of open sea fishing or perhaps the ultimate in sports fishing, landing a Barramundi from the healthy population in Darwin Harbour. If crocodiles are your fascination then you should consider a visit to either Crocodylus with it’s 1000 plus crocodiles up to 16 feet in length, Crocosaurus Cove with an underwater viewing section in a unique two-storey aquarium or The Jumping Crocodiles Cruise where you will encounter up close, these massive reptiles leaping vertically out of the river to grab their supper.
Markets – On the weekend, visit the famous open air markets that are scattered throughout the city. Mindil Markets is the most famous of these with food stalls from more than 30 different countries,200 art and craft stalls and performances by a variety of musicians, artists and bush poets. With a tropical feel and beautiful sunset, a memorable evening is assured.
Culinary Melting Pot – Many nationalities make up Darwin’s 100,000 population, including the area’s traditional landowners, the Larrakia Aboriginal people. The cultural and culinary benefits of such a melting pot are best experienced at Darwin’s weekly markets and variety of restaurants. Annual festivals and other Darwin events also present a rich collaboration of exotic cuisine. Indulge at local restaurants serving dishes from all over the world in addition to the authentic Northern Territory cuisine of Mud Crabs, Barramundi, buffalo, kangaroo and crocodile. From an al fresco meal to silver service fine dining, you can enjoy a balmy evening with spectacular harbour views. Cullen Bay is a very popular spot to dine or for a really casual feel, why not consider a platter of freshly caught local seafood at Stokes Hill Wharf.
Nightlife – Celebrate another day of successful conferencing enjoying the electric atmosphere of the nightclubs and pubs that dominate Darwin’s nightlife hub on Mitchell Street, try your luck at the casino on Mindil Beach or kick back in style under the starry skies at Deck Chair Cinemas. With a canvas deckchair, a drink from the licenced bar, your fish and chips or snacks from the kiosk, you’ll be in ‘Top End’ heaven.
Historical Sightseeing – Be sure to ask the staff at a Darwin conference centre Read the rest of this entry »

The eclectic mix of  historic and cutting edge, local and international, arts and sports all existing side by side makes  Melbourne conference centres highly sort after as a destination for corporate events. This vibrant city offers visitors a rich and diverse range of memorable experiences.  These are a few of our favourites:

For a glimpse of yester-year why not visit the Old Melbourne Gaol. 135 of Victoria’s most notorious criminals, including Ned Kelly were hung here and exhibits provide a wonderful insight into gaol life in the early 1900’s.

Melbourne’s Federation square with it’s spectacular architecture has been embraced by the people as true representation of their city and is home to the Melbourne Visitors Centre, Australian Racing Museum and Hall of Fame, the Ian Potter Centre as well as a range of exciting cafes, bars and restaurants.  Strolling around the Southbank and Southgate Arts and Leisure precinct also makes for a wonderful outing. Stretching along the southern bank of the Yarra River, Southbank has recently been rejuvenated as the heartbeat of the central city area. It is Melbourne’s main entertainment focal point and is dotted with upmarket shops, restaurants and trendy cafes. Outdoor eating and sidewalk entertainment is a delightful emphasis in this relaxed environment. Further along the southern bank you will come across the Crown Entertainment Complex which is also big on restaurants and shops and is home to the casino.  Further again is the Melbourne Exhibition Centre.

Be sure to make a little time for some shopping while in Melbourne.  For that unique fashion purchase, make your way to the iconic Chapel Street precinct. From the internationally acclaimed to the funkiest young designers, you’ll find all their exciting creations along with designer giftware stores and restaurants of culinary excellence. If something a little more casual is your thing, a visit to the atmospheric Queen Victoria Market is a must. Said to be the southern hemisphere’s largest open-air market, it offers a variety of fresh farm produce and, on Sundays, it resembles a modern Arabian Nights bazaar with a much wider range of merchandise and mayhem.  For those that can’t get enough, there is also outlet shopping tours for a fun day of frenzied shopping.

