Melbourne Convention Bureau Guide for Culturally Rich Events Launched

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) is excited to unveil its inaugural First Peoples Engagement Guide. This guide is designed to aid event organizers in designing business events that not only offer cultural immersion but also drive positive social outcomes.

This guide, specifically crafted for the business events sector, offers a wealth of actionable advice, including details on organizing a Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country, a comprehensive list of Indigenous Business Events Suppliers, and strategies for implementing the guide’s recommendations effectively.

During her speech at the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meeting Event (AIME) 2024’s opening ceremony, MCB CEO Julia Swanson emphasized the growing demand for authentic experiences that honor and celebrate the deep-rooted and diverse culture of Victoria’s Indigenous communities.

“Event organizers are now more than ever keen on incorporating services from First Peoples-led businesses into their agendas, recognizing the significant impact this can have on the social wellbeing of Indigenous communities and their descendants.

“Melbourne and Victoria boast thousands of years of Aboriginal culture, providing a profound backdrop to enrich delegate experiences. By incorporating Indigenous-owned and operated suppliers into a business event program, it not only celebrates this cultural heritage but also positively impacts the social fabric of Victoria’s First Peoples and contributes to the well-being of future generations,” said Ms. Swanson.

The guide showcases the exceptional local Indigenous talent and businesses ready to enhance business events with their cultural depth and diversity.

Featuring experts in conducting Acknowledgements of Country, culinary experts specializing in native fusion cuisine, and vendors who contribute to Social Impact Funds, the guide provides event planners with the necessary resources to organize compelling events. It includes sample itineraries that weave Victoria’s Indigenous history, culture, and modern experiences into business events.

MCB’s goal is for this guide to become an essential resource for event planners, contributing to lasting legacies. It complements the bureau’s commitment to sustainability and aligns with Experience Victoria 2033, the state’s vision for the future of its visitor economy, which aims to empower the Indigenous community in the tourism and event industries, making Victoria a prime destination for inclusive, Indigenous-led experiences.

“Global associations planning conferences in Melbourne will find guidance on honoring local customs and identifying opportunities to enhance their social impact, aligning with their sustainability goals or, for Australian companies, their Reconciliation Action Plan initiatives.

“Corporate meeting and incentive planners will find inspiring speakers and outstanding entertainment for their gala welcome event or use the guide to discover meaningful, culture-rich experiences to infuse into their itinerary,” Ms. Swanson added.

While advocating for the engagement of Indigenous event providers, MCB also collaborates with over 120 suppliers, including accommodations, venues, professional conference organizers, transport services, tour operators, and more, ensuring the success of memorable business events.

MCB is committed to continually refreshing the supplier directory and providing inspiration for event planners in the years to come.

Explore the First Peoples Engagement Guide online now or learn more about partnering with MCB for your upcoming business event.

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