Business Events Victoria

Exploring Gippsland: A Familiarisation Trip Full of Flavour, Culture & Venues

Brigitte Nottingham — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:18:38 +0000

Our Gippsland familiarisation tour recently gave us a front-row seat to the best of regional Victoria’s business event offerings — and what a showcase it was!

Day 1: Gippsland welcomed us with sunshine, charm, and a touch of magic. Just 90-minutes from Melbourne, with our journey beginning at Lardner Park. From there, through to Warragul and Traralgon, we explored a variety of versatile event venues, arts and culture hubs, and local culinary delights. Highlights included a long, leisurely lunch at Little Prince, immersive venue visits at West Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Warragul Country Club, Gippsland Performing Arts Centre and Bridges on Argyle – where we stayed overnight.

Our visit to Carrajung Estate unfolded as much through story as it did setting. The evening began with a warm welcome from Alex, the new owner who shared the vision behind the estate’s recent transformation since acquiring the property in late 2025. Umbrellas in hand – in true BEV style, we wandered through vineyards, learning about the vines and grapes as gentle drizzle settled over the landscape, as well as a tour of the recently refreshed boutique accommodation before returning to the restaurant for an impressive, beautifully curated 3-course dinner. With its relaxed, inviting ambience and thoughtfully refurbished homesteads, the estate revealed itself as a true jewel in Gippsland’s crown.

Day 2: The weather took a turn for the adventurous with rolling thunderstorms and well-timed coffee stops — the perfect companion for an action-packed day. As we made our way through the region, each location revealed a different layer of Gippsland’s offering for business events – from the contemporary flexibility of The Wedge Performing Arts Centre to the waterfront charm of Port of Sale.

We continued on to Quest Sale and The Stables before exploring the expansive grounds of Federation University Gippsland Campus and the historic elegance of Kernot Hall. The day wrapped up at Morwell Bowling Club & Convention Centre.

Rain or shine, Gippsland delivered an experience that was as diverse as it was memorable. For business event planners seeking a destination that blends accessibility with character, and infrastructure with authentic regional charm, Gippsland continues to prove itself as a compelling choice for conferences, incentives and events of all sizes.

This visit was proudly delivered in partnership with Destination Gippsland, Latrobe City Council, Carrajung Estate and Victorian Bus Charters.

If Gippsland isn’t already on your event destination list, it’s time to add it to the bucket list. We’re here to help make it happen.

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Gathering in Geelong: A Progressive Lunch with a Local Twist

Brigitte Nottingham — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:18:06 +0000

This month, Business Events Victoria hosted a relaxed and flavour-filled Gather & Graze with BEV in Geelong and the Bellarine lunch event at Crowne Plaza Geelong, bringing together event planners with leading venues and suppliers from Geelong and the Bellarine.

For the first time, BEV took this event on the road, bringing the experience to Geelong and the Bellarine. Moving from a dinner format, the Gather & Graze with BEV in Geelong and the Bellarine was an exclusive lunch event at the brand-new Crowne Plaza, putting the spotlight firmly on the region’s diverse offerings.

We began the day in Melbourne, boarding a chartered coach provided by Victorian Bus Charters for the short drive to Geelong. On arrival, Karen Jackson, Director of Sales and Marketing, warmly welcomed our guests at the main hotel lobby of the brand-new Crowne Plaza Geelong, which had just opened its doors on 23 January 2026. The group embarked on a guided tour of the hotel, exploring the new event spaces, guestrooms and facilities, with a sneaky peek through the windows of the soon-to-open Nyaal Banyul Geelong. The tour concluded at the Skyline Bar on Level 10, where sweeping waterfront and bay views provided the perfect backdrop for the day.

