The city of Melbourne has several times been voted “ the most livable city” and is an absolute treat for those with a passion for the finer things in life. From authentic Australia Bush Tucker to International and noveau combinations, the Melbourne food experience is adventurous and exciting. Add to this great Australian wines, world class entertainment and fabulous festivals, and you have a recipe for a thrilling visit. Often considered the cultural and sporting capital of Australia, Melbourne is home to the Australian Ballet and Australian F1. It places great emphasis on culinary arts, visual arts and performing arts and these forms of expression, along with film and fashion and music are influenced by both it’s ever increasing multicultural population and an equally strong local culture. Such diversity and the contrasting old and new makes Melbourne a rich and dynamic destination. The aim of Melbourne conference centres is to assist you in designing an exclusive itinerary that will cater to your particular vision.
Docklands is Melbourne’s newest precinct and boasts the city’s largest infrastructure development yet. This spectacular, ultra- modern re-development covers over 200 hectares of space with more than 3kms of the Yarra River flowing alongside and whilst it is not expected to be complete until 2020, it is fast becoming a major tourist attraction. The Melbourne landmarks Telstra Dome, the Southern Star Observation Wheel and Southern Cross Station are located here. Transport is made easy from Docklands, with buses and trains running regularly from Southern Cross Station or for a more novice form of transport, why not consider taking a restaurant cruise or perhaps a yacht at the end of a heavy day’s conferencing. The Majority of the accommodation offerings in this area are found in the form of small boutique hotels and practical apartment style accommodation – perfect for a special night out or a longer stay within a short stroll from the CBD over the Yarra River. Several waterfront dining precincts can be found in the fresh and exciting Docklands, with every cuisine imaginable to be found in 100+ restaurants, bars and cafes. Take a stroll around the marinas, interesting walkways, grand plazas and historic docks, feast your eyes on the urban art displays along the way. Nearby places to visit include the recently opened Icehouse which is the venue for the National Ice Sports Centre, the Melbourne Stadium and Harbour Town Shopping Centre.
Base yourself in the heart of the city by staying in one of Melbourne’s ‘Paris End’ hotels. Located in Melbourne’s CBD, the eastern end of Collins Street is often referred to as the ‘Paris End’ as a reference to the ‘Marvellous Melbourne’ mythology which celebrates the European influence of the area. The ‘Paris” end is home to many of the cities luxury 5 Star hotels, many with the ability to host several hundred people for conferences and events. Though this end of the city is renowned for the “high end” accommodation – you will also be able to find a small collection of practical 4 – 4.5 star hotels offering comfortable lodging and mid sized conference facilities at competitive pricing. Although modern development has destroyed some of the European flavour, it still displays some of the country’s finest Victorian era buildings and has retained many designer boutiques and cafes. The ease of getting around in Melbourne, either on foot or on the famous Melbourne trams, makes this a highly sought after location for accommodation. There are many attractions within the compact and easy to navigate CBD. Beginning in Collins Street itself, you have the Athenaeum and Regent theatres, The Melbourne Observation Deck at Rialto Towers and of course the wonderful architecture of stately historic buildings. Parliament House, Old Melbourne Gaol and the Museum are all close by as are the Fitzroy Gardens which is home to the Captain Cook cottages and a model Tudor village. The iconic Chinatown is only a short walk and a visit to Federation Square is a must. This distinctive space is one of the city’s main cultural hubs and tourist centres with its distinctive architecture and large digital screen it is an popular public space.
