Monday, August 19, 2024 The annual Club Melbourne Ambassador Program Awards recently celebrated twelve visionary leaders for their exceptional contributions to bringing significant international events to Melbourne. These leaders, through their relentless advocacy, have successfully positioned Melbourne as a prime destination for 12 international conferences, doubling the number of successful bids achieved in the previous year. The secured events are expected to generate more than $62.
5 million in economic impact for Victoria, nearly tripling the financial benefits from the prior year. These conferences will attract over 10,000 visitors, who will participate in influential discussions and experience Melbourne’s vibrant culture and dynamic environment. Among the honoured Ambassadors were Professor Frank Dunshae, Professor Alistair Moffat, Todd Harper AM, Dr.
Zaffar Sadiq Mohamed-Ghouse, and Professor Geoffrey Metz AO. These leaders were recognized for their successful bids to host major international events at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC). Their efforts have significantly boosted Melbourne’s standing as a global hub for conferences and events.
Other notable contributors recognized at the event included Professor Sanchia Aranda AM, Professor Ron Wakefield, Professor Grant McArthur, and Professor Jonathan Shaw, who provided invaluable assistance in securing these prestigious events for MCEC. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Club Melbourne Award for Excellence to Professor Geoffrey Metz AO. Professor Metz, a renowned gastroenterologist and Director of Medical Education at Epworth Hospital, was acknowledged for his unwavering dedication to promoting Melbourne since the inception of the program in 2005.
His successful bids for four major international events have collectively generated an impressive economic impact of $64.3 million. The awards ceremony was held at THE LUME Melbourne, an innovative venue known for its immersive art experiences.
Guests were treated to captivating scenes from THE LUME’s exhibitions, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Da Vinci, alongside stunning visuals of Melbourne’s cityscape. The venue’s vibrant and creative atmosphere was the perfect setting to honor the innovative spirit of the Club Melbourne Ambassadors. Club Melbourne, a program led by MCEC with support from the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) and the Victorian State Government, boasts over 80 Ambassadors.
These Ambassadors represent diverse fields such as medicine, science, engineering, agriculture, business, and infrastructure technologies. Their collective efforts continue to advance Melbourne’s reputation as a leading global center for academic and business excellence. Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos lauded the Ambassadors for their contributions: “Victoria continues to grow its reputation for holding world-class business events.
These events not only showcase our state to the world but also help boost our visitor economy through spending across accommodation, hospitality, and broader tourism offerings. Congratulations to all of the winners for their continuing efforts to bring significant international events to Melbourne.” MCEC Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM also praised the Ambassadors: “Our Club Melbourne Ambassadors are some of the best and brightest minds in our city.
The annual awards night celebrates their ongoing advocacy efforts and commitments to building Melbourne’s reputation for research, business, and exceptional events. And we’re so proud this year to celebrate almost triple the economic impact from the high-profile events secured for MCEC. Congratulations to all award recipients.
” MCB Chief Executive Julia Swanson expressed her appreciation for the Ambassadors’ efforts: “MCB would like to congratulate the annual Club Melbourne Ambassador Program Award recipients who have gone above and beyond to help secure and deliver impactful conferences for Melbourne. As Victoria’s lead agency in acquiring and delivering business events, MCB has worked closely with Club Melbourne Ambassadors to secure prestigious business events for Melbourne. Together, we make a formidable team, providing a unique opportunity to connect prominent thinkers and leaders in the promotion of Melbourne as one of the world’s premier conference and event destinations.
” Bid Assist Winners:.