The lunch at Skyline Bar featured a beautifully curated three-course meal, with presentations from our industry partners woven between each course. Each course provided the perfect opportunity for meaningful conversation and connections. Paired with stunning bay views and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, the event created an inspiring setting to showcase Geelong and the Bellarine as a premier destination for business events.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees enjoyed short, sharp presentations from:

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre

Higher Mark at GMHBA Stadium

Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong

Novotel Geelong

Curlewis Golf Resort

Lancemore Mansion Hotel Werribee Park

BKA Events

Each shared fresh insights, new developments, and creative ideas to help planners deliver an unforgettable event in the region. A light-hearted highlight? Nearly every presentation included a map of Geelong — a running joke by the third one, but a perfect reminder of how close, connected, and easy the region is for planners and delegates.

With great food, meaningful connections, and a room full of regional champions, the lunch reinforced one thing: you don’t have to go far from Melbourne to deliver something truly memorable.

Considering Geelong or The Bellarine for your next event? Let us help you put it on your event planning map.

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7 Benefits of Corporate Events & 5 Helpful Planning Tips

Brigitte Nottingham — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:17:07 +0000

Corporate events are more than just dates in the calendar—they’re powerful tools for connection, growth and business impact. Whether it’s a conference, leadership retreat or incentive program, the right event strategy can drive meaningful outcomes for your organisation.

And when you take your event beyond the city and into regional Victoria, those benefits go even further.

7 Benefits of Corporate Events

1. Strengthen Team Connections

1. Strengthen Team Connections

Bringing people together in person fosters genuine relationships. Corporate events create space for teams to connect, collaborate and build trust—something that’s hard to replicate virtually.

2. Drive Engagement & Motivation

A well-executed event energises your team. Whether it’s a strategy day or incentive trip, shared experiences boost morale and leave attendees feeling valued and inspired.

3. Enhance Learning & Development

From keynote speakers to interactive workshops, events provide an opportunity for focused learning. Attendees can step away from day-to-day tasks and fully engage in professional development.

4. Align on Strategy & Vision

Getting stakeholders in the same room helps create clarity and alignment. Events allow businesses to communicate goals, priorities and future direction in a more impactful way.

5. Build Stronger Client Relationships

Face-to-face events create meaningful touchpoints with clients and partners. They help strengthen relationships, build trust and open the door to new opportunities.

6. Boost Brand Awareness

Events are a powerful platform to showcase your brand. From styling and content to location and experiences, every element contributes to how your organisation is perceived.

7. Inspire Creativity & Fresh Thinking

A change of environment can spark new ideas. Hosting events in regional destinations offers a refreshing backdrop—supported by unique venues and local operators—that encourages innovation and different ways of thinking.

Why Regional Victoria?

Regional Victoria offers more than just a location—it delivers a complete event experience. With unique venues, natural landscapes and immersive local experiences, it’s the perfect setting to elevate your next corporate event.

From coastal retreats to wine regions and vibrant regional cities, the state is home to a diverse network of venues, accommodation providers and experience operators. Backed by local expertise, these partners work with event planners to create tailored, seamless experiences that go beyond the expected.

5 Helpful Planning Tips

1. Start with Clear Objectives

Define what success looks like. Are you aiming to educate, reward, connect or inspire? Your goals will guide every decision—from venue selection to program design.

2. Choose the Right Destination & Venue

Match your event style to the setting. Consider capacity, layout flexibility, accommodation and accessibility when selecting your venue. Working with trusted regional venues and suppliers can also help you unlock local insights and tailor the experience to your audience.

3. Build in Experiences

Incorporate local experiences to create memorable moments. Think winery tours, wellness activities or behind-the-scenes regional experiences—many delivered by local operators who bring authenticity and a strong sense of place to your event.

4. Design for Engagement

Keep your audience at the centre. Mix formats—presentations, breakout sessions, networking and interactive elements—to maintain energy and participation.

5. Stay Organised with a Planning Checklist

A detailed checklist is essential to keeping your event on track—from initial planning through to on-the-day execution. It helps manage timelines, suppliers, budgets and key milestones, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

To make planning easier, Business Events Victoria offers a free Event Checklist Resource designed specifically for event organisers. It’s a practical tool to guide you through every stage of the planning process and support seamless delivery.