Southbank fronts the southern bank of the Yarra River, just opposite the Melbourne’s central business district. It’s 2 Kms of absolute river frontage is lined by generous pedestrian walkways and offers scenic views of the city skyline. One of Southbank’s drawcards is the convenience of being just across the river from the heart of Melbourne and opposite some of Melbourne’s best gardens and parklands to the east of St Kilda Road. SouthBank has some fantastic smaller style 5 star hotels – perfect for the smaller conference with minimal city distraction, and often beautiful outlooks. It is noted for its cultural facilities including Melbourne’s leading contemporary art gallery, The National Gallery of Victoria, Australian Ballet Centre, Melbourne Recital Centre and Victorian College of the Arts, just to name a few, all have their home at Southbank. If you prefer something a little less high brow for your entertainment then the Crown Entertainment Complex, feature the acclaimed Crown Casino, scores of restaurants, and a large cinema complex maybe for you. There is also an art centre that houses a concert hall and several theatres and of course for a little retail therapy, the multi-level Southgate shopping centre which features a host of retail outlets, restaurants and cafes that overlook the river. Another Southgate drawcard that is sure to delight is the Eureka Skydeck. This attraction can be found on the 88th floor of Melbourne’s tallest building , The Eureka Tower. The observation deck offers spectacular views of the city and includes a glass viewing cube which projects a thrilling 3 metres out from the building known as the “Edge”.
St Kilda is a bayside suburb 7km from the Melbourne CBD. It’s fascinating history has seen it change from favoured suburb of Melbourne’s elite who built many palatial mansions along its hills and waterfront to the city’s seedy red-light district, home to low-cost rooming houses post war and then preferred haunt of subcultures such as bohemians, punks and the techno scene in the 1960’s to it’s current re-incarnation as a popular choice for young urban professionals because of it’s proximity to the CBD. The 21st century sees St. Kilda as a lively suburb with an exciting vibe. Fitzroy Street is a popular spot with its restaurants, bars and café tables spilling onto the footpath as is Acland Street which has an eclectic mix of independent music, book and second-hand stores, restaurants, wine bars and cake shops. By day, the streets are dotted with people relaxing with a latte; by night the atmosphere is turned up a notch as clubbers come out to play. St Kilda has many Victorian terraces, historic mansions, art deco buildings and apartment blocks which all allude to it’s colourful past. Attractions include Luna Park, St Kilda Beach, St Kilda Sea Baths, the St Kilda Public Gardens, and the St Kilda Pavilion. To support this vibrant area, accommodation is varied – with some of the largest conferencing hotels in Melbourne on St Kilda Rd ( half way between the CBD and St Kilda) In St Kilda itself is an eclectic mix of small independent venues along internationally recognised branded large venues. It is well connected with many tram and bus services offering regular services making it easy to visit popular venues such as the Palais Theatre, the National Theatre, the arthouse cinema The Astor Theatre and the Esplanade Hotel (known to the locals as The Espy).
Melbourne is a progressive cosmopolitan city with a perceptive view of it’s future. Melbourne conference venues share that vision and are enthusiastic about showcasing their city. Call a Melbourne conference centre to discuss your event.
Hobart in Tasmania is the second oldest capital city in Australia behind Sydney and as a result, has a wealth of historic and cultural treasures. Surprisingly, it is also a city of manageable size and located in one of the most beautifully natural settings in Australia with The Derwent River running through the heart of Hobart and Mount Wellington rising above in spectacular glory. Combine this natural beauty and fascinating history with the modern, progressive population of the city and you have a recipe for an exciting and successful corporate experience. Conference centres in Hobart keep well abreast of the many diverse entertainment options available and look forward to assisting you in designing an exciting itinerary for your delegates.
A night at the theatre is bound to be a hit, particularly Australia’s oldest theatre, the Theatre Royal. It’s first performances in 1837 ranged from Music Hall to Cock Fighting but today, a more acceptable artistic program is in place within the walls of this beautifully restored building. Watch international ballet, opera, drama and musicals or perhaps glimpse the rumoured ghost at the Theatre Royal.
Another first for Hobart is Wrest Point Casino and Hotel, the first casino to have been opened in Australia, in 1973. It is located to the south of the city centre and is sure to provide a thrilling evening’s entertainment.
Hobart nightlife is based largely around Salamanca Place and the waterfront area. Visit artist studios and watch performing arts in the heritage warehouses of the Salamanca Arts Centre. Listen to live jazz in one of the bars in Salamanca Place or see the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra play in the Federation Concert Hall.