Enjoying a meal on the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant is guaranteed to be a highlight of your visit to Melbourne. The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant has won the National Tourism Award and is a uniquely Melbourne experience.  It offers fine dining while travelling the streets of the city on an meticulously restored tram, seated amidst luxurious fittings and period details of the early 1900’s.
Australia’s oldest zoo is situated in Melbourne and is home to more than 350 animal species from across Australia and the world. For a fun experience, the zoo offers the opportunity to spend the night.

The exciting night life in Melbourne is best characterised as energetic and diverse.  From the glittering casino to high-end cuisine or low brow rock gigs, concerts, jazz, plays, festivals and theatre, Melbourne revels in a nightlife packed with quality and variety.

Make the most of the city’s rivers, parks, coastline and bay. Pack a picnic lunch for a day wandering around the lush surrounds of the botanic gardens or take in the city views on a bike ride along the Yarra River. Whatever the activity, be it paintball, golf, ballooning, Tai Chi or fishing, the helpful staff at a conference venue in Melbourne will be happy to answer all your questions.

If you want to venture a little further afield for the day, you can enjoy a winery tour, see the penguins on Phillip island or take a ride on Puffing Billy Steam Train that will take you through the beautiful Yarra Valley to the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary. No matter what your vision, you will find conference centres in Melbourne a wonderful source of information when designing a conference package to delight your delegates.

Whether you are looking for heart thumping activities or more gentle pursuits to incorporate into your conference, the professional staff at Brisbane conference venues can point you in the right direction.  This adventure wonderland with it’s perfect climate, relaxed population and unmistakable holiday feeling is the perfect location for the ultimate conference experience. Consider some of the following diverse activities when designing the ideal itinerary for your delegates. Contact a conference centre in Brisbane for further details.
For the energetic – Climb the Story Bridge. This 2 ½ hour bridge climb is both exhilarating and rewarding with 360o views of this spectacular city and surrounds. Dawn, day, twilight and night climbs are offered 7 days a week so there is no excuse for missing this one. Another popular activity for those with a little energy to burn is the rollerblade sessions and bike rentals available through Riverlife Adventure Centre.
Adrenalin Junkies are not forgotten with Riverlife Adventure Centre also offering kayaking and abseiling the Kangaroo Cliffs. Feel the thrill with adventure trike tours or head out to sea on a fishing charter. Explore the nearby North Stradbroke Island or Moreton’s Island beaches by 4WD or experience the ultimate adrenalin rush with an afternoon of skydiving. Pumping surf and open beaches are only a short drive away for those who want waves. Brisbane conference venues have information on the many options available in this natural paradise.
Riverlife and Southbank – See Brisbane from another perspective with a leisurely river cruise or by speedy ferry. Relax with some evening canoeing while you enjoy the sunset and city lights or dine at one of the many river-side restaurants and café’s. The unique area of Southbank is situated along the banks of the Brisbane River and features markets, museums, man-made beaches and lagoons and a giant TV screen. It makes for a lovely stroll after an intense day of conferencing.
Shopping, Live Music Scene and Nightlife – Brisbane is an ideal shopping destination. Queen Street mall, Portside Wharf, and the Fortitude Valley are where most of the popular shopping stores and boutiques are located. Fortitude Valley along with Caxton Street in Petrie Terrace and Eagle Street in the CBD offers the most vibrant nightlife and band culture. Brisbane was voted among the Top 5 Hotspots for music by ‘Billboard’ a world renowned music magazine so be sure to experience live music at it’s best. The city’s two Casino’s offer a fun alternative for an evening out.
Nature Lovers – For animal lovers, Alma Park Zoo, with it’s wide range of endangered and exotic animals and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary at Fig Tree Pocket, the world’s largest Koala sanctuary are both worth a visit and located very close to the city. In addition to the many beautiful walks that allow you to appreciate the great outdoors, the celebrated Botanic Gardens are situated along the river and are open 24 hours a day with free informative tours daily. Roma Street Parklands, the world’s biggest subtropical garden is situated in the CBD and has themed gardens and recreational centres.
The Unique – More unusual tours include specialist art tours with fine food and wine, ghost tours, eco tours and historic walking tours. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city as you dance with the lights on Story Bridge or take a champagne breakfast balloon flight over the city.
Brisbane facilitates a perfect lifestyle and without a doubt, it’s lazy and subtropical climate helps make up its overall appeal but it is also a sleek and thriving cosmopolitan city that holds it’s own in the professional world of business. It is not surprising that Brisbane conference centres are highly sort after for as the unique combination of business and pleasure is surely the recipe for the ultimate corporate experience.