Let’s Create Something Meaningful

At Business Events Victoria, we connect event planners with the best regional destinations, venues and trusted suppliers across the state—helping you find the right fit for your event, no matter the size or style.

Whether you’re planning a conference, retreat or incentive program, we’re here to help you create an event that delivers real impact.

Download the Event Checklist and start planning your next event in Regional Victoria today.

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Why choosing accredited venues gives your next event a head start

Brigitte Nottingham — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 05:10:35 +0000

When you’re planning a business event, there’s no room for guesswork.

You need venues and suppliers you can trust — teams that understand safety, service standards, sustainability and operational excellence, without you having to double check every detail.

That’s where accreditation makes all the difference.

Across Regional Victoria, more and more Business Events Victoria members are becoming Quality Tourism Accredited Businesses. It’s not just a badge — it’s independent verification that a venue meets nationally recognised standards across risk management, customer service, compliance and sustainability.

In short: the groundwork is already done for you.

Here’s what that looks like in practice.

Built-in professionalism and reliability

For many venues, accreditation strengthens the systems behind the scenes — the things planners don’t always see, but absolutely rely on.

At The Goods Shed, Ballarat, the process helped refine everything from risk management to service consistency, giving organisers confidence from the very first conversation.

Similarly, Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong says accreditation provides third-party validation that they meet rigorous industry standards, reassuring corporate and association clients that their event will be delivered professionally and safely.

And at The Trawool Estate, accreditation offers a recognised stamp of credibility, helping planners feel confident choosing a regional destination for conferences and retreats.

For organisers, this means fewer unknowns and smoother delivery on event day.

Stronger sustainability and responsible event choices

Sustainability expectations continue to grow — from government, associations and corporate clients alike.

Accredited venues are already putting measurable practices in place.

At Yarra Valley Estate, accreditation validates long-standing sustainability efforts like waste separation, water and energy monitoring, and working with like-minded suppliers.

Zoos Victoria has seen increased interest from purpose-driven organisations and government clients who prioritise working with accredited partners that align with their environmental and community values.

For Green Olive at Red Hill and Jackalope Hotels, accreditation formalises their commitment to responsible tourism, sustainability and consistent guest experience — helping planners confidently meet ESG goals without extra research.

Reduced risk and greater peace of mind

Accreditation isn’t just about venues — it extends across transport and experiences too.

Large-scale precincts like Lardner Park, unique operators like Port Phillip Ferries, and trusted suppliers such as Victorian Bus Charters all use accreditation to demonstrate that safety systems, compliance and documentation are already in place.

For planners, that means:

lower risk
fewer surprises
smoother approvals
and partners who understand professional event requirements

It’s a shortcut to knowing you’re working with businesses that take quality seriously

What this means for you

Choosing accredited suppliers doesn’t just tick a box.

It helps you:
Save time on due diligence
Reduce operational and safety risk
Meet sustainability expectations
Strengthen stakeholder confidence
Deliver seamless delegate experiences

Because when your partners are prepared, your event runs better.

Plan with confidence in Regional Victoria

At Business Events Victoria, we’re proud to work with a growing network of accredited venues and suppliers across Regional Victoria — from wineries and estates to hotels, attractions and transport providers.

If you’re sourcing trusted partners for your next conference, incentive or corporate retreat, we’re here to help connect you with businesses that meet recognised industry standards from day one.

Submit your event brief or explore our Planner Guide to start planning with confidence.

Learn more about the Quality Tourism Accredited program

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Big things are coming for events in Albury: A new era for the Albury Entertainment Centre Convention Wing

Brigitte Nottingham — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 04:44:02 +0000

Albury City Council has accepted a tender from Zauner Construction Pty Ltd for redevelopment of the Albury Entertainment Centre (AEC) Convention Wing. This major transformation captures more than construction, it captures possibility. The AEC redevelopment will significantly grow conference capacity, with expanded exhibition spaces boasting loads of natural light, multiple breakout spaces, and configuration options.