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, which embraces heritage buildings on the Sullivans Cove waterfront, makes for a fascinating afternoon. Witness a pair of preserved Tasmanian Devils or marvel at early settler artworks. The Lady Franklin Gallery in Lenah Valley is a wonderful place to view displays of Tasmania’s more current leading artist’s.
Tasmania has a thriving art’s community and Hobart’s streets really come alive with local and visiting artists out in force for the Hobart Summer Festival and the week-long Taste of Tasmania Festival, over the new year.
Hobart conference venues are your best source of information for the ideas mentioned above and many more to be found within this surprising city so be sure to contact a conference venue in Hobart today and learn more about this exciting destination.
With it’s delightful climate and beaches to match, a rich and thriving creative culture and a people who pride themselves on maintaining pristine conditions throughout their city, it is no wonder Perth is such a popular destination. Conference centres in Perth offer those same high standards to their guests thereby helping to create corporate events that are both exciting and uniquely tailored to the company’s vision. With so much to choose from, designing an itinerary to impress your delegates will be a breeze.
With Perth’s glorious weather, the great outdoors is a wonderful place to start. Explore the lush gardens and parklands in Kings Park whilst enjoying the majestic Perth city and river views. Kings Park is also home to an impressive war memorial. The historic port city of Fremantle is a great destination on a balmy Perth day. It has an operational fishing boat harbour which contains markets and popular restaurants and has been developed as a tourist precinct. Fishing charter boats also operate from this harbour. Be sure to stop for a coffee on ‘Cappuccino Strip’ in between browsing the boutique art galleries and studios or perhaps something more substantial at a celebrated Italian or Asian restaurant in the precinct. Also popular for it’s nightlife, Fremantle offers nightclubs, musical venues and a community theatre company.
Visit some of Perth’s museums: Aviation Heritage Museum of Western Australia, Fremantle Motor Museum and the Western Australian Maritime Museum are a few and will provide a comprehensive and informative insight into the city’s heritage.
View Aboriginal art at the Aboriginal Art Gallery in the beautiful Kings Park or the Art Gallery of Western Australia and visual and performing arts in The Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts.
Choose from a vast selection of quality performing arts. Attend an opera or symphony orchestra performance in Australia’s only remaining Edwardian theatre or see a play at the Playhouse or a Perth theatre. You may like to be serenaded by soul singers and symphonies which carry beautifully through the superb acoustic architecture of Perth Concert Hall. Western Australian Ballet has a fine reputation and would also make for an unforgettable evening.
Known for its many festivals, Perth excels in this relaxed style of entertainment, top of the crop is the UWA Perth International Arts Festival, Perth Writers’ Festival and the Fremantle Outdoor Film Festival, Perth. Be sure to ask for the artistic calendar when contacting a Perth conference venue.
Rottnest Island is an island paradise with turquoise waters, secluded bays and a wonderful holiday atmosphere and would be a great addition to your program if time allows. Whatever your taste and desires, you will be overwhelmed with choice and spoilt with attention. Contact a Perth conference venue to secure a dream destination for your next event.
If you are a little weary of the typical destinations chosen for conferences, then we would encourage you to consider Darwin. Perched on a peninsula with sea on three sides, Darwin has a relaxed outdoor lifestyle and enjoys warm weather all year round. The magical ‘top end’ is a uniquely Australian experience that ironically few Aussies have experienced. This rugged and hauntingly beautiful outback city would make a wonderful backdrop to an unforgettable corporate event. Contact a Darwin conference centre and enquire about the unique experiences that await you. We have listed a few of the more conventional here.
Darwin has a rich and diverse cultural tale to tell. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory will unlock the city’s rich Aboriginal heritage and allow you to relive the tragic 1974 Cyclone Tracy. Another museum well worth the visit is East Point Military Museum where you can at watch footage of the World War II air raids on Darwin.