Whatever the mandate for your conference, you will be well catered for in magnificent Perth.  Our western most city has all bases covered, offering the very best in arts and culture, action and adventure, food and wine, nature and wildlife. The well informed staff at conference centres in Perth can assist you in designing the perfect itinerary to suit your unique corporate requirements.  The following are some of our favourite things to do.
An important part of any successful conference is the opportunity for delegates to unwind and socialise. Perth has a vast choice of outdoor activities to consider when planning team building exercises, partner programs or just relaxing.  The pristine coastline and famous beaches of Brighton, Scarborough and Cottsloe hold the reputation as some of the most beautiful in the world. Australia’s sunniest capital also enjoys many balmy nights so be sure to immerse yourself in this lay back pastime.
The Swan River is a stunning natural waterway that runs through the city.  Hire a surf cat, try your hand at twilight sailing, go jet skiing or enjoy a bike ride.  An evening cruise toward Fremantle will take you past some of Perth’s most opulent homes. Fish, picnic or swim, there is no end to fun activities to be enjoyed at this water wonderland. 
The Swan River nurtures the wine region of Swan Valley. Why not indulge your senses with gourmet food and award winning wines as you spend a day exploring the many cellar doors in this lush valley.  Whatever your preference,Perth conference centres look forward to assisting you with details.
Kings Park is one of the largest inner city parks in the world and boasts majestic views over the Swan River and Perth city. With its beautifully manicured gardens, lush parklands and natural bushland, the park has more memorials, statues and honour avenues than any other park in Australia, including the State War Memorial. It is also home to the Aboriginal Art Gallery which specialises in Aboriginal art and craft that is indigenous to the state.
An experience not to be missed is the Swan Bell Tower which stands 82.5 metres tall and is  one of Perth’s main tourist attractions. You can participate in a bell handling demonstration during which some of the 12 enormous bells dating back to the 14th century are rung.  As the Bell Tower is situated close to the jetty, why not catch a ferry to Rottnest Island to complete the day in style.
On Rottnest, you will be treated to picturesque scenery and indigenous flora and fauna in a casual holiday atmosphere. If you are feeling adventurous, spend the day boating, snorkelling, diving or fishing on the island. The knowledgeable staff at conference venues in Perth welcome the opportunity to assist you in tailoring the perfect program for your delegates.

Built specifically as the national capital, Canberra is a shopfront for embassies and high commissions of all countries with which we share diplomatic relations, but don’t be fooled into thinking that is all there is to this surprising destination.  As Canberra conference centres will confirm, there is a wide variety of activities, world class events and beautiful scenery to be experienced.  Following are a few favourites.

Black Mountain Tower – Delightful by both day and night, Black Mountain Tower is more than just a state-of-the art telecommunications facility; it offers fantastic 360-degree views of Canberra and surrounds, features a ‘revolving’ dining experience at Alto Restaurant and also educates through an informative gallery/exhibit.

Activities on Lake Burley Griffin – Lake Burley Griffin is a wonderful setting for many outdoor activities and perhaps team building activities for your delegates. Whether you fancy rollerblading, bike riding or jogging around it, you’ll enjoy some spectacular and tranquil settings. Why not explore the lake by Canoe or paddleboat or maybe stimulate some healthy company rivalry with a kayak race. Also on the shores of LBG, as it is known locally, is the National Gallery, so if some of your guests tastes are a little more refined, they can immerse themselves in a day of culture at this wonderful exhibit.

