Melbourne wins ‘Best Convention Bureau’ in Australia Award

The Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau has won the award for Best Convention Bureau from the Meeting Industry Association of Australia (MIAA).

The 2003 Meeting & Event Industry Awards were presented at the MIAA National Conference Gala Dinner Awards night, held at the Grand Hyatt in Melbourne on 4 May.

Garry Kingshott, CEO of MCVB accepted the award on behalf of the Bureau.

“I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of the MCVB team who have worked extremely hard to make Melbourne the best convention bureau in Australia,” Mr Kingshott said.

“I am also grateful to the Victorian Government for its ongoing support for MCVB, and for its recognition of the importance of the work we do in securing major conventions and events for Melbourne and Victoria. I want to pay a special tribute to our Minister for Tourism John Pandazopoulos. Some two years ago, when the MCVB was facing an uncertain future it was John who had the personal belief in our business and our industry to ensure that MCVB was appropriately funded by the State Government.

“The government’s recent support for the construction of a new convention centre, highlights the major contribution meetings and conventions make to this State’s economy,” Mr Kingshott said.

“Add to this a new relationship with the Australian Tourism Commission with the formation of Tourism Events Australia - thanks to the work of Minister Hockey - and the future looks bright.

“Winning this award will give MCVB new impetus to go into the market and do what we do best, win events for Melbourne,” he said.