Myilly Point Historical Precinct is home to the remaining 4 cottages displaying unique pre World War II Darwin architecture as it existed prior to the creative talents of a progressive architect B.C.G. Burnett. Burnett designed a series of homes adapted to the climatic conditions of the Top End, which included the use of lightweight materials and natural ventilation and forever changed the face of Darwin.
Go for a stroll along the palm-lined Mitchell St and experience both traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art and craft in the galleries along the way.
Much of the cultural action in Darwin happens outdoors due to the city’s tropical climate. Listen to powerhouse bands at Bass in the Grass at the Darwin Amphitheatre in late May or enjoy a balmy evening watching art house movies under the stars at the Deckchair Cinema from April to November.
The month of August, sees the George Brown Botanic Gardens come alive with the Darwin Festival – a brilliant 18 days of music, dance, theatre, comedy, cabaret, film and visual art. The cultural delights keep coming with the Darwin Fringe Festival kicking in this same month for 2 weeks of seminars, aerial acts, Aboriginal films, a poetry cup, musical street jams, burlesque and art exhibitions. Darwin conference venues can enlighten you about the particular acts and timetable for these festivals.
Of course, it almost goes without saying, but some of the most beautiful scenery and rawest glimpses of nature exist right at your doorstep in this region of the world. Consider a visit to Litchfield National Park where, set in a pocket of monsoon forest, you can watch as the spectacular Florence Falls cascade into a plunge pool. Enjoy a picnic and take a refreshing dip if you like or enjoy a scenic walk to the viewing platform high above the falls where breathtaking panoramic views of the open valley and the waterhole below can be enjoyed. Be sure to ask the staff at the conference venue in Darwin about the thrilling ‘croc’ experiences also available to you. Darwin truly is a unique and unforgettable destination worthy of your consideration if ‘original’ is a key phrase in your vision for your event.
Sydney is, without a doubt the entertainment capital of Australia and a highly sought after destination for corporate events. Conference centres in Sydney are exceedingly professional organisations and well up to the task of assisting you in planning an itinerary that will ‘wow’ your delegates. We have listed a few ideas from the vast array of fine entertainment available in this exciting and exceptionally beautiful city.
Why not include a lavish production of theatre, symphony or ballet at the iconic Sydney Opera House and delight in the glittering harbour views at intermission.
Bangarra Dance Theatre is located at Sydney’s most prestigious arts precinct, The Wharf, Walsh Bay on Sydney Harbour and offers a thrilling program that will be sure to please. Surrey Hills and the famous Kings Cross and are home to independent theatres and would also make for a fun evening’s entertainment. Maybe a high-energy musical at Pyrmont’s Lyric Theatre or a concert at the opulent State Theatre is something your guests would enjoy.
The Museum of Contemporary Art, Art Gallery of New South Wales and Australian Museum are all very central and located between the historic Rocks and Hyde Park’s lush parklands. Conference venues in Sydney hold a comprehensive range of information on this historically rich strip of the city, so be sure to enquire.
Paddington, Surry Hills and Redfern is home to the futuristic performance space of CarriageWorks, great comedy clubs and also some fine Art Galleries both boutique and big – why not enjoy a browse.
Embrace Sydney’s exciting nightlife with a late-night drink in a cool wine bar or supper in style by the sparkling harbour. If music is part of your vision for the ultimate event then Sydney is the place to be. Dance the night away in an inner city club, enjoy some jazz at the Basement in Circular Quay or visit a range of edgy live music venues in Enmore and Newtown.
Contact a Sydney conference venue today to arrange a truly memorable event that will set a new standard in your company’s future conference expectations.
From national monuments to state of the art buildings housing all manner of artistic displays, our capital city has a rich and thriving creative culture. With its central location and relatively dry continental climate, why not consider a Canberra conference venue for your next corporate event.
Canberra’s treasure trove of national attractions include the National Museum – where you can explore Australian history and culture through the ages with various exhibits, technology and hands-on activities. Take a stroll around the exhibition galleries, theatres, restaurants and resource centre or take in the permanent exhibitions focused on Land, Nation and People.