History and Politics – If it is history and politics that interest you, Canberra is certainly a choice destination. Informative guided tours are available every half hour through Canberra’s most popular attraction, Parliament House, with it’s stunning art collection, impressive architecture and manicured gardens. Be sure to also see the 4,000 artworks ranging from landscapes to historic portraits.  Another tour will take you to the international embassies many of which are `dressed’ in national costume. The War Memorial, the National Museum are, of course, a must when visiting our capital city.

Australian National Botanic Gardens – With native plants from all parts of Australia, unique rock gardens, a delightful rainforest and eucalyptus lawns, you will be in horticulture heaven. A relaxing garden picnic among such stunning beauty would make a lovely interlude to the heavier business of conferencing.

Get Active – Have a laugh and get your adrenalin hit with an evening of Karting or see Canberra from a birdseye view with a Hot Air Balloon ride. Hire a bike and see the sights at a leisurely pace or unwind with a hit of golf at the Royal Canberra Golf Club. The hop on-hop off bus is a fun way of exploring the city or maybe the thrill of caving is something your delegates would enjoy. If so ask the staff at a Canberra conference centre to assist you with details for Wee Jasper Caves.

So many opportunities exist both in and around our capital city, so contact a conference venue in Canberra for a more comprehensive list of activities and attractions that will set your conference apart and ensure a unique experience for your guests.

Beautiful Hobart nestles at the foot of the majestic Mt. Wellington and is Australia’s smallest but most historic capital city. Settled in 1804, it quickly grew as the `clearing house’ for Irish and British convicts. Hobart conference venues are well versed in the broad variety of destinations and tours available to best appreciate this history and are happy to assist you incorporate this into your itinerary planning.  Following are a few ideas to get you started.

Grand Historical Port Arthur Walking Tour from Hobart – This popular full day trip will thrill you with it’s spectacular scenery. You will encounter the beautiful Tasman Peninsula and National Park and the magnitude of the Devil’s Kitchen after a short scenic cruise to the Isle of the Dead.  The day will also evoke a strong sense of Australia’s past convict era as you follow a guided walking tour of Port Arthur Convict Site.

The Female Factory – in South Hobart is considered Australia’s most significant historic site for women. Take in it’s fascinating yet tragic history with a short guided tour or take your own self-guided tour through the memorial garden and the historic site of the Cascade Female Factory which is the setting for Bryce Courtenay’s novel `The Potato Factory’. The Female Factory Historic Site was the winner of the 2004 Tasmanian Tourism Awards, Heritage and Cultural Tourism.

Hobart Historic Tours - runs a fascinating 90-minute walking tour of Hobart by day and an Historic Pub Tour from 5pm which will take you to three waterfront pubs where you will hear the tales of old and even meet some of the shady characters involved. The company also hosts a walk to Battery Point and passes artisans’ colonial stone cottages and grand houses. You will find tearooms, antique shops and atmospheric pubs nestled among the grander buildings.  Narryna Heritage Museum depicts the life of the well to do pioneers and is worth a look.

Hobart Historic Afternoon Tours – offers an informative tour that takes in the highlights of Hobart before travelling to Richmond, one of Australia’s most original historic villages for a guided coach tour.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that is all there is to Hobart.  It is in fact an eclectic mix of old and new, kitch and contemporary.  Wander down to Salamanca Place and you will find 19th-centruy waterfront warehouses and settlers cottages standing alongside art studios and galleries, cafes and restaurants. Alfresco dining under sun umbrellas while enjoying the atmosphere of the docks will leave your delegates relaxed and refreshed and it only gets better on Saturday’s with the Salamanca Markets in full swing. With South American flutes, pub rock, street buskers and string quartets, and theatrical performances you won’t be disappointed in Salamanca. The Salamanca Art Centre should also be on your list if you enjoy browsing through art and craft or being entertained by a diverse range of music and theatre. Conference venues in Hobart will have the up and coming diary for these events.