The redevelopment will commence in April 2026 with the AEC to be ready in mid 2028.

Key improvements include:

A new modern 2,000 seat auditorium (800 seat banquet style) offering exceptional acoustics, flexible seating configurations and the ability to partition spaces for concurrent events, catering to a wide range of performances, conferences and presentation requirements.
Eight state-of-the-art function rooms featuring integrated audio-visual technology, high-speed connectivity and adaptable layouts to accommodate small to medium-sized corporate or community functions.
Exhibition and conference spaces designed for versatility and scale, capable of hosting large conferences, trade shows and cultural and civic events with open plan layouts, seamless access and modern amenities to enhance delegate experience.
Arrival plaza and tourism event space providing a welcoming and functional entry point and improved wayfinding.
New food and beverage kitchens and bars designed to deliver a comprehensive experience with diverse catering options, new hospitality facilities and spaces that enhance networking, social interaction and overall visitor experience.
Enhanced sound and light systems in the retained Theatrette with tiered seating up to 177 people and improved accessibility, supported by a new pre-function foyer with balcony access.
An enlarged green room with dedicated amenities and accessible stage entry will offer greater opportunities to host a variety of small-scale events not previously achievable.

Get in touch with the team for more information.

Brendan Maher
Venue Manager Albury Entertainment Centre

T. 02 6043 5620
M. 0439 479 921

W. alburyentertainmentcentre.com.au

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Phillip Island Industry Capability Workshop

Brigitte Nottingham — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 04:16:18 +0000

This month, Phillip Island provided a stunning coastal backdrop for an industry event that brought the region’s business events community together and spotlighted the growing momentum across Phillip Island and Gippsland region.

Business Events Victoria delivered the day in partnership with regional stakeholders, sharing valuable insights and updates – from domestic business events trends through to the international incentive market outlook and the opportunities ahead for regional destinations.

What made the event truly special was the energy in the room. The enthusiasm, engagement and conversations between attendees reinforced the power of collaboration. The strong turnout was a clear signal that our industry is stronger when we come together, building the momentum needed to grow regional Victoria’s business events profile.

Networking forums like these are more than just catch-ups — they spark new ideas, open doors to fresh opportunities and position the region as a compelling choice for planners seeking fresh, memorable destinations. With its unique mix of coastal landscapes, wildlife experiences and standout venues, Phillip Island and Gippsland are perfectly placed to play a pivotal role as hub-and-spoke destinations, driving growth and dispersal opportunities right across regional Victoria.

The highly successful day was proudly hosted at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade Visitor Centre.

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Victoria Shines at AIME 2026

Brigitte Nottingham — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 04:09:20 +0000

Business Events Victoria (BEV) wrapped up another successful AIME in Melbourne this month, showcasing the diversity, quality, and creativity of regional Victoria as a premier destination for business events.

Over two full days, BEV met with more than 50 event buyers, from planners exploring regional destinations for the first time to those returning for fresh ideas beyond Melbourne CBD. The team reported strong interest and engagement, highlighting the growing demand for unique venues and experiences outside city confines.

BEV was joined on the stand by strong support from Business Events Ballarat, Sovereign Hill, The Atlantic Group (The Goods Shed), Zoos Victoria, Rochford Wines & Rayner’s Orchard, Holiday Inn Werribee, and Mantra Lorne. Having these Partners present allowed buyers to connect directly with the people and places that make events in regional Victoria so memorable.

“Every year, AIME reminds me that business networking is a lot like dating – it’s about finding the right fit. Buyers and suppliers come ready to connect, and when the right match happens, it’s incredibly rewarding! This year, the quality of buyers never fails to impress. It’s a great opportunity to connect with buyers who know what they want and are ready to explore options, making it a valuable platform to connect with new buyers and have meaningful conversations.” Stephanie, Business Events Victoria

With new leads, exciting opportunities, and strong connections made, BEV is already planning for AIME 2027, eager to continue promoting regional Victoria as a destination where every event has a story to tell.

