Australia's Northern Territory to launch Australia's newest International Convention Centre at EIBTM

The Northern Territory Convention Bureau (NTCB), in conjunction with venue managers Ogden IFC, will launch the new Darwin Convention and Exhibition Centre (DCEC) at EITBM in Barcelona, Spain on Wednesday 30th November 2005.

The Northern Territory, roughly the combined size of Spain, France and Italy, is divided into two regions. The lush and tropical "Top End" is located at the northernmost tip of Australia, while Central Australia is the red heart of the nation showcasing some of the world's most fascinating desert country and finest outback hospitality.

Situated only two hours from Bali and a mere four hours from Singapore, Darwin is Australia's closest international gateway and therefore the closest Australian conference and incentive destination for the European market. Darwin is also the gateway to the unspoilt wilderness of the Top End, including the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park.

"The construction of the new Darwin Convention and Exhibition Centre marks an exciting time for the Northern Territory. Our aim is to increase the profile of the Northern Territory both domestically and internationally. The knowledge that the NT will soon have two purpose built facilities, one in the Top End and one in Central Australia, makes us a very attractive option for planners as well as very competitive destination." said NTCB manager Lynn Fairbrass.

Northern Territory Chief Minister Clare Martin believes that the new convention and exhibition centre will result in great growth for Darwin and the Top End. "This development is going to allow Darwin to finally take full economic advantage of large conferences and meetings, concerts and exhibitions that we are currently missing out on," she said.

Ogden IFC is one of the largest venue management company's in the Asia Pacific region. Venues it operates include the Brisbane, Cairns and Kuala Lumpur Convention Centres as well as entertainment centres, sports arenas and theatres.