MCVB’s 2012/2013 Strategic Business Plan Revealed

The Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau’s (MCVB) Chief Executive Officer Karen Bolinger officially launched the organisation’s 2012/2013 Strategic Business Plan at IMEX this week.

The plan, which centres around the organisation’s vision of Melbourne becoming globally recognised as the world’s premier city for business events, also aims to have MCVB acknowledged as a thought-leader, an innovator and driver of significant economic impact to the city, state and country.

Ms Bolinger said the multi-layered strategic plan had been developed in consultation with clients, stakeholders and staff at all levels of the organisation, which has resulted in a comprehensive, cohesive document that clearly sets the direction for the future.

“We have reassessed who we are as an organisation and what we want to achieve, and in-line with this we have worked hard to establish what we are doing well and what we want to do better,” she said.

“Over the last few years the landscape of business events across the globe has changed significantly, with many cities, governments and countries recognising the value of business events beyond delegate numbers and economic impact.

“As the economic and competitive landscape changes, the strategic direction of MCVB needs to move with it and this new plan has been developed to identify how we can remain competitive on a global stage.

“The six strategic projects provide us with a platform on which to build a focussed organisation with a set direction. We’ve got rid of the clutter and in some instances redirected our resources in order to streamline our activities to deliver us better conversion across the board and ensure our clients, stakeholders and staff are all engaged.”

Ms Bolinger added that the MCVB team was looking forward to achieving the goals they had set for themselves.

“Provided these strategic projects are effectively executed, there’s no doubt MCVB and Melbourne will be positioned extremely well for the future,” she said.

(Source: etravelblackboard.com)

MCVB’s 2012/2013 Strategic Business Plan Revealed

Shows Australia: Cirque Du Soleil Prepares for Mass Insect Migration From Portland to Brisbane

The countdown to OVO is on!

Who would have thought that relocating a cast of butterflies, crickets, spiders, ants, scarab beetles, fireflies, fleas, a ladybug and a blue fly would take a military-style international operation worthy of a Mission Impossiblescript?

But these are no ordinary insects. They are the stunning cast of the critically-acclaimed family-fun packed OVOby Cirque du Soleil, set to have its Australian premiere in Brisbane on July 14 with a limited season under the trademark blue-and-yellow Big Top at Northshore Hamilton. (amazing images and cool interviews available on request!)

OVO finished playing in Portland, Oregon, USA on Sunday. Before the 12-month Australian tour can commence, the cast, crew, big top and its surrounding village must be transported all the way from Portland to Brisbane.

“The Australian tour is the first time OVO has traveled outside North America, and it’s a mammoth logistical operation, one which is planned and managed internationally by Cirque du Soleil’s Tour Logistics Department,” said OVO Production Operation Manager Derrin Brown. The complex operational plan will ensure that the big top, sets and costumes – some 1200 tons of equipment - are pulled down, packed up and shipped to Australia in time for the first performance in Brisbane on Saturday 14 July.

“Transport of the equipment takes place over a two month period, which began in early May. Making co-ordination even more complicated is the fact that equipment for the Australian tour is originating from different countries – Canada, the UK and Germany, with the main portion coming from Portland in the United States.

The Portland equipment will sail to Australia out of the Port of Seattle,” said Brown. “Approximately 78 containers will be transported, with all equipment travelling by boat.

“To ensure Australian Quarantine and Inspection Services requirements are fully met, all the equipment – down to the ‘nails’ that hold the tents down - must be washed before being placed in the containers.   It’s a huge operation, but all equipment should be safe and sound in Brisbane by early July.”

Then there’s the cast and crew. Over 60 bicycles and 410 suitcases will be transported to help make Australia their home for the next year. The cast of OVO features 54 performing artists from 16 countries specializing in many acrobatic acts. One highlight of the show is the stunning Flying Act in which a group of scarab beetles soar high above the stage, from both edges to the middle landing on a platform. This breathtaking act combines many circus disciplines: banquine, Russian swing and swinging chair.

Since its world premiere in 2009, OVO has visited more than 15 cities in Canada, United States and Mexico, delighting over 2 million spectators.  OVO, meaning “egg” in Portuguese, is a headlong rush into a colorful ecosystem teeming with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, flutter, play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and movement.

Cirque du Soleil

From a group of 20 street performers at its beginnings in 1984, Cirque du Soleil is a major Québec-based organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment. The company has 5,000 employees, including more than 1,300 artists from more than 50 different countries. Cirque du Soleil has brought wonder and delight to more than 100 million spectators in more than 300 cities in over forty countries on six continents. Cirque du Soleil International Headquarters are in Montreal, Canada.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL - OVO - 2012/2013 AUSTRALIAN TOUR

Brisbane - From July 14 2012, Northshore Hamilton
Sydney - From September 13 2012, Showring at The Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park
Adelaide - From December 6 2012, Location to be advised
Melbourne - From January 17 2013, Melbourne Docklands
Perth - From April 14 2013, Langley Park

Cirque Du Soleil Prepares for Mass Insect Migration From Portland to Brisbane

Visitors Into Melbourne Airport On The Rise

Recent statistics reveal international visitors into Melbourne Airport for April 2012 grew by 2.2 percent compared to last April, with a significant growth from the China region.