For more information about hosting your next business event in regional Victoria, Contact Business Events Victoria.

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Celebrating 30 Years of Business Events Victoria

Brigitte Nottingham — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 04:08:17 +0000

This year, Business Events Victoria proudly marks 30 years of connecting businesses and your events to the quality, diversity and authentic experiences throughout regional Victoria. From small beginnings to now being a trusted convention bureau partner for regional Victoria, we are grateful for your support in delivering business events throughout regional Victoria and driving growth into our regions.

Over three decades, we’ve worked alongside venues, experiences and suppliers so that event planners are better supported to design and deliver their best-yet conference or team offsite. From intimate boardroom meetings to large-scale conferences and exhibitions, the events we’ve supported have showcased the state’s diverse venues, exceptional hospitality, and rich regional offerings.

Our milestones are not just measured in events delivered, but in the relationships built, ideas exchanged, and opportunities created for businesses and communities alike. We’ve celebrated local success stories, helped organisations achieve their objectives, and supported the growth of Victoria as a leading business events destination.

As we look to the future,Business Events Victoria remains committed to uncovering the next new inspiration for event planners and fostering industry collaboration.

Here’s to celebrating our roots, embracing the present, and continuing to champion the future of business events in regional Victoria.

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Business Events Victoria at AIME 2026: Championing Meetings in Regional Victoria

Brigitte Nottingham — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 02:36:08 +0000

Business Events Victoria is proud to be exhibiting at AIME 2026, Australia’s leading trade event for the business events industry, shining a spotlight on the incredible opportunities to meet in Regional Victoria.

AIME provides the perfect platform to connect with planners and showcase the diversity, accessibility and value that regional destinations offer for conferences, incentives and corporate meetings. From coastal escapes to wine regions and vibrant regional cities, Victoria’s regions continue to deliver memorable experiences that go beyond the meeting room.

Joining BEV at the Regional Victoria stand this year are:

Business Events Ballarat – heritage venues, contemporary infrastructure and a thriving events scene
Yarra Valley MICE – world-class wineries, nature-led experiences and premium venues
Mantra Lorne – coastal conferencing with ocean views and relaxed delegate experiences
Holiday Inn Werribee – modern accommodation and meeting facilities on Melbourne’s city-edge

Together, we’re showcasing how regional Victoria delivers strong business outcomes alongside authentic experiences, local flavour and space to think differently. Our partners represent the diversity of the state, from Lorne on the scenic coast, to Ballarat in Central Victoria and the Yarra Valley wine region, highlighting the wide-ranging possibilities when you take your event beyond the city.

Visiting AIME 2026? Be sure to visit us at Stand No. C52 and chat with the BEV team about your next event in Regional Victoria.

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BEV’s Visit to Discovery Park – Lake Hume

Brigitte Nottingham — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:49:39 +0000

While Steph and Lauren was up north, they made a quick stop at Discovery Parks – Lake Hume. This resort-style property is beautifully located on the banks of the picturesque Lake Hume, right near the twin cities of Albury Wodonga.

Discovery Events – Lake Hume Function Centre, a newly renovated, spacious, and modern venue ideal for small conferences, board meetings, workshops, team-building or wellness retreats. Catering up to a group of 50 people, the venue provides the perfect escape for groups who want all attendees onsite, combining comfort, convenience and stunning lake views.

The property offers:

A modern, newly renovated venue overlooking the lake and gardens
Extensive undercover deck areas with outdoor furniture
Flexible function spaces
Onsite accommodation for guests
Local catering options
AV
Support from the experienced events team
Free Wi-fi and car parking
Ample outdoor spaces for team-building activities

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