Outdoor theatre, ballet and opera are a prolific part of the arts culture throughout the year and are a great way to wind down at the end of a busy day. Canberra Theatre Centre in Civic also offers opera, ballet, theatre or musical performances. Alternatively, a classic musical at the School of Music in The Australian National University or a local production at the Street Theatre might be your choice. Don’t miss the Canberra International Music Festival in May. Conference venues in Canberra are kept well informed about up and coming events and will be able to assist you in designing an itinerary to suit your delegation.
View the nation’s finest collection of Australian art at the National Gallery of Australia and famous Australians on canvass at the National Portrait Gallery or enjoy visual and performing arts at the ANCA Gallery or browse art and craft in the Canberra Museum and Gallery.
Discover a vibrant city, nestled in beautiful parklands with great attractions and excellent dining opportunities that are fitting for our national capital. For a lighter side to your conference why not drive the picturesque Poachers Trail to experience the craft workshops, galleries, studios and gourmet delights that dot the Canberra countryside or visit the nearby Snowy Mountains. A day trip to the Canberra District Wine region is a must. Indulge in the unique cool climate wines produced here and enjoy the wonderful fresh bounty of this fertile region.
Watch politicians from the public gallery of modern Parliament House as they debate the issues of the day or learn about the Australia’s political system in Old Parliament House. Visit the National Capital Exhibition, the National Library of Australia and the War Memorial. If culture is paramount in the vision for your conference then a Canberra conference centre is without a doubt the perfect destination.
Take a lush sub tropical climate and a warm easy-going attitude and mix it with world-class art galleries, a fabulous café culture, and a booming live music scene and you have the perfect recipe for a very memorable corporate event. Brisbane conference venues contribute to this reality by adding professional expertise to ensure their city enjoys a high percentage of return business from the corporate sector.
Like any hospitable Australian city, Brisbane loves a backyard party and this creative city has done this on a grand scale. Each Spring, local residents provide their backyards and the Brisbane Festival supplies the music in a series of intimate events. All that is required of you is to bring the esky and a sense of fun for a day of live music.
Brisbane was voted among the Top 5 Hotspots for music by the world renowned ‘Billboard’. Caxton Street in Petrie Terrace and Eagle Street in the CBD along with Fortitude Valley offers the most vibrant band culture and nightlife. The city’s two Casino’s offer a fun alternative for an evening out.
It is almost impossible to create a top ten list of Brisbane’s best restaurants that everyone is going to agree with. For some it’s all about atmosphere, for others service is paramount, and of course, for everyone, it’s about the food. From silver service to relaxed alfresco dining in this balmy climate, it seems that just about any cuisine and style of dining is possible in Brisbane.
Situated just 7 mins walk from town, along the beautiful South bank of the Brisbane River, you will find the impressive Queensland Cultural Centre, home to many of the city’s performing arts venues, it has a restaurant and café and is a very pleasant place to stroll along the river. This complex houses the very attractive Queensland Art Gallery which exhibits the likes of Renoir, Picasso, and van Gogh, and also showcases diverse modern Australian sculptors, painters and other artists. The adjacent Gallery of Modern Art features indigeneous Australian, Asian and Pacific Art and the works of modern and contemporary artists. The Austalian Cinematheque can also be found within this complex and boasts 2 cinemas in which it presents retrospective and thematic film programs. There is another cinema dedicated solely to screen- related exhibitions.
Musicals, opera and ballet are presented at the 2,000 seat Lyric Theatre, while the 1,800 seat Concert Hall features orchestral performances. A 315 seat theatre-in-round at Cremorne Theatre hosts cabaret and experimental works. Conference centres in Brisbane are well versed in the many cultural events that take place in the South Bank precinct. Whether they be casual, relaxed affairs that take place in this picturesque location or the more high-brow occasions the city offers, you will find the city a friendly and welcoming destination for your next corporate event.
If atmosphere and entertainment feature in the vision you have for your corporate event, contact a Brisbane conference centre and they will be happy to assist in making it a memorable and successful conference.