Melbourne Airport chief executive officer Chris Woodruff attributed the increase in visitors to the Easter holiday break being earlier this year.

“Last year, Easter was late in April with many people also combining travel with the Anzac Day public holiday so this month, we are seeing the impacts of the earlier Easter period," Mr Woodruff Said.

Mr Woodruff added that it was pleasing to have experienced increased growth from emerging markets such as China, Taiwan and Sri Lanka as well as from the U.S. and New Zealand

“China remains the market that is driving growth, and the opportunities presented through the development of new aviation services to Australia from major inland regions and cities will continue to support this future growth.”

With Melbourne Airports recent agreement to build a sister airport with Chengdu International Airport in Sichuan province accomplished, there will be even greater aviation links to China.

“Our significant investment in airside and landside infrastructure is providing the capacity for future growth in both the domestic and international markets while delivering better service for our airline customers and passengers,” Mr Woodruff said.

Mr Woodruff said the upcoming construction of a seventh baggage reclaim unit for international arrivals will further improve the passenger experience at Melbourne Airport.

“We are also about to commence a refurbishment of our T3 domestic terminal and are continuing our planning for our new Southern Precinct domestic terminal,” he added.

“Combined with our 24 hour operation, lower aeronautical charges and single terminal precinct, these projects will ensure that Melbourne Airport continues to grow successfully as Victoria’s aviation gateway.”

(Source: etravelblackboard.com)

Melbourne Ranked Number One Business City

Melbourne has been ranked the number one city in Australia for International conventions and number nine in Asia Pacific, Minister for Tourism and Major Events Louise Asher announced.

The Country and City Ranking Report 2011, created by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) revealed Melbourne was also ranked at number 31 in the world, up nine places from the year before.

Ms Asher said the results were an outstanding success for Melbourne and a true indication of the city’s business events offering.

“To be recognised officially by the top congress and convention association in the world is a major coup for the city and one that we are incredibly proud of,” Ms Asher said.

“Furthermore, to be ranked ahead of Sydney and Brisbane, our biggest competition in Australia, is perhaps the most important indicator that our city’s facilities and overall international appeal are outstanding.”

Melbourne Convention and Visitor Bureau (MCVB) chief executive officer Karen Bolinger said Melbourne’s status as Australia’s leading business events destination was getting stronger and stronger.

“Melbourne is the top choice for many of the world’s major international associations holding regular congresses and conventions," Ms Bolinger said.

“These groups are attracted to Melbourne for a number of reasons, primarily the large pool of intellectual capital the city can offer, as well as the city’s world-class infrastructure.”

The city hosted 62 major international meetings during the qualifying period and in the next two years, will continue to strengthen its reputation as a leading business city with the hosting of seven of the world’s largest medical and scientific conferences.

(Source: etravelblackboard.com)

CLUBS + HOTELS AUSTRALIA 2012 is Fast Approaching

Now managed by one of Australia's leading exhibition and conference organisers, Australian Exhibitions & Conferences, between 19 & 20 June Clubs & Hotels Australia will open its doors to the hospitality and gaming industry.

Over 2 days, visitors will have the unique opportunity to find out all they need to know to satisfy their interests in clubs and hotels from amusement systems to ATM equipment, decor and furnishings to venue design and decoration, plus much more.

With an exhibitor list that continues to grow, the Expo will offer an extensive range of the latest in technology, services and products for anyone involved in hospitality and gaming.

An industry specific series of seminars and workshops have been scheduled that are short, sharp and business focused, aimed at keeping visitors up to date with the industry. Clubs + Hotels Australia is also very excited to announce that Aristocrat has just signed on as lead exhibitor of the event.

Showcasing their 2012 games portfolio including, A Legends Returns, bringing back some classic games with a modern twist, as well as participating in the gaming venue seminar program, the "2012 expo comes at an ideal time for the gaming industry, with the new gaming operational regime coming on line in Victoria in August 2012." says Aristocrat Victorian Sales Manager, Matt McCarroll.

Closely timed with Clubs + Hotels Australia, this highly competitive regulation change and regime will mean that interest in gaming machines and systems, operational management and monitoring systems, venue design and fit out, will all be at its height.

Other exciting exhibitors on show include dedicated training provider for the food, tourism and hospitality industries, William Angliss Institute, along with licensed manufacturer of electronic gaming machines, Complete Gaming Solutions, and returning exhibitor, JBN Sound Ceiling.

Register to visit now and secure your chance to see the industry's biggest players on show at Clubs and Hotels Australia 2012. To read more about the exciting features, seminar program, newly signed exhibitors or to register online, visit www.clubsandhotels.com.au today.

(Source: Accommnews.com.au)

CLUBS HOTELS AUSTRALIA 2012 is Fast Approaching

Conference Gets Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for 2012 & 2013

The national tourism industry annual conference, Tourism & Events Excellence, has secured the Melbourne Cricket Ground as the venue for 2012 and 2013.

Tourism industry leaders are reminded to save 16 and 17 July for this year's event.

