With the expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre now underway, we asked Anne Jamieson, the venue’s director of customer experience and optimization and just-named chair of the Meetings & Events Australia Board, to outline the future-forward elements heralding a new era ahead.
“MCEC has really considered the needs of customers throughout the design process of the new building that comprises our expansion. The team has worked hard to provide flexible spaces that cater to a wide range of events and incorporate lots of natural light to enhance the visitor experience.
Representing an Australian-first, the 1,000-seat retractable theatre in our new exhibition bay will change the way exhibitions are designed, incorporating plenary sessions within the exhibition itself.
The increased ability to host concurrent events within the new space will not only optimize the space within MCEC, but allows for the opportunity to cross-pollinate events. This trend is becoming increasingly popular within the conference and events industry, adding value to events by linking attendees with other events happening at the venue and in the city.
In an ever-changing events environment, the ability to network is becoming an essential event element, and MCEC’s expansion will facilitate this through a full-service restaurant, an outdoor courtyard and terrace area, and recharge stations to spark creativity.
The expanded MCEC will introduce a new era in meetings and events in Melbourne, and will ensure that the venue continues to shape and lead the industry in Australia.”