The Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA) has praised the unveiling of designs for the expansion of exhibition facilities at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).
EEAA chief executive Joyce DiMascio said the unveiling marks another important milestone in the ‘much-needed’ expanded facilities in Melbourne.
“The association welcomes the unveiling of design work by the acting premier, James Merlino and minister for tourism and major events, Hon. John Eren MP yesterday – this indicates the project is on track to deliver more space for organisers of major trade and consumer expositions as well as their associated conferences and other events.”
“The addition of 20,000sqm of space, including new exhibition halls and additional meeting and banquet rooms, will be very welcome by our members especially those whose events are venue-bound.” She said.
The joint announcement comes a week ahead of the Association’s Leaders Forum and Annual General Meeting, which will coincide with the inaugural Global Exhibitions Day.
“On 8-9 June, we’ll be putting the spotlight on the Power of Exhibitions when our Members come together in Melbourne to consider the major opportunities for growing the exhibition industry,” she said.
“Australia is in the midst of the biggest boom in events infrastructure renewal and expansion – the capacity will create many opportunities for growth in our sector. The exhibition industry generates 41 per cent of revenue and 41 per cent of visitors to the MCEC, so this expansion will be very important to the organisers, national association organisers and suppliers who work in this precinct.
“This expansion will allow the growth of existing events that have filled the venue to capacity – it will also open up new opportunities for Melbourne and keep the city competitive as a marketplace for buyers and sellers to do business through live events.”
“All around the country venues are expanding or renewing – this shows the confidence State Governments have in the business events sector as drivers of Sate economies.
The plans for the MCEC and the impending opening of the ICC Sydney are among the biggest developments. Other plans are also in place for many venues in Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Perth. Among them are: Sydney Olympic Park, Doltone House at Darling Island Wharf, The Star and Royal Randwick.
“We are pleased to hear that preliminary works on MCEC’s expansion have commenced, with construction estimated to be completed in early 2018. We are particularly pleased to hear that the venue will continue to operate through the construction period.” DiMascio said.
Registrations are open to the EEAA AGM and 2016 Leaders Forum for both Members and Non-Members.