Cascade Brewery Tours – Cascade Premium is one of Australia’s most popular beers. Head to Australia’s oldest brewery to see how it is produced. The 2 hour tour also includes a tour through the grand old Woodstock Gardens.

Bonorong Wildlife Park, Derwent River Cruise and Cadbury Chocolate Factory Tour – cruise the Derwent River, indulge your sweet fantasies at Cadbury and visit a Tasmanian Devil at Bonorong. A full but very enjoyable day.

The `See Tasmania Card’ may be worth considering if your conference is extensive as it opens all the right doors, with free admission into over 60 of the state’s most popular attraction.  Check with a Hobart conference centre for further information.

The South Australian Tourism industry is a vibrant and thriving industry thanks to the state’s many natural attractions and the welcoming city of Adelaide which proudly extends an invitation to sample the city’s many treasures, both natural and man-made. Conference centres in Adelaide pride themselves on a comprehensive, up-to-date knowledge of the many options available to you when endeavoring to tailor the perfect conference package for your delegates. The following is a brief overview of activities available to give you an idea of the diversity on offer if you choose an Adelaide conference venue for your next event.
The Mall’s Balls – Two large stainless steel spheres balancing one on top of the other. The local meeting place and quite a talking point in the heart of the city. Wander up Rundle Street and experience some of the delightfully fresh cuisine and nationally recognised restaurants that have contributed to Adelaide’s `foodie’ reputation. Don’t forget to include a trip to the famous Adelaide Central Markets and a visit to Maggie Beer’s farm for the ultimate food experiences.
Savour some wine – locally at the National Wine Centre which represents the 53 wine growing regions in Australia or further a field on a tour of Barossa, the Adelaide Hills or McLarenVale – think Coonawarra, Wolf Blass – the names are impressive or maybe discover your own favourite at a small boutique cellar along the way.
The Giant Panda’s – Wang Wang and Fooni (first and only in the southern hemisphere) at the world class Adelaide Zoo
Haigh’s Chocolate Factory- exquisite indulgence and an Adelaide institution. Take a tour and enjoy the free sampling.
Ride Popeye – the ferry can transport you along the River Torrens to the zoo or for a picnic at the lush Elder Park. Why not then swap modes of transport and hire a paddle boat for a leisurely ride on the river or a free pushbike to take in the sights of this beautiful city.
Nature Lovers – can experience genuine interactive wildlife attractions such as the acclaimed Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary, the protected habitat for 100 species of birds and many mammals or Cleland Wildlife Park, the winner three years running of “Significant Tourist Attractions where you can hold a koala, roam with some of the biggest kangaroos in Australia or watch the Bilby’s emerging from their burrows.  The beautiful Morialta Falls also makes for a great day spent relaxing and reconnecting with nature.
Penguin Spotting or Whale Watching – Victor Harbour on the Fleurieu Peninsular is an old whaling town so watch out for whales in the winter months. Walk across the causeway at night to Granite Island and pay a visit to the noisy resident penguin colony.
Get your cultural fix – with a drive to Hahndorf in the picturesque Adelaide Hills for a wonderful day of all things German and call in at Beerenberg Farm on your way home – you can hand pick your own strawberries, or buy some of the acclaimed jams, mustards and sauces. You could also visit Tandanya in the Adelaide CBD for a nationally recognised and informative display of aboriginal art and history.
Don’t forget the Beach - Glenelg is only a 15 minute tram ride and this seaside suburb bubbles with atmosphere and celebration of the good life.
World class festivals feature heavily in the artistic city of Adelaide. Be sure to consult  an Adelaide conference centre about the timetable of these events as their inclusion into your itinerary would go a long way to insuring your conference is a standout success.