Staged for the first time in Melbourne in 2011, the TEE conference was a critical forum for the tourism and events industry, featuring an impressive line-up of speakers who presented ways of overcoming challenges despite the tough times. Securing the venue for the next two events is testimony to the success of the TEE national conference.

"The industry continues to confront serious challenges, with the global economic uncertainty, Aussies choosing to holiday overseas and labour shortages. The conference last year put the industry's issues on the political agenda and also generated creative ideas that were very energising for the delegates," says Tony Charters, co-convenor of the event.

"Tourism and events will continue to feel the intense pressure they have had to weather in recent years, making this conference a critical focal point for the year.

"As a leading tourism destination in Australia, Melbourne is the obvious place to base this conference. The MCG and its hospitality partner Epicure is a fine example of everything Melbourne is doing well," says Mr Charters.

"Epicure at the MCG is delighted to be part of the team hosting this prestigious event and we look forward to building on the success of last year," says James Gilham.

Conference Gets Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for 2012 & 2013

Melbourne's Napoleon and Mesopotamia Winter Exhibitions

An icon of French history and the wonders of an ancient civilisation come together in Melbourne this winter providing a fascinating insight into two extraordinary eras of innovation, invention and discovery.

Don't miss Melbourne's Winter Masterpieces exhibition - Napoleon: Revolution to Empire at National Gallery Victoria International (NGVI) and The Wonders of Ancient Mesopotamia at Melbourne Museum.

As the accommodation sponsors of Melbourne's Winter Masterpieces program, Accor hotels in Melbourne are offering great accommodation and exhibition ticket packages priced from just $169 which includes overnight accommodation, breakfast for two and two tickets to see either exhibitions.

In an Australian first for the Melbourne Museum, The Wonders of Ancient Mesopotamia will open on 4 May and showcase extraordinary artefacts from one of the world's great ancient civilisations. With a focus on three of the of the great Middle East centres of Sumer, Assyria and Babylon, the exhibition brings together their rich history through objects and multimedia displays.

From 2 June, the NGVI brings together more than 200 works and treasures from late 18th and early 19th Century France, telling the story of Napoleon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine, two of the worlds most powerful and influential historical figures. 

As part of the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces program, Napoleon: Revolution to Empire presents French art, culture and life from the 1770s to the 1820s, bringing to Australia for the first time paintings, drawings, engravings, sculpture, furniture, militaria, textiles, porcelain, gold and silver, fashion and jewellery.

(Source: Travmedia.com)

Looking for Group Accommodation for this event?

Contact Richard Amour (Business Development Manager) at Metro Hotels

Ph: +61 2 9288 0108
Email: ramour@metrohg.com

George Michael Returns With Orchestral Tour - Melbourne

All that faith has finally paid off... George Michael fans, the wait is over! It has just been announced that the Wham! star will be arriving in Australia for his Symphonica: The Orchestral Tour.

Last year, to our great disappointment, the Australian leg of the tour was postponed due to a hectic bout of pneumonia that halted the singer. But alas, November will see the popstar’s return down under.

The anticipated shows will see Michael perform past songs, standards from the 1999 release Songs From Last Century and also new material from his forthcoming album White Light which is expected to come out at the end of the year.

Pre-sale tickets are available from this Saturday (May 5) at GEORGEMICHAEL.COM

See below for concert dates:

Melbourne

Wednesday November 21 - Rod Laver Arena

George Michael Returns With Orchestral Tour

World’s Leading Magnetic Resonance Specialists to Convene in Melbourne

More than 5000 clinicians and scientists from over 50 countries around the world specialising in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will convene in Melbourne for the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine’s (ISMRM) 20th Annual Meeting & Exhibition, to be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from Saturday.

The ISMRM is a world‐wide multidisciplinary society dedicated to the development and application of all aspects of magnetic resonance to medicine and related fields.

The 2012 Annual Meeting will build on the established position as the premier event in its field, providing challenging state‐of‐the‐art programs for both clinical and basic scientists.

“The 2012 ISMRM meeting in Melbourne will see highlights of the most important interactions between physicists, engineers, and physicians that have translated scientific discoveries to patient care,” said Roberta A. Kravitz, ISMRM Executive Director.

This year, under the Program Direction of James G. Pipe, Ph.D., of Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, the ISMRM 20th Annual Meeting & Exhibition will offer a diversified seven-day educational and scientific program. 

A key highlight of the program will be a lecture presented by Dr. Paul Bottomley who was the first physician to perform a localised Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) in a human heart and brain and has authored over 170 peer-reviewed papers.

Karen Bolinger, Chief Executive Officer of the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau (MCVB), which won the Meeting for Melbourne, said she, along with her colleagues at the MCEC, were looking forward to welcoming delegates to the city.

“Melbourne has so much to offer delegates visiting for a business event and we certainly hope those attending the ISMRM 20th Annual Meeting & Exhibition will take full advantage of their spare time to explore the city’s intricate laneways and dining hotspots.

“Holding an event of this calibre in Melbourne reaffirms the city’s reputation as a centre of excellence for research and development in the medical, science, business and financial industries.”

World’s Leading Magnetic Resonance Specialists to Convene in Melbourne